Where the Wine Is with Michelle Leonardson

In the mid-2000s Sawtooth Winery winemaker Meredith Smith heard the empowering quote “pay attention to what you pay attention to” and thus began her inspiring journey into the Idaho wine industry. *This post contains affiliate links. In the twentieth episode of the Where the Wine Is podcast, Michelle interviews Smith along with Tasting Room Manager […]

Are you ready to visit Idaho’s wine country in the beautiful Snake River Valley AVA?  In this episode of Where the Wine Is, let yourself be whisked away to the wineries of Idaho’s southwestern wine region.  As a nearly lifelong Idahoan, your host Michelle Leonardson reveals her 5 star recommendations for where you should stay, […]

Is Idaho wine really on the rise? In this episode Michelle embarks on a fascinating discussion with Karen McMillin, Certified Specialist of Wine and Estate Brand Manager for Hayden Beverage Co.  Hear the distributor’s perspective on what’s current, what’s to come and what other industry professionals want to know about Idaho wine. You won’t […]

This is an episode like no other.  In early October 2017, we watched in horror as wildfires have ripped through beloved areas of Northern California.  Lives have been lost.  Entire neighborhoods and businesses, vineyards and wineries have burned to the ground displacing thousands.  California is in our heart and in this episode we address the […]

Katie Hestead is the Bar Manager and Wine Director of Richard’s, a stunning downtown Boise restaurant located at the Inn at 500 Capitol. In this episode she talks about the significant role food has played in her life and the impact wine has made in her soul. Related Links Richards The Inn at 500 […]

Your host Michelle Leonardson worked the room at the eighth annual Idaho Wine Competition, from the hustle and bustle of the staging area to the quiet judges’ panels in the main arena.  Go behind the scenes and learn what it is like to observe 152 wines and 9 ciders be awarded gold, silver and bronze […]

Kathryn House has worn many hats in her tenure in the wine industry.  She started her journey with Washington wine and notably made her mark at Betz Family Winery.  As life’s circumstances brought her to Idaho she has indelibly created her career path as a consultant, educator, and advocate! Related Links House of Wine @howofwine […]

Melanie Krause is the owner and head winemaker at Cinder Winery in Garden City, Idaho.  Her decision to take up residence in the small suburb of Boise began a movement of boutique wineries, craft breweries and cideries, which changed the landscape of what was once known as an undesirable part of town. By cultivating […]

If you like sparkling wine this is a conversation you won’t want to miss! Hailey Minder returns to the podcast to talk sparkling!  As owner and head winemaker at 3100 Cellars, Hailey excels at showcasing Idaho’s unique terroir while remaining dedicated to the Old World style of production.  Hailey and Michelle’s lively conversation covers the […]

The inspirational tale of Telaya Wine Co. begins when Earl and Carrie Sullivan were each at a crossroads in life.  They were giving their professional jobs so much of themselves that at the end of the day they had little time for each other or their two children.  After thoughtful consideration the duo decided to […]