Where Wine Takes You - A Paso Wine Podcast

🍇 Where Wine Takes You – Episode Highlights 🍷

In this episode of Where Wine Takes You, Adam Montiel dives into The Magic of Michelin, recorded live at the enchanting Inn Paradiso in Paso Robles. This unique getaway, owned by Steve Werndorf, is unlike any other with its hidden, artistic, and luxurious ambiance. Joining Adam are two stars from Justin Winery—Executive Chef Rachel Hagstrom and Winemaker Scott Shirley. Rachel and her team at The Restaurant at Justin have earned a Michelin star and a green star, highlighting their culinary excellence and commitment to sustainability. Scott shares insights into Justin Winery’s celebrated wines, crafted with the precision to complement Michelin-starred cuisine—a pairing feat that’s no small order.

Later in the Travel Paso Spotlight, could limos be going extinct?  We will chat with Derek Stafford from Elegant Image, Paso’s premier car service that’s redefining luxury transportation in a shifting market. Discover how Elegant Image is staying fresh while adapting to a world where traditional limousine service is increasingly rare.

For more on today’s guests and featured locations:

For planning your next adventure in Paso Robles, check out TravelPaso.com.

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Where Wine Takes You (WWTY) is Executive Produced by Paso Wine. 

WWTY is recorded, edited, produced, and hosted by Adam Montiel. Follow Adam on Instagram @AdamOnTheAir and check out his daily podcast, Up + Adam as well as his other show that’s not all Paso, and not all wine, The Pour with Adam Montiel. To connect with Adam, learn more, or for Spotify or other pod links, visit AdamMontiel.com

For the latest in Paso Robles Wine Country, check out PasoWine.com and follow on Instagram @PasoWine.

Download the free Paso Wine App as your guide to all things wine country. 

Original music on WWTY, “Good Company,” performed by Moonshiner Collective.

See Moonshiner Collective LIVE IN SLO Nov 15!

©2024 Where Wine Takes You, All Rights Reserved.

🍇 Where Wine Takes You – Episode Highlights 🍷

Welcome back, to another lively episode of Where Wine Takes You, the podcast where we uncork the magic of Paso’s vineyards and explore the stories behind the wines that define our region. Today, we’re coming to you from a very special place: Bella Luna Winery. It’s not just any winery; it’s a testament to friendship, history, and the passing of the torch.

Best friends Sherman Smoot and Kevin Healey started Bella Luna with the vision of creating something lasting, and now that legacy lives on through Nichole Healey-Finn and Lukas Finn. 

We also introduced our neighbors from across the street—Clesi Winery, founded by Chris and Adrienne Ferrara—who are bringing traditional Italian varietals to the Central Coast with their own unique twist. Chris traveled extensively through Italy, studying the culture, terroir, and winemaking techniques that make Italian wines so distinctive. Adrienne Ferrara contributes her passion for viticulture and ensures every bottle captures the essence of Italy. Together, they bring those influences back to Paso.

Later in the show, our Travel Paso Spotlight featured Rich Verruni, the General Manager of Allegretto Vineyard Resort, where luxury and Paso’s wine culture beautifully collide. To plan your stay or learn more, visit Allegretto Vineyard Resort.

For more on our guests, visit:

For planning your next adventure in Paso Robles, check out TravelPaso.com.

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Where Wine Takes You (WWTY) is Executive Produced by Paso Wine. 

WWTY is recorded, edited, produced, and hosted by Adam Montiel. Follow Adam on Instagram @AdamOnTheAir and check out his daily podcast Up + Adam as well as The Pour with Adam Montiel. To connect with Adam, learn more, or for Spotify or other pod links, visit AdamMontiel.com

For the latest in Paso Robles Wine Country, check out PasoWine.com and follow on

Instagram @PasoWine. Download the free Paso Wine App as your guide to all things

wine country. 

Original music on WWTY, “Good Company,” performed by Moonshiner Collective.

See Moonshiner Collective LIVE IN SLO Nov 15!

©2024 Where Wine Takes You, All Rights Reserved.

🍇 Where Wine Takes You – Episode Highlights 🍷

LEARN BY DOING

In this episode of Where Wine Takes You, host Adam Montiel takes you inside Cal Poly’s premier JUSTIN and J. Lohr Center for Wine and Viticulture. This world-class facility, located in San Luis Obispo, serves as a state-of-the-art educational hub for the next generation of wine industry leaders. Opened in 2021, the Center boasts a 15,600-square-foot winery equipped with a fermentation hall, bottling room, barrel storage, and a research lab—providing an immersive learning environment for Cal Poly students. The facility also includes a 12,000-square-foot E. & J. Gallo Winery & Family Building featuring viticulture and enology labs, lecture areas, and shared offices for students and faculty .

During this live-recorded session, Adam sits down with key figures shaping the Cal Poly Wine and Vit program, including Winery Manager Jim Shumate and Department Head Benoît Lecat, Ph.D. Joining the conversation are three current students—Augusta, Gracie, and Caden—who share their experiences learning the ins and outs of the industry through Cal Poly’s signature “Learn by Doing” approach. Together, they discuss the evolution of winemaking education, the importance of research and innovation in the industry, and how the Center is helping students prepare for careers in wine production, viticulture, and wine business. You can learn more about Cal Poly’s Wine and Viticulture Program by visiting their official website .

In this episode’s Travel Paso Spotlight, Adam chats with Bryan Yates, founder of the Bovine Classic, a unique gravel bike race happening on October 26th in Paso Robles. Bryan gives an inside look at how this “seriously unserious gravel hoedown” has become a popular event for cycling enthusiasts and highlights its connection to the Paso Robles wine region. For more details on the Bovine Classic and how to register, head to thebovineclassic.com.

And as always, for all things Paso—where to eat, stay, and explore—head over to Travel Paso website for more information: Travel Paso

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Where Wine Takes You (WWTY) is Executive Produced by Paso Wine. 

WWTY is recorded, edited, produced, and hosted by Adam Montiel. Follow Adam on Instagram @AdamOnTheAir and check out his daily podcast Up + Adam as well as The Pour with Adam Montiel. To connect with Adam, learn more, or for Spotify or other pod links, visit AdamMontiel.com

For the latest in Paso Robles Wine Country, check out PasoWine.com and follow on

Instagram @PasoWine. Download the free Paso Wine App as your guide to all things

wine country. 

Original music on WWTY, “Good Company,” performed by Moonshiner Collective.

©2024 Where Wine Takes You, All Rights Reserved.

🍇 Where Wine Takes You – Episode Highlights 🍷

Heritage & Harvest

In this episode of Where Wine Takes You, host Adam Montiel sits down with two winemakers whose international roots shape their unique approaches to the Paso Robles wine scene: Martin Croad of Croad Vineyards and Kevin Jussila of Kukkula Wines. Recorded live at Croad Vineyards, this episode dives into their respective journeys, blending heritage and harvest in the heart of wine country.

Martin Croad, hailing from New Zealand, shares how his background influences his winemaking style at Croad Vineyards. With a focus on dry farming and bold varietals, Martin’s wines reflect the rugged yet rich landscape of Paso Robles, intertwined with his Kiwi heritage.

Kevin Jussila, born in Finland, brings a different perspective with his dedication to Rhône-style blends at Kukkula Wines. His commitment to organic, dry-farmed practices has helped create wines that are a true expression of the land, and he discusses how his Finnish roots guide his craft in the heart of Paso’s Adelaida District.

In the Travel Paso Spotlight, we feature Zoo to You, an exotic animal conservation group based in Paso Robles. Lisa Jackson talks about the amazing work they do with wildlife education and their unique offering of overnight stays surrounded by creatures like kangaroos, bald eagles, and more. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that brings conservation and adventure together. And as always, for all things Paso—where to eat, stay, and explore—head over to Travel Paso website for more information: Travel Paso

Guests and Links:

Website: croadvineyards.com

Instagram: @croadvineyards

Website: kukkulawine.com

Instagram: @kukkulawine

Website: zootooyou.org

Instagram: @conservation.ambassadors.zty

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Where Wine Takes You (WWTY) is Executive Produced by Paso Wine. 

WWTY is recorded, edited, produced, and hosted by Adam Montiel. Follow Adam on Instagram @AdamOnTheAir and check out his daily podcast Up + Adam as well as The Pour with Adam Montiel. To connect with Adam, learn more, or for Spotify or other pod links, visit AdamMontiel.com

For the latest in Paso Robles Wine Country, check out PasoWine.com and follow on

Instagram @PasoWine. Download the free Paso Wine App as your guide to all things

wine country. 

Original music on WWTY, “Good Company,” performed by Moonshiner Collective. Find them on Spotify HERE.

©2024 Where Wine Takes You, All Rights Reserved.

🍇 Where Wine Takes You – Episode Highlights 🍷

A Sense of Place

Willow Creek Wine Collective 

This episode takes us to the beautiful Willow Creek Wine Collective, where we recorded live with winemakers Natalie and Brian Brown. They’ve created multiple brands under their umbrella, including Rococo Wines, which focuses on old-vine Chenin Blanc, and In Medias Res, offering small-batch, terroir-driven wines. Nestled in Paso’s Willow Creek District, their story is one of passion for the land they farm, and their unique wines are a true expression of place.

Willow Creek Wine Co. | Rococo Wines

Jason Joyce and Calcareous Vineyard

We are also joined by Jason Joyce, the longtime winemaker at Calcareous Vineyard. Known for his deep connection to the calcareous rock that gives his wines their signature mineral complexity, Jason has spent years perfecting his craft and letting Paso’s unique terroir shine through each bottle. From their steep, sun-drenched slopes, Calcareous consistently produces bold, site-driven wines.

Calcareous Vineyard

Travel Paso Spotlight: The Paderewski Festival

In this episode’s Travel Paso Spotlight, we shine a light on the upcoming Paderewski Festival, happening October 31 to November 3, 2024. This annual event celebrates the life and legacy of Ignacy Jan Paderewski, the Polish pianist and statesman who made his mark on Paso Robles by planting Zinfandel grapes here. The festival blends music, history, and wine, with concerts, youth competitions, and tastings from Paso’s top wineries like Epoch Estate Wines.

Travel Paso | Paderewski Festival

And as always, for all things Paso—where to eat, stay, and explore—head over to Travel Paso website for more information: Travel Paso

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Where Wine Takes You (WWTY) is Executive Produced by Paso Wine. 

WWTY is recorded, edited, produced, and hosted by Adam Montiel. Follow Adam on Instagram @AdamOnTheAir and check out his daily podcast Up + Adam as well as The Pour with Adam Montiel. Connect with Adam and lean more on AdamMontiel.com

For the latest in Paso Robles Wine Country, check out PasoWine.com and follow on

Instagram @PasoWine. Download the free Paso Wine App as your guide to all things

wine country. 

Original music on WWTY, “Good Company,” performed by Moonshiner Collective.

©2024 Where Wine Takes You, All Rights Reserved.

🍇 Where Wine Takes You – Episode Highlights 🍷

In this special episode of Where Wine Takes You, we’re bringing you a taste of Paso Robles wine straight from the heart of France! Recorded live aboard the AmaKristina cruise ship as we sail along the Rhône River, with Cork and Cruise. This episode captures the unique experience of blending Paso’s vibrant wine culture with the historic wine regions of France.

Join Adam Montiel and an audience of 50-60 wine enthusiasts as he sits down with some of Paso’s finest to share stories, laughs, and, of course, exceptional wine. In this episode, you’ll hear from Don Burns of Turtle Rock Vineyard, Kit Kuyper of Hawks Hill Ranch, Juan Mercado of Riise Wines, and Joel Peterson, the Executive Director of Paso Wine. 

Links to Guests and Their Wineries:

About the Cruise:

This unique experience was organized by Cork and Cruise, who specialize in crafting wine-centric travel experiences. We sailed with AmaWaterways, known for their luxurious river cruises that blend comfort with cultural exploration.

On today’s Travel Paso Spotlight, we had the pleasure of chatting with Carole MacDonald, the visionary behind some of Paso Robles’ most beloved dining experiences. Carole is the proprietor, along with her husband and Chef Santos MacDonal, of the iconic Il Cortile, a restaurant that has become a staple in Paso’s culinary scene, offering an authentic taste of Italy right in the heart of wine country. But Carole and Santos have another dining hotspot up their sleeve. They recently opened Parchetto, a fresh and exciting new dining spot that promises to bring even more flavor to Paso.

For more about these incredible dining destinations and to plan your next visit to Paso Robles, make sure to check out Il Cortile at ilcortileristorante.com and Parchetto at parchettopaso.com. And as always, for all things Paso—where to eat, stay, and explore—head over to Travel Paso website for more information: Travel Paso

*****

Where Wine Takes You (WWTY) is produced by Paso Wine. WWTY is recorded, edited, produced, and hosted by Adam Montiel. Follow Adam on Instagram @AdamOnTheAir and check out his daily podcast Up + Adam as well as The Pour with Adam Montiel. Connect with Adam and lean more on AdamMontiel.com

For the latest in Paso Robles Wine Country, check out PasoWine.com and follow on

Instagram @PasoWine. Download the free Paso Wine App as your guide to all things

wine country. 

Original music on WWTY, “Good Company,” performed by Moonshiner Collective.

©2024 Where Wine Takes You, All Rights Reserved.

🍇 Where Wine Takes You – Episode Highlights 🍷

In this episode of “Where Wine Takes You,” we return from a vibrant journey through France with Cork and Cruise, and dive into conversations with Paso Robles’ own Bret Urness of Levo Wine and Jacob Toft of Jacob Toft Wines. Both vintners share insights from their Tin City-based operations, blending local terroir with innovative winemaking techniques. Check out Levo Wine and Jacob Toft Wines. We also spotlight Hambly Farms in our Travel Paso segment, exploring their sustainable lavender products and community-focused initiatives. Learn more about local attractions at Travel Paso.

Don’t miss out on staying informed about all things Paso Robles through Paso Wine.

Don’t forget to visit travelpaso.com for everything you need before your next trip to Paso. Want to know what’s happening around town? Looking for pet-friendly places to stay? Curious about Sensorio? TravelPaso.com is your go-to resource. Check it out and plan your perfect Paso getaway.

Visit the Travel Paso website for more information: Travel Paso

*****

Where Wine Takes You (WWTY) is produced by Paso Wine. WWTY is recorded, edited, produced, and hosted by Adam Montiel. Follow Adam on Instagram @AdamOnTheAir and check out his daily podcast Up + Adam as well as The Pour with Adam Montiel. Connect with Adam and lean more on AdamMontiel.com

For the latest in Paso Robles Wine Country, check out PasoWine.com and follow on

Instagram @PasoWine. Download the free Paso Wine App as your guide to all things

wine country. 

Original music on WWTY, “Good Company,” performed by Moonshiner Collective.

©2024 Where Wine Takes You, All Rights Reserved.

🍇 Where Wine Takes You – Episode Highlights 🍷

Welcome to another exciting episode of “Where Wine Takes You”! Today, we have a special show lined up as we celebrate the 2024 San Luis Obispo County Wine Industry Awards. These awards honor the dedication, innovation, and leadership within our local wine community, and we have the privilege of speaking with some of the esteemed winners.

First up, we have Niels and Bimmer Udsen from Castoro Cellars, the recipients of the Wine Grape Grower of the Year award. Castoro Cellars, founded in 1983, is a cornerstone of the Paso Robles wine region. Known for their commitment to sustainable and organic farming, Niels and Bimmer have cultivated over 1,400 acres of certified organic vineyards.

Next, we welcome McPrice Myers, the Winemaker of the Year. McPrice Myers Wines has gained acclaim for its bold and expressive wines, reflecting McPrice’s dedication to the craft. McPrice’s journey in winemaking is marked by a passion for quality and a relentless pursuit of perfection, earning him this well-deserved recognition.

Joining us as well is Molly Scott from JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery, honored as the Wine Industry Person of the Year. JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery is synonymous with luxury and quality in Paso Robles. Molly Scott’s leadership and vision, and efforts in marketing, community involvement, and dedication to the craft have solidified her position as a key figure in the wine industry.

We also pay tribute to Mike English, the posthumous recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award. Mike was the visionary behind Tin City, a vibrant community of wineries, breweries, and artisan producers in Paso Robles. His legacy continues to inspire and influence the local wine scene, fostering a spirit of innovation and collaboration.

We’re also joined by Joel Peterson, the executive producer of this show and the executive director for Paso Wine, who will jump in here and there.

Today’s episode was recorded at the beautiful Venteux Vineyards. I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to them for their hospitality. Venteux Vineyards also hosts a fantastic Friday night concert series every week through October, featuring great live music, delicious food, beautiful views everywhere you look, and great people. Congratulations to them on winning two double golds and a best in class for their Cabernet at the Central Coast Wine Competition! For more information, check them out at venteuxvineyards.com. 

Travel Paso Spotlight: We’re featuring Edible Magazine and their Summer House. Edible Magazine is a fantastic resource for discovering the culinary and wine delights of our region. Their Summer House is a celebration of local flavors, showcasing the best of what San Luis Obispo has to offer. For more information, visit Edible San Luis Obispo.

Don’t miss out on staying informed about all things Paso Robles through Paso Wine.

Don’t forget to visit travelpaso.com for everything you need before your next trip to Paso. Want to know what’s happening around town? Looking for pet-friendly places to stay? Curious about Sensorio? TravelPaso.com is your go-to resource. Check it out and plan your perfect Paso getaway.

Visit the Travel Paso website for more information: Travel Paso

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🇫🇷 For any all info on our cruise to France in August – visit www.CorkandCruise.com

*****

Where Wine Takes You (WWTY) is produced by Paso Wine. WWTY is recorded, edited, produced, and hosted by Adam Montiel. Follow Adam on Instagram @AdamOnTheAir and check out his daily podcast Up + Adam. Connect with Adam and lean more on AdamMontiel.com

For the latest in Paso Robles Wine Country, check out PasoWine.com and follow on

Instagram @PasoWine. Download the free Paso Wine App as your guide to all things

wine country. 

Recording equipment for WWTY was transported in suitcases provided by Fly with Wine.

Use the Promo Code ADAM20 – save 20% off everything you buy AND Free Shipping!

Original music on WWTY, “Good Company,” performed by Moonshiner Collective.

©2024 Where Wine Takes You, All Rights Reserved.

🍇 Where Wine Takes You – Episode Highlights 🍷

In this episode of ‘Where Wine Takes You,’ host Adam Montiel dives deep into the rich heritage and untold stories of Paso Robles with two legendary winemakers. Broadcasting from the heart of Midnight Cellars, Adam is joined by Rich Hartenberger, owner and winemaker of Midnight Cellars, and his longtime friend, Norm Benson of Level 3 Wines. Rich and Norm, affectionately known as Richie and Normie, have been neighbors and friends for decades, sharing a unique bond and countless adventures. From the early days of winemaking in Paso to their enduring friendship, this conversation is packed with fascinating insights and entertaining tales.

Later in the show, don’t miss our Travel Paso Spotlight featuring Luke Udsen of Castoro Cellars, Bethel Road Distillery, and the Whale Rock Music & Arts Festival. Luke shares all the details about this two-day event set amidst the stunning organic vineyards of Castoro Cellars. The Whalerock Music & Arts Festival offers great music, a vibrant atmosphere, and plenty of activities, making it a must-visit for music and wine enthusiasts alike. Learn about the unique offerings of the festival and the passion behind the Udsen family’s commitment to organic farming and great music.

Don’t miss out on staying informed about all things Paso Robles through Paso Wine.

Don’t forget to visit travelpaso.com for everything you need before your next trip to Paso. Want to know what’s happening around town? Looking for pet-friendly places to stay? Curious about Sensorio? TravelPaso.com is your go-to resource. Check it out and plan your perfect Paso getaway.

Visit the Travel Paso website for more information: Travel Paso

*****

🇫🇷 For any all info on our cruise to France in August – visit www.CorkandCruise.com

*****

Where Wine Takes You (WWTY) is produced by Paso Wine. WWTY is recorded, edited, produced, and hosted by Adam Montiel. Follow Adam on Instagram @AdamOnTheAir and check out his daily podcast Up + Adam. Connect with Adam and lean more on AdamMontiel.com

For the latest in Paso Robles Wine Country, check out PasoWine.com and follow on

Instagram @PasoWine. Download the free Paso Wine App as your guide to all things

wine country. 

Recording equipment for WWTY was transported in suitcases provided by Fly with Wine.

Use the Promo Code ADAM20 – save 20% off everything you buy AND Free Shipping!

Original music on WWTY, “Good Company,” performed by Moonshiner Collective.

©2024 Where Wine Takes You, All Rights Reserved.

🍇 Where Wine Takes You – Episode Highlights 🍷

In this episode of “Where Wine Takes You,” host Adam Montiel delves into the world of Caliza and End of the Day Wines. We have an exciting lineup featuring Carl Bowker, the visionary owner, along with his talented winemaking team: Josh Harp and Allie Donegan. Get the inside scoop on their latest ventures, including big news about Carl’s west side estate on Anderson Road and potential plans for a new tasting room. Find out more about their incredible wines at Caliza Winery.

In our Travel Paso Spotlight, Adam chats with Ty Lewis, the city manager of Paso Robles, about the upcoming 4th of July celebration at Barney Schwartz Park. Learn more about this spectacular event and what makes it a must-attend celebration for the community. Check out more details at Travel Paso and Paso Robles City.

Don’t miss out on staying informed about all things Paso Robles through Paso Wine.

Don’t forget to visit travelpaso.com for everything you need before your next trip to Paso. Want to know what’s happening around town? Looking for pet-friendly places to stay? Curious about Sensorio? TravelPaso.com is your go-to resource. Check it out and plan your perfect Paso getaway.

Visit the Travel Paso website for more information: Travel Paso

*****

🇫🇷 For any all info on our cruise to France in August – visit www.CorkandCruise.com

*****

Where Wine Takes You (WWTY) is produced by Paso Wine. WWTY is recorded, edited, produced, and hosted by Adam Montiel. Follow Adam on Instagram @AdamOnTheAir and check out his daily podcast Up + Adam. Connect with Adam and lean more on AdamMontiel.com

For the latest in Paso Robles Wine Country, check out PasoWine.com and follow on

Instagram @PasoWine. Download the free Paso Wine App as your guide to all things

wine country. 

Recording equipment for WWTY was transported in suitcases provided by Fly with Wine.

Use the Promo Code ADAM20 – save 20% off everything you buy AND Free Shipping!

Original music on WWTY, “Good Company,” performed by Moonshiner Collective.

©2024 Where Wine Takes You, All Rights Reserved.