In this episode, hosts Erik Ellner and Roger Salazar discuss the rich world of South American wines, focusing on Argentinian and Chilean varieties. Joined by guest Jeff Ball, they explore the history and evolution of Malbec, its significance in Argentina, and the differences between Argentinian and Chilean wines. The conversation delves into personal experiences with wine, the importance of aging, and the cultural aspects of wine appreciation. They also taste and review several wines, sharing their thoughts on flavor profiles and the wine tasting experience. 

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction

04:33 The Evolution of Malbec in the U.S.

07:07 Personal Malbec Journeys

12:29 Wine Preferences and Seasonal Choices

18:18 The Journey Into Wine Appreciation

26:05 Terrazas de los Andes Malbec

29:15 Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

35:16 Sena Aconcagua Valley, Chile 2012

40:04 Moscato Magnanime Cabernet 2018

45:35 Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino

53:52 Luca Old Vine Malbec

01:00:05 El Esteco Malbec 2022

01:05:58 Wine Insight and Advice

01:13:51 Breaking Down Wine Barriers for Younger Generations

Episode Mentions:

Wines: Terrazas de los Andes Malbec, Pascual Toso Malbec, Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Sena Aconcagua Valley, Chile 2012, Moscato Magnanime Cabernet 2018, Catena Zapata Malbec Argentina, Luca Old Vine Malbec, El Esteco Malbec 2022, Achaval Ferrer Malbec

In this episode, hosts Erik Ellner and Roger Salazar are joined once again by the Ghost Raven (Phil Salazar) as they share their recent summer adventure through Lodi, California — where the Salazar’s were born and raised. Together, they explore the unexpected charm and evolving wine culture of this underrated region. From hidden gem wineries to standout vintages, the trio shares personal stories, tasting notes, and local insights that reveal why Lodi is far more than just a pit stop on Highway 99. Whether you're a seasoned wine lover or just curious about California’s lesser-known wine country, this episode uncorks the beauty, history, and surprises of Lodi’s vineyards.

Chapters

00:00 The Evolution of Lodi's Wine Scene

09:52 Bokisch Vineyards

17:15 Harney Lane Vineyards

27:48 Jessie's Grove Winery

32:34 Lodi Wine Visitors Center/Wine & Roses

Episode Mentions

Wineries: Harney Lane, Bokisch Vineyards, Jessie's Grove Winery, Wine & Roses, Papapavlos Bistro & Bar; Lodi Wine Visitors Center

In this episode, hosts Erik Ellner and Roger Salazar are joined by Ghost Raven as they share their recent wine tasting adventures across California, including visits to Granite Bay, Santa Barbara, Solvang, Paso Robles, and Napa. They discuss the experiences, the quality of wines tasted, and the overall enjoyment of the journey. 

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to the Wine Babblers

00:54 Capitol Cellars

05:24 Santa Barbara Tastings

15:12 Solvang Wine Tastings

17:16 Paso Robles Wine Tastings

36:46 Napa Wine Tastings

01:04:18 What's Next on Wine Babblers

Episode Mentions

Wines: 2020 Syrah Andrew Murray Vineyards, 2021 Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

Wineries and Tasting Rooms: Capitol Cellars, Andrew Murray Vineyards, L'Aventure Winery, Hope Family Wines, Daou Vineyards, Pine Ridge Vineyards, Seavey Vineyard, Oakville Wine Merchant, Robert Craig Winery, Rutherford Ranch Winery, Chateau Montelena Winery; Taste of Santa Rita Hills; Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Cafe

Accommodations: Silverado

In this episode, hosts Erik Ellner and Roger Salazar explore the world of wines beyond their familiar California haunts. They share their adventures in discovering wines while traveling, from impromptu tastings on the Rubicon Trail to unexpected finds in Michigan. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious traveler, this episode offers insights into the joys and surprises of savoring wines away from home. Tune in for stories, laughter, and a toast to the unexpected pleasures of wine exploration. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Wine on Vacation

09:02 Wine Tasting on the Rubicon Trail

31:54 Encouragement to Try Regional Wines

48:20 Upcoming Wine Adventures

55:53 The Boldness of Trying New Wines

Episode Mentions
Rubicon Trail Wine Tasting: Austin Hope 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, Carter 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon, Grgich Hills Estate 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon, Schrader Cellars Double Diamond 2021 Cabernet Sauv, Caymus 50th Anniversary Cabernet Sauvignon 2022

In this mini episode, hosts Erik Ellner and Roger Salazar have a “sipper, sipper” of some unique wines, from ancient vine Zinfandel to Bordeaux blends. The conversation also touches on the challenges of making wine approachable for everyone, sharing personal anecdotes and insights from their experiences. Make sure to listen until the end for a legal tip from Erik.

Chapters:

00:25 Cline Family Cellars Ancient Vine Zinfandel

03:25 Château de la Chapelle Bordeaux

07:51 Wine Pairings

Episode Mentions: 

Cline Family Cellars, Château de la Chapelle, Revana Family Vineyard

Hosts Erik Ellner and Roger Salazar take listeners on a journey through their recent “world tour” of winery visits in Napa. They share their experiences at various wineries, including Burgess, Robert Craig, Hall Rutherford, Seven Apart, William Cole, Markham, Revana and Duckhorn. The conversation highlights the unique aspects of each winery, the wines they tasted, and the overall enjoyment of the tasting experiences. The episode also features special guest Phil Salazar, (The Ghost Raven) who adds his insights and experiences to the discussion.

Chapters:

00:00 The Napa Experience

02:30 Burgess Cellars

06:56 Robert Craig Winery

22:17 Hall Rutherford Winery

29:23 Seven Apart Winery

34:16 William Cole Vineyards

42:24 Markham Vineyards

48:57 Revana Family Vineyard

Episode Mentions: 

Wineries: Burgess Cellars, Robert Craig Winery, Hall Rutherford Winery, Seven Apart Winery, William Cole Vineyards, Markham Vineyards, Revana Family Vineyard, Duckhorn Vineyards

Accommodations: Silverado Resort

Wines Tasted: 

ROBERT CRAIG 

• 2015 Mt Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2015 Spring Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2016 Diamond Mt Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2018 Howell Mt Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2025 Howell Mountain Estate Merlot

• 2016 The Stick Red Wine Blend

HALL RUTHERFORD

• 2021 Sacrashe Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2019 Montagna Mt Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2021 Rainin Vineyard Diamond Mt Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2021 Beller Vineyard Mt Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon

SEVEN APART

• 2021 Basalt Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2021 Shale Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2021 Summit Cabernet Sauvignon

WILLIAM COLE

• 2022 Small Lot Stag’s Leap District Cab

• 2017 Predecessor 

• 2015 Cuvee Claire Cab

MARKHAM

• 2017 Yountville Estate Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2021 Meadowrock Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

REVANA

• 2018 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2021 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2021 Cold Springs Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon

DUCKHORN

• 2013 Duck Blind Proprietary Red Blend

• 2021 Patzimaro Cabernet Sauvignon

Hosts Erik Ellner and Roger Salazar delve into the nuances of wine etiquette, exploring the balance between enjoyment and decorum while tasting wines. They discuss the importance of connecting with wine servers, the art of pacing during tastings, the significance of planning ahead for a successful wine tasting experience and their view that “spitters are quitters.”

Wines: Duckhorn Oakville Napa Valley Cabernet, Wallis Denali Estate Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon

Wineries: Caymus-Suisun, Seavey Vineyard

Accommodations: Villa Capricho in Suisun Valley

Erik and Roger uncork the Wine Babblers podcast by sharing their journey into wine, tasting experiences, and touch on the social aspects of wine culture. They also review Cabernet Sauvignon from Kathryn Hall, Markham Vineyards, and Faust Wines, and give you a glimpse of what is to come on thepodcast. Future episodes promise to explore various wine regions and tasting adventures, including interviews expert and celebrity interviews.

Episode Mentions:

Wines: Kathryn Hall Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Marham Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, Faust Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 

Wineries: William Cole Vineyards, Seavey Vineyard, Revana Family Vineyard, Markham Vineyards

Accommodations: Silverado Resort and Spa, Carneros Resort and Spa, Ranco Caymus Inn

Welcome to the Wine Babblers Podcast, where two regular guys—Erik Ellner and Roger Salazar—invite you to join them on their journey through the world of wine. With just a basic knowledge, but a deep enthusiasm for vino, Erik and Roger aren’t experts—they’re explorers, ready to learn alongside you as they “babble” about all things wine. Born from their long, laughter-filled “Wine Nights” with friends, the podcast blends honest curiosity with lively conversation. From sharing their favorite bottles to spotlighting go-to tasting spots in Napa, Lodi, and the Foothills, they’ll also dream out loud about future visits to Paso Robles, Temecula, and more. Each episode is packed with down-to-earth insights, stories, and a lot of heart. Whether you're wine-savvy or wine-curious, you’ll feel right at home. So pour yourself a glass and join Erik and Roger for a fun, friendly, and flavor-filled ride on Wine Babblers. Subscribe now!