Wine Crush Podcast NW

Season 9 of Wine Crush Podcast is coming to a close, and we saved a couple of special guests for the finale!

In our final regular episode of the season, Heidi sits down with two old friends: Thibaud Mandet of Clos Griotte and Bill Rumsey of Luciole Vineyard.

This conversation is everything Wine Crush is about: great Oregon wine, the people behind the bottle, a connection to the land, creativity, and plenty of laughs. Thibaud and Bill share their stories, their approaches to wine and vineyards, and the inspiration that comes from blending agriculture with art.

It’s a relaxed, funny, thoughtful conversation between friends that wanders through wine, art, farming, creativity, and life in Oregon wine country.

After a season filled with incredible winemakers, vineyard stories, old friends, new discoveries, and plenty of bottles opened along the way, this episode feels like the perfect exclamation point on Season 9.

Pour yourself a glass and join us one more time as we raise a toast to Clos Griotte, Luciole Vineyard, Oregon wine, and another unforgettable season of Wine Crush Podcast.

🍷 Every bottle holds a story, and every story begins with the land.

Two women. Two very different paths into wine. One seriously good conversation.

On this episode of Wine Crush Podcast, Heidi sits down with Jeanne Feldkamp, co-founder and winemaker at Corollary Wines, and Rachel Rose, winemaker and vineyard director at Bryn Mawr Vineyards, for a deep dive into sparkling wine, science, farming, creativity, and the ever-evolving story of Oregon wine.

Jeanne and her partner, Dan Diephouse, founded Corollary Wines with one very specific mission: explore what the Willamette Valley can express through traditional-method sparkling wine. After producing their first Oregon vintage in 2017, they went all-in on bubbles. In 2022, they purchased 57 acres in the Eola-Amity Hills and began developing a vineyard specifically designed for sparkling wine production, with regenerative agriculture at the heart of the project. Jeanne has also become a driving force in Oregon’s growing sparkling-wine movement as a co-founder of Method Oregon. (Corollary Wines⁠)

Then there’s Rachel Rose, whose road to wine began with science. With a degree in Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology from UC Santa Cruz, Rachel left biotech behind and headed to Australia, ultimately earning a master’s degree in Oenology and postgraduate training in viticulture from the University of Adelaide. Her journey eventually brought her to Oregon and Bryn Mawr Vineyards, where she now directs both the vineyard and winemaking programs. Her approach combines biology, chemistry, experimentation and artistry, with a focus on letting each vintage and vineyard tell its own story. (Bryn Mawr Vineyards⁠)

From bubbles and microbiology to vineyard life, off-grid living, sustainability and the future of Oregon wine, this conversation goes in all the best directions.

Pour something delicious and settle in. This is an episode filled with smart women, fascinating stories, plenty of laughs and a whole lot of Eola-Amity Hills energy.

Some wine stories begin with a bottle. This one begins with a family, an abandoned walnut orchard, and a leap of faith in the Eola Hills.

On this episode of Wine Crush Podcast, Heidi sits down with Ben Casteel, second-generation winemaker, co-owner and director of Bethel Heights Vineyard, for a conversation about family, legacy, Oregon wine and the land that has shaped it all.

Bethel Heights began in 1977, when the Casteel and Dudley families discovered an abandoned walnut orchard in what is now the Eola-Amity Hills AVA. They planted their first vines between 1977 and 1979 and released their first commercial vintage in 1984, becoming part of the pioneering generation that helped establish the Willamette Valley as a world-class wine region.

Ben literally grew up among those vines, spending summers working in the vineyard with his family. Wine wasn’t originally his career plan. He headed to the University of Oregon intending to pursue English literature, but a 1999 harvest in Burgundy changed his trajectory. After gaining experience at Rex Hill, Ben returned home and eventually took the winemaking reins from his father, Terry Casteel.

Today, Ben carries Bethel Heights into its second generation while staying deeply connected to the philosophy that has guided the family from the beginning: make wines that speak clearly of place, vintage and the remarkable landscape of the Eola-Amity Hills.

Heidi and Ben talk about those early Oregon wine pioneers, growing up at Bethel Heights, taking over a family legacy, old vines, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, and what it means to steward a piece of Oregon wine history for the generations still to come.

This is more than a conversation about wine. It’s about family, place and nearly five decades of believing in a hillside in Oregon.

Pour yourself a glass and join us for Wine Crush Podcast

This episode of Wine Crush Podcast takes us to one of Oregon wine country’s most iconic destinations, Soter Vineyards at Mineral Springs Ranch.

Founded in 1997 by Tony and Michelle Soter, Soter’s story is deeply woven into the history of American wine. Before coming to Oregon, Tony built an impressive winemaking career in Napa Valley, including founding Etude and consulting for some of California’s most celebrated wineries. In 2001, the Soters purchased Mineral Springs Ranch, a former cattle ranch in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA, and began transforming it into the remarkable biodynamic farm and vineyard it is today.

In this episode, we get behind the scenes with Soter’s winemaker Chris Fladwood, who has been part of the Soter team since 2009, working his way from Cellar Master to Director of Winemaking & Viticulture. We talk wine, farming, Oregon’s wine history, and what it really takes to make wines that reflect a place.

And because wine and food belong together, we’re also joined by Soter’s head chef for a delicious conversation about the connection between the vineyard, the farm, the kitchen and the table.

Soter’s philosophy goes well beyond making great Pinot Noir. Their biodynamic approach treats Mineral Springs Ranch as a living ecosystem, with vineyards, gardens, livestock and the land all working together. And their sparkling wine program has its own Oregon history, beginning with the very first Soter wine, the 1997 Brut Rosé.

This is one of those episodes where you get the wine, the stories, the food and a deeper appreciation for the people and place behind the bottle.

Pour yourself something good and come with us to Mineral Springs Ranch. This is Soter Vineyards. 🍷🌿

In this episode of Wine Crush Podcast, we’re joined by two incredible Oregon wine stories that showcase the passion, innovation, and community that make the Willamette Valley one of the world’s premier wine regions.

First, we sit down with the team from Fullerton Wines, a family-owned winery dedicated to crafting elegant, site-driven Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and other cool-climate varietals. We explore the family’s journey into Oregon wine, their commitment to sustainable farming, and how their collaborative approach has helped build a respected name in the Willamette Valley. From vineyard practices to the art of blending, the Fullerton team shares what it takes to produce wines that authentically express Oregon’s diverse terroir.

We’re also joined by the passionate team behind Apona Winery, where Old World inspiration meets the distinctive landscapes of Oregon. Their philosophy centers on producing expressive, balanced wines that celebrate both place and craftsmanship. You’ll hear the story behind the winery’s unique name, the vision that drives their winemaking, and the dedication required to create memorable wines that continue to earn loyal fans.

As always, the conversation goes far beyond what’s in the glass. Expect plenty of laughs, behind-the-scenes stories, honest conversations about the wine industry, and insights into what inspires these talented winemakers every day.

Whether you’re a longtime wine enthusiast, planning your next Willamette Valley tasting adventure, or simply love hearing the stories behind the people who create exceptional wines, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Pour yourself a glass, press play, and join us for another unforgettable conversation on Wine Crush Podcast

Some people make wine. Others shape an entire wine region.

In this episode of Wine Crush Podcast, we sit down with Dai Crisp and Boone McCoy-Crisp of Lumos Wine Co., a family whose fingerprints can be found across some of Oregon’s most celebrated vineyards.

For more than three decades, Dai has been a pioneer of certified organic viticulture and has managed the legendary Temperance Hill Vineyard, helping define what world-class Oregon Pinot Noir can become. Alongside his son, Boone, the next generation of the family is carrying that legacy forward through thoughtful winemaking, sustainable farming, and a deep respect for the land that has been in their family for generations. Lumos, founded in 2000 on the family’s historic Wren Vineyard, has become known for honest, site-driven wines that showcase the character of the Willamette Valley. (Lumos Wine Company⁠)

Together we explore the history of the Crisp family, the evolution of Oregon wine, the philosophy behind organic farming, and what it means to steward vineyards that have helped shape the reputation of the Willamette Valley. This is more than a conversation about wine. It’s a story about family, legacy, resilience, and the people dedicated to preserving Oregon’s rich winemaking heritage for generations to come.

If you love Oregon wine, vineyard history, Pinot Noir, and the stories behind the bottle, this is an episode you won’t want to miss

This week’s Wine Crush Podcast takes us deep into the heart of Oregon wine country with two outstanding wineries: Dennison Cellars and Phelps Creek Vineyards. 🍷

Founded by winemaker Tim Wilson, Denison Cellars has earned a loyal following for producing elegant, small-lot wines that showcase the unique character of Oregon vineyards. Meanwhile, Phelps Creek Vineyards has become a Columbia Gorge icon, crafting award-winning wines from estate vineyards perched high above the Hood River Valley with breathtaking views and exceptional growing conditions.

In this episode, we explore the history, passion, challenges, and victories behind these remarkable wine brands. You’ll hear firsthand stories about vineyard life, winemaking philosophy, and what continues to drive Oregon’s thriving wine industry forward.

Grab a glass, hit play, and join us for another unforgettable conversation celebrating the people and places behind great wine. 🍇🎧

Listen now and discover why Oregon wine continues to earn recognition around the world!

This week on Wine Crush Podcast, we’re headed to the stunning Dundee Hills to visit Furioso Vineyards, where art, family, and world-class wine come together in spectacular fashion.

Founded on a historic vineyard first planted in 1972, Furioso’s Dundee estate features 10 acres of mature vines perched on sun-drenched south-facing slopes. Their portfolio expanded with the addition of the Trovato Vineyard in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA, creating an all estate-grown winery with more than 30 acres under vine across two renowned Oregon wine regions. (Furioso Vineyards)

In this episode, we dive into the story behind Furioso’s breathtaking vineyards, organic farming practices, Italian heritage, and the pursuit of terroir-driven Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. From old-vine fruit to architectural beauty, every detail of this winery reflects passion, craftsmanship, and a deep connection to the land.

If you love Oregon wine, Willamette Valley Pinot Noir, vineyard stories, and the people behind the bottle, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

On this episode of Wine Crush Podcast, we explore two wineries redefining what Oregon wine can look and feel like through entirely different lenses.

We first head to Balsall Creek, a family-owned winery nestled in the Chehalem Mountains AVA just north of the Dundee Hills. Founded by Jon and Lesli Owens, whose Oregon roots stretch back to the 1850 Oregon Trail era, Balsall Creek combines deep agricultural heritage with a modern vision for luxury Willamette Valley wine. Their estate vineyard is LIVE Certified, Salmon Safe Certified, dry-farmed, hand-harvested and powered with a strong sustainability mission. Alongside Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, they are also producing exciting varietals including Gamay Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Aligoté and Pinot Meunier with an eye toward true Champagne-style sparkling wines. (Balsall Creek)

Then we shift gears with Henderson Avenue Wine and founder Tiquette Bramlett, one of the most impactful voices in modern Oregon wine. Henderson Avenue is built around accessibility, storytelling, music, culture and community, creating wines meant to bring people together rather than intimidate them. Tiquette also continues to shape the industry through leadership roles, nonprofit advocacy and mentorship focused on diversity and inclusion within wine. (Henderson Ave)

This episode is a conversation about legacy, innovation, authenticity and the many ways wine can create connection.

Listen now on all major podcast platforms

Season 9 kicks off with two standout Willamette Valley producers who are redefining what it means to build a wine brand with heart, grit, and a little creative edge.

At Varnum Vintners, husband-and-wife team Taralyn and Cyler Varnum are crafting small-production wines that are as approachable as they are expressive. Focused on old-vine Riesling, Pinot Noir, and sparkling wines, their philosophy is simple: “Made to drink, don’t overthink.” From experimenting with unique varietals and styles to pioneering wine in beer bottles and even launching Oregon’s first non-alcoholic wines, Varnum is pushing boundaries while keeping wine fun, inclusive, and unpretentious.

Then we head to the rolling hills just outside Salem to meet the family behind Hudak House. Todd and Lynette Hudak traded a fast-paced California life for a bold leap into wine, taking over a historic, multi-decade vineyard in the Eola-Amity Hills. Today, their 30-acre estate produces a diverse lineup of estate-grown wines, from Pinot Noir to Chardonnay, all rooted in the character of the land. What makes Hudak House truly special is the experience: a welcoming, family-driven atmosphere where wine, community, and connection take center stage, whether you’re sipping in the tasting room or enjoying live music on the lawn.

Two wineries, two unique paths—but a shared passion for storytelling, innovation, and creating wines that bring people together.