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.

Season 9, Episode 1: Maypop Wine Co. & Wild Child Wines

In the premiere of Season 9, we uncork two boundary-pushing forces redefining Oregon wine: Maypop Wine Co. and Wild Child Wines.

Maypop Wine Co., founded by winemaking duo Shea Guevara and Vince Kelsey, is a love letter to the Willamette Valley’s untapped potential. With deep roots in generational winemaking, they’ve traded tradition for exploration—intentionally stepping outside the region’s Pinot Noir spotlight to champion underrepresented varietals like Albariño, Gamay, and Riesling. Their approach is refreshingly low-intervention, allowing the vineyard and vintage to speak with minimal interference, resulting in vibrant, expressive wines that are as playful as they are thoughtful. Sustainability and innovation are woven into their DNA, from reusable glass to experimental fermentation techniques, all grounded in a philosophy that wine should be accessible, unpretentious, and enjoyed anytime.

Wild Child Wines, led by seasoned sommelier Jonathan, brings a different kind of energy—one rooted in freedom, instinct, and a deep love for the craft. After decades in the wine world, Jonathan set out to create something entirely his own: a boutique label focused on classic Willamette Valley styles with a rebellious edge. His wines embrace minimal intervention while delivering freshness, personality, and a sense of adventure in every bottle. From small-lot Pinot Noir to vibrant Riesling and Gamay, Wild Child is about breaking rules just enough to let authenticity lead the way.

Together, these two brands embody the evolving spirit of Oregon wine—where tradition meets curiosity, and where the next generation of winemakers is rewriting the story, one bottle at a time

In this episode of Wine Crush Podcast, we sit down with two deeply respected figures in Oregon wine: James Cahill and Anthony King. Together, they share the winding journeys that brought them to the heart of the Willamette Valley and the experiences that shaped their winemaking philosophies.

James Cahill of North Valley Vineyards brings decades of industry experience and a grounded perspective on farming, winemaking, and building authentic relationships in Oregon wine country. Known for his thoughtful approach and commitment to quality, James reflects on how the Oregon wine scene has evolved while still holding onto its collaborative spirit.

Anthony King of Ratio Wineworks and Carlton Winemakers Studio shares his dynamic path through the industry, balancing creativity, precision, and community. From crafting approachable, expressive wines to working within one of Oregon’s most innovative collaborative winemaking spaces, Anthony offers insight into the modern side of Oregon wine and what continues to inspire him vintage after vintage.

Together, James and Anthony dive into harvest stories, industry changes, vineyard challenges, friendship within the wine community, and the passion that keeps them chasing the next great bottle. This episode is equal parts education, storytelling, and celebration of the people who make Oregon wine so special. 🍷

Troon Winery isn’t just making wine—they’re stewarding the land.

In this episode, we explore the philosophy and passion behind Troon Winery, where biodynamic farming, regenerative agriculture, and deep respect for nature shape every bottle. This conversation goes beyond tasting notes and into the why—why farming matters, why patience is essential, and why great wine starts long before grapes ever reach the cellar.

We talk about balance, biodiversity, and the intentional choices that honor both the vineyard and the people who work it. Troon’s approach is thoughtful, grounded, and refreshingly honest, proving that when you work with the land instead of against it, the result is something truly special.

This episode is for wine lovers who care about where their wine comes from, how it’s grown, and the bigger picture behind what’s in the glass.

Pour something earthy, lean in, and listen—this one’s all about connection, place, and purpose. 🍷🌿