Savor Sonoma at Graton Resort & Casino: Carey Sweet on AYA, Live Fire & Vine & Sonoma County Wine

Wine Road: Wine, When & Where Podcast Host: Katie Ambrosi Guest: Carey Sweet — longtime Sonoma County wine and food writer and Public Relations Manager at Graton Resort & Casino

Episode Summary

What's new at Graton Resort & Casino, and what can wine and food lovers expect from Savor Sonoma Live Fire & Vine?

In this episode of the Wine Road: Wine, When & Where Podcast, Katie Ambrosi sits down with longtime Sonoma County wine and food writer Carey Sweet at Graton Resort & Casino in Rohnert Park, California.

Carey shares her journey from covering the Sonoma County culinary scene as a journalist to joining the team at Graton, along with an inside look at the resort's major expansion, its growing culinary program, the new AYA restaurant, and the upcoming Savor Sonoma food and wine celebration on August 21–22, 2026.

We also dive into the Live Fire & Vine Festival, featuring nationally known chefs cooking over live fire alongside a Sonoma County wine village, plus Graton's on-site farming program, sustainability efforts, upcoming restaurants and entertainment, and what makes Graton an increasingly important part of the Sonoma County food and wine scene.

In This Episode

Katie and Carey talk about:

• Carey Sweet's career covering Sonoma County wine, food, restaurants and hospitality and her transition from journalism to public relations at Graton Resort & Casino
• The major expansion underway at Graton, including a new smoke-free casino space
• AYA, Graton's new flagship restaurant led by Chef Roy Ellamar
• Chef Ellamar's California coastal cuisine with Asian, Hawaiian and Filipino influences
• Savor Sonoma, taking place August 21–22, 2026
• The sold-out Friday Headliners Dinner and Saturday's Live Fire & Vine Festival
• Celebrity chefs including Aarón Sánchez, Marcus Samuelsson, Bryan and Michael Voltaggio, Nyesha Arrington, Charlie Palmer, Dustin Valette and Roy Ellamar
• The Aarón Sánchez Impact Fund, under the Emeril Lagasse Foundation, and its support of Latino youth pursuing culinary careers
• Graton's five-acre G5 farm and plans for the new 40-acre G40 farm
• Sonoma County sustainability, farm-to-table dining, living wages and community investment
• Graton's Sonoma County-focused wine program and Wine Director James Hernandez
• New and upcoming Graton restaurants including Revere (which is the rebranded 630 Park Steakhouse), Neon Kitty and Soco DoCo
• The Playbook's Detroit-style pizza and quesabirria tacos
• Graton entertainment, including John Legend, Third Eye Blind and plans for a new 3,600-seat theater
• Carey's favorite West Sonoma County food destinations
• What makes a great Sonoma County restaurant wine list

Savor Sonoma 2026: Event Details

Savor Sonoma takes place at Graton Resort & Casino in Rohnert Park, Sonoma County, on Friday, August 21 and Saturday, August 22, 2026.

Friday, August 21: Headliners Dinner

The Friday night Headliners Dinner is sold out and features a five-course collaborative dinner from acclaimed chefs including Aarón Sánchez, Charlie Palmer, Bryan and Michael Voltaggio and Roy Ellamar.

Saturday, August 22: Live Fire & Vine Festival

Time: Noon–5:00 PM Location: Poolside at Graton Resort & Casino General Admission: $165 VIP: $245, including the AYA after-party from 7:00–9:00 PM SOLD OUT Dress: Sonoma County elegant / resort wear

Live Fire & Vine brings together acclaimed chefs cooking over open fire, Sonoma County and California wineries, live music and a poolside wine-country setting. Featured chefs:

Aarón Sánchez, Chef, restaurateur and television personality known for MasterChef and Chopped

Nyesha Arrington – James Beard Award finalist, alumna of "Top Chef," "Next Level Chef" and chef/owner of Native by Nyesha Cal-global restaurant in Los Angeles

Marcus Samuelsson, Award-winning chef, restaurateur and Top Chef Masters winner

Charlie Palmer, Sonoma culinary pioneer and founder of the Charlie Palmer Collective

Bryan & Michael Voltaggio, Top Chef alumni and acclaimed restaurateurs

Dustin Valette, Michelin-recognized Sonoma chef-vintner and founder of Valette Hospitality

Roy Ellamar, Executive Chef of AYA at Graton Resort & Casino

Wine Road Wineries at Savor Sonoma Live Fire & Vine

We're especially excited to see several Wine Road member wineries pouring at Savor Sonoma. If you're attending Live Fire & Vine, be sure to look for these Wine Road wineries:

• A. Rafanelli Winery
• Bricoleur Vineyards
• Iron Horse Vineyards
• J Vineyards & Winery
• Ridge Vineyards
• Silver Oak Cellars

These wineries are part of the Wine Road community representing the wines and wine experiences of Northern Sonoma County and Sonoma County wine country.

Live Fire & Vine Chef Menu

Aarón Sánchez

Grilled Chicken Halves Congri, heirloom tomato and peach salad, Crystal Mojo sauce

Marcus Samuelsson

Whole Smoked Lamb Roasted pineapple, olive tapenade, roti and Scotch bonnet peppers

Bryan & Michael Voltaggio

Miso-Mushroom Cedar-Planked Cod Mushroom fideos, maitake mushroom, fennel pollen and Espelette aioli

Dustin Valette

Whole Pig Porchetta Smoked guanciale and white corn salad, Périgord truffle espuma

Roy Ellamar

Octopus Tinono & Pork Belly Lechon Sweet onions and Sungold tomatoes

Nyesha Arrington

Santa Maria-Grilled Tomahawk Ribeyes Kickback potato salad, charred spring onion and beef-fat vinaigrette

Graton Resort & Casino Culinary Team

G40 Vegetable Paella

Pan-Roasted Camembert Local fruit and honey with Della Fattoria bread

Cold Fruit Stand House-made chamoy, chili and lime salt

Semolina Olive Oil Cake Whipped mascarpone and grilled summer stone fruit

Wineries Pouring at Savor Sonoma Live Fire & Vine

The Live Fire & Vine wine village features a broad selection of Sonoma County, Napa Valley and California wineries, including:

• A. Rafanelli Winery
• Aperture Cellars
• Bricoleur Vineyards
• Browne Family Wines
• Chappellet
• Hourglass
• J Vineyards & Winery
• Ledson Winery & Vineyards
• Martinelli Winery & Vineyards
• Ram's Gate Winery
• Ridge Vineyards
• Silver Oak Cellars
• Staglin Family Vineyard
• The Mascot
• Truchard Vineyards
• Turley Wine Cellars
• Valette Wines
• Vérité / Anakota
• Williams Selyem

More About AYA at Graton Resort & Casino

AYA is Graton Resort & Casino's new flagship restaurant, led by Chef Roy Ellamar, whose background includes working with legendary chef Joël Robuchon.

The restaurant highlights California coastal cuisine with Asian, Hawaiian and Filipino influences while drawing ingredients from Graton's own farming program.

Carey also talks about Graton's five-acre G5 farm and the planned G40, a 40-acre agricultural project designed to expand the resort's connection between farming, sustainability and its restaurants.

New Restaurants & Entertainment at Graton

Graton continues to expand its food, beverage and entertainment offerings. Carey gives us a preview of several projects, including:

Revere: a reimagined version of the 630 Park Steakhouse with tableside presentations and a dramatic meat program.

Neon Kitty: a playful, upscale concept inspired by Japanese convenience-store culture, expected to open in September.

Soco DoCo: a brioche-based doughnut concept.

The Playbook: serving casual favorites including Detroit-style pizza and quesabirria tacos.

Graton is also expanding its entertainment offerings, with concerts including recent performances by John Legend and Third Eye Blind and plans for a new 3,600-seat theater as part of its hotel expansion.

Carey Sweet's Sonoma County Food & Wine Picks

In our rapid-fire round, Carey shares some of her favorite Sonoma County and West County destinations and discusses places including:

• Casino Bar & Grill in Bodega
• Valley Ford Creamery and Estero Gold cheese
• Rocker Oysterfeller's in Valley Ford
• Hazel in Occidental
• Cyrus in Geyserville
• SingleThread in Healdsburg
• Dry Creek Kitchen in Healdsburg

She also shares her philosophy on Sonoma County restaurant wine programs: start with the wines and build the menu around what you want to drink.

Also Mentioned in This Episode

• Graton Resort & Casino
• AYA
• The Playbook
• Tony's
• Revere/630 Park Steakhouse
• Neon Kitty
• Soco DoCo
• Douglas Keane and Cyrus
• SingleThread
• Dry Creek Kitchen
• Casino Bar & Grill
• Valley Ford Creamery
• Rocker Oysterfeller's
• Hazel

About the Wine Road Podcast

Wine Road: Wine, When & Where explores the wineries, winemakers, chefs, restaurants, events and personalities that make Northern Sonoma County wine country such a special place to visit.

Follow the Wine Road for more stories and events from Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley and Russian River Valley, and subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss our next episode.

Italian Wines in Sonoma County with Mark Orsi | Festa Italia di Healdsburg

Wine When and Where Podcast Guest: Mark Orsi, Orsi Family Vineyards

What Italian grape varieties grow in Sonoma County? Why are grapes like Sangiovese, Barbera, Aglianico, Negroamaro and Sagrantino finding a home in Northern California? And where can wine lovers taste Italian varietal wines from dozens of California producers in one place?

In this episode of the Wine When and Where Podcast, we sit down with Mark Orsi of Orsi Family Vineyards in Healdsburg, California, to explore Italian wine in Sonoma County, the region's Italian-American wine heritage and the story behind Festa Italia di Healdsburg, an annual celebration of Italian grape varieties, wine, food and culture.

In This Episode

Mark shares why Sonoma County is particularly well suited to Italian grape varieties and how his own Italian heritage inspired the wines grown at Orsi Family Vineyards.

We talk about:

• Why Sonoma County has become an unexpected home for Italian grape varieties
• The Italian immigrant families who helped shape Healdsburg and Sonoma County wine history
• The 13 Italian grape varieties grown by Orsi Family Vineyards
• Familiar Italian wines including Sangiovese and Barbera
• Lesser-known grapes including Biancolella, Schioppettino, Negroamaro and Aglianico
• Why Italian wines are so naturally suited to food
• Which Italian wines might appeal to Cabernet Sauvignon drinkers
• Why Mark believes Aglianico deserves more attention
• The story behind Festa Italia di Healdsburg and Mark's goal of introducing more wine lovers to Italian varietal wines grown in California

What Is Festa Italia di Healdsburg?

Festa Italia di Healdsburg is an Italian wine festival held at Orsi Family Vineyards in Healdsburg, Sonoma County. Founded by Mark Orsi, the event brings together California wineries producing Italian grape varieties for an afternoon of wine tasting, Italian food, music and wine education.

The third annual Festa Italia di Healdsburg takes place:

Date: Sunday, August 16, 2026 Time: 11:00 AM–3:30 PM VIP Access: Begins at 10:00 AM Location: Orsi Family Vineyards in Healdsburg, California, approximately half a mile from downtown Healdsburg Tickets: $75-$85

Guests can taste Italian varietal wines from approximately 25–30 wineries, enjoy live music, pizza from Shelley Lindgren of A16 San Francisco, Gio Gelato and additional Italian food vendors.

The event also includes a wine panel hosted by wine expert Chris Sawyer, with Mick Unti and Shelley Lindgren, focusing on Italian white wines.

Participating wineries include Orsi Family Vineyards, Kokomo, Ramazzotti, Colagrassi, Seghesio, Unti Vineyards, Jupiter Wine Co, Benessere, Saini, Graziano, Buonguido, Solo Nostro, Muscardini Cellars, Idlewild, Martha Stoumen, Massican, Hawley Winery, Tansy and other California producers working with Italian grape varieties.

Festa Italia tickets and information: festaitaliahbg.com Orsi Family Vineyards: orsifamilyvineyards.com

Italian Wine Rapid Fire with Mark Orsi

Pineapple on pizza? Hard pass.

Favorite pasta pairing? Cacio e pepe with...anything.

Most underrated Italian grape? Aglianico.

What Italian wine could convert a Cabernet drinker? Sagrantino.

Most overrated wine trend? Orange wines — the hype, not necessarily the wine itself.

Dream celebrity spokesperson for Italian wine? George Clooney. Consider this his official invitation.

Mark Orsi's Cacio e Pepe Recipe

Looking for a simple pasta to pair with Italian wine? Mark shares his recipe for cacio e pepe, the classic Roman pasta made with Parmigiano-Reggiano and black pepper.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons whole black peppercorns

4 1/2 cups finely grated Pecorino Romano, plus more for serving

1 1/2 cups finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

1 pound dried tonnarelli

Directions1) Bring a large pot of water to a boil. (Do not add salt)

2) Meanwhile, in a very large nonstick skillet or pot set over high heat, toast the peppercorns just until fragrant. Let cool, then grind or crush very coarsely. Reserve 1 teaspoon for serving.

3) In the same skillet or pot, combine the cheeses and remaining pepper. Add 1 ½ cups warm water and stir to make a thick pecorino cream.

4) Add the pasta to the boiling water and stir. Keep the heat very high until the water returns to a boil, then stir again and adjust the heat as needed to keep the water bubbling. Set a timer for 8 minutes.

5) Set the pecorino cream over very low heat.

6) When the timer goes off, scoop out about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water and set aside. Taste the pasta and continue cooking until the pasta is done to your liking.

7) Drain pasta very well (this is important, as adding too much hot water can cause the cheese to clump) and add to the pecorino cream. Use tongs or two forks to stir, turn and toss the pasta in the sauce over low heat until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes sticky. Don't add any water yet, just keep tossing. To test, squeeze a drop of sauce between your thumb and finger. When the sauce is thick and forms strings like glue, it is ready.

8) If it starts to dry out, add cooking water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and toss thoroughly before adding more. Twist the pasta into a nest, if desired.

9) Dust with additional pecorino and the reserved pepper.

10) Serve immediately with a glass of Italian wine, preferably Orsi

Hugo Spritz Recipe

For another taste of Italy at home, make a refreshing Hugo Spritz with Prosecco, elderflower liqueur and fresh mint.

Ingredients

• 4–5 fresh mint leaves
• ½–1 ounce elderflower liqueur, such as St-Germain
• 4 ounces chilled Prosecco
• 1 ounce club soda or sparkling water
• Ice
• Lime wheel or lemon slice for garnish

Instructions

1. Place the mint leaves in a large wine glass.
2. Gently press the mint with a muddler or spoon to release its aroma.
3. Fill the glass with ice.
4. Add elderflower liqueur, followed by Prosecco and club soda.
5. Stir gently.
6. Garnish with lime or lemon and serve.

About Orsi Family Vineyards

Orsi Family Vineyards is a Healdsburg winery specializing in Italian grape varieties grown in Sonoma County. Its estate vineyards feature 13 Italian varieties, offering visitors an opportunity to explore both familiar and lesser-known Italian wines without leaving California wine country.

Learn more at orsifamilyvineyards.com.

Listen to Wine When and Where

Wine When and Where is the podcast of Wine Road Northern Sonoma County, exploring the wineries, winemakers, food, people and experiences of Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley and Russian River Valley in Sonoma County, California.

Follow along for more conversations about Sonoma County wineries, wine tasting, food, events and things to do in Northern Sonoma County.

Show Notes, Guest: Emily Haws, Brand Strategist & Em in the Kitchen

Recorded at: Foppiano Vineyards and J Vineyads in Healdsburg, CA

In this episode, host Executive Director, Katie Ambrosi sits down with Emily Haws — brand strategist, foodie extraordinaire, and the woman behind the beloved social handle @EmintheKitchen — to talk about her deep love of food, her journey into the wine world, and her work helping bring the Wine Road's historic 50th Anniversary Gala to life.

What we cover:

• How Emily's passion for food began (blackberries, church, and getting in trouble)
• Her background working with food brands including Grocery Outlet and dessert companies
• The magic of food and wine pairing — green papaya salad + Viognier = mind blown
• Her top 5 most memorable food experiences, from Catelli's in her wedding dress to dining with James Beard Lifetime Achievement Award winners in Nashville
• Les Dames d'Escoffier — the international women-in-food organization Emily serves on the board of in Sonoma County
• Birds & Bubbles fundraiser: champagne + fried chicken at Bacchus Landing
• Emily's role consulting for Foppiano Vineyards and Martin Ray
• The 50th Anniversary Wine Road Gala at Foppiano — tickets selling fast!

Restaurants & places mentioned:

Velasco's (Petaluma)

Khom Loi (Sebastopol) https://www.khomloisonoma.com/

Pizza Leah (Windsor) https://www.pizzaleah.com/

Catelli's (Geyserville) https://www.mycatellis.com/

Pastasciutta (Geyserville) https://www.sonomamag.com/geyservilles-pastasciutta-sells-fresh-pasta-sauces-and-italian-food-imports/

Trentadue Winery https://trentadue.com/

D'Argenzio Winery (Santa Rosa) https://www.dargenziowinery.com/

Lockeland Table (Nashville) https://www.lockelandtable.com/

Rustic Restaurant at Coppola 9Geyserville) https://www.francisfordcoppolawinery.com/rustic-restaurant/

Psychic Pie (Sebatopol) https://psychicpie.com/

Geyserville Grille (Geyserville) https://geyservilleinn.com/geyserville-grille/

Diavola (Geyserville) https://www.diavolapizzeria.com/

Bohemian Bistro (Occidental) https://www.bohemianbistrorr.com/

Howard Station (Occidental) https://howardstationcafe.com/

Inn at Occidental https://www.innatoccidental.com/

Russian River Brewing (Windsor & Santa Rosa) https://www.russianriverbrewing.com/

Parliament Brewing https://www.parliamentbrewing.com/

Soco Paella https://www.facebook.com/p/SoCo-Paella-100054542795533/

John Ash & Co. https://vinarosaresort.com/dining/john-ash/

Mamadios https://www.mamadios.com/

Links:

• Wine Road Northern Sonoma County
• 50th Anniversary Gala tickets: https://www.wineroad.com/home/attachment/wineroad50thanniversarygala/
• Birds & Bubbles fundraiser info: Les Dames d'Escoffier Sonoma Chapter: https://www.lesdamessoco.org/events
• Em in the Kitchen: @eminthekitchen https://eminthekitchen.com/
• The Cellar Stories https://www.thecellarstories.com/

After an incredible run hosting the Wine Road Podcast, Beth Costa is stepping into retirement and passing the microphone to Wine Road's new Executive Director, Katie Ambrosi.

In this special episode, Beth reflects on her years with Wine Road, the evolution of the organization, and the relationships she's built throughout Sonoma County's wine community. She also shares why she's excited about the future and officially introduces Katie as the new host of the podcast.

Katie talks about her passion for storytelling, supporting Wine Road members, and her vision for continuing to connect listeners with the people, places, and experiences that make Northern Sonoma County so special.

Whether you've been listening since the beginning or you're joining us for the first time, this episode marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the Wine Road Podcast.

• Beth reflects on her Wine Road journey
• Memorable moments from the podcast over the years
• Introducing Katie Ambrosi as Wine Road's new Executive Director
• Katie shares her background and plans for the future
• What's next for the Wine Road Podcast
• Continuing to celebrate the wineries, people, and stories of Wine Road

(0:10 - 0:23) The podcast begins with a warm welcome from hosts Marcy Gordon and Beth Costa, who introduce the show as the go-to resource for wine enthusiasts exploring northern Sonoma County. They acknowledge Ron Rubin for his support in keeping the podcast alive and thriving.

(0:24 - 0:48) The hosts express gratitude to River Road Family Vineyards and Winery for their financial backing, which allows them to continue recording and sharing stories. They highlight the winery's offerings, including Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from the Russian River Valley, encouraging listeners to explore their website.

(0:49 - 1:35) Celebrating their 10-year anniversary, Marcy and Beth reflect on the podcast's origins in a warehouse filled with quirky interruptions like dogs walking across the cement floors! They marvel at how far they've come, now recording in the professional Threshold Studios, and express disbelief at how quickly a decade has passed. In the recording booth with them today is the owner of Threshold Studios, Richard Ross, sharing some of his favorite shows we've recorded over the years.

(1:35 - 2:24) The hosts announce a significant change: Beth Costa is retiring after 26 years with Wine Road. They share lighthearted jokes about her long tenure and emphasize the impact her leadership has had on the organization. While this marks a transition, they assure listeners that this is not a permanent goodbye but rather a temporary hiatus.

(2:24 - 3:56) Beth shares her excitement about retirement and her plans to visit family in Indiana, Chicago, and Madison, Wisconsin, during a three-week vacation—the longest break she's taken in her career. She reflects on her recent presentation at the East Coast Wineries Exposition, where she discussed the challenges and rewards of podcasting, emphasizing the time commitment required to sustain a successful show.

(3:56 - 7:26) The hosts reminisce about the podcast's evolution, from early mistakes like recording with background noise to becoming an award-winning show. They recount memorable moments, such as being recognized by strangers on a cruise and speaking at the Podcast Movement conference. They credit their success to their listeners and the connections they've made with winemakers and fans over the years.

(7:27 - 9:07) Marcy and Beth highlight the joy of meeting listeners in person, whether for coffee or wine, and the privilege of hosting winemakers in the studio. They reflect on the unique stories and insights shared by their guests, which have deepened their appreciation for the wine industry and its community.

(9:08 - 13:37) The conversation shifts to favorite scenic drives in Sonoma County, with Beth describing routes through vineyards, redwoods, and coastal landscapes. She shares her love for stops like Korbel Champagne Cellars and Bodega Head, where she enjoys hiking and taking in breathtaking views. Beth reveals that a perfect day at Bodega Head inspired her decision to retire, prioritizing time to savor such moments.

(13:38 - 15:00) The hosts discuss the charm of Sebastopol, a small town with vibrant events like the Apple Blossom Parade and the Gravenstein Apple Fair. They recommend local attractions, including bakeries, gift shops, and restaurants, emphasizing the area's welcoming and community-focused atmosphere.

(15:01 - 20:07) Marcy and Beth encourage listeners to explore Sonoma County's new visitor guide, which showcases the region's diverse offerings beyond wine, such as parks, art galleries, and cheese producers. They praise the guide's high-quality presentation and suggest it as a resource for planning trips.

(20:08 - 22:24) The hosts announce Wine Road's upcoming 50th-anniversary celebration in September at Fopiano Vineyards, featuring wine tastings, food, live music, and a silent auction benefiting the Redwood Empire Food Bank. They share details about ticket availability and encourage listeners to join the festivities.

(22:25 - 26:23) Reflecting on the wine industry's evolution, the hosts discuss trends like the rise of rosé, sparkling wines, and lower-alcohol varietals. They appreciate the creativity and adaptability of winemakers experimenting with new styles and share anecdotes about standout wines and guests from past episodes.

(26:24 - 32:03) As the episode concludes, Marcy and Beth express gratitude to their listeners, sponsors, and the winemaking community for their support over the years. They emphasize the authenticity of their show, which goes beyond marketing to share genuine stories and insights. While Beth looks forward to retirement, the hosts assure fans that this is not a farewell but a "see you later," leaving the door open for future episodes. They end on a celebratory note, thanking Ron Rubin for his unwavering support and toasting to their decade-long journey.

The podcast begins with hosts Marcy Gordon and Beth Costa introducing the episode and thank their sponsor, Ron Rubin and River Road Family Vineyards for supporting the show (0:10-0:48).

They welcome guest Bret Munsell of Munsell Vineyards, a family friend with deep ties to the Alexander Valley wine community (0:49-1:15). Bret shares his family's 150-year farming legacy in Alexander Valley, starting with his great-great-grandfathers in the 1870s and 1880s, who initially focused on vineyards and wineries before diversifying into crops like prunes, hops, and dairy. By 1972, the family transitioned entirely to wine grapes (1:15-2:57).

Bret discusses his journey, including studying business at UC Davis and working in agricultural finance before joining the family business. He credits his banking experience with giving him valuable insights into production and finances, which he applies to their vineyard operations (3:03-4:27). Bret reflects on the importance of instilling a love for the land in his children, emphasizing the value of community and stewardship (4:36-5:14). He shares how his family celebrated their 150th anniversary with a community-focused event, highlighting the joy of bringing people together (7:12-8:03).

The conversation shifts to the growth of their business, which now includes managing 400 acres of their own vineyards and an additional 400 acres for clients. Bret credits his wife for pushing the family to start making wine in 2006, beginning with Chardonnay and Cabernet. They later expanded to Zinfandel, Sauvignon Blanc, Rosé, and Petit Verdot, with their Zinfandel earning double gold awards in competitions (9:11-14:34). Bret explains their unique approach to wine sales, focusing on private tastings in the vineyards rather than a traditional tasting room, allowing guests to connect with the land (15:01-16:09).

Bret recounts his early experiences working in the vineyards as a child, learning the value of hard work and responsibility. He shares how his daughters and nieces have also participated in vineyard work, gaining an appreciation for the effort involved (17:12-18:06, 32:11-33:10). He reflects on his passion for farming and the wine grape industry, describing it as the perfect blend of hard work and beauty, with Sonoma County offering unparalleled diversity and vistas (21:14-23:00).

As the current chair of the Sonoma County Wine Growers Commission, Bret discusses the organization's role in marketing Sonoma County wine grapes and supporting vineyard workers through programs like the Leadership Academy (23:46-25:06). He highlights the importance of balancing work, family, and community involvement, sharing his family's participation in 4-H and FFA activities (25:48-26:26). Bret also talks about his hobbies, including gardening, hunting, and spending time at a family cabin, which provide a welcome escape from his busy schedule (34:39-36:00).

The episode concludes with Bret reflecting on the enduring legacy of wine grapes in Alexander Valley, the challenges and changes in the industry, and his deep connection to the land. He encourages listeners to visit Munsell Vineyards for a unique tasting experience and to watch a heartfelt video celebrating their 150th anniversary, which captures the spirit of their family and agricultural heritage (37:22-41:08).

We're excited to share this video of the Munsell Family legacy. What an honor. 150 Year Celebration

The podcast episode begins with hosts Marcy Gordon and Beth Costa introducing the show (0:10-0:23) and expressing gratitude to sponsors like Ron Rubin and River Road Family Vineyards and Winery for supporting the podcast (0:24-0:48). They welcome guest Beth Grossman, a long-time listener and wine enthusiast visiting from Arlington, Virginia, who has been exploring Sonoma County since 1994 (0:49-1:16). Beth shares her journey of discovering wine country, starting with a wedding trip in Bodega Bay, which led to visiting 23 wineries in four days—a pace she humorously advises against (1:50-2:24). She reflects on the changes in Sonoma over the years, from quieter times with free tastings to the growth of tourism and lodging options, while noting that the region's friendly and welcoming vibe remains unchanged (2:34-3:09).

Beth discusses her lodging preferences, often staying in Healdsburg or nearby areas like Dry Creek, depending on the trip's length and budget (3:28-4:23). She highlights the variety of accommodations, from Airbnbs to budget hotels, and reminisces about earlier stays at the Inn on La Plaza when it was just $85 a night (4:40-5:04). The conversation shifts to favorite wineries, with Beth expressing her preference for smaller, family-owned establishments where grape growing and winemaking are closely connected (6:12-6:24). She mentions favorites like Porter Creek, known for its intimate tasting room and outdoor seating, and Motion, a hub for experimental winemaking and a training ground for young winemakers (6:40-7:25). Other notable mentions include Dutton Goldfield, Iron Horse, and A. Raffanelli, with Beth encouraging listeners to explore lesser-known spots and embrace the diversity of experiences (8:40-9:06).

Beth shares her journey into wine appreciation, which began with her early visits to Napa and Sonoma and evolved through learning opportunities at wineries (16:27-18:13). She emphasizes the importance of asking questions and participating in winery tours to deepen understanding and enhance the tasting experience (18:30-19:18). The discussion also highlights the value of pacing visits, mixing wine tasting with other activities like food pairings, vineyard tours, and exploring local attractions such as Armstrong Woods and Safari West (19:40-21:01). Beth humorously notes her preference for orderly nature, like vineyards, and shares her dream of spending a year in Sonoma to experience the seasons fully (20:38-21:19).

The conversation touches on Sonoma's rich culinary scene, with Beth praising bakeries like Quail and Condor and Sarmantine, as well as restaurants like Parish Cafe and Dry Creek Kitchen (24:05-26:16). She also highlights unique local experiences, such as the California Artisan Cheese Festival, food truck parks, and community events like the Prune Packers baseball games (33:43-34:41). Beth's enthusiasm for Sonoma's welcoming atmosphere and collaborative wine community shines through, as she recounts stories of winemakers sharing knowledge and supporting each other (36:16-37:18).

The episode concludes with a celebration of the Wine Road's 50th anniversary, featuring free wine tastings on June 20th (38:11-38:49). The hosts express their admiration for Beth's passion and knowledge, jokingly suggesting she become a personal concierge or guide for visitors. Beth reflects on how the podcast and her visits to Sonoma have been a source of relaxation and joy, reinforcing the region's charm and appeal (39:06-40:42).

(0:10-1:-01) The podcast episode begins with hosts Marcy Gordon and Beth Costa introducing Episode 252 of Wine Road. They thank sponsors like Ron Rubin and River Road Family Vineyards for supporting the show and highlight the featured guest, Savannah Esslinger, owner of Imagine Wine Country Marketing and president of Taste Route 116.

(1:01-7:09) Savannah shares her journey from working in Sonoma County restaurants to entering the wine industry, starting at Harvest Moon Winery, where she gained hands-on experience in winemaking and hospitality. She discusses the origins of Taste Route 116, which began as "8 at the Gate," a group of wineries collaborating to promote each other and create events for wine enthusiasts.

(7:09-20:39) Savannah highlights the group's evolution, including its rebranding to Taste Route 116 and the introduction of community-focused events like wine and cheese pairings, spring celebrations, and the upcoming Grill 116 summer event on Father's Day weekend. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration among wineries and the effort to keep events affordable and engaging for attendees, ensuring a memorable experience while supporting local businesses. Savannah also shares her passion for promoting Sonoma County beyond wine, working with local food vendors, caterers, and even non-wine businesses like Mamadio's Philly Cheese Steaks and HVAC companies.

(20:39-31:00) The conversation touches on Savannah's role in marketing for the Apple Blossom Parade and Festival, showcasing her dedication to community engagement. The hosts and Savannah discuss Sebastopol's charm, its vibrant local businesses, and favorite spots like Retrograde Coffee and Redwood Wine Bar, reflecting the area's unique appeal. The episode concludes with a look at Taste Route 116's future plans, including expanding partnerships with restaurants, breweries, and cideries, and enhancing transportation options for visitors, all while maintaining the collaborative spirit of the wine community.

(0:10 - 0:48) The podcast episode begins with hosts Marcy Gordon and Beth Costa introducing the show and thanking sponsors like Ron Rubin and River Road Family Vineyards and Winery for their support

(0:49 - 1:14) They welcome their guest, Virginie Boone, a celebrated wine writer and podcast host for "The Good Stuff" with Karissa Kruse, and discuss her extensive contributions to wine publications.

(1:14 - 1:49) Virginie reflects on her experience as a guest on their show and the benefits of co-hosting, which allows for diverse perspectives and shared responsibilities.

(1:50 - 11:48) The conversation highlights Virginie's blog for Sonoma County Wine Growers, where she covers a wide range of topics, from local agricultural history to broader cultural trends, showcasing her curiosity and storytelling skills.

(3:12 - 6:08) Virginie shares her background as a travel writer for Lonely Planet, detailing her early career in digital content and community building, including her work on the Thorn Tree forum. She recounts her transition from travel writing to wine writing, emphasizing the natural connection between the two fields due to their shared focus on sense of place and storytelling. Virginie discusses her current work for Jeb Dunnuck, covering wine regions in California, Washington, Spain, and Argentina, and reflects on her long-standing fascination with Argentina, which she finally visited after years of interest. She also mentions her fluency in French and how it aids her work in Spain, where many winemakers have ties to France.

(11:49-18:08) The discussion shifts to Virginie's personal history, including her upbringing as an army brat, her French mother's cultural adjustment to life in the U.S., and her family's eventual settlement in San Francisco. Virginie explains her move to Sonoma County around the time of 9/11, drawn by the region's beauty, proximity to San Francisco, and vibrant community. The hosts and Virginie discuss favorite local spots, including restaurants like Stella and Glen Ellen Star, and wineries like Ramsgate and Beltane Ranch, highlighting the area's rich culinary and wine offerings.

(18:09-27:03) The conversation touches on the evolving wine industry, including the rise of white wines and their appeal to younger generations due to their freshness, versatility, and compatibility with diverse cuisines. Virginie and the hosts discuss the importance of independent wine writing, the challenges of modern media, and the joy of discovering well-written, inspiring wine stories. They reflect on the connection between travel writing and wine writing, emphasizing the value of personal experiences and storytelling in understanding wine.

(27:04-45:05) Virginie shares her aspirations to visit South Africa, drawn by its wine culture and natural beauty, and discusses the importance of immersing oneself in the places and people behind the wines. The hosts and Virginie explore the concept of "The Good Stuff," inspired by a TED Talk by Karissa Kruse, which encourages savoring life's pleasures and sharing positive stories. They joke about creating a contrasting "The Bad Stuff" series but ultimately focus on the resilience and community spirit of Sonoma County, especially in the face of challenges like wildfires.

(45:06-50:34) The episode concludes with a "Fast Five" recipe segment featuring Jacob from Mounds Family Winery, who shares a simple dish of whipped ricotta and marinated tomatoes paired with wine. The hosts announce upcoming events, including the Passport to Dry Creek and the Spring Wine Trail, and discuss the Writing Between the Vines retreat program, which offers writers an opportunity to work in Sonoma's wine country. The episode wraps up with gratitude for Virginie's participation and a reflection on the joy of connecting through wine and storytelling.

(0:10 - 0:23) Introduction to Wine Road podcast, hosted by Marcy Gordon and Beth Costa, with thanks to Ron Rubin for supporting the show.

(0:24 - 0:48) Acknowledgment of financial support from River Road Family Vineyards and Winery, highlighting their Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Visit RiverRoadVineyards.com for more details.

(0:49 - 1:00) Celebrating episode 250 with guest Diane DiRoma, VP and General Manager of River Road Family Vineyards and Winery.

(1:00 - 1:23) Excitement about the milestone episode and gratitude to Ron Rubin, whose winery, River Road, supports the podcast.

(1:24 - 1:45) Diane introduces a new product: a white jasmine sparkling tea from the Republic of Tea, made with 100% white tea and jasmine blossoms.

(1:46 - 2:30) Discussion of the tea's aromas, effervescence, and connection to the Republic of Tea, which shares ownership with River Road. The tea is part of the growing non-alcoholic beverage market.

(2:31 - 3:17) Details on the tea's launch in 200 stores and its unique qualities, blending tea and sparkling elements. The tea is sourced from the Fujian province, known for white tea.

(3:18 - 4:04) Diane reflects on her 20-year career with the Rubin family, emphasizing innovation, learning, and Ron Rubin's inspiring leadership.

(4:05 - 5:14) Insights into Ron Rubin's philosophy of continuous improvement, innovation, and the importance of being a B Corp. Diane shares how this mindset drives the winery's culture.

(5:15 - 6:28) Diane discusses fostering accountability and teamwork within the winery, emphasizing peer-to-peer accountability and cultural growth.

(6:29 - 7:25) Overview of Diane's role overseeing bottled teas and the integration of tea and wine businesses under the Rubin family.

(7:26 - 7:59) Recommendation of Ron Rubin's book Gold in Your Backyard, which shares his journey and principles for success, including mentorship and seeking advice.

(8:00 - 9:23) Diane highlights Ron's emphasis on asking for help and how it has shaped her approach to challenges and opportunities.

(9:24 - 10:28) Beth shares her experience asking Ron for podcast sponsorship, illustrating his supportive and approachable nature.

(10:29 - 11:38) Discussion on the importance of innovation in the wine industry, not just in products but also in processes and culture.

(11:39 - 13:56) Diane shares her coaching philosophy, rooted in her basketball background, and how it translates to leading a team at the winery.

(13:57 - 15:55) Diane reflects on her basketball career, coaching experiences, and the life lessons she applies to business, including resilience and continuous improvement.

(15:56 - 17:15) A story about Ron Rubin's perspective on responsibility and sustainability, emphasizing the importance of community and employee well-being.

(17:16 - 19:12) Diane discusses the parallels between running a business and coaching a team, emphasizing fundamentals, education, and continuous learning.

(19:13 - 20:44) Beth and Diane discuss the endless learning opportunities in the wine industry and Diane's East Coast roots.

(20:45 - 26:07) Diane recounts her career journey from basketball to wine sales in Florida, emphasizing hard work, asking for help, and adapting to new challenges.

(26:08 - 28:40) Diane shares how she joined the Republic of Tea, her first meeting with Ron Rubin, and her admiration for his innovative approach.

(28:41 - 29:32) Reflection on the winery's focus on continuous improvement, community, and empathy, inspired by Ron Rubin's leadership.

(29:33 - 31:05) Discussion on the importance of mentorship and how it has shaped Diane's career and personal philosophy.

(31:06 - 33:02) Diane and Beth discuss changes in college sports and the importance of mentorship for young athletes transitioning to the workforce.

(33:03 - 34:22) Brainstorming ideas for a mentorship boot camp inspired by Ron Rubin's philosophy.

(34:23 - 35:02) Details on the launch of the white jasmine sparkling tea in Total Wine and More stores and on the Republic of Tea website.

(35:03 - 36:03) Wine Road's 50th-anniversary celebration: Snap a selfie with a Wine Road sign, share it on Instagram, and enter to win a $200 credit for Wine Road tickets.

(36:04 - 36:28) Closing remarks, gratitude to Diane for joining, and a lighthearted discussion about living in the area.