In Italy’s Piedmont region, a new generation of winemakers is challenging centuries-old traditions.

With an eye on sustainability and a thirst for innovation, these winemakers are crafting wines that reflect the region's unique terroir in bold and unexpected ways.

In our latest episode of Wine Talks, we sit down with Paolo Scaiola, the talented young winemaker at Tenuta Carretta in Piedmont.

With experience spanning from Sonoma to Western Australia, Paolo brings a fresh perspective to this historic estate.

He's blending centuries-old traditions with modern techniques to create unique expressions of classic grapes like Nebbiolo and Arneis.

From experimental sparkling wines to high-altitude Riesling plantings, Paolo shares the cutting-edge projects that are pushing Piedmont's boundaries.

We also discuss how climate change is reshaping vineyard practices and the diverse terroirs that make Piedmont's wines so special.

Watch the video to expand your wine knowledge and discover how innovation is shaping the future of wine.

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

Studying viticulture in Turin and Alba (03:08)

Working at wineries in Sonoma County and Western Australia (04:19)

Making sparkling wine from 100% Nebbiolo (11:06)

Climate change impact on grape growing in Piedmont, Italy (33:16)

Winery experimenting with high-altitude Riesling plantings (49:46)

Carbonic maceration for Nebbiolo in Sonoma (59:04)

Balancing tradition and innovation in Piedmont winemaking (1:00:18)

Differences between Roero and Langhe terroir (1:05:48)

Additional Resources:

👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/

👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

👉Visit Tenuta Carretta for more: https://tenutacarretta.it/en/

Watch or listen to this episode:

👉The Wisdom of George Walker III of Dwayne Wade Cellars: https://youtu.be/jLh8pXK9aCc

Let’s Connect:

🔸IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/

🔸LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914

–

Wine Talks with Paul K is the ultimate podcast for serious wine lovers who want to know everything about the wine business. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this podcast will introduce you to the wonderful world of wine, one story at a time.

Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

Have you ever wondered what it takes to preserve the legacy of a world-renowned winery?

In our latest episode of Wine Talks, we sit down with Pierre-Olivier Clouet, the director general of the famous Château Cheval Blanc, one of Saint-Émilion’s premier wine producers in the Bordeaux region of France.

Pierre shares his deep insights into the intricacies of vineyard management and winemaking and the level of dedication needed to maintain the Château Cheval Blanc’s legacy.

We also discuss the evolving wine preferences of today’s market, the pursuit of accolades, how wine is a journey and more.

Ready to dive into Château Cheval Blanc’s success?

Tune in now!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

Pierre-Olivier Clouet’s role at Château Cheval Blanc (00:26)

Maintaining the identity and DNA of Château Cheval Blanc (02:41)

Pierre’s winemaking philosophies (06:15)

Château Cheval Blanc as a living entity, not a museum (17:42)

Importance of combining knowledge and observing nature (19:17)

Impact of climate change and how Château Cheval Blanc adapts (28:23)

On chasing points and accolades (31:52)

How to address the evolving wine preferences (33:14)

The many faces of wine (35:54)

The new wine language and how wine is a journey (40:35)

Respecting tradition and innovation (47:51)

Additional Resources:

👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/

👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

👉Visit Château Cheval Blanc for more: https://www.chateau-cheval-blanc.com/en/

Watch or listen to this episode:

💥 May-Eliance Lencquesaing Episode: https://youtu.be/-PzmAV4ibVY

Let’s Connect:

🔸IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/

🔸LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914

–

Wine Talks with Paul K is the ultimate podcast for serious wine lovers who want to know everything about the wine business. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this podcast will introduce you to the wonderful world of wine, one story at a time.

Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

Wine consumerism is changing.

However, Pico Maccario, a three-generation Italian winery, is staying ahead in today’s market. How?

Join us on this episode of Wine Talks as we venture right into the heart of Piedmont, Italy, with Emiliano Morando, the import and export manager at Pico Maccario Winery. Together, we’ll uncover the winery's unique approach and see how it skillfully mix tradition with modern touches to craft exceptional wines.

Discover how consumer education has reshaped wine preferences, encouraging wineries to innovate while respecting their roots. 

Plus, we explore the challenges of anticipating market demands, Pico Maccario’s modern marketing strategies for attracting younger wine drinkers, and more.

Tune in now!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

Pico Maccario’s winemaking philosophy (01:19)

Adapting to consumer trends and market demands (03:05)

Risk and entrepreneurship in winemaking (04:39)

Emiliano’s journey in the wine industry (09:26)

The role of acidity in wines (13:21)

Characteristics of Barbera wine (17:04)

Embracing the young wine drinkers (19:51)

Challenges of obtaining appellation status (25:08)

Importance of marketing and consumer perception (31:27)

The Cannubi Barolo vineyard (34:32)

Future plans (45:14)

Additional Resources:

👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/

👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

👉Visit Pico Maccario for more: https://www.picomaccario.it/?lang=en

Watch or listen to these episodes:

💥 Reid Kinnett Episode: https://youtu.be/S_TDViNG_Oo

💥Angela McCrae Episode: https://youtu.be/yRxXHqWiLgc

Let’s Connect:

🔸IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/

🔸LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914

–

Wine Talks with Paul K is the ultimate podcast for serious wine lovers who want to know everything about the wine business. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this podcast will introduce you to the wonderful world of wine, one story at a time.

Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

Have you ever wondered what makes a bottle of wine truly special? Is it the grapes? The region? Or what about packaging and marketing?

In our latest episode of Wine Talks, Paul K sits down with Vito La Fata, president and CEO of La Fata Cellars, who transformed a generational dream into a thriving wine business.

Discover how this Sicilian vineyard owner leverages family traditions to create wines that are unforgettable and sellable.

Today, we’ll explore Vito’s innovative approach to winemaking, the power of storytelling and building a community around wines, La Fata Cellar’s unconventional business model, and more.

Tune in to this episode to hear Vito’s fresh perspective on what it means to run a winery.

Let’s jump right in!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

From online businesses to winemaking (02:00)

Vito’s Sicilian roots and connection with wine (03:18)

The significance of understanding family roots (08:13)

Why Paul and his wife started La Fata Cellars (11:38)

The history, mastery, and artistry in winemaking (16:55)

The beginning of La Fata Cellars and its business models (21:33)

Selling a membership vs. community (29:53)

The storytelling that comes with every bottle of wine (35:10)

Future plans and expansion ideas (44:57)

Episode wrap-up (50:29)

Additional Resources:

👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/

👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

👉Visit La Fata Cellars for more information: https://www.lafatacellars.com/

Watch or listen to these episodes:

💥$3B Direct-to-Consumer Wine Business with Paul Kalemkiarian Sr.: https://youtu.be/EusbLAEyYq0

💥Conversation with Angela McCrae: https://youtu.be/yRxXHqWiLgc

Let’s Connect:

🔸IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/

🔸LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914

–

Wine Talks with Paul K is the ultimate podcast for serious wine lovers who want to know everything about the wine business. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this podcast will introduce you to the wonderful world of wine, one story at a time.

Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

The U.S. wine market is highly competitive. With a substantial number of both domestic and international brands, gaining shelf space and consumer attention can be quite difficult. 

However, Kanonkop Wine Estate, a renowned South African winery, is gaining traction, and we’re here to uncover its struggle and triumph in entering the U.S. market.

In this week’s episode, we’re joined by Heinrich Venter, sales manager of Kanonkop Wine Estate, a popular South African wine producer known for its high-quality red wines, particularly Cabernet and Pinotage.

Heinrich shares the winemaking philosophy that has guided Kanonkop for generations. We also explore the challenges of bringing South African wines to the U.S., the influence of consumer trends, packaging, and fads in the wine industry, and the rich stories that connect South African and American wine lovers.

Tune in now and immerse yourself in the world of South African wines!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

From South Africa to the U.S. (02:24)

Importance of maintaining focus in the wine industry (04:37)

What you need to know about South African wines (07:01)

Challenges faced by Kanonkop and the wine industry (09:40)

Strategies for educating consumers about South African wines (16:44)

The generational heritage of Kanonkop Wine Estate (23:59)

How wines spark unique connections and conversations (30:43)

Kanonkop’s sustainability initiatives (33:01)

Consistency and philosophy in wine production at Kanonkop (35:01)

Episode wrap-up (38:15)

Additional Resources:

👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/

👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

👉Visit Kanonkop’s official website for more information: https://kanonkop.co.za/

Watch or listen to these episodes:

💥$3B Direct-to-Consumer Wine Business with Paul Kalemkiarian Sr.: https://youtu.be/EusbLAEyYq0

💥Lia Poveda of Glenelly Estate in South Africa: https://youtu.be/n6ntGhQqP9g

Let’s Connect:

🔸IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/

🔸LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914

–

Wine Talks with Paul K is the ultimate podcast for serious wine lovers who want to know everything about the wine business. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this podcast will introduce you to the wonderful world of wine, one story at a time.

Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

Have you ever wondered what types of wines have made it to White House state dinners? 

Join Paul K. and Frederick J. Ryan, White House wine authority and author of Wine and the White House: A History, as they explore the fascinating history of wine in the White House and uncover the untold presidential stories associated with it.

Today, you’ll hear how wine became a silent yet potent diplomatic tool that helped shape the social fabric of state events.

From Jefferson’s French wine voyages to the strategic wine selections during state dinners to American wineries that have caught the presidential palate, this episode is truly a blend of historical anecdotes and fun insider White House wine facts.

So grab a glass of wine, and let’s toast to leadership, legacy, and the love for a good bottle of wine.

Cheers!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

How Frederick J. Ryan ended up in the White House (02:15)

From an embarrassing wine experience to writing about wines (04:56)

A history of wines served at the White House (10:42)

Jefferson: The founding father of American wine (24:26)

Why people cherish wine and the memories it holds (31:13)

Wine, wars, and histories (33:40)

The origin of White House presidential toasts (40:37)

The long battle over alcohol control (44:19)

Episode wrap-up (48:05)

Additional Resources:

👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/

👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

👉Grab a copy of Frederick’s Wine and the White House book: https://shop.whitehousehistory.org/products/wine-and-the-white-house-a-history-second-edition

Let’s Connect:

🔸IG:https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/

🔸LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914

–

Wine Talks with Paul K is the ultimate podcast for serious wine lovers who want to know everything about the wine business. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this podcast will introduce you to the wonderful world of wine, one story at a time.

Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

Welcome back, Wine Talks listeners! In this episode "Take a Knee," host Adam Carolla and guest Paul Kalemkiarian tdelve into a whirlwind of intriguing topics, offering a blend of profound insights and entertaining anecdotes.

Kicking off the discussion, Adam and Paul explore the nebulous concepts of "loss" and "measurement." They question the yardstick society uses to gauge success and failure while Paul passionately argues that every experience is a win. The conversation steers towards the philosophy of accumulating wealth, underlining that financial success isn’t the ultimate marker of a life well-lived.

Both speakers emphasize the importance of taking risks and savoring both successes and failures. Adam's penchant for fast progress and rapid changes in business forms a recurring theme, aligning with the rapid evolution seen in marketing today. The episode also delves into Paul’s vast knowledge of cars, from the collection of race cars to the skyrocketing value of vintage models.

One standout moment is Paul's passion for wine and its parallels with cars. Both men discuss how stories and personal connections elevate the value of wine and cars alike. Paul’s anecdotes about his wine business, particularly the uniqueness of his offerings through the Wine of the Month Club, add an engaging touch to the episode.

Adam’s venture into building a movie theater projects the conversation into the realm of passionate pursuits and personal investments. They touch on job diversification, with Adam advocating for experiencing multiple roles rather than sticking to one major career.

From reminiscing about Carroll Shelby's legacy to reflecting on the organic, unplanned success of their careers, the episode is rich with humor and wisdom. Whether you're a fan of cars, wine, or entrepreneurial tales, this episode of Wine Talks promises an engaging and memorable listen!

Did you know there’s a hidden winery right in the heart of Los Angeles? Yes, and not many people know it.

Located in the prestigious Bel Air, also known as Beverly Hills, Moraga Vineyard spans sixteen and a half acres of vineyard that produces great-tasting wines.

In this episode of Wine Talks, Paul K sits down with Paul Warson, the talented winemaker and owner of Moraga Vineyard.

Having worked for several notable vineyards across the country (including Australia), Paul brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that we all could learn from.

Today, he’ll discuss the unique challenges and the eco-friendly techniques they’ve embraced to craft top-quality wines in an urban setting. 

Plus, we’ll explore the historical significance of winemaking in Los Angeles, Moraga Vineyard's direct-to-consumer business model, and more.

Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

Meet Paul Warson of Moraga Vineyard (00:35)

What makes Moraga Vineyard THE place? (01:15)

A taste of Los Angeles’ rich winemaking history (03:13)

Moraga’s unique terroir and winemaking challenges (09:01)

How does Moraga Vineyard approach sales? (16:50)

Paul’s vineyard management strategy (22:48)

How Paul got into winemaking and acquired Moraga Vineyard (30:48)

Episode wrap-up (44:02)

Additional Resources:

👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/

👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

👉Visit Moraga Vineyard’s website for more information: https://www.moragabelair.com/

Let’s Connect:

🔸IG:https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/

🔸LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914

–

Wine Talks with Paul K is the ultimate podcast for serious wine lovers who want to know everything about the wine business. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this podcast will introduce you to the wonderful world of wine, one story at a time.

Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

Sitting with Don and Petie Kladstrup is like sitting with a "live"history book.

As complete "happenstance" would have it, they were sitting with M. Huet and heard the most amazing story of survival. A story of survival in a German POW camp, a story of survival through the memory of a glass of wine, the story of pure determination to get back to the vineyard.

At this intersection of history and story telling, the Kladstrups realized there was more out there to learn; that wine is about the story, wine is a binding memory to hang on to, that the human spirit can overcome hanging on the thread of something as soul searching as a taste of that one inspiring vintage.

I stumbled into this conversation as well. While researching the then current aggression by the Azerbajians into Armenian territory and why the invading army would be interested in absconding with 4 Armenian owned wineries, I ordered a copy of "Wine and War"authored by the Kladstrups. I didn't put it down until I was done reading and have gone back to it many times in my pursuit of the meaning of a "honest"glass of wine.

Hear this amazing tale, get a copy of the book, and find the inspiration I have found.

Was there a Bob Hope movie....The Road to Yerevan?  Maybe not, but the road to Yerevan for James Tufenkian is fascinating. James is one motivated diasporan. He has created a well-known, world-wide hand woven carpet, planted 1,000,000 trees in Armenia, built a hotel chain and is now embarking on the wine trade.

Here are three important points made by James Tufenkian in the episode:

1. **Freedom and Lifestyle in Armenia**: James notes that Jewish immigrants from Russia find the lifestyle in Armenia preferable due to the more liberal and nurturing environment, contrasting it with the oppressive conditions in Russia.

2. **Revival of Armenian Winemaking**: James discusses the cultural revival in Armenia's wine industry, particularly focusing on the rediscovery of ancient grape varietals and the process of making wine that reflects both Armenia's long-standing tradition and modern practices.

3. **Economic and Social Development**: James highlights his efforts in contributing to Armenia's economic growth by venturing into various businesses, including winemaking and carpet manufacturing. He emphasizes the importance of integrating traditional culture and modern hospitality in his ventures.

In this enlightening episode of "Wine Talks," host Paul K engages with James Tufenkian, an influential figure in Armenia’s cultural and economic revival. They begin discussing a group of Jewish immigrants from Russia who have found Armenia’s lifestyle liberating compared to the repression in Russia. The dialogue then shifts to elaborating on Armenia’s burgeoning wine industry, with James lauding the discovery and cultivation of ancient grape varietals, underscoring the nation’s blend of old-world traditions and new-world innovation in winemaking.

Further, James delves into his multifaceted journey in Armenia, starting from his initial visit in 1981 and his eventual relocation to contribute to the nation's economic development post-independence. He recounts starting a modern oriental rug business in 1993 amidst corruption and chaos but credits Armenia's evolving governance and society for positive change. James also shares his pioneering efforts in Armenian winemaking, adopting biodynamic farming practices and focusing on cultural heritage over financial gain. His stories reflect a dedication to blending traditional Armenian culture with contemporary progress, ultimately aiming to open up regional tourism and establishing Armenia as a noteworthy player in the global wine market.