I have been selling direct to the consumer in the wine trade for over 35 years. The industry certainly is not what it was; in some ways, better, in other ways, not so much. I've seen it all...well, at least most of it.

The month and year I started with the Original Wine of the Month Club, my father was featuring a Romanian wine; mind you, Romania was still under Soviet rule. In this episode, I speak with Dr. Marinella Ardelean, expert on Romanian wine.

I have to tell you, having Marinella Ardelian on the show took me back, and not just because she reminded me that the first Romanian wine I ever sold—way back in 1989—was a $2.50 Sauvignon Blanc from a winery called Premiat. There's something poetic about opening an episode by unearthing an old newsletter my late father wrote about that wine, especially since it was the same month I joined the family business. Wine really does have a way of sharpening your memory. The nose, the flavor, even the price tag—they stick with you.

The conversation started with that kind of serendipity, but Marinella Ardelian quickly brought us to the present. She's based in Venice, waves the flag for Romanian wine, and has this bright, unfussy way of making big topics feel accessible. I love guests like that—insightful without being pedantic, and uncannily good at weaving personal experience into global perspectives.

Right off the bat, she fine-tuned the narrative: Romanian wine doesn't need to come "back" to the world stage, it needs to stand in the spotlight it deserves, shoulder to shoulder with France and Italy. I'll admit, I never would've guessed Romania is now in the top six worldwide for vineyard acreage—and domestically, folks there are still drinking 30 liters a year! Sure, the numbers dance around a bit, but the underlying story is about a country with real wine culture.

We spent a little time reminiscing about the communist days, when the government controlled everything and Vinexport was king. But the part that struck me most was her clear-eyed take on why Romanian wine isn't chasing the bottom shelf in America. "Romanian wines are not cheap," Marinella Ardelian declared, and she meant it. With high domestic demand and only a sliver of production exported, those who do ship overseas bring quality, not just volume. She's keen on stories and education—Romanian wine, she said, needs context, not just curiosity.

This segued beautifully into the broader question of how a wine region markets itself. Marinella Ardelian made a compelling case: you can't just sell the wine, you have to sell the country. Romanian wine, for her, is inseparable from Transylvanian castles, farm-to-table food, and the dramatic scenery. I found that refreshing. Too often, we get obsessed with varietals and forget there's a living culture behind every label.

She also explained that since the fall of communism in 1989, a whole generation of winemakers has embraced indigenous grapes like Fetească Neagră—known as the "Black Maiden"—with all the finesse of Pinot Noir and the spice of Syrah. That's the kind of local color I live for. And with the second generation now taking the reins and forming actual cooperatives (something even Armenia, my ancestral homeland, struggles with), you can sense something big is building.

Wine tourism, she told me, is finally taking off in Romania. Visitors can ride horses, hunt mushrooms, and sip estate wines in places that wouldn't be out of place in Bordeaux or Barolo. That's the future—experience, narrative, and authenticity.

If there's a takeaway, it's that Romanian wine is at a crossroads, one foot in ancient soil, the other in the modern world. Marinella Ardelian has a vision for both—and I left our conversation convinced it's only a matter of time before the rest of the world catches on. I can't wait to revisit this story in a few years and see how far it's come.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wine-in-romania-meet-the-expert-and-wine/id1462215436?i=1000647229708

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2kiWrgS5fH8p85I6iS6Gnp?si=McZCVWPEQ6W9T-3jfGGMCQ

Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/wine-in-romania-meet-the-expert-and-wine-comtessse-marinela-ardelean/

Wine branding is slow. It is different than other products; more rules, a limited set of consumers, and big brands standing in your way. These are the typical headwinds; unless your Samvel Hakobyan.

I am convinced, despite the current tone of nah sayers and industry pundits looking for some kind of magic bullet to ease the woes of the trade, that proper and tested principles of business are more important now than ever—Persistance, perseverance, and passion; if you do not have these principles in your quiver, you are done. Where do these principals come from? are you born with them? Can you learn them? Can you read them in a book?

The answer to these questions lies in this podcast with Samvel Hakobyan.

I have to tell you, hosting Samvel Hakobyan on Wine Talks was one of those moments that reminded me why I'm addicted to these stories—especially when they connect so many worlds you wouldn't expect. But today, I want to linger on the Michael Franzese thread, because that's where grit, fate, and transformation collided like a flash in the cellar.

Let's set the scene: Samvel, a young Armenian immigrant whose family had just clawed its way out of a bankrupt pizza shop in Sacramento, grows up idolizing one of the mob's most notorious figures—Michael Franzese. Not for the notoriety, mind you, but because Franzese's story is one of transformation. Here's a man who was the biggest earner in the mob after Capone, who finds God in a prison cell, and emerges not just clean, but on fire with a completely different purpose.

So, how does a nineteen-year-old kid in California, hustling in door-to-door roofing, go from being a fan to actually sitting across the table from Michael Franzese? It's pure Armenian inspiration. Samvel told this story with the kind of detail that gives you goosebumps: Challenges at every step, flights canceled, Uber rides missed, and yet, by sheer persistence, Samvel finds himself pulled up to a hotel in Texas at the exact moment Franzese steps out to get into the very Uber they just exited. I mean, come on—if you wrote it, nobody would believe it!

What kind of young man sidles up to a former mob boss and asks for his phone number? Only one who expects more out of himself and the world around him. And Michael, ever the seasoned reader of people, tells him, "If you have the guts to ask, I'll give it to you." There's a lesson in that right there: Opportunity doesn't knock; you do.

Fast-forward through a winding road—Samvel helping his family, digging out of debt, building a marketing agency, and yet never dropping that thread with Michael. When the time came to link Michael's story with Armenian wine, Samvel saw it instantly: Combine a narrative of personal transformation with the oldest wine culture in the world. Who better to front a wine about rebirth, legacy, and endurance than a man who lived the mob life and now stands in the pulpit? Michael wasn't just a celebrity face. He became a real partner—a man who insisted the wines were as good as his redemption story, who put his thumbprint on the bottle and packed the aisles at Costco in person, shaking hands and turning heads on social media.

When Samvel talked about getting Michael to speak at his events, launching wine, and explaining to skeptical Armenians why an Italian-American's name is on the label, I saw something much deeper: the courage to look outside your own comfort zone, to make new friends, and to tell a bigger, bolder story. Samvel's partnership with Michael Franzese is not just branding—it's building a bridge, and showing that the best of Armenia's wine tradition is strong enough to carry a narrative of transformation all the way to American shelves.

What I took away from Samvel, and from Michael's improbable turn from mobster to mentor, is that you can't underestimate the power of reinvention—or of simply reaching out in the moment the universe opens the door. These are the stories that get passed along a hundred tables, over a hundred bottles, making us all believe just a bit more in second chances—and in the boldness it takes to ask for them.

Cheers to that.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/QaLEcGd-gC8

#WineTalks #ArmenianWine #MichaelFranzese #Entrepreneurship #ImmigrantStories #WineMarketing #Resilience #ChristianFaith #ArmenianHeritage #Transformation #BusinessStorytelling #PapaJohns #Salesmanship #SocialMediaMarketing #WineIndustry #Kroger #OvercomingAdversity #BrandBuilding #AncientVineyards #FamilyLegacy

Paris.....Texas. The subject to two movies over the years, the most recent a romantic comedy. Listen, folks, this ain't no joke. I can personally attest that BBQ is alive in well in Texas and this day was a Championship Blowout.

Wine Talks was so intrgiued about the whole culture of BBQ, that we set up a podcast with Steven White, last years Grand Champion, Laura Caldwell, the representative from the Championship Barbecue Alliance, and Paul Allen, the 8 year President of the Paris, Texas Chamber of Commerce. We had a hoot.

This episode is all about barbecue in Paris, Texas, but it's also a celebration of community, camaraderie, and a bit of competition. The host, Paul Kalemkiarian, kicks things off with heartfelt family anecdotes and dives straight into the welcoming spirit of Paris. Our guests — Steven White, Laura Caldwell, and Paul Allen — are true barbecue champions, and their love for bringing people together through food is practically contagious.

A few tasty tidbits:

• Barbecue isn't just about grilling meat — it's about balance. As

  Steven White

  explains, the trick is not being "too sweet, not too spicy, not too anything."

• The competitions are run by alliances like the Champions Barbecue Alliance, who keep judging modern with QR codes and cell phones — no greasy, handwritten scorecards here!

• Newbies are ALWAYS welcome. Veteran pit-masters love sharing tips, but the real trick is in the execution (and maybe wrangling an occasional bacon stretcher just for laughs).

• The event supports local scholarships for kids, blending culinary skills with giving back.

Most importantly, it's all about the joy of gathering around good food. Whether you're debating the merits of beer, whiskey, or a surprising glass of wine with your brisket, you're guaranteed to find laughter and friendship.

If you want more nitty-gritty details, heartwarming stories, or just an excuse to fire up your grill this weekend, this episode's transcript is packed with flavor. Just ask if you want to zoom in on a specific part!

Let me know if you want more fun facts, tips from the pit, or favorite wine pairings to go with those ribs. I'm here to serve — lighthearted and informative, just like this Paris, Texas shindig!

YouTube: https://youtu.be/PYXxTffwzdI?si=zObHVBSRQdP9j2PM

#BarbecueCompetition #WineTalksPodcast #TexasBBQ #FoodCommunity

The wine movement is Armenia is "pedal to the medal." Katie, bar the door, no holds barred.

As it should be. And leading the helm are some tough no non-sense women. Sisian Boghossian is one of them.

Clearly, her commitment to her heritage country is firmly planted, as her intentions when arriving in Yerevan were set on gaining some experience and returning to her home in Canada. Oops, sometimes the best laid plans of mice and women are derailed.

In this episode of Wine Talks, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Sisian Boghossian, who brought an incredible breadth of insight and personal experience to our conversation about Armenia—her homeland and her passion. The focus of the episode was on what makes Armenia an authentic, vibrant destination, especially beyond its capital, Yerevan. Sisian Boghossian immediately set the scene by sharing how the real beauty of Armenia lies in its regions, where the authenticity of its culture truly shines. It was inviting and heartfelt, and I could sense her pride in encouraging travelers to explore beyond the city.

Our discussion dove into tourism and how post-Soviet Armenia is evolving, especially with growing international interest. It was eye-opening to learn how government strategies, infrastructure improvements, and a slow but steady climb in visitor numbers—particularly after bouncing back from Covid—are changing the perception of Armenia on the global stage. Sisian Boghossian broke down the challenges and successes and explained how diverse marketing efforts target both the diaspora and international tourists, touching on those untapped markets of Armenians who have never even visited their ancestral homeland.

We also explored the culinary and nightlife explosion in Yerevan, shaped by influences from Syrian and Lebanese Armenians, and the shift toward Armenia being recognized as a safe, welcoming country with a deep-rooted sense of family and hospitality. From hiking spots to world-class cuisine, the reasons to visit Armenia are multiplying—and being discovered by publications like Forbes and Conde Nast.

One of my favorite threads of the conversation was Armenia's blossoming wine industry and how wine tourism is putting the country on the map. We talked about the international events Armenia has hosted, like the UN Global Wine Conference and the upcoming prestigious wine competitions, which bring global experts right to Armenian soil. In this context, we touched on the stories of passionate winemakers and entrepreneurs—many of them women—who are shaping the industry and breaking molds in what is traditionally a patriarchal society.

There was a delightful detour into culture and film, as Sisian Boghossian shared her involvement in "A Winter's Song," a Christmas romantic comedy shot in Armenia, which aims to showcase the country to a global audience—not just Armenians. We laughed about the unique joys and challenges of cultural exchange, and celebrated how accessible the arts and events are to the local public, from free outdoor concerts to dazzling holiday festivities.

Throughout the episode, I felt a deep admiration for Sisian Boghossian's passion for her country and her commitment to helping Armenia evolve, not just through government and policy, but by bridging local and diaspora voices and talents. The episode closed on a hopeful note, reminding listeners that Armenia welcomes contributions of all sorts—whether through tourism, investment, or simply sharing in its vibrant culture.

I left our conversation feeling inspired, moved by Sisian Boghossian's story and the powerful sense that Armenia's brightest days are ahead, fueled by its resilient and talented people.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/Rlh_Lp_Me9w

#WineTalks #Armenia #PaulKalemkiarian #SisianBoghossian #WineTourism #ArmenianWine #TravelArmenia #WomenInWine #HiddenGem #Diaspora #Yerevan #ArmenianCulture #TourismStrategy #Winemaking #UNWineConference #FilmInArmenia #WinterInArmenia #ArmenianFood #ArmenianHospitality #Entrepreneurship

In all industries there are the visionaries. People that make industry veterans raise an eyebrow and reflect "this is exactly who we need."

Keith Saarloos is that person for me. I won't bore you with my tenure but suffice it to say, I've been around the block...enter Keith Saarloos. I am so inspired by this man, I want to find a way to start a podcast with him. News on that later.

What is cool....eac and every time I receive an inquiry to visiting the Central Coast wine district and specifically, Los Olivos, I recommend Saarloos and Sons...and each and everytime, Keith takes the moment to engage the guest...in my opinion, this is rethinking the wine business, not social metrics and boxed wine.

We started off with Keith Saarloos sharing his roots—growing up in Southern California, the life lessons learned working in his family's business, and his journey that eventually led him to the Santa Ynez Valley. I loved listening to Keith reminisce about those early days, from delivery routes that taught him everything about the region to how customer service is at the heart of every great business.

Keith opened up about how his family shifted from the dairy industry to farming and, after a tough chapter as apple growers, ultimately found their way to planting grapevines. He talked about the serendipitous way the winemaking journey began for the Saarloos family—less out of a carefully mapped business plan and more because of resilience, optimism, and a willingness to learn by doing.

We got into the nitty-gritty of what it means to be a real farmer and winemaker—how everything from humility to the willingness to "burn the ships" and never quit has shaped the Saarloos approach. Keith emphasized how much of wine's magic comes from the honest, sometimes gritty, work in the vineyard—not just from slick marketing or a pretty label. If you came into winemaking thinking it was all about lifestyle and glamour, Keith quickly dispels that myth and gives you the reality: hard work, family, and a deep connection to the land.

One of the most moving parts of the episode was when we talked about the legacy of family. Keith spoke about the loss of his father, what it means to try to fill those big shoes, and how the wisdom and values passed down through generations end up in each bottle they produce. I could really feel the passion when Keith explained that every bottle is a story—often with a family member's photo on the label—a piece of living legacy.

We didn't shy away from the philosophical side of wine, either. We discussed why people are drawn to this lifestyle, the concept of terroir in Ballard Canyon, and the intangible, almost spiritual connection between what's in your glass and the land it comes from. We even touched on biblical references to wine, and what it means for wine to be more than just a beverage—but rather something soulful, connecting people and places through time.

And of course, we contrasted this authentic, family-driven approach with the rise of mass-market, formulaic wines. Keith was gracious in saying there's a place for gateway wines like Cali Red and even Martha Stewart Chardonnay, but he also explained why the heart and humility found in bottles from people like him is irreplaceable.

All in all, this episode was about more than just winemaking—it was about family, authenticity, hard lessons, and the kind of artistry that comes with real passion and a sense of place. Whether you're into wine professionally, come from a farming family, or just love a good story, I think you'll take something away from my conversation with Keith Saarloos.

Thanks for joining me on this episode of Wine Talks—until next time, cheers!

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FVXBNSkpIsQ

#WineTalksPodcast #SantaYnezWine #FamilyWinery #WineStories

Step into the story of LA's culinary evolution with Wine Talks, where conversations are poured as generously as the wine. In this episode, I welcomes legendary restaurateur Piero Selvaggio—a man whose career spans the golden age of Los Angeles dining, and whose philosophy on food and wine has inspired chefs, winemakers, and bon vivants the world over.

Wine Talks isn't just about swirling glasses and describing bouquets—it's about the unforgettable people behind the bottle, and the moments that shape the table. Imagine LA in the early 1970s, when Italian cuisine meant little more than checkered cloths and spaghetti. Into this world, Piero Selvaggio arrived with little more than $5,000 and a vision—an immigrant's drive, sharpened by honesty and the hunger for authenticity.

Through his iconic restaurant Valentino, Piero Selvaggio became both a host and a bridge—introducing LA to the wonders of Italian food beyond the basics, and to wines that would soon rewrite world history. The cast is rich with characters: Jim Barrett of Chateau Montelena, the quiet revolutionary behind the Judgment of Paris; Wolfang Puck and Michael McCarty, friends and culinary disruptors; and a procession of winemakers, chefs, and critics who together transformed LA's dining scene from backwater to beacon.

But at the heart of the story is Piero Selvaggio's enduring message: passion and curiosity are what make the journey worthwhile. He shares how a well-timed piece of honest criticism set him on a path of discovery, how the bonds between food, wine, and people mean more than accolades, and how restaurants aren't just businesses—they're places of memory, inspiration, and celebration.

As Paul Kalemkiarian and Piero Selvaggio unfold the tale, you'll hear about earthquakes that shatter cellars but never friendships, about the pursuit of true ingredients, and about the resilience behind the glamour—especially in times of uncertainty. The conversation is a tribute to tradition, innovation, and the spirit that keeps us gathering, toasting, and tasting no matter what.

Listen to Wine Talks for a seat at the table of LA's great culinary adventure, and find yourself inspired not just to drink, but to savor the story in every glass.

winepodcast, LArestauranthistory, Italiancuisine, PieroSelvaggio, PaulKalemkiarian, Valentinorestaurant, winecollecting, JudgmentofParis, Californiawines, foodandwinepairing, restaurantbusiness, Michelinguide, chefculture, winedistributors, winelistcuration, pandemicrestaurants, culinaryinnovation, sommelierstories, finedining, wineeducation, neighborhoodrestaurants

Wine Talks has been watching this woman. She is making waves in a part of the wine world that one might not consider in daily converstaion: Nigeria.

How does one become a Bordeaux specialist in Nigeria? Where does that inspiration come from?

I have to tell you, having Rita Rosa on Wine Talks was like catching a warm breeze off the Mediterranean—unexpected, lively, and full of stories you want to tuck away for a rainy day with a glass of red. I started our conversation, as I often do, thinking I'd heard most things about the global wine world, but Rita took me right to the heart of Nigeria, weaving its vibrancy into the fabric of Bordeaux's storied cellars.

Let's be honest: when you hear "African wine market," most folks in the business still think it's in its infancy, maybe a curiosity for big European houses sniffing after emerging markets. But Rita set me straight right from the jump—Nigerians have been drinking wine for quite a while, thank you very much. She explained that Lagos, with its 30 million people and a nightlife that rivals New York, is a place where wine shops mingle with the energy of a city that never sleeps.

What struck me most was Rita's insistence that wine, at its core, is about what makes your heart beat and your mouth feel alive—forget the technical jargon for a moment, and just savor the connection it brings between people. I've always found wine to be the great equalizer at the table, but Rita has this beautiful ritual, telling her guests—ministers, commissioners, presidents—to leave their titles at the door and just be human, united by the "elixir which brings all of us joy."

And talk about insight—she moved from banking into wine through a happy twist of fate, marrying into a family that started an actual wine store in Nigeria. She didn't just open the doors; she redefined what a wine shop was in Lagos by bringing Bordeaux's best right to West Africa. Rita didn't mince words about what it felt like to be a black woman in the predominantly male, white-dominated world of wine—walking into tasting rooms in Bordeaux and feeling the eyes on her, questioning her authority and knowledge. And yet, her sense of pride in being Nigerian, in holding space for herself and others like her, was palpable. That same energy she poured into her business, her studies, and later into programs like Bordeaux Mentor Week, aiming to open doors for young hopefuls from emerging wine countries.

One of my favorite moments was when she shared her disdain for wine pairing rules. Rita throws caution (and orthodoxy) to the wind—she's out there pairing Bordeaux with Nigerian meats and letting guests explore, taste, and challenge all the old conventions. As someone who's never shied from having strong opinions about pairing, I found her approach utterly refreshing. It reminded me of my own tendency to resist being put in a box, especially by tradition-bound French winemakers.

Throughout our conversation, Rita kept tying things back to connection, humanity, and the healing power of wine—how her own store in Lagos became not just a business, but a sanctuary during grief. I resonated with that, having seen the same in my own shop over the years. In a world where the market is consolidating, distributors are cautious, and cell phones threaten genuine interaction, Rita's approach stands as a glowing reminder that the heart of wine is, and always should be, its power to bring people together.

So here's to Rita—her infectious energy, her resilience, and her vision for a new, more inclusive wine world. I count myself lucky to have had a front-row seat to her story, and if you ever get a chance to pair Amarone with plantains or taste Bordeaux alongside cassava ravioli, take it. That's the kind of experience that makes Wine Talks more than just a podcast—it's a journey.

Or watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/CVimDZmf_4g

#WineIndustry #AfricanWine #WomenInWine #WineCulture

This might meet with controversy, but I think Adam is correct. growing non-indigenous varietals, whether it be Armenia, Georgia or anywhere else, supports the chances of burgeoning wine regions to get any traction in the world of wine. It is tough out there where brand recognition is a tough battle to win, and consumers are inundated with messaging.

Adam has taken, not sure I can call it the high road, but "A" road to getting his wines recognized as worthy of your attention. And he has done it by growing what otherwise would be sacreligious varietals.

In this special episode, I sit down with Adam Kablanian, the visionary founder and owner of Alexandria Winery in Armenia—a man whose life has spanned the worlds of microchip design and ancient terroir, bringing together the precision of Silicon Valley and the heart of Armenian soil.

Our story begins with Adam Kablanian's ambitious dream: to put Armenia on the world wine map, proving that its volcanic soils and diverse terroirs can produce wines of excellence and distinct character. Raised in physics and forged in the fires of tech entrepreneurship, Adam Kablanian isn't your typical winemaker. He talks about hiring talented minds for his tech companies and learning, through trial and success, that potential is more about people and environment than just experience. This philosophy naturally transitioned when he began examining the land, the grapes, and the possibilities in Armenia—a nation with a deep but interrupted history of winemaking.

Adam Kablanian shares how he could have chosen the comfort and prestige of Napa, but instead, he was drawn to the challenge and the adventure of Armenia, where land is cheaper, and the story richer. His approach is pragmatic and inspirational; recognizing the headwinds of unfamiliar grape names and unknown regions, he decided to bridge old and new by producing international varietals alongside Armenia's indigenous grapes. His winemaking isn't just about bottles—it's about creating honest wines that echo the terroir, about blending ancient vines with modern techniques, and, most importantly, about making wine accessible.

From his initial days struggling with unremarkable local wines, to witnessing Armenia's transformation as technology and global culture elevated the nation's palate, Adam Kablanian reflects on the intersection of progress and tradition. He sees his winery not just as a business—"a $10 million investment in belief"—but as a proof point that Armenia, with its elevation, volcanic soils, and unique varieties, can inspire the world.

This episode invites you behind the curtain—to learn not just about wine, but about vision, persistence, and the courage to marry old roots with new dreams. Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or just wine-curious, the journey of Adam Kablanian will remind you that wine is much more than a drink; it's an expression of humanity, a link between land, culture, and the boldness it takes to create something lasting.

So pour a glass, settle in, and let this story inspire your next sip and next adventure.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/6e2sN-B0U-8

#WineTalks #ArmenianWine #WinePodcast #Terroir

Wine is family. True wine, true expression, true passion only comes from the support of the family. Not just your blood relatives, but the family of wine. One who is in the trade and has an earnest appreciation for the value of an honest wine, is welcome all over the world by their fellow brothers and sisters. I have seen if first hand over and over again.

In this case, Robert McKinly came to Wine Talks through what might be the most authentic, meaning non-commercial, path...through a USC fraternity brother.

We learned of our mutual involvement in the wine trade when we were both asked to participate in creating a wine dinner for upt 50 guests. And when I tasted the wines they were making out of Williamette Valley, Oregon, I became an instant fan.

Robert McKinley, the winemaker, is the son of my college brother and he got caught the jist of wine at an early age. Our discussion was fascinating.

For this episode, I have the pleasure of sitting down with Robert McKinley of Norris Winery—an Oregon vintner whose journey embodies the restless curiosity, grit, and humility that define the Willamette Valley's rise.

The tale begins like all good wine stories do: with family and a patch of earth no one quite knows how to love yet. Robert McKinley's parents purchased what was then a hazelnut orchard in 2005, right as Ribbon Ridge earned its AVA status. A teenager, Robert spent his formative years amidst newly planted vines, not yet knowing the soil would shape not just Pinot Noir, but his destiny. He recounts, with genuine awe, the slow, collaborative growth of an entire region—neighbors lending a hand, grapes shared and bartered, and a sense that the Willamette was still, in his words, "the wild, wild West" of winemaking.

What's compelling about Robert McKinley is his philosophy—a conviction that great wine is made in the vineyard, not the cellar. "Our goal is just to guide the fruit through," he says, placing nature, patience, and attentive farming above the artifice of heavy-handed cellar work. Each year brings new weather, new tests, and new opportunities for discovery. Some years, smoke from wildfires changes everything. Some years, unexpected frost demands nimble thinking. The constant, Robert McKinley says, is the discipline and humility to let the land—and the vintage—speak for itself.

We explore what it means to chase the elusive concept of terroir, to collaborate with neighbors instead of merely competing, and to endure the challenges of a winemaker's life: distribution headaches, shipping woes, and generational change. Robert McKinley shares his love for Riesling—a grape he calls misunderstood and loves to see guests discover in his tasting room. His story isn't one of overnight success, but of dedication, adaptability, and the deep satisfaction of crafting something authentic.

Come listen, and you'll find echoes of your own passions—the patience required to build something meaningful, the vulnerability of weathering change, and the inspiration to put your own fingerprint on whatever field you call home. Pour a glass, lean in, and join us: this is Wine Talks, a story as much about Oregon's soil as it is about the human spirit taking root.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/ucETmLVwQyQ

#WinePodcast #WillametteValley #OregonWine #WinemakerStories

I came into the studio today to get some wine and organize a few things. I also wanted to test the internet connections because yesterday I had two show fall apart from internet issues. It seems they were on the guests side.

As I started testing, it turns out I had something to say (shocker).

Absolutely! Here's a warm recap of the episode from my point of view as the narrator:

In this episode, I took a moment to share both some personal reflections and a few heartwarming stories from the wine world. As Thanksgiving approached, I found myself in the office, grabbing wines for our family gathering, and reminiscing about the journey that brought me here—especially how grateful I am for my father's decision to offer me the Wine of the Month Club before selling it. I never planned on being in the wine business, but looking back, I'm thankful every day for the path it set me on.

I also spoke about the tight-knit fraternity and sorority within the wine trade, highlighting friendships with people like Veronique Sanders and Alexander Van Beek of Bordeaux's Chateau Giscours. Their support—taking my niece Lisa in as an intern at Château Batailley—perfectly illustrates how the wine world feels like an extended family. Lisa's journey from hesitance to a newfound love of working in the vineyard reminded me that the passion for wine truly begins in the soil.

The episode was also a chance for me to talk about upcoming podcasts, including my recent interviews with figures like Nick Karavitas—who's been in the wine business for 45 years—and Walter Georis, the musician behind the iconic surf film, The Endless Summer, who now owns a winery. It's always fascinating to see the serendipitous ways people find themselves in the wine industry!

I reflected on the two very different sides of the wine trade: the premium, terroir-driven wines that express a unique sense of place and time, and the mass-market, consumer-driven labels found in supermarkets. I made it clear that I value both, but I have a special place in my heart for the wines that reflect honest craftsmanship and their natural origins.

Lastly, I expressed pride in helping my nephew navigate the world of wine as he builds his corporate career, teaching him that understanding wine isn't just about the drink—it's about opening doors and connecting with people around the world.

All in all, this short episode was my chance to share gratitude, celebrate the connections made through wine, and offer a few human stories along the way. Cheers and Happy Thanksgiving!

YouTube: https://youtu.be/irTHdpjPATY

#WinePodcast #WineIndustry #WineStories #WineEducation