Wine Talks with Paul K. (Paul K from the Original Wine of the Month Club)

Learn from Ed. Ed Masciana is one of the great wine personalities in Los Angeles. Author of the book Shortcuts on Wine, lecturer, taster, winemaker and disrupter, Ed has worked in all aspects of this great industry. 

You will find satisfactorily annoying, truly entertaining, and mostly really knowledgeable about wine. 

When I was working in my fathers wine shop in the '70's, I met Ed as he was trying to sell my father space in the local newspaper. A novice to wine, Ed got the wine bug hanging out at Palos Verdes Wines and Spirits and he and my father organized tastings, dinners and the local chapters of Les Amis Du Vin together.

Have a listen to some good ol wine humor.

Piemonte is one of the prolific wine regions of Italy. Situated about an hour west of Milan it is on the way to France for you geography buffs.  It is also home to some of Italys most famous and sought after wines. From the famed white wine Gavi Di Gavi to the most collected Barolo's, Piemonte plays host to a huge variety of wine styles and indigenous foods. 

We meet up with a real Piedmontese, Mattia Paggliasso who helps us unwind the complexities of the wine region. 

What is cool about Piemonte is we can have a famed sweeter sparkling wine such as Moscato d'Asti to a serene dry white wine like Romero Arneis...then off to the Langhe for a village Nebbiolo or go a bit further north for a Barolo. And the food! Hear from Mattia as he makes my mouth water with descriptions of the foods there.

Have a listen.

Picture this: You've just uncorked a bottle of 1982 Château Lafite Rothschild, a wine you've dreamed of tasting for years. The anticipation builds as you pour the deep red liquid into your glass, swirl it gently, and take in the aroma.

But something's off. The bouquet isn't quite right. The taste? Disappointing, to say the least.

What if I told you that the $500 bottle you just opened might be a fake?

In our latest episode of Wine Talks, we sit down with Maureen Downey, the world's leading expert on wine fraud. She reveals shocking truths about the counterfeit wine industry that will make you think twice about your next premium purchase. 

Did you know that according to the World Health Organization, 25% of all alcohol consumed globally is illicit? That's right - there's a 1 in 4 chance that the wine in your glass isn't what you think it is.

But don't worry. We're not just here to scare you. Maureen shares tips on:

• How to spot counterfeit wines

• The history of wine fraud (it goes back to ancient Rome!)

• Cutting-edge blockchain technology that's revolutionizing wine authentication 

Whether you're a casual wine drinker or a serious collector, this episode is a must-listen. It might just save you from pouring your hard-earned money down the drain. 

Ready to become a savvy wine consumer? Click to listen to the full episode now. 

Key Takeaways

Intro (00:00)

Maureen Downey, expert on fake wine (01:07)

Importance of wine tasting language and education (03:37)

Wine fraud prevalence and World Health Organization statistic (07:10)

Pliny the Elder wrote about counterfeit wine in 70 AD (10:18)

Counterfeiting methods and challenges in authentication (15:36)

Blockchain solutions to authenticate and track wine (26:31)

Recent wine theft case and industry vulnerabilities (30:32)

Issues with the three-tier system in US wine distribution (43:25)

Wine counterfeiting and blockchain technology (51:02)

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

👉 Learn more about wine authentication: https://www.chaiconsulting.com/

👉 Maureen Downey's platform for resources on combating wine fraud: https://winefraud.com/

👉 Rudy Kurniawan case: Sour Grapes (Documentary): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5728684/

Watch or listen to this episode:

👉John Wilkinson of Bin to Bottle: https://youtu.be/JEXqUi72h0k

Let’s Connect:

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

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

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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!

CoVid has wreaked havoc in the wine and food industries. Though on-line sales of wine are up, the industry itself is in a crippling phase.  Ed Masciana, author of Short Cuts on Wine explains the devastation with the restaurant crowd.

As your first soirée into wine study, one might say study Bordeaux and particularly the Classification of 1855. Here Napoleon III ordered a ranking of wine of the Medoc for the Paris Exhibition of 1855. Here you will find fascinating wines, fascinating history and fascinating pedigree. And that is what we have here in this podcast with Guillaume-Alexander Marx.  

The four first growth Bordeaux (now there are five) were Chateau Lafite Rothschild, Chateau La Tour, Chateau Margaux and todays podcast subject, Chateau Haut Brion.  

Wine is about the story....most of life actually is about the story. But something about wine connects one to the earth through the wine, through the story. 

I think you will be intrigued by the story and the history to be told about Chateau Haut Brion.

All Cognac is brandy but not all brandy is Cognac. Find out why and much more as we talk with Charles Braastad, a descendant of the Delmain family.

Justin Trabue drives back and forth between Paso Robles and Napa Valley to hone her craft.  Between learning the value of each district, she is also working towards raising the people of color coefficient in the wine industry; an important objective industry side. It takes the Justin Trabue’s of the world to initiate change in a stalwart industry such as wine. You can hear the determination in her voice and her path is defined to get to the next step in her pursuit.

Have a listen and get inspired.

You will learn the passion and commitment it takes to grow and make Champagne. The world has an expectation of the best wines that come from the famed district. Clovis Taittinger from Champagne Taittinger recently visited Los Angeles and I had the chance to reconnect with him in Hollywood. 

After a few minutes, I remembered how he is a very philosophical man whose point of view is rooted in history and sentiment. The winery is owned by his father and run by the sister and brother team of Vitalie and Clovis, Taittinger continues to bestow the romance that Champagne brings to any table.

Have a listen, you will find him quite charming.

The wine industry is wrought with tradition. It certainly can be said that this industry at its  core, is not much different than it was 100 years ago. Certainly technology has helped in all aspects; vineyard, biology, processing, equipment, chemistry and more, but the fundamental premise is the same.  Make good wine, find buyers to drink it, make some profit, put the profit into next years vintage.

Some more recent changes in marketing include email, social, video, audio, affiliate and Direct to the Consumer marketing....but again, these are periphery changes to the fundamental product and its distribution.

But then there was Priscilla Hennekam. A Brazillian born wine promotor who has landed in Adelaide, Australia and is shaking the tree of traditionalism in the wine trade. Her mission statement is simple: "to prepare the wine industry for what is coming, the future of innovations.

We arrived at a rather frank talk about what this means and how to prepare for the future.

Meet Priscilla Hemmekam.

I met Cayce Kerr as he was funning flanker of Fred Couples agent to vet me out as a legit company.  His stories are amazing and the energy and effort he put into creating his own brand of chocolate wine. At the time, I tasted each and every brand on the market....Cayce's was by far the best of the bunch. Seven years later....he is getting some traction...hear the story.

Before we started the recorder,  my conversation with Chuck McMInn was about the telecom industry back in the day....and how he was responsible for the release of the famed Intel 8088 processor (this is serious microprocessor history). The wine bug got him on a trip to Napa and as he puts it "I got into the wine business two weeks before I knew I was in the wine business"" Fabulous story and as winemaker Keith Emerson peels back his passion for winemaking, you understand why Vineyard 29 quickly became a sought after wine. Salud.

Obvious wines was founded on, well, some obvious principles.  Selling and labeling wines by their character seems like an obvious idea...but it had not been done. Enter Brice Baillie, a native of Champagne, France with the idea to source great valued wines by the expressed character driven by the terroir.

You have probably seen their wines on the shelf with names like "Dark and Bold" or " Light and Lively." 

An interesting take on a congested market, have a listen to Brice from Champagne.

The grape of Austria if Gruner Veltliner. A noble white grape that can produce crisp sparkling wine and botrytis dessert wine and everything in-between. 

The primary growing region of this noble grape is Austria and it is grown around such famed locations as Vienna. I was fascinated to learn from Dieter Heubler the nuances of this fantastic grape and the refined wine it can make.

Laurenz V is the winery just east of Vienna making approachable layered Gruner.

Have a listen, he is quite compelling.

The holy grail of the restauranteur is to be recognized by the Michelin Guide. Though the guide has various levels of accolades for the restaurants it reviews, the best restaurants are awarded stars; 1,2 or 3. These stars are coveted and suggest the Chef has mastered his craft from the cuisine to the hospitality. The pandemic caught Chef Dave at a disadvantage and he lost his star at Pasjoli...and he wants it back.

Have a listen and hear about his philosophy not only of the cuisine but on the management of the restaurant. I think you will find it refreshing.

Paul talks to winemaker Christiana Tiberio about the value of organic farming and indigenous vines.

John Wilkinson was making wine at home. Afterall, he was living in the Napa Valley but felt disconnected not having any relationship with the most public of industries.  As he sought advice from his friends to figure how to get his wine right, he stumbled across a complete void in the wine sector; a properly management wine facility that could be used by others to make their deream come true.

He was a bit gun shy when he started, who would make wine in his facility when he himself really didn't know what he was doing...the answer: A lot of people.

Born was the winery Bin to Bottle where famed brands such as The Prisoner have been born. When you head into the Napa Valley, you can't help but spy the Bin to Bottle facility on the right; that is only the tip of the iceberg.

Since those founding days, Bin to Bottle also plays host to manufacturing ciders, spirits and canned wines. The buildings have grown and one of his latest ideas is a FLEX building; too hard to explain...have a listen to hear the story.

PK

What is it like for women to break into the male-dominated wine industry?

For Tracey Mason, a trailblazer and Senior VP of Vintage Wine Estates, the journey has been anything but easy.

Despite women being the majority of wine consumers, they still hold fewer key leadership roles in this industry compared to men. 

Today, Tracey shares her experiences as a woman navigating this industry. She talks about the importance of authenticity in leadership and how she’s using her position to elevate other women in the industry.

If you’re curious about what’s next for women in wine, tune in now and get inspired by Tracey’s story.

Let’s jump right in!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

Meet Tracey Mason (00:38)

The gender dynamics in the wine and spirits industry (02:33)

Elevating women in leadership roles (05:24)

Challenges for women in the cannabis industry (09:00)

Importance of authenticity in leadership (16:28)

Raising a diverse family (17:51)

Tracey’s recent speaking engagement (25:52)

The impact of personal experiences on brand advocacy (36:44)

Sustainability initiatives in the wine industry (46:48)

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 Vintage Wine Estates: https://www.vintagewineestates.com/

👉Connect with Tracey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/masontracey/

Watch or listen to this episode:

🔸Interview with Emilia Nardi: https://youtu.be/WrEXMX4eSSU

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 imagined tasting a Chardonnay from Bordeaux? 

In this week’s latest episode of Wine Talks, Paul K sits down with Francois Peltereau-Villeneuve of Wine Concept to explore Château La Gaffelière’s bold artistry in blending Burgundy clones and its daring decision to leave Bordueaux’s rigid classification system.

Learn how unique vineyard techniques, like vertical vine growth and vintage blending, are rewriting the region’s wine story.

From innovative winemaking techniques to simplifying wine language, this conversation highlights how wine culture is adapting to a modern audience.

Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

Differences between Bordeaux’s Left and Right Bank classifications (02:09)

Why Château La Gaffelière left Bordeaux’s classification system in 2022 (04:21) 

The younger generations’ exploratory wine consumption habits (07:43) 

Château La Gaffelière’s journey of planting Chardonnay in Bordeaux (20:32) 

Using Burgundy clones to blend unique Bordeaux Chardonnay (30:02)

Small-scale production challenges for exclusive wines (35:38)

Wine marketing is addressing what the consumers really want (37:29)

The role of simplified wine language (42:56)

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 La Gaffelière: https://gaffeliere.com/en/la-gaffeliere/

Watch or listen to this episode:

🔸She Knows The Consumer. I Want Her On My Team. Meet Jessica Kogan: https://youtu.be/AvBzLf3UN9w

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!

Paul talks with Hugh Davies of Schramsberg and Davies Vineyards about the Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs, used for President Nixon’s 1972 “Toast to Peace” with China’s Premier Zhou Enlai. Then Paul is joined for tasting by Anne Parent, 12th generation winemaker of Domaine Parent.

You are going to be intrigued by her personality and wit. Meet Ryan Kemp of Adelaida Vineyards.

Adelaida Vineyards is set a vineyard one might consider historical in Paso Robles. HMR was an early force in getting Paso on the radar and the Adelaida has proudly accepted the torch. It is no wonder they are gaining traction with the likes of Ryan Kemp in the winery.

Once dreaming of coming to California to be in the film industry, Ryan quickly found her calling in wine. After working a harvest at Eberle, she decided to abandon the Hollywood dream and attack a career in wine. 

In 1855, Napoleon III organized a classification of the Left Bank wineries. Chateau Talbot earned a position as a 4th growth putting it among the top Chateau of the area. In fact, Saint Julien, where Chateau Talbot resides, earned 11 classified positions making it the most awarded sub-district. Hear from Jean Michael Laporte, General Director and winemaker of Chateau Talbot. Also, listen to the Wine Talks episode with Jean Paul Bignon of Chateau Talbot.

What happens when a world-renowned luxury jewelry brand like Bulgari decides to create wine?

Giovanni Bulgari, the great-great-grandson of the iconic jeweler, has poured his heart into a different kind of craftsmanship–wine.

In this week’s episode, Paul K sits down with Francesco Poggi, export manager for Podernuovo, to explore the fascinating story of the Bulgari family and how Giovanni transitioned from luxury jewels to fine wine.

Francesco gives us an insider’s view of how Giovanni brought the same high standards of quality from his family’s legacy to his winery, creating wines that honor Tuscany’s unique terroir.

They also talk about the art and science of winemaking, the challenges of navigating global wine markets, the unpredictable nature of the wine business, and more.

Want to learn more about the story behind Bulgari’s winemaking venture?

Tune in now!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

Francesco Poggi's journey into the wine industry (00:42)

The Bulgari family’s history and their entry into winemaking (01:25)

Marketing the winery globally and building a brand (17:11)

The importance of patience and long-term vision in winemaking (19:52)

Reception of Podernuovo’s wines in the U.S. (27:31)

Podernuovo’s sustainable practices and the hidden design of their facility (34:09)

How Podernuovo is adapting to climate change (44:53)

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

👉Connect with Francesco Poggi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesco-poggi-45211a115/

👉Visit Podernuovo a Palazzone for more information: https://www.podernuovoapalazzone.com/

Watch or listen to this episode:

🔸Wine Talks with Molly Bossardt: https://youtu.be/ZdqzjfBCHwM

🔸Wine Talks with Angelica Mabray: https://youtu.be/f14_Ib14Z-U

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!

In 1972, the Duncan family set out to try their hand at winemaking; I think it worked. Meet Matt Duncan, 3rd generation owner of Silver Oak Cellars..yes, the famed Silver Oak. His insights and understanding of the winery and the trade are inspirational.

Have a listen.

This was serendipitous. The fact that Mr. Lencquesaing was in Los Angeles at the very time I began reading his grandmothers book (albeit it very slowly, it is written in French) and that the vendor called and mentioned she was with him...there had to be a reason.

The name "de Lencquesaing" is synonmous with wine. Bordeaux in particular. Madame May-Eliane Lencquesaing is 95 years old but has vivid recollection of the war years if Bordeaux. Her story was partially documented in the book Wine and War by the Kaldstups and now in a more granular form "Les Vendanges d'un Destin: de Bordeaux a l'afrique"

Her grandson, Arthur was not destined to be in the wine trade, he wasn't necessarily drawn to it. It is hard to imagine that resistance exists, but it is the story of many 3rd,4t and 5th generation wine families; but somehow, as with Arthur, they are called back.

Arthur travels the world educating wine consumers on the intracacies of Spanish wine, namely Rioja. He has a love affair with Marques de Murrieta. Certainly his family history rounded his viewpoint on wine and it is eveident through his eyes, the passion involved in representing this winery and famliy.

Have a listen for his French, English, and spanish accent...

Once in a while in this crazy business, you stumble across passion that has no bounds. Certainly, even to engage in the wine trade it takes passion, but there is typically an end to it. I am not sure it is fair to say the passion has an end, but there are many who might give up in an idea before its time

Not Max Mussio. He is so committed that it took exactly 2 days for him to indoctrinate his then-new wife into the trade. Max and his wife represent an area of Italian wine that is growing in popularity and fascinating to discover: Friuli.

That arching piece of land that connects Italy with Slovenia and sits at the base of the Dolomites, produces an amazing array of wines without deference to their original origin. 

You can taste light-hearted Pinot Grigio with character or a robust Cabernet Franc in the same sitting.

Have a listen to Max, hear his passion and join him on a trip through Friuli.

The famed Hearst castle has incredible history on many fronts. Though the castle was donated to the State of California and is an incredible destination....the Hearst family has a winery and tasting room near by. Meet Soren Christianson....winemaker.

In 1988, Paul K Sr. featured a Romanian wine in the Original Wine of the Month Club. The wine was Premiat Sauvignon Blanc and was $2.50/bottle on reorder. It was a very nice wine. 

Turns out, according to Marinela, that wine was purchased from Romania during the USSR rule. Long before the value and complexity of freedom was real. It is so interesting that the Original Wine of the Month Club was ahead of its time in 1988...finding a Soviet block wine worthy of the American palate.

Now, as she explains, the wine trade is dynamic and changing to a European model. This is a slow and complicated transition. 

Despite the headwinds to brand building, exportation, and world wine recognition, Marinela is confident that Romanian wines will find their way to the world wide wine stage.

This is a tall order and if you listen carefully, you will here her passion to get it done.

Here her here.

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!

Wine is about the story. And this is one interesting story. 

In 1981, my father featured the 1977 Pio Cesare Dolcetto d'Alba. 41 years later, the great nephew of the founder visited with the current line-up from Pio Cesare...and did he get emotional when I presented him with an original copy of my fathers newsletter from 1980.

These an other stories is what separates wine from all other beverages.  It is like history in a glass that is waiting to be explored through the senses. 

Piemonte in the north west of Italy is rife with history and stories. The famed region, like most Italian wine regions, plays host to local grapes that flourish in various terroir. Each terroir contributes something different to the complexity of the wine.

Pio Cesare is a stalwart of the area and produces some of the most elegant wines in the region. 

Join me on a fabulous podcast with great nephew Cesare Benevenuto.

Argentina is considered new world when describing where it fits in the history of wine. The question is....is New World versus Old World a matter of character or oprigin? I think it is a combination of both. Los Noques is a family story of wine and I was intrigued by the passion and desire to let the world know about what pedigree of wines can be created in the Valle de Uco. It is unique in it's position against the Andes and  the elevation from where the grapes draw their character. Hear the story here!

The winemaker Romain Ducolomb from famed Chateau Beycheville will inspire you to change careers and head to Bordeaux.  A wealth of intrigue from the district of St Julien (most Cru Classe of any Bordeaux appelation) comes from the this storied Chateau. Get inspired with Romain Ducolomb.

Understanding the wine of Sicily are not as complicated as Italian wines in general. They are fascinating non the same and my intrigue is always around the grapes most associated with Sicily; Cattarato, Inzolia, Nero d'avola, Grillo and my favorite Nerello Mascalese.

In my opinion, the intrigue of Sicilian wines comes from two primary sources. The soil and the Mediterranean sea. The soils are diverse but the volcanic soil of Mount Etna adds such a complexity to the wines that they keep you asking for more. The Mediterranean Sea provides an amazing savory character that can only come from on-shore winds.

Have a listen to Giovanni Masucci or Donnafugata wines.

Fun Facts About This Episode:

1. Los Angeles County was a major agricultural area for vines with almost 200,000 acres planted in 1893, and it was even featured on the city seal.

2. Moraga Vineyard in Bel Air has a unique terroir with various elevations and exposures, with maritime influence from Santa Monica Bay.

3. The winery at Moraga focuses on producing just one white and one red wine, modeled after a French house's approach to winemaking.

4. Despite being in the heart of LA, Moraga Vineyard hosts tastings by appointment, surprising many visitors who are unaware of its existence.

Summary:

In this episode of Wine Talks, Paul K welcomes guest Paul Warson for an insightful discussion on the winemaking journey and the Moraga Vineyard's unique offerings. They explore the rich history of winemaking in Los Angeles, noting the prevalence of vineyards in the past and how the city's agricultural roots contribute to the unique terroir found at Moraga. The vineyard, situated in Bel Air, enjoys a variety of elevations and a beneficial maritime influence, which aids in creating their signature one white and one red wine.

Paul Warson shares his personal path to winemaking, his shift from Napa to Santa Barbara, and eventually to managing vineyards in LA. His work with Rupert Murdoch at Moraga Vineyard is highlighted, along with their commitment to quality and sustainable farming practices. The episode emphasizes the difference in winemaking approaches between regions like Lodi and Temecula, and details Paul Warson's background with winemakers like Scott Rich and Tony Soter.

The podcast concludes with a conversation on the future of Moraga Vineyards, the impact of COVID-19 on wine club releases, and the importance of direct-to-consumer sales. It is a fascinating exploration of LA's winemaking scene and the dedication to preserving land for agricultural use within the city's bustling environment.

There is so much to know and understand about the wine diversity just between the two islands, let alone the wine diversity among each island, that New Zealand is recognized with exemplary wines. Simone Kelly stopped in for a conversation and helps us get the lay of the land as we start in the North and work our way down. The Seresin wines are firm in structure and give great insight into where they are grown. Have a listen.

Just when you thought the Napa Valley was going the way of its French counterparts by steeping itself in the tradition...along comes Jean Charles Boisset. You will be fascinated, intrigued, and dumbfounded.

Jean-Charles not only comes from one of the most famed Burgundian families, he married a Gallo. And I think you can surmise, they are a power wine couple in the Napa Valley scene.

One might think that there is a utopia in the Napa Valley. The scenery, the wineries, the people, the lifestyle. Certainly, that is what the public persona is. Like any other industry or group of enthusiasts, there are disagreements and a myriad of ideas on the direction of things.

I think you could safely say, Jean Charles occupies alot of that space. 

He has a knack, a vision and an alternative perspective...but stay traditional just the same.

Have a listen and find out why.

Patrick Terrail comes from a storied family in the international restaurant scene. The famed Tour D'Argent in Paris was his family; the creation of the George V hotel was his family...and maybe it was destiny that Ma Maison became the restaurant of the Hollywood elite from the early '70's to the early '80s, anyone who was anyone went to Ma Maison. Here the story of Patrick Terrail.

The Association of African American Vintners started in 2002 with 4 vintners; now there are over 200 members. Thanks largely to the efforts of Angela McCrae and her associates. 

Diversity is an important subject in the wine trade. The industry is light on BIPOC and women in the workforce; both labor and executives. But that is all actively changing.   In fact, there is a large event in the Napa Valley at the CIA Napa Copia campus entirely committed to black-owned wineries and black wine industry executives (March 9th and 10th.) Wine Talks will be there.

On this podcast, Angela discusses the headwinds that the BIPOC community has faced over the decades of trying to break into the wine industry. Let's face it, the subject of wine is intimidating and has not been an active part of the lifestyle in BIPOC communities. 

It takes a committed and passionate soul to bite off such a huge sociological education. Angela is the right person at the right time.

Hear her plight here.

I had Garen and his daughter on the show weeks ago discussing the winery and marketing. Only a few months later, the winery became a spoil of the war in favor of the Azeris. A scary proposition to say the least as the local partner lost his son in the battle. Hear the history and the recovery.

Vingo Verde is one of the hottest wine categories in America right now. The quality coming from this important region of Portugal is creating consumer awareness of this slightly bubbly wine. 

The wine regions of Portugal are plenty and anchored by the infamous Port wines. Most American consumers are not aware of the plethora of still wines being produced there, let alone the variety of styles and complexities. 

In 1993, my father and I visited Vin Expo and to our surprise, because the show was so large, we were left to fend for ourselves to taste wine. During the podcast I gained concurrence from Mafalda that the still wines of Portugal had a long way to go and were quite undrinkable at the point. 

Not the story today, like many wine producing countries in the world, Portugal has emerged through technology and passion, in the world of wine as a force to consider.

Have a listen to Mafalda.

Wine is about the story; the place, the history, and the people who created it. Meet Xavier Sanchez of Chateau Pichon Baron. The classification of 1855 put the Pichon Longueville as a second-growth wine in the famed district of Pauillac. Other notables in the same district are Lafite Rothschild and Chateau La Tour….heard enough. 

Xavier brings a fresh but educated outlook on wine, Bordeaux, and what it takes to maintain authority in the Bordeaux sector. 

Enjoy this conversation as it takes twists and turns.

PK

I bought some Roco Pinot Noir; the Stalker, and during the process was told the winemaker, Rollin Soles was a hoot. Correct. Having made wine in all corners of the world of wine, Rollin Soles has deliberate and unique perspectives on all aspects of wine.  It is refreshing to hear the passion as a result of vast experience. Have a listen to Rollin (pronounced Raw-lin). Salud.

Jessica Kogan knows it. Listen to her, and you will know it. I did.

🍷 **Embrace the Blend of Digital and Physical**: One of the standout themes from the show was the vital intersection between digital engagement and physical presence. Jessica highlighted how integrating digital tools can lead to significant physical world interactions, like finding wine events or tasting venues. However, their discussion illuminated the enduring need for real-world connections, suggesting that, much like a perfectly aged wine, blending the two elements can produce the best results. Imagine syncing your dating app with wine preferences – talk about a perfect pairing!

🍷 **Innovation, Not Just in the Bottle**: Innovation in the wine industry isn’t confined to crafting the perfect Cabernet Sauvignon. As discussed by Jessica and Paul, it extends to marketing, packaging, and even how we engage with consumers. They shared a laugh about Paul having to sneak into wine meetings with a fake card – it’s like being back in high school, but instead of fake IDs for beer, it’s for Merlots and Chardonnays!

🍷 **Human Connection is the Best Corkscrew**: The most impactful takeaway was the indispensable value of face-to-face interactions. Even in an era where digital marketing floods our feeds, nothing seals the deal like a personal connection. As Paul shared how direct interactions helped his business flourish at wine shows, it reminded us that sometimes, the best tech tool is a handshake (or a clink of a wine glass!).

To wrap it up:

In this spirited episode of "Wine Talks," host Paul K and guest Jessica Kogan delved into the evolving dynamics of the wine industry, emphasizing the crucial blend of digital outreach and genuine, in-person connections. They unwrapped the challenges of innovating within traditional business models and highlighted the significance of direct customer interactions, proving that while digital tools have their place, the heart of wine marketing still lies in personal connections and real-world experiences. We learned that meeting a wine lover in person might just be as important as the vintage they choose. So, next time you’re sipping a crisp white or a bold red, remember – the best connections might just come from putting down the phone and raising a glass. Cheers to that! 🍷🎉

She wants wine to be an approachable beverage to all. Passionate about removing barriers for women and people of color into the wine industry, Chasity has covered the gamut of places to create the force.

She enjoys the camaraderie of the trade and likes speaking wine-geek, but throttles herself when among family and friends…thus creating the “bougie” wine cousin.

She writes, speaks, and consults on wine and can be found tilting a glass with various noted celebrities in wine and sports.

Have a listen.

When one stumbles across a strong will in the wine industry, one has to take notice.

A strong will will necessarily show through in the resulting wines. It takes an opinion, it takes a will to create the finest example of wine a vineyard can produce. 

If one is "laissez faire" about what is in the bottle, one will cut a corner or shortcut a process or leave out a process that would not necessarily create a poor wine, but will certainly keep a nuance or a character out of a wine. 

For Elizabeth, it is about expressing the terroir she is, as she says it, priveldged from where she is to create wine. This is important; as a steward of the land for the Cornell family (from whence the name of the winery is drawn), she has a reponsibility to protect and enhance. 

The 2020 fires ripped through area and the rebuild is under way. Elizabeth is inspired to coax the vines back to their expressive selves.

Have a listen to this inspiring and driven winemaker.

Stephanie Morton Small write music; not the notes but they lyrics. Oh, and she is the VP of a compelling winery in Argentina; Finca Decero.

One theme that comes out of Wine Talks is the value of international experience in not only making wine but marketing wine. The passion that comes from these cross country experiences only further solidifies the mystique and intrigue the business of wine brings. 

Stephanie Morton Small has worked around the world in some of the great wine districts; Bordeaux, South Australia, Aix de Provence and more. 

Interestingly, she has landed in Argentina. Tasting Tuesday at the WIOMC has always been a temperature gauge as to what is happening on the street in the wine business of Los Angeles. If Tuesday is any indication of the popularity of wines at the moment, Argentina is hot right now. And for good reason.

The wines of Finca Decero seem to transcend the norm. They seem to break our of the mold and have created a complexity and terroir that I have not seen before. 

Enjoy this conversation with Stephanie Morton Small. 

Are we losing the authentic flavors of our food, or are they just being masked by modern food trends?

In this episode of Wine Talks, Paul K sits down with Anthony Rahayel, founder of NoGarlicNoOnions–a YouTube sensation for food lovers worldwide.

Today, Anthony shares his incredible journey from being a dentist to traveling the world in search of authentic food stories.

With over 8,500 videos to his name, Anthony explains why he’s on a mission to preserve traditional Lebanese culinary techniques and how modern cuisine often loses its way through today’s food trends.

Tune in now to discover how these trends are affecting our food and how we can strike a balance between tradition and innovation in the culinary world.

Let’s jump right in!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

Meet Anthony Rahayel and his brand, NoGarlicNoOnions (00:32)

Evolution of American cuisine and its influence on Lebanese food (02:29)

Anthony’s take on how food connects people globally (04:16)

How Anthony’s YouTube journey started (05:55)

What you need to know about Lebanese cuisine (10:55)

Modern food trends and its impact (16:05)

Anthony’s transition from dentistry to food blogging (32:31) 

Importance of equipment and production quality in food blogging (37:04)

The secret sauce to Anthony’s success (43:12)

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

👉Subscribe to Anthony Rahayel’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCACicNDQx-HA5MFnl75a-OQ

👉Connect with Anthony on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nogarlicnoonions/?hl=en

Watch or listen to this episode:

🔸How One BAD Wine Led to a Thriving Wine Business with a TWIST | Stephanie Franklin: https://youtu.be/mmyguoWhsPY

🔸This Missouri Winery is Crafting Wines Like You've NEVER Tasted Before | Jerry Eisterhold: https://youtu.be/Y5mv4wghyWc

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!

Emmanuel is one of the most interesting gentlemen in the wine industry. Besides being one of the early American Master Sommeliers ever bestowed the accolade, he makes wine, beer, and not nitro brew coffee. 

I have always loved his Clos Pessarra wines from Priorat Spain, but now he brings me his Miura beer and starts to talk about his nitro brew coffee...always looking for opportunities.

Last week he stopped in to tout his latest accomplishments and as he is telling the stories I', "stop, let's do this as a podcast."

We could have gone on for hours.

Have a listen.

Julie started as a representative for a major wine player in America. I thought she would never make it. Oops. She became an executive in the trade. Incredible conversation.

1.) Julie Hernandez had a "light bulb" moment about the power of wearing a suit in a male-dominated business setting, which positively impacted her career trajectory.

2. Despite being experienced and holding a high-level position, Julie was frequently underestimated by male colleagues, sometimes mistaken for being in a lower role.

3. Paul K shared a personal experience from the 1980s, reflecting on encountering sexism in corporate America.

4. Julie discussed the importance of competitive spirit sourced from being an athlete and an actor, mentioning the Chubbuck acting methodology which emphasizes winning.

More thoughts:

In this enlightening episode of "Wine Talks," host Paul K delves deep into conversation with Julie Hernandez, touching on various topics from her illustrious career in the wine and spirits industry to the personal challenges she faced balancing work and family life. Julie shared her early days in the field and how she navigated a male-dominated industry with strategic decisions like wearing high heels to ensure she was at eye level with her male counterparts. She emphasized the importance of building strong relationships based on trust and mutual respect to succeed in sales, and discussed the transition from chain work to on-premise sales at restaurants.

Both Paul and Julie reflected on the evolution of corporate America, discussing gender equity and how personal experiences in the 1980s compare to today's more discreet challenges. Julie was also open about the sacrifices she made, feeling married to her job while rising through ranks from a sales representative to a director of sales. Ultimately, she chose her personal well-being and family over her demanding role, underlining themes of work-life balance and the importance of being present for one’s family.

Through their conversation, Julie and Paul encapsulated the spirit of perseverance, adaptability, and the sheer importance of ethics and commitment in both personal and professional walks of life. They closed with thoughts on the ongoing changes in the industry, especially due to COVID-19, underscoring the need for continuous adaptability and relationship-building in the business world.

Meeting Tonya Pitts is like discovering your new favorite wine. Our conversation was captivating, rich, and full of depth and character! She is a role model to many within the wine industry and the perfect example of an excellent sommelier who goes above and beyond to bring outstanding wines to the list she curates and the customers she guides. She currently is the wine director at One Market in San Francisco, 2022 Wine Enthusiast Winner for best Sommelier/Wine Director, an advocate for women and POC, LGTBQ+ in wine, a wine judge, writer, and much much more. She is a force to be reckoned with!

Learn more about Tonya by visiting her website: https://www.tonyapitts.com/

I have meet with 1000’s of people in the wine business…winemakers, suppliers and bottom fishers…Mary Taylor is one unique individual and we could have spoken for hours. In a short amount of time, she has accumulated great knowledge into the finer points of wine and food.

Enjoy.

A conversation close to my heart....Charles Krug Vintage Select Cabernet Sauvignon literally started the WIne of the Month Club. Meet Peter Mondavi Jr., co-owner of  Charles Krug Winery and hear the Napa history and the passion.

The formidable Winc is in bankruptcy under the rules of Chapter 11. They were one of the largest Direct To Consumer wine companies in America and they failed. The business failing is one thing, and that happens all the time for various reasons. I am speaking of the failure to the consumer. To the trusting aspiring wine buyer who was hoping they were on to something cool. Business failure is felt by the banks, by the suppliers by the employees, but the failure to the consumer wreaks havoc on trust and can last much longer than the impacts of the business failure. Hear my thoughts here.

Wine is ethereal. It literally binds people together. It brings something to the table that should and does transcend race, gender, lifestyle and generations. Isis Daniel is a testimony to that very bind.

She coined "The Millennial Somm" as her calling card to help the industry and the consumer alike to comprehend the generational changes that wine could and must transcend. Throw in that she is a woman of color and you have got a force of nature.

Her insights are thoughtful and complex. She sees wine and life from a positive perspective with a bit of social (wine social) justice mixed in. Her persuit of wine knowledge is not for self-edification, it is for real knowledge that she can take to the streets to enlighten all in her race, generation and gender. 

Have a listen and wish her "bon voyage" on her new venture in Paris.

PK

Wine Talks has has some amazing guests in each of the various disciplines of the wine trade. A few years ago, Vahe was on the show as we mulled over some of the pertinenant issues of the day. This second podcast years later is that much more interesing.

Since our first episode together, so much has changed in the Armenian wine world; a proliferation of new wineries, the addition of European and American know how, real technolgy and added appelations; Vahe is up to speed on all of it.

We met at the graciuosness of the Civilnet studio group (civilnet.am) in their podcast studio and could have spoken for hours. Not only on the Armenian wine trade, but also on the headwinds and motivations to be in this business.

As he slowly hands the gavel to his daughter Aimee, Vahe reveals his own ambitions and aspirations to grow.

Have a listen.

Wine in itself represents history. And wine from the caucus states have had wine for 1000’s of years…and Bulgaria is no exception.

I taste 100’s of wine each month and I went back to see how many Bulgarian wines I had tasted since I started using a database to keep track…..8 prior to these Rough Day versions.

Roberto Hayk had a vision and a dream to bring a new world version of an old world place to America…and Rough Day wines are here! Such an interesting story and true thought and passion have gone into these wines and the value is through the roof.

I sat with Robert and his US Ambassador and Armenian Somm, Anush Gharibyan O’Connor. 

Some of you might know that Disneyland has a private club; Club 33. But did you know of the club named 21 Royale? In what was to be Walt Disney's apartment? and could be the most expensive restaurant in the country...and by all accounts, an experience worth the expense.

I visited Chef Josiah at this Charcoal restaurant in Venice Beach. Intriguing history and chat. Now head of Charcoal in Venice, Melisse, Dear Johns and Daves Dog House.

When the Daou brothers came to Paso Robles to start the famed winery, they spied a property in the Adelaide district that intrigued their senses. Patrimony is a testimony to terroir, culture and the dream of two immigrants. This was one great conversation and you must try the wines.

It is not only a story of wine but of immigration, escape, pride and hard work. Steve has been in the wine industry for over 20 years and have been a fan of the Wine of the Month Club for just as long.

So you want to own a winery in Italy, Germany, France? you name it....Bettina can fill your needs. Oh, and she will sell you a winery in Napa too!  Listen as we role play as a potential client who wants to buy a winery in Montalcino, Italy. All of us look in on the lifestyle of a vineyard owner and think "this is my dream." And for many, it is a dream that comes true...but then to find out what the real dream is...but then again, there are those that make their dreams come true and it is exactly of not moreso what they hoped.

Have a listen to Bettina Kurz of Viva-Business

When you have sold some of the most luxurious brands in the world, what does adding Chateau Angelus to the list mean? Actually, it means quite a bit. 

Chateau Angelus was awarded Premiere Cru Classee "A" when the Right Bank of Bordeaux began classifications in 1955. This puts the Chateau at the top of the region's rankings, which is a significant achievement.

Yves de Launay, who has promoted brands such as Sotheby's, Louis XIII Cognac, LVMH, and Cartier, would seem to be a natural fit for promoting Chateau Angelus. During a recent trip to Los Angeles to taste the latest releases of Chateau Angelus, Wine Talks was on his list of "things to do."

It seems that being at the top is just as hard, if not harder, than trying to get to the top. Everyone is trying to knock you off, and any small shift in your stature could be a disaster. It is Yves' job to ensure that this doesn't happen

Have a listen.

The Caucuses have long been known as ancient wine growing regions. The latest re-birth is from Artzakh.  Garen Bagdasarian and daughter Emilia are spearheading a new wine experience all together for the region. Hear their story.

Bartholomew Broadbent has a storied wine history on his own. He currently owns one of the great importing houses in America, Broadbent selections, and single handedly brought Madera back to America after a prohibition hiatus.  Not to mention the son of one of the great Masters of Wine, wine critic and famed wine auctioneer Michael Broadbent. We get into it on this episode of Wine Talks.

The Master of Wine Diploma out of London is probably the most rigorous of certifications to acquire. It took Nova 8 years of study, frustration and tasting to get it done; and that was only after she failed out the first time around. Yes, you can spend 6 years going through the program and if you don't hit certain milestones during the final testing, it is like the kids board game Shoots and Ladders...back to the beginning. 

An MW that saw the potential in Noca Cadamarte, pulled her aside to inspire and console her at the same time. This time she passed.

There are fewer that 250 female MW's and fewer than 10 that actually make wine....but Nova is the only MW who makes wine in Napa, the Fingerlakes and Ohio (that is correct, Ohio).

You will find her entertaining, funny, charming and intelligent. 

Have a listen.

What makes South African wines stand out in the global wine industry?

In this episode of Wine Talks, Paul K sits down with Jacques Viljoen, Cellar Master at Boschendal Wines, to uncover the secret behind South Africa’s great-tasting wines.

With a unique balance of old-world tradition and new-world freedom, Jacques explains how South Africa’s winemakers are using diverse terroirs and cutting-edge winemaking techniques to produce wines that are both elegant and timeless.

If you are curious to know more about what sets South African wines apart or are interested in the art of winemaking, tune in now to this insightful conversation.

Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

Meet Jacques Viljoen and his role at Boschendal Wines (00:38)

South Africa’s unique terroir and climate explained (04:22)

Boschendal Wines’ end goal of making timeless, balanced wines (11:32)

Changing wine trends and the global palate (16:21)

Balancing old-world and new-world winemaking (22:35)

The future of wine as both a cultural and economic product (31:00)

Final thoughts (39:58)

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

👉Follow Boschendal Wines on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boschendalwines/

👉Visit Boschendal Wines’ website for more information: https://boschendalwines.com/

Watch or listen to this episode:

🔸Interview with May-Éliane de Lencquesaing: https://youtu.be/vsMXAUtpNns

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!

Justin Hirigoyen got the bug at wile working at his fathers Basque restuarant.  What is interesting, his first soiree into making wine landed on the opposite side of the Pyrenees at the famed Chateau D'Esclans. After his first harvest, he was hooked. His philosophy is to listen and learn to the land to create the best wine from the terroir. His approach os fresh and we tasted through three Pinot Noirs each a 2018 from different parts of famed Pinto Noir territory. Have a listen.

Today we are joined by Napa Valley royalty who tells us about entrepreneurship in divinely bad behavior and starting a new estate under the Mondavi family wine. We also talk to one of the most unique winemakers in the country, Marcus Bokish, who is making Spanish varietals in Lodi, CA. 

Paul is joined today by his father, Paul Kalemkiarian Sr. the man who created the 3 billion dollar direct to consumer wine business, and who was actually there in the 70's when California Wine stepped onto the world stage. Paul is also joined by legendary reporter Mike Krikorian of the LA Times and of course, our pal Ed Masciana. 

The biodynamic wine movement is real and growing. One of the first in California was Gelert Hart and Ambyth wines. Truly rustic and adhering to the principals of biodynamic farming, Ambyth creates extraordinary wines from a variety of grapes.

Hear how the vines grow and the philosophy works throughout the process. 

Ian McCaffery wanted to be in wine. He has not only a philosophy on making wine but where and how wines are to be served and presented. He currently makes wine for the famed Joel Gott and Gavin Newsome's Plumpjack winery.  His own brand Station 26 was inspired by the lifeguard station in Santa Monica number 26 where he met his wife. 
He was brought to wine as a young man by tasting with his grandfather and walking the vineyard with him to ascertain the grape quality. His wine education jump-started when he was tasked to inventory a private collection and started to wonder what the hype was all about.
Tune in to hear more about his journey.

Paul talks with wine exporter Stephane Schaeffer on a range of topics, including his childhood home in the Alsace region of France.

Her work has led her to be named one of “The 2017 Most Innovative Women in Food and Drink” by Fortune, as well as one of “The 50 Most Influential French People In The World In 2017” by Vanity Fair. Isabelle Legeron earned the coveted Master of Wine and founded the RAW wine movement. Fascinating conversation.

Wine Talks believes in the story of wine. There is a colloquialism in the wine trade "Every bottle tells a story" which on the surface is correct....but sometime seems too trite.

What is in the bottle is not just an expression of terroir (soil, weather, environment) but also an an expression of the accumulation of the winemkars experiences, passions, lifestyle and what he or she thinks the proper melange of all these elements should be.

Stephanie learned this the hard way (but the proper way). The school of hard knocks is just that...take you lumps, learn from the expereince and move to the next adventure and she has had plenty.

Have a listen to her trek to the wine industry and her experiences on the inside.

Meet Stepahine Cool.

Some of you might know that Disneyland has a private club; Club 33. But did you know of the club named 21 Royale? In what was to be Walt Disney's apartment? and could be the most expensive restaurant in the country...and by all accounts, an experience worth the expense.

George Ronay is about to retire from a life of wine; but do you really retire from wine? Hear the passion and philosophy about wine from a man who worked all sides of our great industry. Learn about the passion it takes to be successful and keep an eye on the goal.

We are joined today by an incredible winemaker, Zak Miller. We talk about the wines in Napa Valley and the beautiful chateau Domaine Carneros. 

The late, great, George Mardikian was restauranteur extraordinaire, philanthropist, and an inspiration to his family and employees. Hear from his nephew/son Haig Mardikian wine, Ohmar Khayyams, immigration and philanthropy. 

George Mardikian represents all that is good as an American immigrant. He fled Turkey ahead of the Armenian genocide and made his way to San Franciso to start a new life. Fell in love with an American girl only to have her shunned by the family. He sets up shop on Powell St in San Francisco and becomes a legend of cuisine before America really recognized such acclaim.

We sat with his son to discuss the famed Mardikian Pinot Noir, the immigration of 10’s of thousands of Armenians to America, and life. It is probably the most emotional podcast I have hosted and guessing that monicker will stand for a whileGeorge Mardikian was an exceptional restaurateur, philanthropist, and an inspiration to his family and employees. He was also an immigrant who fled Turkey ahead of the Armenian genocide and made his way to San Francisco to start a new life. Despite facing challenges, such as having his American girlfriend shunned by his family, he set up shop on Powell St and became a legend of cuisine before America recognized such acclaim.

PK

GiniFest is a Los Angeles bred wine festival that features the wine making skills of both indigenous Armenian winemakers but Armenian winemakers in the diaspora as well. A very professionally done show and an opportunity to showcase incredible wines of great distinction.

Wine Talks played host to (3) of the wine families who attended this years GiniFest and Stepan Bagdassarian of Wines of Armenia dot com. 

Really quite inspiring to hear the plights and objectives of a group seeking world recognition of their wines.

She was a lawyer, but the family wine business became her disrupter.

Once in awhile someone takes their position in the studio and starts the conversation and they completely captivate the show. Soft-spoken but convicted to her and her families cause, she is articulate in her position in the wine world.

Often a guest from Europe has some self-doubts about their english skills and if they will be able to be successful in telling their story. And sometimes it isn't the grammar and the vocabulary the prevails, it is the humility and the sincerity that is endearing.

Such is the case with Valentine. Her charm and farm-girl humility show throughout the conversation and she was entirely successful in communicating her position in life.

Have a listen to Valentine Hostens Picant.

There can only be one explanation (maybe two) for someone to want, study, test and pass both the Master of Wine curriculm and the Master Sommelier curriculm. So rare it is that there are only 3 people in the world that have done it. One reason could be the pure academia of them; the study, the knowledge, the challenge to learn more. And another reason is the passion for wine. For David, it is a lot of both.

He is clear, articulate and funny...and maybe a little crazy; after all this study and understanding of the wine industry, he goes off and starts a winery in Walla Walla Washington. Who does this?

But you will here the commitment and passion it takes to do this very thing. Wine Talks is proud to have tracked him down in Washington as they are preparing for harvest.

Have a listen....you will be inspired

Once in awhile a guest comes to the studio that takes over the show. Lia is one of those guests. Knowledgeable, fun, engaging and intriguing would be a few adjectives I would use to describe our conversation.

And the wines were great too! lol. The Glenelly Estate is producing amazing Bordeaux style wines...butwait, they also produce Chardonnay and Pinot Noir; which is perfectly fine for Lia, she was raised in Burgundy, France.

The history of South African wines is intriguing and the history of the proprietor of Glenelly, May de Lencquesaing, is nothing short of Bordeaux royalty.

Have a listen to this fascinating story. 

Mr. Wonderful was in the house...not too long ago, Wine Talks caught up with Kevin O'Leary to talk the wine biz....really fun chat.

In this jovial episode of **Wine Talks with Paul Kay**, Kevin O'Leary, entrepreneur extraordinaire, dives into the world of wine and exclusive watches. O'Leary reveals his undying love for Bordeaux wines, particularly Latour and Chevalier Blanc, akin to finding "the perfect pair of socks that never slip." He passionately talks about blending wines and reselling exclusive watches, comparing the latter to playing "hide and seek with a millionaire."
O'Leary has no qualms calling out absurd experimentation, like mixing Latour with Coca Cola, the audacity of which could make any sommelier faint faster than you can say "terroir." Amid serious discussions about changing laws in Utah (where shipping wine could land you in jail), O'Leary keeps the tone light, recounting adventures in virtual wine tastings that sound as fun as a virtual reality grape stomp.
With anecdotes from the wine group Les Ami Devant to stories about his Shark Tank nickname “Mister Wonderful,” the episode feels like sipping a fine vintage that's both rich and surprisingly zesty. Cheers to a captivating, bubbly mix of wine wisdom and chuckle-worthy anecdotes.

Some lessons to leran.

🍷 **Adaptation is Key:** Whether it's shifting to direct-to-consumer sales or blending American-friendly wines, flexibility and understanding your audience matter.
🍷 **Experimentation (within reason):** Playing with new wine blends can be exhilarating, but mixing Latour with Coca Cola? Not so much. Boundaries, people, boundaries!
🍷 **Passion Elevates Business:** Be it watches or wines, enthusiasm brands your experience, making you relatable. And yes, it can give you entertaining nicknames on Shark Tank!

Ludovic Devrin was born in Champagne...so the question has to be asked...why did you land in the Napa Valley. Seems the romance of the famed bubbly beverage would keep pon close to home but Ludovic wanted to see the world. Though he did get his degree at the University of Reins (in the Champagne region) he has made wine in France, South Africa, Greece, and now California. His curiosity to explore the New World versus Old World winemaking techniques and philosophies, groomed him perfectly to coax out of the soil some of the great wines of Stags Leap Winery. 

The smallest appellation in Napa can create some of the biggest wines and it is Ludo's (that's what they call him around the vineyard) job to keep the sense of place in tact as he carves the brand recognition of this famed winery.

Have a listen to Ludovic Dervin.

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!

This was a ton of fun...we peeled back the joy and headwinds of creating wine in your garage and then....wow, making wine for the public. Great stuff....have a listen.

We all know the story of Rudy Kurniawan, the famed subject of the movie "Sour Grapes" and the most publicized of wine counterfeiters. When the FBI needed help in understanding what otherwise was, according to the FBI, "non-consequential", they turned to Maureen for counsel.

Maureen Downey has carved a niche around what is now a growing industry of counterfeit wine. The stories are endless and the creativity of the people who counterfeit wine can only be out played by the people who sleuth them. Maureen is the best sleuth in the business.

If you can believe it, the problem has been exacerbated to the point where they are counterfeiting Yellow Tail, a $7.99 retail wine. This seems to be an unlikely target, but who is going to notice that a below average, sugared-up wine is going to be counterfeit?

This is part one to the series with Maureen...we didnt even get to our solution section of the problem.

Have a listen.

I read Chefs, Drugs and Rock and Roll at the behest of the great Melvyn Masters. I wasn't 20 pages into the book before I decided having Andrew Friedman on the show was a must.  A variable wealth of American cuisine knowledge, Andrew Friedman breaks the subject down to help us understand how what we eat came to be. Enjoy.

His family started the famed Champagne house Piper-Heidseick in 1789...meet Parirck d'Aulan of Alta Vista winery in Argentina. 

You will learn French history, Champagne history, cultural history, and the incredible wine movement in Argentina.

Argentina has amazing terroir that is just now being discovered as the vineyards head up the Andes. Vineyard designate wines are becoming a movement in the Argentinian wine industry and it is clearly successful in expanding the mystique of these wines.

Patrick followed his dad's advice and took up looking for premium vineyard land in the Uco Valley. They struck proverbial gold in finding vineyards with vines over 100 years old. 

Have a listen to the passion and history of Patrick d'Aulan.

How does a country with no native wine culture become a new destination for wine lovers? Panama is showing us exactly how.

In this week’s episode, we’re joined by wine writer and historian Charlie Leary to discuss how Panama is quickly emerging as a wine destination despite its non-traditional wine-producing background. With a growing middle class and a thriving digital culture, the country’s wine scene is booming—driven by imports from Spain and South America.

Today, Leary takes us through Central America’s evolving wine market, shares his experience managing vineyards in Spain, and discusses how wine education is transforming places like Panama.

We also explore the balance between producing premium wines while catering to entry-level consumers, as well as the challenges posed by climate change.

Curious how wine markets evolve globally?

Let’s dive right in!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

Charlie Leary’s wine journey in Panama (01:20)

Panama's booming wine culture (04:12)

Managing vineyards in Spain’s Andalusia region (08:13)

How Charlie Leary got into the wine business (13:05)

The premiumization trend in wine and market trends (17:32)

Leary’s insights on wine innovation and trade (23:12)

Bordeaux wine history and its modern impact (28:10)

Entry-level vs. premium Bordeaux wines (38:17)

Emerging wine regions to watch out for (41:47)

Leary’s book on global wine education and scholarships (47:45)

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 Charlie Leary’s website for more information: https://www.charlieleary.com/

👉Grab a copy of his book, Leary’s Global Wineology: https://www.charlieleary.com/globalwineology.html

Watch or listen to this episode:

🔸What Makes Château Cheval Blanc a PREMIER Winemaker with Pierre-Olivier Clouet: https://youtu.be/ANZISp-XFvc

🔸"The Audacity To Hire A Woman”—Says Veronique Sanders of Cht. Haut Bailly: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/the-audacity-to-hire-a-woman-says-veronique-sanders-of-cht-haut-bailly/

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!

Paul talks with Alessandro Gallo about his journey from Piedmont to Castello D’Albola in the Chianti region of Italy.

Franz Leth tells us why Austrian wines deserve a seat at the table of world class wines. A family owned winery with generations of experience that continues to press the virtues of the Austrian noble grape; Gruner Veltliner. Gruner (as we call it in the trade) can produce wines of great variety and style. Much like Riesling, it can produce wines of great acidity and backbone, wines of elegance and finesse, sparkling wines and dessert wines. Come on an audio journey with Franz to the vineyards outside of Vienna. 

You will be intrigued and enlightened.

Gary Lipps history in the Napa Valley is a veritable history book. Listen where he worked and who his mentors are....I dig a little deeper to see what makes this guy tick.

The WIne Talks podcast seeks interesting stories in the wine trade. There are so many facets to the industry and the public only sees a small percentage...or hears the stories of a small percentage of the interesting histories that this ancient beverage brings.

Antonia Quast is one of those stories. Having had so many touch points in the wine trade, she brings to the proverbial podcast table a plethora of interesting points-of-view.

She has one particular story of a visit to Lafite Rothschild and the wine royalty sitting at her table. 

You will have to listen to grasp the enormity of the event.

Mark Williamson, a brit by birth opened Willi's Wine Bar 40 years ago in the Premiere Arrondissement. He just released Immovable Feast; forty years of feeding the French. The brasserie is a must stop when visiting Paris and the owner Mark Williamson sat with us to tell the tale.

Melvyn and Janie Master were my heroes. Their life together was a pure love affair. In recent years, when they would come to LA to hang, Melvyn would insist on dinner together and each of these encounters sollidified this magical relationship. And why shouldn't be that way, their story together covers all the gamets of life; start out with nothing, take a few risks, end up with nothing and go again. And as they navigated two of the most difficult of industries (restaurants and wine), they became synonomous with both.  Always giving of his contacts and friends, I will always charish these two with fond recollection.

Experience is everything in most industries. Coming back from rock bottom is a critically important experience… as is garnering understanding of the industries that surround your particular industry. It all comes together to create “educated guesses” when trying to determine your next step. Meet Melvin Masters who is all that and more.

Imagine creating a world-class wine from grapes no one’s heard of—a wine that carries the history of a place and the resilience of its people. That’s exactly what Jerry Eisterhold, founder of TerraVox Winery in Missouri, is doing.

Today, Jerry joins Paul K to discuss the highs and lows of his experimental journey–from discovering North America’s forgotten native grape varieties to the painstaking process of turning them into award-winning, food-friendly fine wines.

This conversation tackles the challenges of working with unfamiliar grapes, the historical significance of these grape varieties, the innovative techniques applied to bring them to the world’s attention, and more.

Curious to know what the future of American wine tastes like?

Tune in now to learn more!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

TerraVox Winery and its indigenous American grapes (00:45)

Winemaking challenges with lesser-known grapes (04:37)

TerraVox’s goal with Missouri’s native grapes (09:57)

Grape varieties suitability for winemaking (15:20)

Innovations in wine styles using old and new techniques (21:08)

Top factors in choosing the perfect grape planting location (25:08)

The potential for establishing terroir with these unique grapes (29:28)

TerraVox marketing strategy and the importance of local support (33:37)

The aging potential of TerraVox wines (38:22)

Jerry’s approach to making Rosé wines with unique grapes (41:47)

Local community’s response to TerraVox's lesser-known grapes (43:34)

How Smithsonian Magazine discovered TerraVox (45:10)

Significance of producing American wines from indigenous grapes (47:51)

Episode wrap-up (52:28)

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 TerraVox Wine for more information: https://terravox.wine/

Watch or listen to this episode:

👉Interview with Jeff and Kathy from Uncorked: https://youtu.be/HxccfBklg34

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 California wine trade didn’t start in Napa, Sonoma, or Mendocino; it started it in Southern California in the 1700’s.  Many Italian immigrants game to the Cucamonga area from the Lombardy region…not to make wine but to cut stone.

Founded in 1929, San Antonio Winery is currently the only licensed winery in Los Angeles. Amazing history and story. My old friend Santo Riboli sat with me to discuss the trek of this famed company and family.

The theme of the day is passion. It is obvious in the trek of Damien Landuoar to become the Director de Culture of Chateau Gaby.