Wine Talks with Paul K.

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!

Sitting with Don and Petie Kladstrup is like sitting with a "live"history book. As complete "happenstance" would have it, they were sitting with M. Huet and heard the most amazing story of survival. A story of survival in a German POW camp, a story of survival through the memory of a glass of wine, the story of pure determination to get back to the vineyard. At this intersection of history and story telling, the Kladstrups realized there was more out there to learn; that wine is about the story, wine is a binding memory to hang on to, that the human spirit can overcome hanging on the thread of something as soul searching as a taste of that one inspiring vintage. I stumbled into this conversation as well. While researching the then current aggression by the Azerbajians into Armenian territory and why the invading army would be interested in absconding with 4 Armenian owned wineries, I ordered a copy of "Wine and War"authored by the Kladstrups. I didn't put it down until I was done reading and have gone back to it many times in my pursuit of the meaning of a "honest"glass of wine. Hear this amazing tale, get a copy of the book, and find the inspiration I have found.

Was there a Bob Hope movie....The Road to Yerevan?  Maybe not, but the road to Yerevan for James Tufenkian is fascinating. James is one motivated diasporan. He has created a well-known, world-wide hand woven carpet, planted 1,000,000 trees in Armenia, built a hotel chain and is now embarking on the wine trade. Here are three important points made by James Tufenkian in the episode: 1. **Freedom and Lifestyle in Armenia**: James notes that Jewish immigrants from Russia find the lifestyle in Armenia preferable due to the more liberal and nurturing environment, contrasting it with the oppressive conditions in Russia. 2. **Revival of Armenian Winemaking**: James discusses the cultural revival in Armenia's wine industry, particularly focusing on the rediscovery of ancient grape varietals and the process of making wine that reflects both Armenia's long-standing tradition and modern practices. 3. **Economic and Social Development**: James highlights his efforts in contributing to Armenia's economic growth by venturing into various businesses, including winemaking and carpet manufacturing. He emphasizes the importance of integrating traditional culture and modern hospitality in his ventures. In this enlightening episode of "Wine Talks," host Paul K engages with James Tufenkian, an influential figure in Armenia’s cultural and economic revival. They begin discussing a group of Jewish immigrants from Russia who have found Armenia’s lifestyle liberating compared to the repression in Russia. The dialogue then shifts to elaborating on Armenia’s burgeoning wine industry, with James lauding the discovery and cultivation of ancient grape varietals, underscoring the nation’s blend of old-world traditions and new-world innovation in winemaking. Further, James delves into his multifaceted journey in Armenia, starting from his initial visit in 1981 and his eventual relocation to contribute to the nation's economic development post-independence. He recounts starting a modern oriental rug business in 1993 amidst corruption and chaos but credits Armenia's evolving governance and society for positive change. James also shares his pioneering efforts in Armenian winemaking, adopting biodynamic farming practices and focusing on cultural heritage over financial gain. His stories reflect a dedication to blending traditional Armenian culture with contemporary progress, ultimately aiming to open up regional tourism and establishing Armenia as a noteworthy player in the global wine market.

A Toast to Tradition and Innovation    Paul K: Welcome to another episode of "Wine Talks"! Today, we’re popping the cork on a conversation that's rich in history and flavor with the illustrious Veronique Sanders, director and president of Chateau Haut Bailly in the Pessac Leognon district.   Veronique: Thank you, Paul! I'm excited to share our journey and passion with your listeners.   Paul K kicks things off by reminiscing about the days of his father's involvement in the wine business. He talks about the indispensable role of marketing and personal interaction, essentials that have defined the industry for decades. Paul K: The wine industry has seen so many changes, especially with the rise and fall of wine consumption among younger generations. Marketing and genuine connections have always been key, but it's challenging when people opt for drinks filled with artificial ingredients. Veronique shares a delightful story about serving wine at an elaborate dinner at Versailles, painting a picture of elegance and heritage. Veronique: It was truly an honor to serve our wine at Versailles. Our wine, like the castle, has a storied past. We pour our hearts into every bottle, and it’s rewarding to share that passion. Paul K shifts the subject to the changing palate of today’s wine drinkers. They both explore the current preference for structured, complex, and terroir-driven wines. Veronique: Great wines should evoke a unanimous emotional response. It's less about tasting notes and more about the personal connection, the experience. Paul K agrees, emphasizing the emotional ties and memories that a truly great wine can inspire. They mention Bordeaux’s classifications, with a special nod to the distinctiveness of the Saint Emilion classification. In a moment that brings together the past and the future, Veronique recounts the legacy and mission of Chateau aux Bailly while highlighting her son's involvement in the family tradition. Veronique: Winemaking is not just a profession; it’s a mission driven by passion. It’s about serving the terroir and passing it down to the next generation. My son is already deeply involved, and it’s heartwarming to see his enthusiasm. They touch on the importance of respecting the character of the appellation de with strict French rules, contrasting it with the more varied production methods observed elsewhere. Paul K: It’s interesting to see the balance between maintaining tradition and adapting to market demands, especially with the Internet reshaping how we buy and sell wine. Veronique chimes in, noting the advancement of technology and its impact, yet emphasizing that the heart of winemaking—nature—remains untamed and unpredictable. Veronique: Nature decides the outcome. It’s a humbling process, but it’s also what makes winemaking so beautiful. The episode rounds off with a discussion on the increasing presence of women in the wine industry, highlighting how women like Veronique are making significant strides. As they bid farewell, Paul K invites Veronique to visit LA, leaving listeners with a hearty invitation to subscribe to "Wine Talks with Paul Kalemkiarian" Paul K: Remember, join us next time for more stories from the world of wine. Cheers! Veronique: À bientôt! And with that, another vibrant chapter in the book of wine is shared, adorned with passion, history, and an ever-evolving future. 🌟 Save as prompt Modify Copy contentDelete  

I know the story of the movie Bottle Shock...but here is the back story. Ease drop on this carzy good conversation with the producers of the movie Bottle Shock...but add a hilarious element with Flint Dillie; the designer of the game of the namesake...Bottle Shock. I am already in line to receive my copy because the game is not about wine...well, maybe wine is part of the game, but the premiss is about fooling the judges. But wait, there are legit judges and phoney judges and it is your job to figure who is who.  I am ready to play....and the cool part is, no wine experience is necessary. In fact, that was the first criteria in the design of the game. Make it fun for all and it is!   Go to KickStarter and put in Bottleshock and get yours for 40% off.

  In an engaging moment on the "Wine Talks" podcast, host Paul K shares a fascinating anecdote from his early days as a wine taster. Reflecting on his extensive experience in the industry, Paul recounts how he began tasting wines in 1988. He notes the significant evolution of rosé wine over the decades, particularly in the 1990s when rosé barely made an appearance in his tasting room. Fast forward to the present, and Paul observes a remarkable surge in the popularity of rosé, with every wine-producing region now crafting their own unique versions. From Tuscan to Corsican, Sardinian to Armenian rosé, these wines have carved out a niche in the market, showcasing the diverse expressions of grapes from various terroirs. In the latest episode of "Wine Talks," host Paul K sits down with François Ott of Domaine Ott to delve into the intricacies of winemaking in Provence. The discussion opens with François elaborating on Domaine Ott’s mission to craft wines that create memorable experiences, particularly highlighting their special cuvée, Etoile. This project, initially a fun experiment, evolved into a sophisticated blend that aims to capture the complexities of three distinct terroirs, producing a rosé that ages with remarkable texture and depth. François shares insights on adapting vineyard practices to cope with climate change, including the replacement of traditional grape varieties with more resilient ones like Vermentino and Rolle. He discusses the meticulous adjustments in canopy management, pruning, and soil plowing to ensure the vines thrive in hotter, drier conditions. The conversation transitions to the cultural perceptions of rosé wine, with François emphasizing the importance of elevating rosé to the same esteem as red and white wines. He reflects on the historical impact of the phylloxera crisis and the subsequent evolution of winemaking practices in Provence. Both Paul and François agree on the need to educate consumers about the vineyard and winemaking processes to change perceptions and appreciate the nuanced qualities of rosé. As they wrap up, François accentuates the joy of opening a good bottle of wine and the intention to provide a taste that reflects the unique terroir of their vines.    Tune in to this sun episode of "Wine Talks" to explore the rich history and innovative future of rosé wines with Paul K and François Ott. Don’t miss the chance to deepen your understanding of the intricate art of winemaking in Provence—subscribe now for more captivating wine stories!

Each of us has had one of his wines...somewhere, somehow.  Charles Smith is an acclaimed winemaker renowned for his authentic and refreshing approach to the craft. Starting with humble beginnings, Charles personally transported his wine, driving an overburdened van filled with 84 cases to his first potential buyers. His genuine personality and hands-on dedication quickly endeared him to wine enthusiasts and consumers alike. His journey from a passionate individual in an overloaded van to a recognized name in the wine industry embodies his commitment and unique flair in winemaking. Passion Ignited: Charles shares his heartfelt story of how a passionate waiter once inspired his deep love for wine while working at a restaurant. This passion eventually led him to craft wines that are both spectacular and accessible. Integrity in Winemaking: Charles emphasizes the importance of purity in wine production, steering clear of over 70 potential additives. Discover how he maintains honesty in his craft, ensuring every bottle reflects the true essence of the grapes and terroir. A Journey of Perseverance: From selling wine out of an Astro van to becoming the largest independent wine producer in Washington, Charles's journey is a testament to dedication and hard work. Hear about the beginnings of his Kay Vintners label and his adventures on the road. Exploring Terroir and Natural Practices: Dive deep into the philosophy behind winemaking, discussing the significance of "terroir" and the beauty of natural fermentation. Charles shares fascinating insights on his latest projects, including Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, and Pinot Noir. Industry Insights: Get a fresh perspective on the current state of the wine industry. Charles critiques the influx of mass-produced wines and the emergence of alternative beverages like non-alcoholic wines and ready-to-drink cocktails. Personal Touches and Future Plans: Listen to Charles's plans for future client meetings and wine discussions in Southern California, and gain a rare glimpse into the man behind the label.   Incredible stuff ahead.    

The wine trade is about passion. From vineyard management to marketing, without the passion, one could never overcome the headwinds. Multiply the headwinds by 10 when trying to open new markets for smaller wineries and lessor known districts. Heinrich Venter tells us all about those headwinds...couple with the passion to get it done. Embracing Tradition and Innovation: Paul K and Heinreich delve into the challenges faced by young winemakers who strive to uphold their predecessors' legacy while introducing their own innovations without compromising the wine's quality. Market Insights: From shelf space dynamics in retail to the powerful narrative behind winemaking, learn how South African wines are capturing the market’s attention. Discover why engaging storytelling is essential to draw consumers to these remarkable wines. From Entry-Level to Prestige: Heinrich shares fascinating comparisons between the wine and whiskey industries, highlighting how entry-level products serve as gateways to appreciating more premium offerings. South African Wine Excellence: Gain insights into the history, reputation, and unique challenges faced by the South African wine industry. Understand why South African wines are world-class and the complexities involved in bringing them to the US market. Travel and Tradition: Paul and Heinreich reminisce about memorable travels, such as their plans to visit Canonko, and share Paul’s adventurous story of planning a surprise trip to South Africa instead of Paris. The Essence of Wine: Dive deep into discussions about the timeless passion and ageless quality of wine, its irreplaceable role in enriching conversations and culinary experiences, and the importance of terroir and sustainability at Canonko. Challenges in the Wine Industry: Navigate through the conversation on the shifting consumer preferences, trends in packaging, and the balance between brand integrity and market demands.

During the episode, Jamie shares a riveting story from his auction days at Sotheby’s. One of the most memorable moments was auctioning the Romney Condy 1945, which fetched an astounding $558,000. This bottle's value was bolstered not just by its rarity and exquisite quality, but also by its unique provenance - it originated from Robert Drouin's cellar, imparting a rich narrative that intertwined history and celebrity. This underscores the importance of storytelling and historical context in the realm of fine wines.   Blockchain & Wine Sales:  Discover how blockchain technology is revolutionizing the wine industry. Jamie explains how platforms like Blockbar ensure guaranteed provenance, traceability, and transparent transactions for wines and spirits. Perfect for digitally savvy collectors, especially millennials and Gen Z, who value security and convenience. Market Trends: Jamie discusses the current state of the secondary market for Bordeaux wines and compares their value to other regions, including Burgundy and California. Learn why Bordeaux might just be the best bang for your buck right now! Authenticity & Trust: Dive into a riveting discussion about the importance of trust in wine transactions. With concerns about wine fraud prevalent, find out how NFC stickers and RFI technology are used for product security. NFTs in Wine: Experience a modern twist as we talk about the use of NFTs for high-end beverage collections, enabling secure storage, instant trading, and even unique auction experiences. Storytelling & Marketing: Understand the critical role of authentic storytelling in the wine and spirits industry. Paul and Jamie critique the modern marketing landscape and emphasize why integrity and authenticity in branding matter more than ever.

When the Original Wine of the Month Club was ready for a new chapter, they turned to Carol Collison to make sense of the landscape of selling a wine club. In this episode, we peel it back on a number of fronts: Challenges in the Wine Business: - This episode dives deep into the financial and operational challenges faced by those in the wine business. Paul K recounts a friend’s struggles with a large, aged inventory and shares a cautionary tale about the risks of high pricing and poor market support in the wine industry. Impact of Industry Downturn: - Carol Collison discusses how the current downturn in the wine industry is affecting larger producers more significantly than smaller deals, causing ripple effects throughout the industry. Real Estate and Winery Transactions: - Carol provides insights into the niche market of buying and selling wineries. She discusses her role in wine real estate brokerage and shares stories about challenging transactions, such as the sale of Moraga winery. Direct-to-Consumer Sales and Marketing: - Both Paul and Carol examine the complexities of selling wine directly to consumers, addressing the oversaturation of the market, the importance of marketing, and challenges like the decline in direct-to-consumer sales. Valuation and Profitability: - They talk about the financial metrics like EBITDA, profitability, and growth potential that are crucial in winery transactions, highlighting the importance of finding motivated buyers and understanding the financial landscape. Brief Biography of Carol Collison: Carol Collison is a seasoned professional in the wine industry with a background in investment banking. She transitioned from finance to real estate brokerage, specializing in the sale and acquisition of wineries through Global Wine Partners. Over her career, she has developed a keen insight into the complexities and nuances of the wine business, making her a respected figure in this niche market. Very fun story: Carol shares the story of trying to sell Moraga, a small boutique winery. Despite its premium wines, the property's real value lay in its luxury residence rather than its productivity as a winery. After struggling to find a buyer and ultimately losing the listing to a luxury real estate firm, Rupert Murdoch eventually purchased the property. This highlights the unique challenges of valuing and selling boutique wineries. Tune in to "Wine Talks with Paul K" for a fascinating dive into the intricacies of the wine industry, where every bottle tells a story far richer than just its taste.  

Wine Talks was honored to speak with Danielle Coetzee, who is coaxing elegant sparkling wines from the Cap Town appelation in South Africa using the traditional Champagne method and grapes. 1. Cap Classiques is the South African version of traditional method sparkling wines with specific legal requirements. 2. Danielle's family background influenced her passion for winemaking, particularly her uncle's stories of harvest and vineyard work. 3. Nsiki Biela is a notable black winemaker celebrated within the South African wine community. 4. South Africa's Cape Winelands feature a diverse landscape in a condensed area, contributing to a wide variety of wine flavors Utterly charming and humble. Meet Danielle Coetzee. In this episode of "Wine Talks," hosts Danielle Coetzee and Paul K delve deep into the intricacies and charm of the South African wine industry. They highlight the shift toward site-specific wines and quality production, emphasizing how wines can tell stories and embody personalities. Danielle shares her personal journey into winemaking, inspired by her uncle, and explains the complexities of Cap Classiques, South Africa's sparkling wines. They also discuss the impact of soil and region on the taste of wines, especially sparkling varieties. The hosts explore inclusivity and diversity within the wine industry, spotlighting trailblazers like Nsiki Biela. Insights into pregnancy and motherhood within the field are provided, with Danielle sharing her own experiences. Paul K introduces a fun trivia question on wine's curative value, and they reflect on the need to make wine more accessible and inclusive to younger generations. Throughout the conversation, the importance of balancing innovation with tradition and maintaining high-quality, ethical, and sustainable production practices is underscored. The episode is a mix of personal anecdotes, technical wine discussions, and a celebration of the vibrant South African wine landscape.

The Serres Family ranch is multi-acted...in fact, it is most likely you have seen Serresbluleberries at your local store. Taylor is the 5th generation (which is a veritable reign for a California family in the wine trade) and is grooming the next generation to take over.   🍷 Embrace the Blend of Tradition and Innovation: Taylor Serres emphasized the importance of staying true to winemaking traditions while also being open to new methods, like co-fermented products. It’s like jazzing up a classic suit with a bold tie—sometimes, you just need a little sparkle to shine in a crowded room! 🍷 Sustainability Isn’t Just a Buzzword, It’s a Lifestyle: Both Taylor and Paul highlighted the significance of sustainable practices in farming and winemaking. The necessity for certifications like fish friendly farming and a dedicated approach to environmental stewardship ensures that you’re drinking good conscience in every sip—because who doesn't want to save the planet one glass at a time? 🍷 Know Your Audience but Don't Lose Your Essence: As Taylor spoke about targeting diverse wine preferences and engaging a younger market, it was clear that while it’s essential to understand and cater to different tastes, staying authentic to one’s roots is crucial. Remember, you're like a vintner's version of a rock star—keep it real, and your fans will adore you! She was compelling in her reason to be in the wine trade. In this enlightening episode of Wine Talks, host Paul K and guest Taylor Serres, dipped into some juicy topics surrounding the wine industry. We ventured through the vineyards of tradition and innovation with discussions on regenerative farming, familial legacies, and the thrilling introduction of a blueberry sparkling rosé (because why not add a little pizzazz to your fizz?). As the youngest of the Serres line, Taylor shared her perspective on adapting timeless practices to modern demands, emphasizing sustainability without diluting the family’s foundational values. There was also a subtle but humorous nod to bureaucrats, with a suggestion that they could do with a little more real-world business experience—because running a farm isn't just about planting seeds, it’s about nurturing growth, and sometimes, pouring a little wine to ease the process. The conversation wrapped beautifully with an invitation for Paul to visit Sonoma, underlining the episode with a sense of community, history, and a shared love for wine. Bravo, a toast to an episode that was as enriching as a fine aged Cabernet!

As part of the South African invasion that tool place here at Wine Talks, Petir Venter came to the studio ready to promote the wine of South Africa. And he did in a very humble way. 1. During COVID-19 lockdowns, some wineries in South Africa turned their wine shops into delis to stay operational and adapt to restrictions. 2. Petri Venter was introduced to vineyards through a Facebook game before transitioning to a real-life winemaking career. 3. South Africa is transitioning from bulk wine exports to focusing on higher-quality wines at more attractive prices. 4. Wine bars and a willingness to pay higher prices for quality wine are growing trends in South Africa’s wine-drinking community.   Wine Talks is committed to get to South Africa; the stories are too good. In this episode of "Wine Talks," hosted by Paul K, the guest is Petri Venter from a South African winery. They delve into the burgeoning wine market in South Africa, highlighting its increasing recognition for high-quality wines and the growing wine-drinking community. The discussion covers the competition between Cape Town and Johannesburg and the significant foreign investment influencing local wineries. Petri sheds light on the adaptive strategies during COVID-19, such as turning wine shops into delis to navigate the alcohol sales ban. The importance of persistent marketing efforts, especially in the American market, is emphasized, showcasing the industry's camaraderie and support. The conversation also explores the distinction between different winery brands and the considerable influence of international experiences on South African winemakers. Petri's journey from a Facebook game enthusiast to a passionate winemaker adds a unique touch. The episode concludes with discussions on future plans, focusing on engaging with consumers through storytelling and personal interactions. With high-quality wines at reasonable prices, the South African wine industry is poised for continued growth and international success.

The word grit carries many forms in this podcast: the guest has grit, her ideas have grit, her discipline has grit, and her approach to the beverage industry has grit. Find out what grit means in a modern day setting.   🍷 **Adapt or Taste Your Own Dust**: Monika Elling highlighted the critical importance of adapting to consumer trends and interests, not just in creating products but also in marketing them. Like trying to ferment grape juice with old socks, ignoring trends in the wine industry will only result in a sour taste in consumers' mouths. 🍷 **Brand is King, but the Customer is the Almighty**: The episode emphasized that while having a captivating brand is akin to holding a royal flush in cards, understanding the consumer's needs and desires is like owning the casino. Monika and Paul discussed that without strong brand ideation rooted in consumer psychology, you might as well be selling water to a well. 🍷 **Tech it Easy**: In a world where even wines get digital makeovers, Monika stressed the significance of merging digital marketing strategies with traditional methods. If your brand isn't evolving with technology, you're essentially running a vineyard with horse plows in a tractor world. She has it all goin'on. In this enlightening tussle with grapes and brands, Monika Elling decanted wisdom on crafting brands that resonate and sell. From branding faux pas equivalent to wearing socks with sandals, to championing the salient blend of digital vigor and sensory appeal, this episode was a toast to the complexities of the wine industry. Paul and Monika traversed topics like the non-alcoholic beverage debacle—likening it to juicy juice with a trust fund—and the almighty reign of consumer understanding over mere aesthetics of wine label designs. Laughs were poured generously as Monika likened misguided brand strategies to playing tennis with a pickleball racket—possible but frustratingly fruitless. Cheers to navigating the vast vineyards of wine branding with the acumen of a seasoned sommelier!

An in studio visits from 4 delightful South Afrinca winemakers began with this incredible conversation with Gavin Slabbert and Josh Raats of Raats Family Winery. 1. The increasing percentage of women winemakers in America inspired a former intern to pursue enology school. 2. Gavin makes an analogy between wine and golf, emphasizing inclusivity. 3. Gavin/Josh’s family winery has been running for 25 years in New Zealand. 4. A unique wine called Mister de Compostela was created by the first qualified black African winemaker in South Africa. ### Podcast Summary In this episode of "Wine Talks with Paul K," co-hosts Paul K and Gavin Slabbert are joined by guest Gavin/Josh to discuss the evolving landscape of the wine industry. They emphasize the increasing presence of women winemakers in America and the importance of breaking down barriers in the traditionally exclusive world of wine. Gavin/Josh, representing a 25-year-old family winery from New Zealand, highlights their commitment to producing bespoke wines that reflect their unique terroir and fostering personal connections with consumers. The conversation delves into the significance of inclusivity, drawing parallels to the world of golf. Paul and Gavin/Josh discuss the rich history and modern challenges of South African wines, noting the progress and potential of varieties like Chenin Blanc and Pinotage. A touching story of the first qualified black African winemaker creating a wine called Mister de Compostela underscores the theme of breaking barriers. The episode wraps up with a call for wine enthusiasts to explore and enjoy wine in their own way, free from intimidation or preconceived notions.

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! 🍷🎉

A seredipitous conversation with a real estate broker, landed a successful wine influencer in the studio. Meet Lucia Palm. 1. Lucia Palm gained significant popularity after her viral videos about Trader Joe's wines. 2. Paul K plans to take a group on a wine country tour, highlighting his role as an influencer in the wine industry. 3. Lucia Palm wants to start promoting independently owned shops in Los Angeles, focusing on affordable wines. 4. Paul introduces Lucia to an auction house in Glendale that sells movie and TV show props at a discount, blending their love for vintage items with their professional interests. What happened in this episode: In this engaging episode of "Wine Talks," host Paul K converses with Lucia Palm, a well-known social media wine influencer, about the evolving language of wine descriptions and industry trends. They debate whether terms like "crunchy" should replace traditional descriptors like "high acidity." Paul expresses concern that altering established terms could confuse consumers, while Lucia shares her perspective on keeping pace with industry changes, especially since she's moved away from hospitality. The discussion also delves into the effectiveness of wine point systems and the significance of street credibility over medals in wine selling, highlighting a personal story from Paul about a relative's experience. Lucia talks about her journey from working at a Michelin star restaurant to creating viral content and her aspiration to open a wine bar and create a cooking and wine pairing show. Additionally, Paul and Lucia explore the role of influencer marketing in wine promotion and the distress over hiring content creators who can authentically represent their brand. The episode wraps with insights into the personal preferences for wine glassware, the impact of social media on wine marketing, and the evolving digital landscape affecting their work. This episode not only presents an in-depth look at the wine industry from the lens of two experts but also underscores the diverse approaches to wine appreciation and marketing.

So, who is Reid Kinnett....and what makes him passionate? 1. Reid Kinnett uses DNA testing to confirm the authenticity of indigenous Vitis vinifera grapes. 2. Reid swapped 15 cases of wine for his first ton of grapes in 2021. 3. Reid Kinnett blends a little Petite Syrah with his Zinfandel to enhance its profile. 4. Reid Kinnett is involved in making Zinfandel with no residual sugar, focusing on an acid-driven and medium-bodied profile. What you will learn in this podcast. In this insightful episode of "Wine Talks," host Paul K engaged with guest Reid Kinnett in a thought-provoking discussion about the evolving landscape of wine production in California. Reid, an experienced assistant winemaker participating in Zinfandel and Napa Valley Cabernet productions, shared his journey from the wholesale trade to owning a successful retail store and now focusing on producing restrained, balanced wines. The conversation highlighted a shift back toward more structured, balanced wines in California, moving away from the extremely opulent styles of the late '90s and early 2000s. The episode also touched on the challenges of maintaining authenticity and expressing terroir. Another interesting topic discussed was the use of alternative packaging like canned wines and tetra packs that aim to reduce carbon footprints and appeal to new consumer bases without sacrificing quality. Reid and Paul delved into the broader impacts of consumerism on wine production and the importance of understanding the various aesthetic experiences offered by different wines. Discussing marketing strategies, they emphasized the importance of slow growth and establishing a unique selling proposition in a competitive market. The educational and engaging dialogue encapsulated the traditions of winemaking while highlighting modern innovations in the industry.

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.

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.