Wine Crush Podcast NW

In this episode of the Wine Crush podcast, host Heidi Moore speaks with Dr. Greg Jones, CEO of Abacela, a winery in Oregon's Umpqua Valley known for its distinctive approach to wine, focusing on varieties suited for the specific climate and terroir of the region, such as Spanish and Portuguese grapes, notably Tempranillo. Dr. Jones shares an extensive overview of his journey from a professional chef to a renowned climatologist with a PhD, influencing his decisions in viticulture and winemaking. His narrative includes his academic progression, global research contributions, particularly around the impacts of climate change on viticulture, and his eventual role taking over the family winery.Dr. Jones discusses his father's influence and their mutual dedication to exploring underrepresented grape varieties in America, which led them to plant Tempranillo in Oregon. He also recounts how climate and soil studies have been pivotal in his wine-growing strategies, ensuring each variety thrives in its ideal environment, which enhances the quality of the wines produced.The story includes an intriguing discovery at Abacela of a historical grape variety, Listán Prieto, found on their property, concealed under a blackberry patch. This grape, known for its legacy within the early Californian wine history and its relation to the Spanish Mission grape, is being harnessed by Abacela to produce a traditional wine called Angelica, a nod to the historical sacramental wines of the missions.Besides this historical exploration, Dr. Jones emphasizes the winery's array of offerings, including a true port, crafted with all traditional varieties and sourced from the local vines, highlighting their holistic approach to winemaking.The podcast provides a blend of historical anecdotes, personal journey, and technical insights into vineyard management under the shadow of climate considerations, making it a compelling narrative for wine enthusiasts and industry peers interested in the nuanced interplay between traditional methods and modern scientific approaches in viticulture and enology

In this engaging episode of the WineCrush podcast, Season 7, hosted by Heidi Moore, listeners are taken on a journey into the heart of Oregon's wine country, with a emphasis on the storied wine-producing region of the Willamette Valley. The episode is adorned with rich narratives from two distinguished guests, Paul Johnson of Satyr Fires and Maria Ponzi, who delve into their personal histories, their contributions to the Oregon wine industry, and their perspectives on wine education and collaboration.Paul Johnson's story is one of a passionate transition from the East Coast to Oregon, driven by a love for Pinot Noir. Having managed a wine shop in Connecticut and being enchanted by Oregon's Pinot Noir, Paul made the significant move to Oregon with hopes of contributing to its wine legacy. Despite his self-professed status as an outsider, Paul highlights the open, collaborative spirit within the Oregon wine community that welcomed him and allowed him to pursue his winemaking dreams. His venture, Satyr Fires, stands as a testament to the success born from community support and mutual enthusiasm for wine.Maria Ponzi offers a profound insight into growing up amidst the burgeoning Oregon wine industry. Not born into it but introduced at a tender age of four, Maria's narrative is rich with the evolution of the Oregon wine scene from its nascent stages, marked by skepticism and a lack of identity, to its current global renown. Maria's journey transitions from hard labor in the vineyards to a pivotal role in sales and marketing, illustrating her adaptability and passion for the family business. Furthermore, her literary contribution, "Pinot Girl," serves as a personal memoir and a historical account of Oregon's wine industry's growth, capturing the collaborative spirit that propelled it forward.The episode takes a thoughtful turn towards education with a focus on Linfield's Wine Studies Program. Maria Ponzi, serving as the interim director, outlines the program's comprehensive approach to wine education, encompassing viticulture, enology, marketing, sales, and more. Linfield's program stands out for its emphasis on real-world experience, boasting partnerships with local wineries and the innovative Acorn to Oak Wine Experience managed by Paul Johnson. This unique venture pairs wine business operations with educational goals, offering Linfield students invaluable hands-on experience in the wine industry.

From the heart of the Oregon wine country, the Wine Crush Podcast brings you an intriguing conversation with Eugenia Keegan, a legendary figure in the world of wine. In this episode, host Heidi Moore dives deep into Eugenie’s fascinating journey from childhood adventures in agriculture to becoming an integral part of Jackson Family Wines in the Willamette Valley. Join us as we uncork the stories behind the labels, exploring the art, passion, and culture that shapes the wine industry.Eugenia’s journey through the world of wine is a testament to the importance of community, innovation, and sustainability in shaping the future of winemaking. Her passion for Oregon wines and commitment to excellence continues to inspire and influence the global wine community.

In this captivating episode of the Wine Crush Podcast Season 7, Episode 2, host Heidi Moore whisks us away on a global journey that highlights the diverse and rich tapestry of winemaking. Through engaging conversations with winemakers from the Willamette Valley and beyond, this episode delves deep into not just the intricacies of crafting wine, but also the personal narratives that define the essence of each vineyard.We begin with Mark from Domain 524, whose fascinating story traverses continents, from the lush vineyards of France to the flourishing wine country of Oregon. Mark's winemaking voyage is a testament to the profound influence of cultural heritage and personal experiences on the craft of winemaking. Growing up with summers in France and later embarking on winemaking in Oregon, Mark's narrative beautifully encapsulates how the diversity of experiences and the richness of tradition interlace to create exceptional wines. Through engaging tales of selecting grape clones, adapting to Oregon's climate, and the inspiration behind his wine labels, Mark's journey offers a deep dive into the heart and soul behind Domain 524.In the heart of the episode, we transition to a delightful wine tasting session. This interlude not only serves as a sensory exploration of Oregon's wine diversity but also beautifully bridges the stories of our guests, underscoring the shared passion and distinctive philosophies that shape their winemaking practices.The episode culminates with Akiko and Chris from Shiba Wichern Cellars, whose remarkable journey from Germany, with stops in Japan and Virginia, eventually led them to Oregon. This duo's story is a harmonious blend of love, adventure, and the pursuit of winemaking excellence across borders. With backgrounds that span from beer to wine and continents from Asia to North America and Europe, Akiko and Chris's adventures underscore the universal appeal of winemaking and the unique paths that lead to the vineyard. Their thoughtful approach to embracing Oregon's terroir, coupled with their innovative spirit and dedication to producing distinct blends, reveals the depth of their commitment to contributing to Oregon's wine legacy.This episode of the Wine Crush Podcast transcends the traditional discussions of winemaking by weaving a narrative that celebrates the human element behind every bottle. From Mark's intimate connection to his French heritage and Oregon's land to Akiko and Chris's cross-continental love story underscored by their shared passion for winemaking, listeners are taken on an immersive journey that explores the profound connections between culture, personal journey, and the art of wine.Pour yourself a glass, and let's celebrate the stories of winemakers who remind us that behind every bottle lies a world of stories, waiting to be uncorked.

Season 7 commences with an international flair, featuring two distinguished wine brands shaped by global influences. Jesse Schwartz, of Cassie Bella Wines and The Wine Scribes, shares his passion for wine cultivated during extensive travels, leading to the establishment of Wine Scribes—a valuable resource for wine enthusiasts. Their portfolio expands to include vineyards in the Columbia Gorge (Oregon) and Portugal, with Cassie Bella serving as a tribute to Jesse’s wife and their shared life.The second narrative unfolds as a captivating love story between Chad Ana Bree Stock. Originating from Australia, Bree’s global wine explorations intersected with Chad during a transformative visit to Oregon. Their love story birthed Limited Addition, where they explore diverse varietals, challenging conventional grape choices in the Willamette Valley to produce exceptional wines. Season 7’s inaugural episode promises excitement and surprise as we delve into these unique wine journeys. Thank you for joining us.

And just like that season 6 has come to an end! What a treat our last episode of the season was! We welcomed in our first father-daughter team, Harry and Wynne Peterson-Nedry. They are the dream team behind both RR (Ribbon Ridge) Wines and Ridge Crest Wine! As a special guest we brought back the ever entertaining Andy Lytle to hold down the very first co-hosting spot! It was quiet the crowd in the studio! Harry is one of legends and early developers of the Oregon Wine Industry and planted the very first vineyard in what is now known as the Ribbon Ridge AVA. His name is synonymous with quality and knowledge in the industry! Wynne is a true definition of a wine kid! She was born shortly after the purchase of the Ribbon Ridge property and grew up playing and working in the vineyards. A wealth of knowledge herself, she has become a distinguished and highly respected winemaker in the Willamette Valley! Join us we wrap up the season with a highly energetic and comical chat featuring 3 amazing personalities whose passion for wine is so very evident ! Cheers to you all and to another great season in the books!

From the heart of the Oregon wine country, the Wine Crush Podcast presents an unforgettable episode featuring two exceptional winemakers: Chris from Liska and Colin from Mendivia. Host Heidi Moore invites listeners to embark on a journey into the world of wine as Chris and Colin share their backgrounds, inspirations, and the stories behind their remarkable wine brands.Liska, founded by Chris and his partner Draga Mirajelova, is dedicated to crafting German Riesling. Their love for the grape began during a harvest in Germany's Mosel region, where they fell in love with the style and decided to bring it to Oregon. Liska is a result of their passion for Riesling and their desire to create exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Willamette Valley.Colin, the founder of Mendivia, draws inspiration from his family's Basque heritage and focuses on Spanish grape varieties like Tempranillo and Albarino. His wines showcase the beauty and complexity of these grapes, exploring emerging AVAs in Oregon and beyond. With Mendevia, Colin seeks to introduce wine enthusiasts to the unique flavors and stories behind these Spanish varietals.In this captivating episode, Heidi delves deep into the winemakers' journeys, discussing their experiences, winemaking philosophies, and the importance of terroir in their wines. Discover the nuances and complexities of German Riesling and Spanish varietals as Chris and Colin share their expertise and passion. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or simply curious about the world of winemaking, this episode is a must-listen for its rich insights, inspiring stories, and the celebration of two talented winemakers pushing the boundaries of their craft.

In this episode of the Wine Crush podcast, host Heidi Moore takes listeners on a journey through the world of winemaking with two Dave's and their unique stories. First, we meet Dave Paige, a Midwestern boy who found his passion for wine while working in a wine shop. Dave shares his transition from a car-making family in Ohio to becoming a winemaker in Oregon's Willamette Valley. He discusses the evolution of the American wine industry, the changing perceptions of wine, and the importance of understanding the unique characteristics of different vineyards.Next, Heidi is joined by Dave and Casi from Namaste Wine. They share their love story, which began on a Match.com date, and how they became the proud owners of a vineyard in Dallas, Oregon. They discuss their passion for winemaking, the intricacies of their wines, and the recent opening of their stunning new tasting room, housed in a renovated 100-year-old barn. They share their journey of transforming the barn into a warm and inviting space, perfect for enjoying their exceptional wines.Throughout the episode, listeners will gain insights into the winemaking process, the importance of terroir, and the joy of exploring different flavors and styles of wine. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or new to the world of wine, this episode offers a delightful blend of information, entertainment, and inspiration. So grab a glass of wine and join Heidi as she uncorks the stories of these passionate winemakers. Cheers!

Episode 9 brings us legendary wine maker Robert Brittan! We travel through history and the path Robert took on his way to Oregon. His time in college and the making of his first wine, becoming winemaker at the famed Stags Leap in Napa, the meeting of his beautiful wife Ellen and the eventual move to Oregon and what is now Brittan Vineyards. Every path into the wine industry is unique and different and this is definitely a show to listen to and enjoy! Be sure to share this with all your wine loving friends and go find the wine! You won’t be disappointed!

This episode of the Wine Crush Podcast features two boutique wineries making fantastic wine! Olea Vineyards, owned by Tom and Melinda Melilo, is perched at the top of beautiful Parrett Mountain with view is the Chehalem Valley. Tom discusses his love for wine and why he decided to get into the wine business. His Italian heritage inspired him to not only name his wine label but also the music production company he owned after a significant item to Italians the world over. The word Olea means olive in Italian and is just as much part of daily life as wine it. Reservations are required for private tastings at the estate Next up is Chris Thomas of Celestial Hills Vineyard. Nestled into the Coastal Range outside of McMinnville you will find the beautiful Celestial Hill vineyard filled with Pinot and Chardonnay. Chris and wife Melissa have really embraced farm life with adding several furry farm animals for guests to enjoy while at the farm. Private tastings can be arranged at the estate or visit their tasting room in downtown Carlton.

In season six, episode seven of the Wine Crush podcast, host Heidi Moore interviews Leigh Brown of Lolati Wines and the mother-daughters team of Three Feather Estates. Leigh shares her journey from a career in music to becoming a winemaker in Oregon, while Elise, Cynthia, and Christine discuss the history of Three Feather Estates and their unique approach to winemaking. We chat about various varietals, including Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and the special clone of Pinot Noir planted at Three Feathers Estate. The international connections and experiences in the wine industry, including tastings in France, Africa and other parts of Europe brought all the winemakers together to reminisce how they continue to be inspired. To learn more about Lolati Wines and Three Feather Estates, listeners can visit their websites and social media pages, as well as make appointments for tastings and events. 

Tune in to the latest episode of the Wine Crush Podcast, where we're diving deep into the Oregon wine country. Host Heidi Moore brings you fascinating stories and unique insights from the world of wine. In this episode, we introduce you to Trina Galloway from Grateful Vineyards, located at the base of the stunning Mount Hood. Trina shares the rich history of her family farm, her journey from making hard cider in college to running a full-fledged winery, cidery, and brewery, and how she balances it all while staying true to her family roots. Discover the flavors and characteristics of her award-winning wines and learn about the abundance of fruits and flowers that coexist with the vineyards. Plus, meet Carlos, the beloved Texas Longhorn and vineyard mascot. Don't miss this episode, it's a treat for all wine enthusiasts!Get ready for a fresh pour of Ricochet Wine! We sit down with Eric Berg, the creative mind behind Ricochet Winery. From his days as a model to hosting some of the most exciting wine events around, Eric's journey is anything but typical. His stories about global adventures, discovering the world of wine working in high end restaurants and his passion for wine are certain to captivate you. We'll be exploring the world of indie wineries, discussing the enticing nuances of their unique flavors and the people who craft them. Don't miss the juicy details about the upcoming Indie Wine Mixer on Memorial Day weekend, a gathering of over 20 wineries at the Bindery in McMinnville! So uncork your favorite bottle, sit back, and savor the latest episode of Wine Crush, where stories and wine intertwine.

In this episode of Wine Crush, join us as we chat with James Frey of Trisaetum Winery. Discover how their passion for Riesling led them to produce unique variations in Oregon's McMinnville region, and how their focus on sustainable practices is creating a buzz with bee-friendly vineyards. Plus, get a taste of Trisatum's spirited endeavors with the introduction of Brixeur Spirits and James' fascinating journey into art. Don't miss out on this flavorful adventure in wine country! 

In this episode of Wine Crush Podcast we chat with Emily Seely of 19 Acres Cider Company, and Michael Mega the owner and winemaker of Nysa Vineyard. We love to switch things up sometimes and we are big fans of cider! Emily introduces us to the history of 19 Acres Cider and we chat the process of making cider, the different types of cider, and some of the misconceptions surrounding cider. Michael takes us on a journey into what influenced his love of wine and his path to the Willamette Valley and the Dundee Hills. His love for Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and his love for farming really shine through! Join us for another great episode of Wine Crush Podcast!

In this two-part podcast episode, join host Heidi Moore as she dives into the world of Oregon winemaking with two inspiring guests. Discover their remarkable journeys into the wine industry, their passion for their craft, and the unique characteristics of the Willamette Valley terroir.In the first part, Piper, owner of Privé Vineyard and Sealionne Wines, shares her story from growing up on a farm to becoming a winemaker and vineyard owner. Learn about her approach to sustainable farming, her acquisition of the Privé brand, and the French countryside vibes of the Privé tasting room. Throughout the conversation, Piper's love for her work and the community she's built shines through.In the second part, explore Paul's journey from selling wine to celebrities in Connecticut to becoming the Director of Sales at ALit Wines Tasting Room in Oregon. Delve into the world of his own wine brand, Satyr Fire, and his mission to showcase Oregon as a premier producer of white wine varieties, particularly Riesling. Be captivated by the unique, hand-drawn wine labels that weave Paul's personal story into the brand.Listen as both guests share insights on their wines, emphasizing the importance of geology, terroir, and sustainability in wine production. Find out how to get your hands on these delightful wines through retail and restaurant partners, Instagram, or mailing lists. With plans for tasting rooms, vineyards, and even a joint pop-up event, these episodes are a must-listen for all wine enthusiasts seeking inspiration and a deeper understanding of Oregon's winemaking scene.

In this episode we chat with Dave, the owner of Syndicate Wine, a boutique wine shop located in both Beaverton and Newberg Oregon. Dave shares his passion for wine, his love for the communities they serve, and the story behind the name "Syndicate Wine." We learn what makes Syndicate Wine different amongst other bottle shops. As well as, that Syndicate has their own line of wine and a unique wine club! Throughout the conversation, we get a sense of the warmth and hospitality of both Dave and his wife Angela and the love they have for the community. We're left feeling inspired to visit Syndicate Wine and experience their exceptional wines and hospitality for ourselves! Next up we're joined by Michael and Marielle, the owners of Guerrilla Wine Company. They share their journey of starting a winery in the heart of the pandemic, and the challenges they faced along the way. From navigating local regulations to finding the right vineyards to source their grapes from, Michael and Marielle talk about the dedication and hard work it takes to bring their vision to life. They also discuss their unique winemaking approach, which focuses on producing small-batch, handcrafted wines that showcase the terroir of the region. They share their philosophy on winemaking and their passion for creating truly exceptional wines. If you're a wine lover or someone interested in the world of small business and entrepreneurship, you won't want to miss this episode. Tune in to hear Michael and Marielle's inspiring story and learn more about the art of winemaking.

In this episode, we sit down with Joe Dobbes, a renowned wine maker with over 30 years of experience in the industry. Joe shares his story of how he got into wine making, and his journey from selling marionberries on his family farm, to working in vineyards to becoming one of the most sought-after wine makers in the industry. He also shares his unique approach to wine making, and the innovative techniques he uses to create truly exceptional wines. Don't miss this exciting episode with one of the true masters of the wine making craft!

In this episode, we visit a family-run winery in the beautiful Sunnyslope region of Idaho. The winery, run by three sisters, has a unique approach to their branding and marketing, using artwork of supermodel self-portraits from the 60s as labels for their wines. The sisters share the history of their winery, which was started by their ambitious and entrepreneurial father, and how they work to stand out in the industry. They also talk about the wine-making process and the different styles and varietals they produce, as well as the beautiful location and scenery that visitors can experience while visiting the winery. Tune in to hear the story of this pioneering winery and learn about the delicious wines they produce.

In this episode of Wine Crush, we explore the beautiful Hat Ranch vineyard in Idaho and learn about the rich history and passion behind the brand. Join us as we meet the vineyard's owner, Tim, and discover his unique perspective on winemaking and branding. Take a behind-the-scenes look at their recent bottling of 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon and 2020 Syrah, said to be some of the best wines ever made by Tim. Meet the vineyard's beloved companion, Hawk, and hear about the collaborative and friendly atmosphere of the Idaho wine industry. Get a sneak peek at the upcoming Alzheimer's walk in September, an event close to Tim's heart. Don't miss this exciting episode of Wine Crush, where we explore the best of Hat Ranch vineyard and the Idaho wine industry.

Our 5th trip on our Idaho Road Trip lands us at the sweet space occupied by Fujishin Cellars! Join us as we chat with wine maker and owner Martin Fujishin! Martin has been working in the wine industry for 19 years and is currently a winemaker in Idaho. The Idaho wine industry is rapidly evolving and Martin has seen changes in consumer preferences, particularly a shift towards red wine. Martin and his partner Teresa prioritize accessibility in their wines and have developed a reputation as a serious wine region. They make small batches of wine, with an average size of 200 cases, and work with a variety of vineyards to have control over the entire wine-making process. Martin and his team have also created a sweet pink blend called "Bubble Bath Blush" that has gained popularity with consumers. Martin values creating wines that appeal to new wine drinkers and not just those who are serious about wine.Martin is a winemaker in Idaho who has been in the industry for 19 years. He and his partner Teresa started their business with a focus on Riesling and Chardonnay, but have since adapted to the changing consumer market and now produce a variety of red wines as well. They prioritize making their wines accessible and enjoyable for all types of consumers, including those who are new to wine. Martin has a background in vineyard management and sources grapes from a range of vineyards, including those he used to work with. The business produces around 6,000 cases of wine per year, with an average batch size of 200 cases. One of their most popular wines is the "Amatino," a red blend named after the founders' screen names in the game World of Warcraft. They also have a sweet pink blend called "Bubble Bath Blush," which has gained a following among both new and seasoned wine drinkers. Overall, Martin enjoys the diversity and challenges of the wine industry and is constantly seeking ways to adapt and evolve their business to meet the changing needs of consumers.