For our final episode of Season 2, Bion Rice (of Artiste Winery ) talks with Richard Sanford of Alma Rosa Winery Richard is a legend in the wine region, having been the first to plant Pinot Noir in what is today known as the Sta. Rita Hills appellation of North Santa Barbara County. He and Bion discuss the complicated history of the valley and how a glass of a Volnay changed his view on wine. Richard reveals his journey as a sailor, a naval navigator, a geologist, and a map maker before settling into viticulture. Richard reveals his practice of organic harvesting and how Daoism helped him adopt the philosophy of flowing like water. Follow along and drink what we’re drinking. Episode 10 of “Two Glasses In” features the Pinot Blanc (Le Escantada), the Pinot Noir (El Jabali) with a bonus taste of the Chardonnay (El Jabali). Recorded at @ForFriendsInn in downtown @SantaYnez in the heart of @SantaBarbaraWinecountry, thank you for joining us this season. We hope to bring you more amazing winemakers and their wines in the feature. Two Glasses In is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. For more information on Alma Rosa Wines, head to https://www.almarosawinery.com/
For Episode 9, Bion Rice (of Artiste Winery ) talks with Raj Parr (of Sandhi Wines). From Calcutta to becoming the Sommelier of the Michael Mina restaurant group, Parr lives a storied career that has led him to make high-quality Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in the Santa Rita Hills. From growing up in kitchens, Parr believes in the strong pairing between food and wine. He also champions protecting the soil. In this episode, he discusses Australian barrel-making, the benefits of concrete tanks, and why sheep are useful at a vineyard. Follow along and drink what we’re drinking. Episode 9 of “Two Glasses In” features the 2022 Romance Chardonnay, the DDLC Sta Rita Hills Pinot Noir and a bonus splash of the Phelan Farm Poulsard. Recorded at @ForFriendsInn in downtown @SantaYnez in the heart of @SantaBarbaraWinecountry, new episodes of Two Glasses In premiere every Thursday! @2Glassesin is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. For more information on Sandhi Wines, head to https://sandhiwines.com/
For Episode 8, Bion Rice (Artiste Winery & Gallery) talks with Matt McKinney of McKinney Family Vineyard Matt grew up in the Santa Ynez Valley and had a successful career playing pro Volleyball in Greece, Puerto Rico and Italy as well as playing for the US National Team. A bet with his dad on winning the pro league vball Championship in Puerto Rico earned him his first half acre vineyard on the family property, bringing him home to make full-bodied, complex red wines. Matt, an avid fan of history (and wine in particular), discusses how it influences the names of his wines and giving tribute to historical traditions in winemaking. “Follow along and drink what we’re drinking. Episode 8 of “Two Glasses In” features BLOOD OF JOVE ( Sangiovese) and NAPOLEON’S SECRET (a Bordeaux style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Franc & Syrah). Recorded at For Friends Inn in downtown Santa Ynez in the heart of Santa Barbara county, new episodes of Two Glasses In premiere every Thursday! "Two Glasses In" is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. For more information on Clementine Carter Wines, head to https://mckinneyfamilyvineyards.com/
For Episode 7, Bion Rice (Artiste Winery & Gallery) talks with Sonja Magdevski of Clementine Carter Wines. Sonja discusses her colorful path to winemaking, taking her through Macedonia and planting Pinot with Emilio Estevez in Malibu. Sonja waxes poetic on the power of Roussanne and how making wine with grapes whole cluster is an art within itself. Follow along and drink what we’re drinking. Episode 7 of “Two Glasses In” features the CLEMENTINE CARTER (ROUSSANNE) and the FEMINIST PARTY (GSM). Recorded at For Friends Inn in downtown Santa Ynez in the heart of Santa Barbara county, new episodes of Two Glasses In premiere every Thursday! "Two Glasses In" is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. For more information on Clementine Carter Wines, head to https://clementinecarterwine.com/
For Episode 6, Bion Rice (Artiste Winery & Gallery) talks with the “King of Grenache”, Mikael Sigouin of Keana Wine Company. Born in Hawaii, Mikael discusses the lessons his “Tutu” (Grandmother) taught him and how her spirit led him to winemaking, his life’s calling. "Kaena" means "potential for greatness” and Mikael is a “Hapa” (a mix or part of many things). His wines are very much both, powerful and vibrant and balanced in a way that “round off the edges”. Learn why Mikael thinks of Grenache as Feminine, how he designs his own labels, his neverending love of Rhianna and how her music helps him make wine. Follow along and drink what we’re drinking. Episode 5 of “Two Glasses In” features the GRENACHE ROSE and the RESERVE TIERRA ALTA GRENACHE, with a little HAPA BLANC in between. Recorded at For Friends Inn in downtown Santa Ynez in the heart of Santa Barbara county, new episodes of Two Glasses In premiere every Thursday! "Two Glasses In" is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. For more information on Rideau, head to https://www.rideauvineyard.com/ Tap the link in the bio to listen and join us for a brand-new season!
For Episode 3, Bion Rice (Artiste Winery & Gallery) with an old family friend: Iris Rideau of Rideau Vineyard. When Iris founded Rideau in 1997, she was the very first Female African-American winery owner in the United States. Overcoming racism in her childhood, she became one of the founding winemakers in the Santa Ynez Valley and helped build the Los Olivos AVA into what it is now. Rideau (now run by Martin & Isabelle Gauthier) grows hand-harvested grapes from their sustainably-farmed estate. Follow along and drink what we’re drinking. Episode 5 of “Two Glasses In” features the ESTATE VIOGNIER and the CHATEAU DUPLANTIER with a little bit of their ESTATE SYRAH. Recorded at For Friends Inn in downtown Santa Ynez in the heart of Santa Barbara county, new episodes of Two Glasses In premiere every Thursday! "Two Glasses In" is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. For more information on Rideau, head to https://www.rideauvineyard.com/ For more show notes and links, visit www.twoglassesin.com
In Episode 4 of Bion Rice (Artiste Winery & Gallery) catches up with Larry Schaffer of Tercero Wines The self-proclaimed “The Indie Rock of Los Olivos Wineries”, Larry loves experimenting with distinctive wines, such as his Mouvedre rose. Larry discusses why he favors getting his hands dirty with the grapes, screw caps and the one-on-one interactions with his audience is the most important relationship a winemaker can have. Discover why the most important question you can ask is, “How do you drink your coffee?” Recorded at For Friends Inn in downtown Santa Ynez in the heart of Santa Barbara county, new episodes of Two Glasses In premiere every Thursday! "Two Glasses In" is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. For more information on Tercero wines, visit https://www.tercerowines.com/ For more show notes and links, visit www.twoglassesin.com
For Episode 3, Bion Rice (Artiste Winery & Gallery) gets into a serious conversation (and serious drinking) with Keith Saarloos of Sarrloos + Sons. For Keith Saarloos, winemaking is a family affair. His father worked the land while his children helped decide the wines. Because of this tight bond, each varietal he grows is named after a member of the family, representing all their qualities in the bottle. Keith speaks with passion and honesty about this industry he gives his life to. Follow along and drink what we’re drinking. Episode 3 of “Two Glasses In” features Keith’s family of Wines with his MOM Estate Grenache Blanc, his BIG LAR SYRAH Reserve with additional tastes of his daughter’s 7TEEN Sauvignon Blanc plus his Son’s CASH’s Grenache Rose. Recorded at @forfriendsinn in downtown Santa Ynez in the heart of Santa Barbara county, new episodes of @2glassesin premiere every Thursday! "Two Glasses In" is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. For more information on Saarloos + Sons, head to https://saarloosandsons.com/. For more show notes and links, visit www.twoglassesin.com
For Episode 2, Bion Rice (Artiste Winery & Gallery) talks to one of the rising stars of the Santa Barbara Wine Country, Jessica Gasca (Story of Soil). Jessica started working in the industry in 2009. She apprenticed at Sanguis, saving up enough to start her unique label. Her single varietal-focused brand develops release-focused single vineyards for each wine and quality of the terror. She discusses her tumultuous relationship with Syrah and her constant pursuit of the perfect Pinot Noir. Follow along and drink what we’re drinking. Episode 2 of “Two Glasses In” features the Syrah (Duvarita Vineyard) / Santa Barbara and a Pinot Noir (with a bonus glass of Rose). "Two Glasses In" is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. For more information on Foxen Vineyard and Winery, https://storyofsoilwine.com/. For more show notes and links, visit www.twoglassesin.com
Welcome to a brand new season of TWO GLASSES IN. For our first episode, Bion Rice (Artiste Winery & Gallery) talks to two of the founding members of the Santa Barbara Wine Country, Dick Doré and Bill Wathen. Dick and Bill began Foxen in 1985 on the Doré family’s land in the Santa Maria Valley. Foxen's first vintage was made in 1985 in an old blacksmith shop on the ranch. This building was now known fondly as "The Shack" (featured memorably in the classic "Sideways"). 2009, they built a fantastic solar-powered FOXEN tasting room just down the road, where they showcase their Burgundy, Rhône, and Loire varieties. As Bill says, "… respect the vine and let the wines make themselves with little or no intervention.” Follow along and drink what we’re drinking. Episode 1 of “Two Glasses In” features the Chenin Blanc (Enrest Wickenden Vineyard) and the Pinot Noir (Block 8 Bien Nacido Vineyard). "Two Glasses In" is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. For more information on Foxen Vineyard and Winery. For more show notes and links, visit www.twoglassesin.com
We’re all given an endless number of choices in life, about which direction to go or what path we want to follow. In the case of Andrew Murray, the world of wine would have really missed out on his spectacular creations should he have chosen to become a paleontologist as planned. Lucky for us, when given this choice, Andrew ultimately left UC Berkeley behind for a new kind of study, Syrah. After getting his hands dirty with an internship in Australia, Andrew returned to the states where he earned a bachelor’s degree in viticulture and enology from UC Davis’ renowned wine program and founded his eponymous Santa Ynez winery and vineyard. Join us for the final episode of “Two Glasses In” Season 1, and taste alongside as we discuss with Andrew Murray his wisdom, evolution, passion, and unflagging love affair with Rhône varieties that has only since grown in his 20 years of winemaking. Follow along and drink what we’re drinking. Episode 9 of “Two Glasses In” features the 2017 Roasted Slope and 2017 Syrah Tours Les Jours. "Two Glasses In" is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. For more information on Andrew Murray, please click here to view show notes.
Nobody is better suited or more deserving than Tyler Thomas to serve at the helm of two of Santa Barbara County’s notable wine producers, Dierberg Vineyards and Star Lane Vineyards. Inspired by his epicurean grandmother, Tyler fell in love with food and wine early on, which led to his obsession for plant science, and eventually an unquenchable desire to squeeze the terroir out of his vines.Join us for episode 8 of Two Glasses In, where we discuss with Tyler his early love of food, wine, and science alongside tasting an exquisite Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon from Dierberg Vineyards and Star Lane Vineyards. Get ready to be blown away by the intellectual depth of this one-of-a-kind winemaker. Follow along and drink what we’re drinking. Episode 8 of “Two Glasses In” features the 2016 Dierberg Chardonnay and 2015 Star Lane Cabernet Sauvignon. "Two Glasses In" is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.For more information on Tyler Thomas, view episode notes at TwoGlassesIn.com
Unquestionably worthy of all his accolades and reputation, Blair Fox of Blair Fox Cellars, Fox Wine Co., Fess Parker Vineyards & Winery, and Epiphany Wine Co. has more than earned his stripes in the wine business through passion, sheer will and grit to become one of the best winemakers in America. A husband, father of two daughters and winemaker for multiple wineries, Blair is a life-balanced entrepreneur wearing dozens of hats. How he does it all with such confidence and grace comes from inside, like gut instinct or cosmic intervention. Join us for Episode 7 of Two Glasses In, where we discuss with Blair his destiny to become a winemaker, how he manages multiple wine brands, and have the opportunity to taste his liquid artform in a wine glass. Follow along and drink what we’re drinking. Episode 7 of “Two Glasses In” features Blair Fox Cellars’ 2015 The Ambush and 2016 Syrah. "Two Glasses In" is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. For more information on Blair Fox, view episode notes at TwoGlassesIn.com
Kathy’s exuberance translates through her wines. Tasting her wines is like tasting the past, present and future all at the same time. The soils from Fiddlestix Vineyard in Sta. Rita Hills deliver an unmistakable sense of place in the glass, while the texture and mouthfeel of her wines characterize the artistry of her style and direction. During Episode 6 of “Two Glasses In,” join us as we discuss the meaningful nuances that Kathy Joseph layers into her wines. In particular, we’ll highlight her devotion to sustainable farming and a long-term vision to positively impact the community and her customers. Follow along and drink what we’re drinking. Episode 6 of “Two Glasses In” features Fiddlehead Cellars’ 2015 Happy Canyon Sauvignon Blanc and the Seven Twenty Eight 2013 Pinot Noir. "Two Glasses In" is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. For more information on Kathy Joseph, view episode notes at TwoGlassesIn.com
Winemakers love talking about dirt, especially Michael Larner of Larner Vineyards and Winery, who can break down the minerals and soil types in his vineyard by strata and epoch. While it could be easy to feel intimidated discussing viticulture and geology with someone whose friends like to call “The Professor,” sitting and sipping with Michael Larner is rather entertaining and engaging, so much so that you can feel his warm demeanor. In Episode 5 of “Two Glasses In,” dive into Michael’s journey, the challenges of his family business and where he’s at now, which amounts to an enthralling, true American success story in Santa Barbara wine country. Follow along and drink what we’re drinking. Episode 5 of “Two Glasses In” features Larner’s 2016 Estate Syrah and 2017 Elemental Estate GSM Blend. "Two Glasses In" is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. For more information on Michael Larner, view episode notes at: https://santabarbaraca.com/twoglassesin/michael-larner/
During Episode 4 of "Two Glasses In," join us as we sit down with up-and-coming winemaker Jill DelaRiva Russell of Cambria Estate Winery. From the onset of our conversation, one thing is clear, Jill enthralls those around her with a sense of grace and passion for chardonnay and pinot noir, which she crafts from 100% estate-grown grapes from one of the most iconic vineyards in Santa Barbara Wine Country, located on the Tepusquet Bench, along the south-facing slopes of the Santa Maria Valley. Tune in as we discuss everything from how Jill knew winemaking would be her lifework to the community and family she's found at Cambria Estate Winery under the leadership of Jackson Family Wines. Follow along and drink what we’re drinking. Episode 4 of “Two Glasses In” features Cambria Estate Winery's 2017 Katherine's Chardonnay and 2016 Julia's Pinot Noir. "Two Glasses In" is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. For more information on Jill Russell, view episode notes at TwoGlassesIn.com
Who would you say is the most influential brand ambassador for Santa Barbara wine country? We'd argue that Doug Margerum has clearly made the biggest impact on the region in the past three decades. Join us for Episode 3 of "Two Glasses In," as we discuss Doug's early start in the industry as a winemaker and restaurateur to how he's helped to advance the rise of legendary winemakers such as Jim Clendenen, Bob Lindquist, Adam Tolmach, Bryan Babcock, Frank Ostini, Kathy Joseph and many more. Follow along and drink what we’re drinking. Episode 3 of “Two Glasses In” features Margerum Wine Company’s 2017 M5 Rhone Blend and Barden Wines’ 2018 Vin Gris of Pinot Noir (less than 200 cases produced). "Two Glasses In" is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. For more information on Doug Margerum, view episode notes at TwoGlassesIn.com
After enjoying two glasses of wine, Bryan Babcock of Babcock Winery & Vineyards sits down with host Bion Rice to discuss his storied career as a legacy winemaker in Santa Barbara County, how he got his start in the family business, and what’s next on the horizon. Follow along and drink what we’re drinking. Episode 2 of “Two Glasses In” features wines from Babcock Winery & Vineyards, including 2017 Pinot Noir “Déjà Vu” and 2018 “Galvanized Synergy” a blend of Grenache Blanc and Clairette. "Two Glasses In" is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. For more information on Bryan Babcock, view episode notes at TwoGlassesIn.com
With a glass of pinot noir in hand, Frank Ostini, owner of acclaimed California restaurant The Hitching Post 2 (featured in the Academy Award® winning film Sideways) and co-owner and winemaker of Hitching Post Winery sits down with host and Santa Barbara County winemaker Bion Rice to discuss the “Sideways Effect” on merlot, what makes the Santa Barbara County wine region special and the inner workings of his restaurant and winery. Follow along and drink what we’re drinking. Episode 1 of “Two Glasses In” features wines from Hitching Post Wines, including Hitching Post 2019 Pinks Rosé and Hitching Post 2016 Highliner Pinot Noir. "Two Glasses In" is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. For more information on Frank Ostini, view episode notes at TwoGlassesIn.com
My name is Bion Rice, host and co-creator of “Two Glasses In.” As a third-generation winegrower, making wine is more than a job, it’s a calling. I’ve lived and breathed the bounty of Santa Barbara wine country, and believe there is no better place on earth to grow wine and cultivate this craft. To celebrate Santa Barbara County’s unique and diverse wine country, “Two Glasses In” is a podcast and video series of candid, in-depth conversations with fellow winemakers. The catch? We’ll be doing this over two glasses of wine. Discussing wine, the craft and our lives, "Two Glasses In" aims to share with you what makes the Santa Barbara community so special, unfiltered. Starting February 5, 2020, join us for a glass (or two) of wine as we feature a different winemaker who’s made their mark on Santa Barbara wine country. After listening, if you’re inspired to travel to Santa Barbara County to sample for yourself, we encourage you to visit SantaBarbaraCA.com.