In this first episode I introduce myself, (Fred Reno) and what motivated me to create this Podcast.  I have included  brief audio excerpts from interviews in my next in my next 3 episodes.  First, with Gabriele Rausse, who the NY Times called the Father of the modern-day Virginia wine industry followed by Luca Paschina who succeeded Gabriele at Barboursville Vineyards in 1990.  The last excerpt is with Michael Shaps in which he recounts how he moved to France and knocked on the door at the Lycee Viticole de Beaune in Burgundy and gained admission into their school of Viticulture and Enology. 

In this first episode I introduce myself, (Fred Reno) and what motivated me to create this Podcast.  I have included  brief audio excerpts from interviews in my next in my next 3 episodes.  First, with Gabriele Rausse, who the NY Times called the Father of the modern-day Virginia wine industry followed by Luca Paschina who succeeded Gabriele at Barboursville Vineyards in 1990.  The last excerpt is with Michael Shaps in which he recounts how he moved to France and knocked on the door at the Lycee Viticole de Beaune in Burgundy and gained admission into their school of Viticulture and Enology.

Fine Wine Confidential Introduction Episode

This is Part 1 of Episode 2 where I have the pleasure to interview Gabriele Rausse, who the NY Times called the Father of modern-day Virginia winegrowing. ( Part 2 of this Episode will be published as a continuation of this Episode at a later date).  Gabriele came to Virginia in April of 1976 when Gianni Zonin offered him the position of  planting the vineyard at Barboursville.  At the time he was back in Italy waiting on his Visa to return to Australia where he had been offered a position at the University of Melbourne as head of the Plant Pathology studies.  Once in Virginia he never left.Several of the Highlights: a). early in the episode he explains how his Father wanted him to go to Law School but he choose Agricultural Sciences instead.b). He describes how he was initially offered the position by Gianni Zonin and was captured by the beauty of the Old Dominion.c). he shares a humorous story about the first vintage of 500 bottles he made at Barboursville and how they just got passed around and no one drank them.d). He talks about the planting of Simeon vineyards which is now know as Jefferson Vineyards and how his 3 year son gave a winery tour for visitors and answered everyone of their questions as if he was the owner.e). Funny story about his first meeting with a Distributor and what they did with 15 cs of wine he sold them.f). In 1984 he begins the replanting of the original vineyard site at Monticello to the same varietals that Jefferson had planted in the late 1700's.g). another humorous story on why he left Jefferson Vineyards in 1995.Much, much more.  go to www.gabrieleraussewinery.com  

This is Part 1 of Episode 2 where I have the pleasure to interview Gabriele Rausse, who the NY Times called the Father of modern-day Virginia winegrowing. ( Part 2 of this Episode will be published as a continuation of this Episode at a later date).  Gabriele came to Virginia in April of 1976 when Gianni Zonin offered him the position of  planting the vineyard at Barboursville.  At the time he was back in Italy waiting on his Visa to return to Australia where he had been offered a position at the University of Melbourne as head of the Plant Pathology studies.  Once in Virginia he never left. Several of the Highlights:  a). early in the episode he explains how his Father wanted him to go to Law School but he choose Agricultural Sciences instead. b). He describes how he was initially offered the position by Gianni Zonin and was captured by the beauty of the Old Dominion. c). he shares a humorous story about the first vintage of 500 bottles he made at Barboursville and how they just got passed around and no one drank them. d). He talks about the planting of Simeon vineyards which is now know as Jefferson Vineyards and how his 3 year son gave a winery tour for visitors and answered everyone of their questions as if he was the owner. e). Funny story about his first meeting with a Distributor and what they did with 15 cs of wine he sold them. f). In 1984 he begins the replanting of the original vineyard site at Monticello to the same varietals that Jefferson had planted in the late 1700's. g). another humorous story on why he left Jefferson Vineyards in 1995. Much, much more.  go to <a href="http://www.gabrieleraussewinery.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.gabrieleraussewinery.com</a>

Gabriele Rausse Episode 2/part 1 Fine Wine Confidential Podcast

In this second and final segment of my interview with Gabriele we dig deeper into the reasons why he left Jefferson Vineyard in 1995 and took the position of Director of the Grounds and Gardens at Monticello.  Gabriele shares a number of insights about Thomas Jefferson throughout this segment.  He also share several interesting and somewhat humorous stories about Kluge and the original land grant the Carter family were given by George the III.  Highlights from the segment include:a). his opinion on why he felt Jefferson failed to make wine successfully from vinifera at Monticello.b). recounts how he came to plant his vineyard at what is Rausse Winery today.c). the story of Kluge trying to buy all 12,000 acres of the Carter land grant and how he is rejected by them to purchase the last 2,000 acres they held.d). discusses why and what grape varietals he planted .e). more about Jefferson's travels in France wine country and what he discovered.f). funny quote from Michelle Obama about the treatment he first received in Virginia when he was planting Barboursville Vineyards.The full transcript is attached here for further reading.

In this second and final segment of my interview with Gabriele we dig deeper into the reasons why he left Jefferson Vineyard in 1995 and took the position of Director of the Grounds and Gardens at Monticello.  Gabriele shares a number of insights about Thomas Jefferson throughout this segment.  He also share several interesting and somewhat humorous stories about Kluge and the original land grant the Carter family were given by George the III.  Highlights from the segment include: a). his opinion on why he felt Jefferson failed to make wine successfully from vinifera at Monticello. b). recounts how he came to plant his vineyard at what is Rausse Winery today. c). the story of Kluge trying to buy all 12,000 acres of the Carter land grant and how he is rejected by them to purchase the last 2,000 acres they held. d). discusses why and what grape varietals he planted . e). more about Jefferson's travels in France wine country and what he discovered. f). funny quote from Michelle Obama about the treatment he first received in Virginia when he was planting Barboursville Vineyards. The full transcript is attached here for further reading.

Garbriele Rausse Episode 2 part 2

Luca Paschina

This Episode with Luca Paschina from Barboursville Vineyards starts with him describing his youth in Italy where he began making wine at the young age of 14 years old with his Father.  Later, he would go on to work for another wine company.  He was there for 8  years and gained experience in all aspects of the wine business from grape growing, winemaking, to working in Sales.  During that time he worked in numerous winegrowing regions which included the Napa Valley, Finger Lakes district in Upstate New York as well as in Southern and Northern Italy.  In 1990 he felt it was time for him to take on a larger role and approached the company proposing that he be in charge of their Fine Wine Division.  They said no and as a result he moved on and the opportunity with the Zonin Family and Barboursville Vineyards came into his career.  He has been there for the past 30 years.Highlights in the Episode include. a). he explains how when he started at Barboursville he was asked what changes were needed to improve wine quality; his answer they need to replant their vineyards to better plant material with certified virus free clones.  He was given the green light and proceeded to replant the vineyard for the purpose of increasing wine quality.b). the discussion of how their Flagship wine; OCTAGON was created and the leap forward he took in doing so.c). we explore the concept of "terroir in Virginia".d). as part of the discussion on terroir he explains why the wine-growing conditions in Virginia, especially years with rain, are not dissimilar to what he experienced in Italy.e). you will hear his early opinion on the potential for the 2020 vintage and what years in the past it is similar to.f). Barboursville is one of only a few Virginia wines which has National representation and he answers my questions on why he believes it has taken Virginia longer to break out on the National Wine Scene in the U.S. Distribution network.much, much more; take a listen

This Episode with Luca Paschina from Barboursville Vineyards starts with him describing his youth in Italy where he began making wine at the young age of 14 years old with his Father.  Later, he would go on to work for another wine company.  He was there for 8  years and gained experience in all aspects of the wine business from grape growing, winemaking, to working in Sales.  During that time he worked in numerous winegrowing regions which included the Napa Valley, Finger Lakes district in Upstate New York as well as in Southern and Northern Italy.  In 1990 he felt it was time for him to take on a larger role and approached the company proposing that he be in charge of their Fine Wine Division.  They said no and as a result he moved on and the opportunity with the Zonin Family and Barboursville Vineyards came into his career.  He has been there for the past 30 years. Highlights in the Episode include. a). he explains how when he started at Barboursville he was asked what changes were needed to improve wine quality; his answer they need to replant their vineyards to better plant material with certified virus free clones.  He was given the green light and proceeded to replant the vineyard for the purpose of increasing wine quality. b). the discussion of how their Flagship wine; OCTAGON was created and the leap forward he took in doing so. c). we explore the concept of "terroir in Virginia". d). as part of the discussion on terroir he explains why the wine-growing conditions in Virginia, especially years with rain, are not dissimilar to what he experienced in Italy. e). you will hear his early opinion on the potential for the 2020 vintage and what years in the past it is similar to. f). Barboursville is one of only a few Virginia wines which has National representation and he answers my questions on why he believes it has taken Virginia longer to break out on the National Wine Scene in the U.S. Distribution network. much, much more; take a listen

Episode 3 Luca Paschina General Manager and Winemaker Barboursville Vineyards

Michael Shaps

Michael Shaps started making wine in Virginia when he succeeded Gabriele Rausse at Jefferson Vineyards in 1995.  Michael became enamored early on with the wines of Burgundy, so it seemed the logical step for him to go to France and learn how to make wine. With no prior connections he left his job in Boston where he was the manager and wine buyer for a high-end restaurant and went to France in the early 1990's.  After doing his research he learned about the Lycee Viticole de Beaune, the school of Enology and Viticulture in the heart of Beaune, France and managed to talk his way into admission despite the belief of the Professor Jean Pierre Charlot that he wouldn't make it because his French was not up to it.  Michael proved him wrong and successfully gained his degree in Enology and viticulture.  After working as an intern at the highly regarded Chartron &amp; Trebuchet in Puligny Montrachet he returned to the U.S. and after working briefly at a start up winery in Massachusetts he took the winemaking position at Jefferson Vineyards.Here are some of the Highlights in the Podcast:a).  He explains his motto; "It's all about the wine."b). He shares the story of how he went to France and gained admission in the Lyceec). Revels that he had always had his eye on Virginia and it's potential for wine quality.d). Chronicles helping David King start King Family Vineyards.e). Discusses the background on the contract winemaking he does and the crazy state laws governing it. f) answers my questions regarding how many winemakers have worked under him and have gone on to be successful on their own. g). Outlines what was the reasons behind his purchase of one of the first modern-day wineries in Virginia--Shenandoah Winery and his belief about the wine quality potential in the Shenandoah Valley.h). tells the background on the innovative wine packing he pioneered in Virginia with his Growler Program and Virginia Bag in the Box wine.Much, much more.  

Michael Shaps started making wine in Virginia when he succeeded Gabriele Rausse at Jefferson Vineyards in 1995.  Michael became enamored early on with the wines of Burgundy, so it seemed the logical step for him to go to France and learn how to make wine. With no prior connections he left his job in Boston where he was the manager and wine buyer for a high-end restaurant and went to France in the early 1990's.  After doing his research he learned about the Lycee Viticole de Beaune, the school of Enology and Viticulture in the heart of Beaune, France and managed to talk his way into admission despite the belief of the Professor Jean Pierre Charlot that he wouldn't make it because his French was not up to it.  Michael proved him wrong and successfully gained his degree in Enology and viticulture.  After working as an intern at the highly regarded Chartron &amp; Trebuchet in Puligny Montrachet he returned to the U.S. and after working briefly at a start up winery in Massachusetts he took the winemaking position at Jefferson Vineyards. Here are some of the Highlights in the Podcast: a).  He explains his motto; "It's all about the wine." b). He shares the story of how he went to France and gained admission in the Lycee c). Revels that he had always had his eye on Virginia and it's potential for wine quality. d). Chronicles helping David King start King Family Vineyards. e). Discusses the background on the contract winemaking he does and the crazy state laws governing it.  f) answers my questions regarding how many winemakers have worked under him and have gone on to be successful on their own.  g). Outlines what was the reasons behind his purchase of one of the first modern-day wineries in Virginia--Shenandoah Winery and his belief about the wine quality potential in the Shenandoah Valley. h). tells the background on the innovative wine packing he pioneered in Virginia with his Growler Program and Virginia Bag in the Box wine. Much, much more.

Episode 4 with Michael Shaps Founder and Owner of Michael Shaps Wineworks

Chris Hill

Chris Hill is one of the most accomplished and noted Viticulturalist in Virginia.  Many of the clients he has worked with in advising and planting vineyards are amongst the who's, who of the successful modern day Virginia winegrowers.  That list includes Michael Shaps, Pollack,  Barren Ridge, Veritas,  King Family Vineyards, Keswick, Lovingston, and Pippin Hill Farms and Vineyards.  Chris has always viewed his role as part of the winery team and stays focused on the vineyard side of the business.  He was the past President of the Virginia Vineyard Association and received their Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018.In this interview he shares many thoughts and insights into the challenges of winegrowing in the Old Dominion.  His straightforward approach is refreshing as he conveys that at the end of the day it is just farming.HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:a). the planting of his first vineyard in 1981 shortly after graduating from Virginia Tech.b). the importance of elevation in a vineyard to avoid potential frost issues.c). explains his thoughts on Terroir in Virginia.d). goes into detail on a little known compound called Methoxypyrazine and its impact on the taste of a wine.e). gives his opinion on the importance of several of the early contributors to Viticulture and Enology like Lucie Morton, Tony Wolf, &amp; Bruce Zoecklein. Much, much more to learn.  Take a listen to the interview

Chris Hill is one of the most accomplished and noted Viticulturalist in Virginia.  Many of the clients he has worked with in advising and planting vineyards are amongst the who's, who of the successful modern day Virginia winegrowers.  That list includes Michael Shaps, Pollack,  Barren Ridge, Veritas,  King Family Vineyards, Keswick, Lovingston, and Pippin Hill Farms and Vineyards.  Chris has always viewed his role as part of the winery team and stays focused on the vineyard side of the business.  He was the past President of the Virginia Vineyard Association and received their Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018. In this interview he shares many thoughts and insights into the challenges of winegrowing in the Old Dominion.  His straightforward approach is refreshing as he conveys that at the end of the day it is just farming. HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE: a). the planting of his first vineyard in 1981 shortly after graduating from Virginia Tech. b). the importance of elevation in a vineyard to avoid potential frost issues. c). explains his thoughts on Terroir in Virginia. d). goes into detail on a little known compound called Methoxypyrazine and its impact on the taste of a wine. e). gives his opinion on the importance of several of the early contributors to Viticulture and Enology like Lucie Morton, Tony Wolf, &amp; Bruce Zoecklein.  Much, much more to learn.  Take a listen to the interview

Episode 5 Chris Hill Virginia Viticulturist

Jay Youmans

In September of 2020 I had the opportunity to interview Jay Youmans MW.  Jay owns the Capital Wine School in Washington, DC. and is responsible for overseeing and conducting the Virginia Governor's Cup wine Competition.  He shares how he originally got involved in the competition and describes the inter-workings and criteria that is required to participate.  Jay got started in the wine business while he was going to school at Wake Forest in North Carolina when he went to work at a friends restaurant called the Salem Cotton Company in the early 1980's.  After working for a small distribution house he was impressed by a wine he had from the Montdomaine winery in Virginia and went on to work for the in the mid 80's before moving out of the industry for a short period of time and then jumping back in by starting a small import company with a friend of his.  He still owns that company Rock Creek Wine Merchants today. Shortly after our interview I contacted Jay to give me a more in depth overview of his opinion on the future of Hybrid grapes in Virginia which I share at the end of the PodcastlHIGHLIGHTS OF THE INTERVIEW a). describes how he fell in love with wine and the circumstances surrounding how it happened.b). explains the origins of the Master of Wine organization and the reason why it was first established by the British Wine Trade.c). He gives more detail of how rigorous the process is to obtain the MW credential.  He is currently one of only 40 MW'S in the U.S. and Canada today.d). talks about how he got back into the Virginia wine business and why.e). believes that Hybrid grapes are important to the future of Virginia winegrowing and why he feels they should be treated better than the second class citizens that they sometimes are.f). shares his Epiphany wine; which was a 1969 La Tacheg). talks about the formation of the Capital Wine School and what their mission is.Jay is your classic Wine Professional and is highly regarded.

In September of 2020 I had the opportunity to interview Jay Youmans MW.  Jay owns the Capital Wine School in Washington, DC. and is responsible for overseeing and conducting the Virginia Governor's Cup wine Competition.  He shares how he originally got involved in the competition and describes the inter-workings and criteria that is required to participate.  Jay got started in the wine business while he was going to school at Wake Forest in North Carolina when he went to work at a friends restaurant called the Salem Cotton Company in the early 1980's.  After working for a small distribution house he was impressed by a wine he had from the Montdomaine winery in Virginia and went on to work for the in the mid 80's before moving out of the industry for a short period of time and then jumping back in by starting a small import company with a friend of his.  He still owns that company Rock Creek Wine Merchants today. Shortly after our interview I contacted Jay to give me a more in depth overview of his opinion on the future of Hybrid grapes in Virginia which I share at the end of the Podcastl HIGHLIGHTS OF THE INTERVIEW a). describes how he fell in love with wine and the circumstances surrounding how it happened. b). explains the origins of the Master of Wine organization and the reason why it was first established by the British Wine Trade. c). He gives more detail of how rigorous the process is to obtain the MW credential.  He is currently one of only 40 MW'S in the U.S. and Canada today. d). talks about how he got back into the Virginia wine business and why. e). believes that Hybrid grapes are important to the future of Virginia winegrowing and why he feels they should be treated better than the second class citizens that they sometimes are. f). shares his Epiphany wine; which was a 1969 La Tache g). talks about the formation of the Capital Wine School and what their mission is. Jay is your classic Wine Professional and is highly regarded.

Episode 6 Jay Youmans, Master of Wine

Jim Law

Jim Law began his quest to produce wine in Virginia when he and his family bought a long-abandoned apple orchard in the Northern part of Virginia in 1983 after several years of searching for a parcel of land that had high elevation and had eastern facing slopes.  His first vineyard experience was with a small Ohio vineyard and in 1981 he had two distinctly different opportunities to help start a winery.  One in Southern Oregon and one that would take him to Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley.  He opted for the Virginia startup because as a young guy he could be involved in a ground floor operation helping discover and develop a new terroir for winegrowing.  His two  years in the Peace Corps Volunteer in Zaire (Congo) teaching agriculture gave him the energy to take up this new challenge of  growing grapes and making high-quality wine in Virginia.  Jim has been making wine in Virginia at this point longer than anyone with the exception of Gabriele Rausse.  He currently produces wine from three separate and distinct vineyards; Hardscrabble Vineyard at his winery site, Avenius Vineyard which is just a mile north of Hardscrabble and Boisseau Vineyard which is located just six miles west of the winery.  It is a warmer site situated on a west facing slope overlooking the Shenandoah Valley.Highlights of the Interview: a). Jim shares his stories of his early life where wine was on the dinner table in their home in Ohio.b). what his years in the Peace Corps taught him.c). how he went from Ohio to pioneering and establishing a new vineyard in Virginia.d). his views on the importance of elevation in winegrowing and site selection.e).why he decided to produce vineyard designated wine.f). his opinion on the formation of AVA's and why it is to early in Virginia to being doing it.g). his constant experimentation and his ongoing replanting program to identify the best varietal to plant in specific sites within his vineyard.h). his motto being one of Patience as he approaches close to 40 years of winegrowing.Much, much more.  It is a delightful interview.  Please enjoy it.

Jim Law began his quest to produce wine in Virginia when he and his family bought a long-abandoned apple orchard in the Northern part of Virginia in 1983 after several years of searching for a parcel of land that had high elevation and had eastern facing slopes.  His first vineyard experience was with a small Ohio vineyard and in 1981 he had two distinctly different opportunities to help start a winery.  One in Southern Oregon and one that would take him to Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley.  He opted for the Virginia startup because as a young guy he could be involved in a ground floor operation helping discover and develop a new terroir for winegrowing.  His two  years in the Peace Corps Volunteer in Zaire (Congo) teaching agriculture gave him the energy to take up this new challenge of  growing grapes and making high-quality wine in Virginia.  Jim has been making wine in Virginia at this point longer than anyone with the exception of Gabriele Rausse.  He currently produces wine from three separate and distinct vineyards; Hardscrabble Vineyard at his winery site, Avenius Vineyard which is just a mile north of Hardscrabble and Boisseau Vineyard which is located just six miles west of the winery.  It is a warmer site situated on a west facing slope overlooking the Shenandoah Valley. Highlights of the Interview: a). Jim shares his stories of his early life where wine was on the dinner table in their home in Ohio. b). what his years in the Peace Corps taught him. c). how he went from Ohio to pioneering and establishing a new vineyard in Virginia. d). his views on the importance of elevation in winegrowing and site selection. e).why he decided to produce vineyard designated wine. f). his opinion on the formation of AVA's and why it is to early in Virginia to being doing it. g). his constant experimentation and his ongoing replanting program to identify the best varietal to plant in specific sites within his vineyard. h). his motto being one of Patience as he approaches close to 40 years of winegrowing. Much, much more.  It is a delightful interview.  Please enjoy it.

Episode 7 featuring Jim Law owner and winemaker at Linden Vineyards

Shepherd (Shep) Rouse is Virginia through and through.  His ancestors roots trace back to the 17th century in Virginia. Shep was a Fulbright Scholar and after spending time in Germany he fell in love with their wines and Riesling specifically. When he returned to the U.S.  he decided to take up the art of winemaking and headed to the West Coast where he would as a  get his degree in Enology at U.C. Davis.  He worked for several of the early pioneers in Northern California and would eventually make it back to his native state, Virginia, where he took the position as winemaker at Montdomaine winery in what is now the Monticello AVA.  He and his wife Jane founded Rockbridge Winery in the Shenandoah Valley in 1988 after he found what he believed to be the ideal site at an elevation of 2,000 feet.  Shep has been making wine in Virginia longer than anyone other than Gabriele Rausse, and Jim Law.  HIGHLIGHTS OF THE INTERVIEW a). as a 9 year old he discovered an artifact which is the second oldest wine bottle unearthed in this country today.b). he describes his beginning days in winemaking at several of the early pioneers in California, most notably Veedercrest Vineyards, Mark West, Ch. St. Jean, &amp; Schramsberg.c). He takes the winemaking position at Montdomaine Winery and moves back to Va in 1986. he describes what the industry was like at that time.d). Founding Rockbridge winery with his wife in 1988 and produces his first vintage in 1992.e). discusses why he choose to plant a significant amount of hybrid grape varieties.f). explains how is early love for the wines of Germany led him to plant and cultivate Riesling which he prefers to this day over all the other wines he produces. g). states how important it was for him to get his enology degree at U.C. Davis and how that has been so valuable to him in his winemaking here in Virginia.Much, much more.  

Shepherd (Shep) Rouse is Virginia through and through.  His ancestors roots trace back to the 17th century in Virginia. Shep was a Fulbright Scholar and after spending time in Germany he fell in love with their wines and Riesling specifically. When he returned to the U.S.  he decided to take up the art of winemaking and headed to the West Coast where he would as a  get his degree in Enology at U.C. Davis.  He worked for several of the early pioneers in Northern California and would eventually make it back to his native state, Virginia, where he took the position as winemaker at Montdomaine winery in what is now the Monticello AVA.  He and his wife Jane founded Rockbridge Winery in the Shenandoah Valley in 1988 after he found what he believed to be the ideal site at an elevation of 2,000 feet.  Shep has been making wine in Virginia longer than anyone other than Gabriele Rausse, and Jim Law.  HIGHLIGHTS OF THE INTERVIEW a). as a 9 year old he discovered an artifact which is the second oldest wine bottle unearthed in this country today. b). he describes his beginning days in winemaking at several of the early pioneers in California, most notably Veedercrest Vineyards, Mark West, Ch. St. Jean, &amp; Schramsberg. c). He takes the winemaking position at Montdomaine Winery and moves back to Va in 1986. he describes what the industry was like at that time. d). Founding Rockbridge winery with his wife in 1988 and produces his first vintage in 1992. e). discusses why he choose to plant a significant amount of hybrid grape varieties. f). explains how is early love for the wines of Germany led him to plant and cultivate Riesling which he prefers to this day over all the other wines he produces.  g). states how important it was for him to get his enology degree at U.C. Davis and how that has been so valuable to him in his winemaking here in Virginia. Much, much more.

Episode #8 Shep Rouse /Rockbridge Winery

Rutger de Vink the founder of RDV established is Vineyard in 204 after having working as an intern with Jim Law and Linden in the early 2000s.  He credits Jim for a fortuitous trip he took at Jim's invitation with a group of winemakers to travel to Bordeaux in 2002.  It was during that trip that he met a fellow Dutchman, Kees van Leeuwen, when they visited Cheval Blanc in St. Emilion. It was Kees, who was a vineyard consultant,  that he listen to about what was necessary for a vineyard site to be great.  Just prior to that trip Rutger had been looking on the West Coast but when he came back he decided he would search for an ideal site in Virginia, which he did not that far from Linden where he had apprenticed.  RDV's first vintage was 2008, and once again he would be fortunate as he was introduced by Jean-Phillippe Roty to Eric Boissenot an enologist and consultant to Ch. Latour and several of the other First Growth Bordeaux.  Eric came on as RDV consulting enologist and still works with them today.  The RDV story is very compelling and was the first to see a $100 bottle of wine produced in Virginia.HIGHLIGHTS OF THE INTERVIEW:  a).  Rutger talks about the importance of Jim Law, the owner of Linden Vineyards, for not only inspiring him but to the Virginia Wine Industry.b). You will hear from Josh Grainer, RDV winemaker and Virginia native who has been with RDV since 2008.c).  Josh tells a historic and fascinating story about how their Flagship wine, Lost Mountain was named.  The story involved George Washington.d). Rutger recants his mission is to not just produce the highest quality Virginia wine, but wine that is equal to the best from anywhere in the World.e).Rutger and Josh share insightful thoughts about terroir in general and how that translate to Virginia.f).Rutger and I discuss the comparisons between when Oregon first broke through and how that relates to Virginia.  He answers my question in a way that essentially breaks the code for me about why Virginia hasn't had the National success, as of yet, that Oregon has enjoyed.g). The best way to sum up my Interview is Rutger thinks BIG!You can read the full transcript of the interview at my website www.finewineconfidential.comEnjoy the Episode.

Rutger de Vink the founder of RDV established is Vineyard in 204 after having working as an intern with Jim Law and Linden in the early 2000s.  He credits Jim for a fortuitous trip he took at Jim's invitation with a group of winemakers to travel to Bordeaux in 2002.  It was during that trip that he met a fellow Dutchman, Kees van Leeuwen, when they visited Cheval Blanc in St. Emilion. It was Kees, who was a vineyard consultant,  that he listen to about what was necessary for a vineyard site to be great.  Just prior to that trip Rutger had been looking on the West Coast but when he came back he decided he would search for an ideal site in Virginia, which he did not that far from Linden where he had apprenticed.  RDV's first vintage was 2008, and once again he would be fortunate as he was introduced by Jean-Phillippe Roty to Eric Boissenot an enologist and consultant to Ch. Latour and several of the other First Growth Bordeaux.  Eric came on as RDV consulting enologist and still works with them today.  The RDV story is very compelling and was the first to see a $100 bottle of wine produced in Virginia. HIGHLIGHTS OF THE INTERVIEW:  a).  Rutger talks about the importance of Jim Law, the owner of Linden Vineyards, for not only inspiring him but to the Virginia Wine Industry. b). You will hear from Josh Grainer, RDV winemaker and Virginia native who has been with RDV since 2008. c).  Josh tells a historic and fascinating story about how their Flagship wine, Lost Mountain was named.  The story involved George Washington. d). Rutger recants his mission is to not just produce the highest quality Virginia wine, but wine that is equal to the best from anywhere in the World. e).Rutger and Josh share insightful thoughts about terroir in general and how that translate to Virginia. f).Rutger and I discuss the comparisons between when Oregon first broke through and how that relates to Virginia.  He answers my question in a way that essentially breaks the code for me about why Virginia hasn't had the National success, as of yet, that Oregon has enjoyed. g). The best way to sum up my Interview is Rutger thinks BIG! You can read the full transcript of the interview at my website <a href="http://www.finewineconfidential.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.finewineconfidential.com</a> Enjoy the Episode.

Episode 9 RDV Vineyards/Rutger de Vink

The Fine Wine Confidential Podcast tells the story of how the modern-day Virginia wine industry has progressed during the past forty-five years and is now achieving Thomas Jefferson's aspiration to produce world-class wine. Fred Reno interviews many of the Old Dominion's prominent winery owners, winemakers and viticulturists.  In their own words, you the listener, will learn why Virginia is the most exciting wine-growing State in the country today.

Veritas Winery was established in 1999 by Andrew Hodson and his wife Patricia.  They  both had successful careers in the Medical field but asked themselves is this all there is? So, during a folk tour after meeting a couple who had moved to Virginia and described how they had never been happier and that Virginia had a budding winegrowing industry.  Andrew and Patricia looked into Virginia and eventually bought a piece of property that was Saddleback Farm in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and planted their first vines in 1999 with the help and direction of Chris Hill one of Virginia's pioneering viticulturist.   Surprisingly, with the luck of perfect weather they had a crop in 2001 and produced their first vintage.  Andrew started as the winemaker and later on his daughter Emily Pelton would join the winery as the winemaker after getting her degree in enology at Virginia Tech.  She has been the winemaker since. Veritas is truly a family affair as their son George joined them an is CEO along with their youngest daughter Chloe who is project manager and oversees all hospitality and events.  HIGHLIGHTS OF THE EPISODE INCLUDE:a). Andrew details why he, and his wife Patricia, decided to leave their careers in the Medical field and start a vineyard and winery in Virginia.b). Andrew gives much credit to why the experts in Virginia like Chris Hill, noted viticulturist, Tony Wolf, head of the Virginia Tech agricultural extension service focused on winegrowing, and Brue Zoecklein,  foremost Enologist at Virginia Tech were so important to him in the beginning and the Virginia wine industry in general.c). Andrew shares why he wasn't daunted by taking on the role as the winemaker for the first vintages at Veritas with no former wine making experience.d).  He then chronicles how and when his daughter Emily came on board and became the winemaker in 2004 and has been since.e). He talks extensively how Petit Verdot became a focus varietal and wine for Veritas.f). Discusses why he believes their Authenticity is one of the keys to their success.g). mentions the humble beginnings when they first started a tasting room.  It consisted, much like any number of smaller family wineries, of two barrels and a plank for the tasting bar.  There is so much more; take a listen or read the full transcript which is attached.

Veritas Winery was established in 1999 by Andrew Hodson and his wife Patricia.  They  both had successful careers in the Medical field but asked themselves is this all there is? So, during a folk tour after meeting a couple who had moved to Virginia and described how they had never been happier and that Virginia had a budding winegrowing industry.  Andrew and Patricia looked into Virginia and eventually bought a piece of property that was Saddleback Farm in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and planted their first vines in 1999 with the help and direction of Chris Hill one of Virginia's pioneering viticulturist.   Surprisingly, with the luck of perfect weather they had a crop in 2001 and produced their first vintage.  Andrew started as the winemaker and later on his daughter Emily Pelton would join the winery as the winemaker after getting her degree in enology at Virginia Tech.  She has been the winemaker since. Veritas is truly a family affair as their son George joined them an is CEO along with their youngest daughter Chloe who is project manager and oversees all hospitality and events.  HIGHLIGHTS OF THE EPISODE INCLUDE: a). Andrew details why he, and his wife Patricia, decided to leave their careers in the Medical field and start a vineyard and winery in Virginia. b). Andrew gives much credit to why the experts in Virginia like Chris Hill, noted viticulturist, Tony Wolf, head of the Virginia Tech agricultural extension service focused on winegrowing, and Brue Zoecklein,  foremost Enologist at Virginia Tech were so important to him in the beginning and the Virginia wine industry in general. c). Andrew shares why he wasn't daunted by taking on the role as the winemaker for the first vintages at Veritas with no former wine making experience. d).  He then chronicles how and when his daughter Emily came on board and became the winemaker in 2004 and has been since. e). He talks extensively how Petit Verdot became a focus varietal and wine for Veritas. f). Discusses why he believes their Authenticity is one of the keys to their success. g). mentions the humble beginnings when they first started a tasting room.  It consisted, much like any number of smaller family wineries, of two barrels and a plank for the tasting bar.   There is so much more; take a listen or read the full transcript which is attached.

Episode #10 Andrew Hodson/Founder & Owner of Veritas Vineyards and Winery

Ankida Ridge was established by Christine &amp; Dennis Vrooman with the planting of their first vines in 2008.  Lucie Morton  was their vineyard consultant and she brilliantly, in my opinion, advised them to plant Pinot Noir.  She believed that the southeastern facing slope at  1800 feet nestled into the Blue Ridge Mountains  along with the granite soils gave them the chance to be successful with the varietal.  She was 100% correct.  Ankida Ridge in a short period of time has been producing some high quality wines from Pinot Noir which is a rarity in Virginia at this time.HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE:a). Christine &amp; Dennis recount how they had no vision to plant a vineyard when they bought the site.  Hell they didn't even have electricity originally on the property.b). They discuss their experiment to planta quarter acre of Gamay and now four years later what they are producing from it.c). great story about how they were invited to the prestigious IPNC in 2016 and almost never went because they hadn't received the invitation.  If not for the organizers in Oregon sending them an email letting them know they were about to miss the deadline for entry they would have missed out.d). Christine explains their approach to sustainable farming in a refreshingly easy way to understand it.e). Nathan Vrooman, their son, recounts how he raised his hand early on and agreed to take on the challenge of being the winemaker with no prior experience or credential for producing wine.  It ultimately led to his marriage with Rachel Stinson Vrooman, winemaker for Stinson Vineyards.f). great story about their individual Ah Ha moment when it came to the wine they had that made them realize how wine can be such an amazing experience.g). Christine talks about going to the 2011 Wine Bloggers Conference to show their first vintage of Pinot Noir, 2010 and it had only been in the bottle 7 weeks.  It wowed the crowd.h). very engaging story on how the name Ankida Ridge came to be their Branding. Fascinating. Much, much more;  You can read the full text attached here.  

Ankida Ridge was established by Christine &amp; Dennis Vrooman with the planting of their first vines in 2008.  Lucie Morton  was their vineyard consultant and she brilliantly, in my opinion, advised them to plant Pinot Noir.  She believed that the southeastern facing slope at  1800 feet nestled into the Blue Ridge Mountains  along with the granite soils gave them the chance to be successful with the varietal.  She was 100% correct.  Ankida Ridge in a short period of time has been producing some high quality wines from Pinot Noir which is a rarity in Virginia at this time. HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: a). Christine &amp; Dennis recount how they had no vision to plant a vineyard when they bought the site.  Hell they didn't even have electricity originally on the property. b). They discuss their experiment to planta quarter acre of Gamay and now four years later what they are producing from it. c). great story about how they were invited to the prestigious IPNC in 2016 and almost never went because they hadn't received the invitation.  If not for the organizers in Oregon sending them an email letting them know they were about to miss the deadline for entry they would have missed out. d). Christine explains their approach to sustainable farming in a refreshingly easy way to understand it. e). Nathan Vrooman, their son, recounts how he raised his hand early on and agreed to take on the challenge of being the winemaker with no prior experience or credential for producing wine.  It ultimately led to his marriage with Rachel Stinson Vrooman, winemaker for Stinson Vineyards. f). great story about their individual Ah Ha moment when it came to the wine they had that made them realize how wine can be such an amazing experience. g). Christine talks about going to the 2011 Wine Bloggers Conference to show their first vintage of Pinot Noir, 2010 and it had only been in the bottle 7 weeks.  It wowed the crowd. h). very engaging story on how the name Ankida Ridge came to be their Branding. Fascinating. Much, much more;  You can read the full text attached here.

EPISODE #11 ANKIDA RIDGE, CHRISTINE, DENNIS, & NATHAN VROOMAN

Scott Elliff

DuCard vineyards was established in 2001 after Scott and Karen Elliff purchased property on the eastern slope of the Shenandoah National Park west of the historic town of Madison, Virginia.  The property, at an elevation of 1,000 feet  was once the site of a thriving Apple Orchard at a time when Virginia was the leading state for apple growing. Scott and his wife bought the property as a getaway from Washington, DC and after consulting with the Virginia Agricultural Extension Service were advised not to replant the orchard but to put in a vineyard instead.  Advice they heeded.   So, in 2001 they jumped all in and planted their 7 acre site to Viognier, Cab Franc, Petit Verdot, Chardonnay, and Norton the native American grape varietal which was breed and cultivated by Dr. Daniel Norborne Norton of Richmond , VA and became available commercially in 1830.  At first they sold their grapes to other wineries in the area but, after some of those wines continued to get  awards they decided to start their own brand and opened to public in 2010.  They haven't looked back since.  Among other distinctions DuCard Vineyards was voted Virginia's Greenest Winery because of their commitment to sustainable practices in both the vineyard and throughout their winery operation.  HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE INCLUDE:a). Scott shares the interesting story behind the origins of the brand name DuCard which has a long ago family connection.b). He explains how he learned about the state agricultural extension service, (something he admittedly says he knew nothing about)  when he was making a decision about whether to replant his ancient apple orchard site.c). Scott talks about the many philanthropic causes that DuCard supports and why he believes it is important.d). we discuss his strategy and how he is able to sell over 95% of his wine either at the winery or direct to those consumers who have visited DuCard in the past.e). Scott points out why he believes it is so important to grow his own grapes and why that allows him to maintain his quality first and foremost.You can read the full text manuscript by downloading it from below.

DuCard vineyards was established in 2001 after Scott and Karen Elliff purchased property on the eastern slope of the Shenandoah National Park west of the historic town of Madison, Virginia.  The property, at an elevation of 1,000 feet  was once the site of a thriving Apple Orchard at a time when Virginia was the leading state for apple growing. Scott and his wife bought the property as a getaway from Washington, DC and after consulting with the Virginia Agricultural Extension Service were advised not to replant the orchard but to put in a vineyard instead.  Advice they heeded.   So, in 2001 they jumped all in and planted their 7 acre site to Viognier, Cab Franc, Petit Verdot, Chardonnay, and Norton the native American grape varietal which was breed and cultivated by Dr. Daniel Norborne Norton of Richmond , VA and became available commercially in 1830.  At first they sold their grapes to other wineries in the area but, after some of those wines continued to get  awards they decided to start their own brand and opened to public in 2010.  They haven't looked back since.  Among other distinctions DuCard Vineyards was voted Virginia's Greenest Winery because of their commitment to sustainable practices in both the vineyard and throughout their winery operation.  HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE INCLUDE: a). Scott shares the interesting story behind the origins of the brand name DuCard which has a long ago family connection. b). He explains how he learned about the state agricultural extension service, (something he admittedly says he knew nothing about)  when he was making a decision about whether to replant his ancient apple orchard site. c). Scott talks about the many philanthropic causes that DuCard supports and why he believes it is important. d). we discuss his strategy and how he is able to sell over 95% of his wine either at the winery or direct to those consumers who have visited DuCard in the past. e). Scott points out why he believes it is so important to grow his own grapes and why that allows him to maintain his quality first and foremost. You can read the full text manuscript by downloading it from below.

EPISODE #12 DuCard Vineyards, Scott Elliff Founder & Owner.

Claude Thibaut

Claude Thibaut was born in a Gran Cru village in the Champagne region. His grandfather once worked as a vineyard manager for Moet-Chandon and his father was among the first of the grower champagne producers as they have become to be known in the country today.  Claude received his winemaking degree from the university in Reims which at that time was a recently established program. Prior to that the only Universities  that offered a degree were in  Bordeaux, Dijon, or at Montpellier.  Claude would go on to make wine in Australia and then eventually land in California where he was the first sparkling winemaker for Iron Horse vineyards, J working for Tom Jordan, and finally at Kristom which was a new project Jess Jackson started in the late 1990's. Ultimately he would end up in Virginia in 2003 when he went to work for Patricia Kluge and in 2005 the first vintage of Thibaut-Janisson was produced. He never has looked back since.HIGHLIGHTS:a). Claude describes how he left and came back to Champagne many times during his career.b). Discusses how Tom Jordan enticed him to take the position at J with pretty much a blank check.c). lends his insight into Virginia winegrowing in the early 2,000's.d). His answer to my question about his logo and it's similarity to the UVA logo.e). He gives his feedback on my comment on why does the French choose to market Champagne as a luxury as opposed to it being like all other wine, an accompaniment to food.For the full transcript you can read it here below the Podcast.

Claude Thibaut was born in a Gran Cru village in the Champagne region. His grandfather once worked as a vineyard manager for Moet-Chandon and his father was among the first of the grower champagne producers as they have become to be known in the country today.  Claude received his winemaking degree from the university in Reims which at that time was a recently established program. Prior to that the only Universities  that offered a degree were in  Bordeaux, Dijon, or at Montpellier.  Claude would go on to make wine in Australia and then eventually land in California where he was the first sparkling winemaker for Iron Horse vineyards, J working for Tom Jordan, and finally at Kristom which was a new project Jess Jackson started in the late 1990's. Ultimately he would end up in Virginia in 2003 when he went to work for Patricia Kluge and in 2005 the first vintage of Thibaut-Janisson was produced. He never has looked back since. HIGHLIGHTS: a). Claude describes how he left and came back to Champagne many times during his career. b). Discusses how Tom Jordan enticed him to take the position at J with pretty much a blank check. c). lends his insight into Virginia winegrowing in the early 2,000's. d). His answer to my question about his logo and it's similarity to the UVA logo. e). He gives his feedback on my comment on why does the French choose to market Champagne as a luxury as opposed to it being like all other wine, an accompaniment to food. For the full transcript you can read it here below the Podcast.

Episode # 13 Claude Thibaut/ Thibaut-Janisson

Lucie Morton is recognized today world wide as one of the foremost Viticulturist and Ampelographer in the Wine Industry.  She started in winegrowing back in 1971 when her Dad asked her to take a gap year as she was finishing up grad school to be his farm manager and look into planting vines at Morland their family farm.  She never looked back.  She would later go to France to gain her formal education in winegrowing. Eventually, her career would take her to California where she consulted from many clients.  While in France she was fortunate to make friends with Pierre Galet, the worlds' leading Ampelographer and later on she would translate his book from French into English, Pierre Galet's:  A Practical Ampelography: Grapevine Identification, which was published by Cornell University Press. She has written several other books and many articles on grape growing. Among the many awards she has received she was voted Virginia Wine Industry Person of the Year in 1999 and the Virginia Wineries Association Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018.There is a significant amount of valuable information packed into this Episode and her accomplishments are too many to list, but here are some of the Highlights.a). Lucie talks about how why she chose to go to France to gain her formal education in winegrowing.b). she opines on why Philip Wagner was so important in the early days of winegrowing here in the Eastern US and recounts an interesting story about how her mother and her had it in one hand and in the other they were pruning her grandmothers old Concord vines.c). She speaks of her affinity for hybrid grapes and why she believes they are still important to winegrowing in Virginia and the East Coast.d).She was the first women and American in the program at  University of Montpellier in France and what she dealt with in that environment.e). She outlines some of her early clients back her in Virginia and what the early days were like in the 1970's.f). Lucie explains her ability to distinguish the differences in grape wines and the varietal just by the tips of the leaves of the vine.g). we discuss how she discovered a grape disease which would later be called "black goo."h). She recounts how she met Leon D. Adams and was his driver for a road trip to explore all the winegrowing areas on the East Coast.I could go on and on.  As I said there is a lot packed into this Episode .  Listen for yourself or read the transcript attached.  Enjoy

Lucie Morton is recognized today world wide as one of the foremost Viticulturist and Ampelographer in the Wine Industry.  She started in winegrowing back in 1971 when her Dad asked her to take a gap year as she was finishing up grad school to be his farm manager and look into planting vines at Morland their family farm.  She never looked back.  She would later go to France to gain her formal education in winegrowing. Eventually, her career would take her to California where she consulted from many clients.  While in France she was fortunate to make friends with Pierre Galet, the worlds' leading Ampelographer and later on she would translate his book from French into English, Pierre Galet's:  A Practical Ampelography: Grapevine Identification, which was published by Cornell University Press. She has written several other books and many articles on grape growing. Among the many awards she has received she was voted Virginia Wine Industry Person of the Year in 1999 and the Virginia Wineries Association Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018. There is a significant amount of valuable information packed into this Episode and her accomplishments are too many to list, but here are some of the Highlights. a). Lucie talks about how why she chose to go to France to gain her formal education in winegrowing. b). she opines on why Philip Wagner was so important in the early days of winegrowing here in the Eastern US and recounts an interesting story about how her mother and her had it in one hand and in the other they were pruning her grandmothers old Concord vines. c). She speaks of her affinity for hybrid grapes and why she believes they are still important to winegrowing in Virginia and the East Coast. d).She was the first women and American in the program at  University of Montpellier in France and what she dealt with in that environment. e). She outlines some of her early clients back her in Virginia and what the early days were like in the 1970's. f). Lucie explains her ability to distinguish the differences in grape wines and the varietal just by the tips of the leaves of the vine. g). we discuss how she discovered a grape disease which would later be called "black goo." h). She recounts how she met Leon D. Adams and was his driver for a road trip to explore all the winegrowing areas on the East Coast. I could go on and on.  As I said there is a lot packed into this Episode .  Listen for yourself or read the transcript attached.  Enjoy

EPISODE #14 LUCIE MORTON

Kirsty's story of how she fell into winemaking begins as almost a fairly tale.  At the young age of 24  early in her career working as a microbiologist she decided to leave the lab and devote her time to a side project she had as a calligrapher and wedding planner.  In the course of that business she planned the wedding for none other than Patricia Kluge owner of what would become known as Kluge Estate.  It was there that she met Gabriele Rausse , Kluge's vineyard consultant. In 2000 Kluge asked Kirsty to build her a winery.  In the process when Gabriele learned of Kirsty's background in science and microbiology he suggested that she be the winemaker. Surprised, but with his guidance, she began to make wine. He then  encouraged her to get a degree in enology which she did by gaining admittance to the program at UC Davis in California.  She would go on to do an internship at Domaine Faiveley in Burgundy and then Craggy Range in New Zealand before being recruited by Blenheim Vineyards to return to Virginia and become their winemaker in 2008. She has never looked back. HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE INTERVIEW INCLUDE:a).  how her background in microbiology helped her gain entry into the UC Davis Enology program.b).  The full story of how Patricia Kluge asked her to build a winery.c).  Meeting Gabriele Rausse and how that mentorship shaped her future.d). What her amazing experience in Burgundy at Domaine Faiveley and then Craggy Range in  New Zealand taught her about winegrowing.e). background on the Matthews family and Dave Matthews the well known Rock Star and their role in the winery.f). Her experimentation with different varietals like Gruner Veltliner and Albarino has led her to continue to plant other not so common varietals seen in Virginia like Mencia.Much, much more.  Take a listen or read the Transcript attached.   

Kirsty's story of how she fell into winemaking begins as almost a fairly tale.  At the young age of 24  early in her career working as a microbiologist she decided to leave the lab and devote her time to a side project she had as a calligrapher and wedding planner.  In the course of that business she planned the wedding for none other than Patricia Kluge owner of what would become known as Kluge Estate.  It was there that she met Gabriele Rausse , Kluge's vineyard consultant. In 2000 Kluge asked Kirsty to build her a winery.  In the process when Gabriele learned of Kirsty's background in science and microbiology he suggested that she be the winemaker. Surprised, but with his guidance, she began to make wine. He then  encouraged her to get a degree in enology which she did by gaining admittance to the program at UC Davis in California.  She would go on to do an internship at Domaine Faiveley in Burgundy and then Craggy Range in New Zealand before being recruited by Blenheim Vineyards to return to Virginia and become their winemaker in 2008. She has never looked back. HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE INTERVIEW INCLUDE: a).  how her background in microbiology helped her gain entry into the UC Davis Enology program. b).  The full story of how Patricia Kluge asked her to build a winery. c).  Meeting Gabriele Rausse and how that mentorship shaped her future. d). What her amazing experience in Burgundy at Domaine Faiveley and then Craggy Range in  New Zealand taught her about winegrowing. e). background on the Matthews family and Dave Matthews the well known Rock Star and their role in the winery. f). Her experimentation with different varietals like Gruner Veltliner and Albarino has led her to continue to plant other not so common varietals seen in Virginia like Mencia. Much, much more.  Take a listen or read the Transcript attached.

EPISODE #15 BLENHEIM VINEYARDS/KIRSTY HARMON WINEMAKER & GENERAL MANAGER

True Heritage is the new wine project of the brother/sister team, George Hodson/ CEO &amp; Emily Pelton/Winemaker at Veritas Vineyards.  They created this new Brand with the expressed intent to showcase Virginia wine on a more National and Regional scale.  There is no tasting room, hospitality center or any of the Agritourism  trappings that a vast majority of Virginia winegrowers use to promote their wines.  The vineyards which were planted are producing grapes for these new wines are centered currently in a small area within the Monticello AVA called Keswick.  The farms have been in certain families for years and are historically significant to the area. The first time I had these wines I was very impressed with the quality to price ration and since learning more about the long-term goals and vision behind this project have become a regular consumer of the wine.  You will learn what is behind all of their efforts and the careful planning and strategy they have for the future.HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: a).  Emily Pelton describes here reasons for the wines and why she is excited to be working with the fruit from this area on the Monticello AVA.b).  you will discover the history behind the farms in the Keswick area and why they targeted this sub-region for growing the grapes for True Heritage.c).  George &amp; Emily outline the inspiration and vision that launched an idea into a reality.d).  George explains why they chose to create a wine brand that did not have the normal Agritourism approach and what that means to their ability to produce and sell wine on a larger scale in other parts of the country.e).  Emily Pelton started winemaking at her families winery Veritas with the 2001 vintage and has only made wine in Virginia which uniquely qualifies her after 20 years to understand what winegrowing here in Virginia will give the winemaker in both flavor and character.f). True Heritage wines are intended to compliment traditional Southern cuisine but not at the expense of their flavor profile to be enjoyed with a large array of food.These are exciting new wines and will stand the test of time in my opinion.  Check them out.for more read the transcript and listen to the audio Podcast as Emily &amp; George explain what motivated them to establish True Heritage.

True Heritage is the new wine project of the brother/sister team, George Hodson/ CEO &amp; Emily Pelton/Winemaker at Veritas Vineyards.  They created this new Brand with the expressed intent to showcase Virginia wine on a more National and Regional scale.  There is no tasting room, hospitality center or any of the Agritourism  trappings that a vast majority of Virginia winegrowers use to promote their wines.  The vineyards which were planted are producing grapes for these new wines are centered currently in a small area within the Monticello AVA called Keswick.  The farms have been in certain families for years and are historically significant to the area. The first time I had these wines I was very impressed with the quality to price ration and since learning more about the long-term goals and vision behind this project have become a regular consumer of the wine.  You will learn what is behind all of their efforts and the careful planning and strategy they have for the future. HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: a).  Emily Pelton describes here reasons for the wines and why she is excited to be working with the fruit from this area on the Monticello AVA. b).  you will discover the history behind the farms in the Keswick area and why they targeted this sub-region for growing the grapes for True Heritage. c).  George &amp; Emily outline the inspiration and vision that launched an idea into a reality. d).  George explains why they chose to create a wine brand that did not have the normal Agritourism approach and what that means to their ability to produce and sell wine on a larger scale in other parts of the country. e).  Emily Pelton started winemaking at her families winery Veritas with the 2001 vintage and has only made wine in Virginia which uniquely qualifies her after 20 years to understand what winegrowing here in Virginia will give the winemaker in both flavor and character. f). True Heritage wines are intended to compliment traditional Southern cuisine but not at the expense of their flavor profile to be enjoyed with a large array of food. These are exciting new wines and will stand the test of time in my opinion.  Check them out. for more read the transcript and listen to the audio Podcast as Emily &amp; George explain what motivated them to establish True Heritage.

EPISODE #16 TRUE HERITAGE: GEORGE HODSON/CEO & EMILY PELTON/WINEMAKER

Early Mountain Vineyards was established in 2012 after Jean and Steve Case, the founders of AOL, purchased a vineyard in Madison County, at that time called Sweely vineyards,  when it went on sale in 2011.  Jean Case took the lead on the project with the goal to not just produce world class wine at Early Mountain but to promote Virginia winegrowing and its wines as a region that stands next to the best in the world.  She started to feature wines from other top Virginia wine producers in their tasting room.  In this way the consumer can sample a number of different Virginia wines and come away with a positive impression that is lastly for the Virginia wine industry.  Quite a concept and it's working.  In 2015 Early Mountain recruit Virginia native Ben Jordan to be their winemaker and he has established himself as one of the leading innovative winemakers in the state.  Aileen Sevier joined the Early Mountain team in 2018 and is now the VP of Strategy &amp; Marketing.  Aileen had a successful career in the industry prior to moving to Charlottesville where she  worked for Legal Seafoods and helped craft their wine program.  Then for a number of years she was managing a portfolio of highly regarded French and Italian wine at the prominent Wine Import house of Tony Terlato in Chicago. Early Mountain Vineyards has grown during her the years she has been in charge of their Marketing Direction.  HIGHLIGHTS OF THE INTERVIEW INCLUDE:a). Aileen explains how she went from teaching English in Japan to working for Sandy Block at the well-known group of restaurants, Legal Seafoods.b). in 2008  she and her husband moved to Chicago wheich was when she went to work managing a portfolio of European wines at Terlato which included Chapoutier from the Rhone, Il Poggione in Brunello and Rochioli Winery in Russian River.c). Aileen outlines Jean Case  commitment to Virginia wine and how Jean decided to feature other Virginia wines in their tasting roomd). Aileen has taken the concept of tasting other Virginia wines in the tasting room to a new concept of a selection of smaller batch wines and bundling them in a Wine Club concept for their consumers.e). she discusses the impact of COVID on their business and how she believes it even helped their business.f). Aileen speaks to the process of sitting for the Master of Wine diploma.  Much more,  you can read the transcript below.

Early Mountain Vineyards was established in 2012 after Jean and Steve Case, the founders of AOL, purchased a vineyard in Madison County, at that time called Sweely vineyards,  when it went on sale in 2011.  Jean Case took the lead on the project with the goal to not just produce world class wine at Early Mountain but to promote Virginia winegrowing and its wines as a region that stands next to the best in the world.  She started to feature wines from other top Virginia wine producers in their tasting room.  In this way the consumer can sample a number of different Virginia wines and come away with a positive impression that is lastly for the Virginia wine industry.  Quite a concept and it's working.  In 2015 Early Mountain recruit Virginia native Ben Jordan to be their winemaker and he has established himself as one of the leading innovative winemakers in the state.  Aileen Sevier joined the Early Mountain team in 2018 and is now the VP of Strategy &amp; Marketing.  Aileen had a successful career in the industry prior to moving to Charlottesville where she  worked for Legal Seafoods and helped craft their wine program.  Then for a number of years she was managing a portfolio of highly regarded French and Italian wine at the prominent Wine Import house of Tony Terlato in Chicago. Early Mountain Vineyards has grown during her the years she has been in charge of their Marketing Direction.   HIGHLIGHTS OF THE INTERVIEW INCLUDE: a). Aileen explains how she went from teaching English in Japan to working for Sandy Block at the well-known group of restaurants, Legal Seafoods. b). in 2008  she and her husband moved to Chicago wheich was when she went to work managing a portfolio of European wines at Terlato which included Chapoutier from the Rhone, Il Poggione in Brunello and Rochioli Winery in Russian River. c). Aileen outlines Jean Case  commitment to Virginia wine and how Jean decided to feature other Virginia wines in their tasting room d). Aileen has taken the concept of tasting other Virginia wines in the tasting room to a new concept of a selection of smaller batch wines and bundling them in a Wine Club concept for their consumers. e). she discusses the impact of COVID on their business and how she believes it even helped their business. f). Aileen speaks to the process of sitting for the Master of Wine diploma.   Much more,  you can read the transcript below.

EPISODE #17 EARLY MOUNTAIN VINEYARDS, AILEEN SEVIER VP STRATEGY & MARKETING

Ben Jordan began his winemaker career in California and would move back to his native state of  Virginia in 2012 where he took the position as winemaker at Michael Shaps Wineworks.  He was then recruited by Early Mountain Vineyards and became their winemaker in 2015.  He is recognized as one of the most respected upcoming winemakers in the Virginia Wine Industry today.  Early Mountain Vineyards has grown in acclaim as their wine quality  continuously improves under Ben's leadership. Ben and his family have a small family vineyard in the Shenandoah Valley called Mount Airy which he and his brother manage. They produce a small amount of wine from the vineyard under the Midland brand label.  He also is a partner in an another brand called Lightwell Survey in which he sources the grapes and is winemaker for the project.  HIGHLIGHTS OF THE INTERVIEW:a). Ben talks about how he moved to San Francisco after living in NY city attempting to utilize his screenwriting credentials.b).  He further explains why he moved to the West Coast and San Francisco where he eventually took a cellar position at C. Donatiello winery and then later went to work at Dutcher Crossing.c).  Ben chronicles how he made contact with Michael Shaps and eventually went to work for him when he moved back to Virginia in 2012.d). Ben touches on many important aspects of winegrowing in Virginia and explains how he thought Hybrid grapes were an after thought only to realize that they can be amazing when you produce them for what they are and not try to make a wine they are not.  Fascinating discussion.e). Ben talks about how integral Petit Manseng is to Early Mountain Vineyards.  He refers to it as their journey with the grape varietal.f). He discusses the collaboration between all the vintners and the critical part it has in advancing the quality of Virginia winegrowing.g). Ben explains how the two side projects, Midland and Lightwell Survey , which he oversees the production of at the Early Mountain winery facility helps him overall.Much, much more.  Listen to the full Episode or read the transcript attached.

Ben Jordan began his winemaker career in California and would move back to his native state of  Virginia in 2012 where he took the position as winemaker at Michael Shaps Wineworks.  He was then recruited by Early Mountain Vineyards and became their winemaker in 2015.  He is recognized as one of the most respected upcoming winemakers in the Virginia Wine Industry today.  Early Mountain Vineyards has grown in acclaim as their wine quality  continuously improves under Ben's leadership. Ben and his family have a small family vineyard in the Shenandoah Valley called Mount Airy which he and his brother manage. They produce a small amount of wine from the vineyard under the Midland brand label.  He also is a partner in an another brand called Lightwell Survey in which he sources the grapes and is winemaker for the project.  HIGHLIGHTS OF THE INTERVIEW: a). Ben talks about how he moved to San Francisco after living in NY city attempting to utilize his screenwriting credentials. b).  He further explains why he moved to the West Coast and San Francisco where he eventually took a cellar position at C. Donatiello winery and then later went to work at Dutcher Crossing. c).  Ben chronicles how he made contact with Michael Shaps and eventually went to work for him when he moved back to Virginia in 2012. d). Ben touches on many important aspects of winegrowing in Virginia and explains how he thought Hybrid grapes were an after thought only to realize that they can be amazing when you produce them for what they are and not try to make a wine they are not.  Fascinating discussion. e). Ben talks about how integral Petit Manseng is to Early Mountain Vineyards.  He refers to it as their journey with the grape varietal. f). He discusses the collaboration between all the vintners and the critical part it has in advancing the quality of Virginia winegrowing. g). Ben explains how the two side projects, Midland and Lightwell Survey , which he oversees the production of at the Early Mountain winery facility helps him overall. Much, much more.  Listen to the full Episode or read the transcript attached.

EPISODE # 18 EARLY MOUNTAIN VINEYARDS:BEN JORDAN/WINEMAKER

Matthieu Finot was born into a winegrowing family in Crozes-Hermitage, France.  In 1995 after graduating with his degree in enology from the university in Beaune he proceeded to work in multiple wine regions in France including, Rhone Valley, Bordeaux, Burgundy, Provence, and Jura.  He did stints in Italy and South Africa before arriving in Virginia in 2003.He then landed a position at Afton Mountain Winery and would become the full-time winemaker at King Family Vineyards in 2007 succeeding Michael Shaps when Michael started Virginia Wineworks.Matthieu is one of the founding members of the Winemakers' Research Exchange in Virginia.  In addition to his responsibility as winemaker at King Family Vineyards he also manages Turk Mountain Vineyards and has expanded his own family Brand, Domaine Finot to include along with his wines from France interesting experimental wines from Virginia.  Matthieu has a simple and direct philosophy about winemaking.  In his own words, "we are not inventing anything that hasn't already been done in winemaking." He is constantly looking to improve his understanding of the vineyards he works with shaping the wine to reflect their terroir.   We get into all of that and more in the interview.HIGHLIGHTS:a). Matthieu chronicles how he travel to and made wine in so many diverse winegrowing regions like Italy, South Africa, Provence, Jura, Burgundy, Bordeaux, and the Rhone where he was born.b). We learn about his early days in Virginia when he first started at Afton Mountain Vineyards  and then later at King Family Vineyards.c). Matthieu made it clear that when he arrived at King Family Vineyards Michael Shaps the winemaker before him and Chris Hill the viticulturist had done everything correctly so it was an easy transition into the position of winemaker.d). Matthieu explains how the Winemakers Research Exchange got started and it's importance then and now to the future of wine making in Virginia. It has helped support Virginia's diversity in winegrowing, varietals that are grown, and the wines that are being made for the future. e). I learned about his own project Domain Finot which produces wines in France and here in Virginia and how that has shaped his wine making philosophy.f). Matthieu makes it clear he doesn't believe he or anyone else if inventing anything, winemaking has been going on for generations.  The important point is to take what the vineyard/terroir gives you and help it reach its potential in the wine.Much, much more.  Take a listen. 

Matthieu Finot was born into a winegrowing family in Crozes-Hermitage, France.  In 1995 after graduating with his degree in enology from the university in Beaune he proceeded to work in multiple wine regions in France including, Rhone Valley, Bordeaux, Burgundy, Provence, and Jura.  He did stints in Italy and South Africa before arriving in Virginia in 2003. He then landed a position at Afton Mountain Winery and would become the full-time winemaker at King Family Vineyards in 2007 succeeding Michael Shaps when Michael started Virginia Wineworks. Matthieu is one of the founding members of the Winemakers' Research Exchange in Virginia.  In addition to his responsibility as winemaker at King Family Vineyards he also manages Turk Mountain Vineyards and has expanded his own family Brand, Domaine Finot to include along with his wines from France interesting experimental wines from Virginia.   Matthieu has a simple and direct philosophy about winemaking.  In his own words, "we are not inventing anything that hasn't already been done in winemaking." He is constantly looking to improve his understanding of the vineyards he works with shaping the wine to reflect their terroir.   We get into all of that and more in the interview. HIGHLIGHTS: a). Matthieu chronicles how he travel to and made wine in so many diverse winegrowing regions like Italy, South Africa, Provence, Jura, Burgundy, Bordeaux, and the Rhone where he was born. b). We learn about his early days in Virginia when he first started at Afton Mountain Vineyards  and then later at King Family Vineyards. c). Matthieu made it clear that when he arrived at King Family Vineyards Michael Shaps the winemaker before him and Chris Hill the viticulturist had done everything correctly so it was an easy transition into the position of winemaker. d). Matthieu explains how the Winemakers Research Exchange got started and it's importance then and now to the future of wine making in Virginia. It has helped support Virginia's diversity in winegrowing, varietals that are grown, and the wines that are being made for the future.  e). I learned about his own project Domain Finot which produces wines in France and here in Virginia and how that has shaped his wine making philosophy. f). Matthieu makes it clear he doesn't believe he or anyone else if inventing anything, winemaking has been going on for generations.  The important point is to take what the vineyard/terroir gives you and help it reach its potential in the wine. Much, much more.  Take a listen.

EPISODE #19 KING FAMILY VINEYARDS:MATTHIEU FINOT/WINEMAKER

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