Episodes

  • #24: ARMOUR WINES, Tyler Armour: Unveiling Carbonic Maceration & Innovating Winemaking
    Jul 10 2024

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    ARMOUR WINES:
    Website: https://www.armourwines.com/
    Wine Club: https://www.armourwines.com/contactus
    Instagram: @armourwines

    Ever wondered how sealing whole cluster grapes in a tank with CO2 can transform the winemaking process? Join us as we chat with Tyler Armour, the mastermind behind Armour Wines, who passionately unveils the secrets of carbonic maceration. Tyler shares his journey from cheese making to winemaking, detailing his innovative approach to creating vibrant, aromatic wines like his 2023 Carbo Barbo. Learn about the challenges of ripening Barbera grapes and why Tyler lovingly refers to his creations as "porch pounders."

    Next, we dive into the business side of winemaking, exploring the power of wine clubs in fostering customer loyalty and providing consistent revenue. Tyler gives us an inside look at the structure of his six-bottle, biannual wine club and discusses potential growth opportunities. We also touch on distribution strategies, including partnerships with Venea Imports and renowned Seattle restaurants, and consider new avenues for expanding his unique wines' reach.

    Finally, journey with us through Tyler's hands-on learning experiences, from making Cougar Gold cheese to studying at WSU. Discover his inspiration drawn from the fruit-forward Beaujolais style and his commitment to low-intervention wines. We wrap up with discussions on creative wine label designs, the benefits of clean production practices, and the joys of pop-up tastings. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the art and science of innovative winemaking.

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    Instagram: @officialbungpod
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    55 mins
  • BONUS: Brady Douglas talks The Battle of Icons: Drake vs. Taylor Swift & SABRINA CARPENTER!
    Jul 4 2024

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    Will Sabrina Carpenter take Taylor Swift's Crown??

    On this episode of the Bung Pod, we’re thrilled to have Brady Douglas from Beer League Golf joining us to spill the secrets of his newfound fame. From tasting a 2001 Shingleback Shiraz to the elegance of Grand Cru Bordeaux from the '90s, we explore the lush world of aged wines and barrel bungs. Plus, we chat about the rise of canned wines for those laid-back gatherings and celebrate the unique flavors of Australian wines alongside Washington and Oregon varietals.

    Remember when "Wonderwall" was the unofficial anthem of every party, and that one guy couldn’t resist strumming it on his guitar? We sure do. Grab some nostalgia as we share our personal stories—like how country tunes from Jason Isbell and Tyler Childers set the romantic scene for a serenade. We also reminisce about our screamo band days, influenced by Underoath and other heavy-hitters, and even uncover a local chef’s surprising ties to the Washington wine scene, blending our love for food and music.

    The ultimate musical debate takes center stage as we passionately argue over who reigns supreme, Drake or Taylor Swift. From Drake’s quest to outshine Michael Jackson to Taylor's jaw-dropping ability to sell out stadiums, we dive deep into their iconic careers. We share our concert experiences on Sunset Boulevard, rubbing elbows with Trippie Redd and exploring legendary recording studios. Whether you’re Team Drake or Team Taylor, this episode promises a spirited discussion and a trip down memory lane you won't want to miss!

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    Instagram: @officialbungpod
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    30 mins
  • #23 Beer League Golf's Brady Douglas: Wine Tasting and Hilarious Reviews
    Jul 3 2024

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    BEER LEAGUE GOLF
    Website: https://www.beerleague.golf/
    Instagram: @beerleague.golf
    Sign Up For Beer League Golf! https://www.beerleague.golf/sign-up


    Ever wondered why Gamay might just be the next big thing in Washington's wine scene? Join us on this hilariously insightful episode of the Bung Pod as we welcome the ever-entertaining Brady Douglas, wine reviewer extraordinare and president of Beer League Golf. Brady shares his comedic take on wine reviewing and opens up about his involvement in Seattle's burgeoning beer golfing community. Plus, your host spills the beans on a recent move from Chelan to Seattle and drops hints about future episodes featuring Tyler Armour from Armour Wines. The episode climaxes with a tasting of Rotie Cellars' Northern Blend, a Syrah co-fermented with Viognier from the Rocks District in Walla Walla.

    Next, we pull back the curtain on the mysterious world of bulk wine and the wine advent calendar industry. Ever thought about what's really in those festive calendars? We reveal how advent calendars often feature bulk wine from various wineries, sometimes without proper credit. The episode also unpacks the regulations and challenges of wine labeling laws, shedding light on the ingredients that might actually be in your bottle. Prepare for an eye-opening exploration of some of the wine industry's lesser-known practices, which could change how you look at your next glass of vino.

    Finally, we get into the nitty-gritty of wine tasting and how to keep your palate in top shape. From techniques to combat palate fatigue to preferences for young, acidic wines, this segment has it all. We also touch on the nuances of alcohol content labeling laws in the U.S. and share some personal wine favorites, including a budget-friendly Sauvignon Blanc from Chateau Saint-Michelle. The conversation wraps up with a nostalgic look back at pandemic golf gatherings and the rise of Beer League Instagram, setting the stage for future collaborations with exciting guests. Don't miss this entertaining and informative episode that blends humor, insight, and a love for both wine and golf!

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    Instagram: @officialbungpod
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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • #22 Trey Busch of Sleight of Hand Cellars: Harmonizing Music and Winemaking Magic
    Jun 19 2024

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    Sleight of Hand:
    https://www.sofhcellars.com/
    Instagram: @sleightofhandcellars

    Ever wondered how a passion for music and wine can blend to create a unique and engaging tasting experience? Join us as we chat with Trey Busch, Co-Owner and he winemaker extraordinaire behind Sleight of Hand Cellars. Trey takes us on his journey detailing how his love for music permeates every aspect of his wine business. From the lively atmosphere of his tasting rooms, where guests can pick records and explore music-themed merchandise, to his world-class air guitar skills, Trey shares his favorite tunes and discusses the deep connection between his winery and Pearl Jam, including their charitable collaborations.

    Get ready to gain exclusive insights into the art of vineyard management and winemaking in Washington. Trey breaks down the importance of maintaining long-term relationships with vineyard owners, emphasizing the benefits of estate vineyards and consistent grape sourcing. We delve into the specifics of vineyard techniques like leaf stripping and crop management, which ensure top-notch wine production. The discussion also touches on the significance of experimenting with harvest times and sugar levels to perfect the winemaking process, offering listeners a deeper understanding of the meticulous efforts behind each bottle.

    We then turn our focus to the evolving trends and sustainability efforts in the wine industry. From the rise of wine in bags and cans to local glass recycling initiatives, Trey provides a comprehensive overview of how the industry is adapting to environmental concerns and shifting consumer preferences. Discover the unique characteristics of wines from the Rocks District, where high potassium and nitrogen soils create soft textures and rich flavors. We wrap up with a heartfelt toast to our team and an invitation for listeners to engage with us on social media, rate our podcast, and give feedback. Cheers to an episode filled with wine wisdom and musical magic!

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    Instagram: @officialbungpod
    TikTok: @officialbungpod

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    1 hr
  • BONUS: Vintage Delight and Nostalgia: Wine Wonderboy & Julia from Tipsy Vine on Memories, TV Faves, and Shop Updates
    Jun 10 2024

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    What if your wine could tell stories from the early 2000s? Join us as we welcome back Wine Wonderboy and introduce Julia from Tipsy Vine for a delightful journey into the world of vintage wines and nostalgic memories. We take on the challenge of opening a 2003 Pirouette red blend with a two-prong wine opener, ensuring that the cork stays intact. As we savor the notes of dried leaves and cigar boxes, we can't help but chuckle at the thought of drinking a wine that's old enough to drink itself. Amidst the laughter, we reminisce about RV camping trips and grooving to Dr. Dre's "The Chronic 2001."

    Ever wondered what we watch when we're not tasting wine? The conversation shifts to our favorite TV shows that help us unwind, from the laugh-out-loud moments of "New Girl" and "Brooklyn Nine-Nine" to the gripping intensity of psychological thrillers. A recent viewing of the OJ Simpson documentary sparks a debate about his infamous downfall, juxtaposed with the wholesome nostalgia of childhood favorites like "Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" and "Seinfeld." We also reflect on Will Smith's career trajectory and our enduring admiration for him, even in the face of recent controversies.

    Exciting news from our wine shop wraps up this episode, with updates on upcoming events and collaborations. We're turning our back space into a prohibition-style event area and considering offering glass pours and bottle service. Our current wine selection features favorites like the Two Vintners Very Necessary and Chillable varieties. We share some behind-the-scenes fun, including structural integrity tests on our handcrafted bars, and emphasize the importance of an abundance mindset. Tune in for a wholesome mix of wine wisdom, TV talk, and shop updates that will leave you feeling inspired and entertained.

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    Instagram: @officialbungpod
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    42 mins
  • #21 The Tipsy Vine: Julia Carlson's Wine Journey and Spokane's Must-Visit Boutique Bottle Shop
    Jun 5 2024

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    The Tipsy Vine
    https://thetipsyvinewa.com/
    Instagram: @thetipsyvinewa

    Bung Pod
    Merch: bungpod.store

    Ever wondered how a bottle of Grenache Blanc can change your life? Julia Carlson, the proud owner of a new bottle shop in Spokane, joins us to share the captivating story of her journey into the wine industry. Julia recounts the serendipitous moment that ignited her passion for Rhone varietals and bubbly wines like Petnat. From the aesthetics of her newly opened shop to the significance of Washington wine regions, Julia's enthusiasm for wine is contagious. Tune in to hear about her favorite wine brands and what makes her shop a must-visit in Spokane.

    This episode isn't just about wine; it's a flavorful exploration of various beverages and their cultural contexts. Starting with a fun chat about Malibu Rum shots, we segue into our passion for silver tequila and the distinctive tasting notes of Dusted Valley BFM, a Bordeaux blend. We even delve into the merits of screw caps, cans, and wine on tap, underscoring our mission to make wine culture approachable and enjoyable for everyone. Consider it your friendly guide to the world of wine, as welcoming as a hipster coffee shop.

    Launching a wine club comes with its own set of challenges and triumphs, as we discuss in detail, from securing a historic building to navigating licensing struggles. We highlight five standout Washington wineries you need to know about, including Upside Down and Smokey Rose Cellars, each with its unique backstory and offerings. Whether you're a seasoned wine lover or just beginning to explore the world of Washington wines, this episode provides plenty of reasons to support local wineries. Cheers to discovering the best of Washington's wine scene!

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    Instagram: @officialbungpod
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    51 mins
  • #20 Andre Mack: Redefining the Wine Narrative with Maison Noir Wines
    May 29 2024

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    ANDRE MACK LINKS
    http://andremack.com/
    99 Bottles: http://andremack.com/99bottlesbook
    Maison Noir Wines: http://andremack.com/wine
    Instagram: @andrehmack / @ashgnyc

    _____
    When Andre Mack steps into a room, the air crackles with the energy of a man who's not only shaped my understanding of wine, but redefined what it means to build a brand in the industry. Our latest conversation whirls from his early days as a sommelier at Per Se to the legal wrangles with Mouton Rothschild that led to the birth of Maison Noir Wines. Join us as Andre peels back the layers of his journey, highlighting the importance of identity, the power of humor, and his unyielding dedication to crafting a narrative as compelling as his vintages.

    Navigating the rigors of the hospitality trade, the artful balance of responsibility, and the pursuit of excellence - these themes resonate throughout our dialogue. Andre delves into the grind that underpins success, sharing insights on time management and strategic delegation that are as relevant to budding entrepreneurs as they are to seasoned restaurateurs. His stories of transition from NBA dreams to a life steeped in viticulture underscore the beauty of unexpected paths, while his advice on seizing moments and striving for improvement is a toast to the relentless spirit of ambition.

    But this isn't just a chat about the grind; it's a celebration of creativity, the evolution of the American palate, and the merriment found in breaking wine's traditional confines. Andre’s infectious energy animates tales of branding ingenuity, misadventures turned wine-blending triumphs, and the embrace of a culture that welcomes new audiences to the vineyard's fold. By the time we clink glasses over the bright future of Relativity Vineyards and the Bung Podcast, you're bound to see the world of wine through a refreshingly different lens - Andre Mack's.

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    Instagram: @officialbungpod
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    1 hr and 16 mins
  • #19 Gramercy Cellars - Brandon Moss: Essence of Pacific Northwest Wines
    May 22 2024

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    GRAMERCY:
    Website: https://gramercycellars.com/
    Instagram: @gramercycellars

    BUNG POD:
    Merch: bungpod.store
    Instagram: @officialbungpod

    Ever wondered how a twist in weather patterns can turn the winemaking world upside down? Brandon Moss from Gramercy Cellars uncorks the truth behind this season's eccentric climate and its impact on the vines. From the intimate decision-making of pruning frostbitten branches to the organic symphony of native fermentations, our discussion is a treasure trove of the delicate dance between nature and nurture in viticulture. We celebrate the trailblazers of Washington Syrah and dissect the philosophies that shape Gramercy's elegant wines, revealing how every bottle captures the essence of its earthly roots.

    Pour a glass and join me as I reminisce about my winemaking odyssey that led me back to the Walla Walla Valley, where the art of wine seems almost destined. From early days on the family farm to Oregon's lush vineyards, I've been seduced by the alchemy of turning grapes into liquid narratives. The episode is steeped in tales of inspiration drawn from the Northern Rhone, Bordeaux blends, and the winemakers who craft them. As we explore these influences, you'll appreciate the meticulous pursuit of balance, the ongoing quest for knowledge, and the shared dream of bringing exquisite wines to tables across the globe.

    Our conversation wanders through the Pacific Northwest's rich tapestry of wine and culinary delights, pausing to reflect on the bittersweet closure of local dining icons. You'll be charmed by anecdotes of the region's welcoming wine community and the lively banter awaiting in every bar. This episode offers a full-bodied experience, from the vine to the glass, seasoned with laughter and a hint of nostalgia. So, raise your glass to the stories and people that ferment the vibrant culture of Pacific Northwest wine. Cheers!

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    Instagram: @officialbungpod
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    57 mins