Join us for an enlightening episode of the Weinnotes Podcast featuring Jim Bernau, the founder and visionary behind Willamette Valley Vineyards. With over 35 years of experience, Jim has been a driving force in establishing Oregon’s wine industry as a prominent player on the global stage. In this conversation, he shares his remarkable journey, from the early days of planting vines to cultivating a legacy of quality and community.

Jim takes us back to the inception of Willamette Valley Vineyards, recounting the challenges he faced in the beginning and the passion that fueled his ambition. He reflects on the invaluable mentorship he received from pioneers like Dick and Betty O’Brien, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing within the Oregon wine community. Jim’s insights into the camaraderie among winemakers illustrate how their collective efforts have shaped a vibrant and thriving wine culture in the region.

A key theme in our discussion is the concept of legacy. Jim shares his thoughts on what it means to leave a lasting impact on the industry and the next generation of winemakers. He discusses the contributions of those who came before him and how their dedication continues to inspire him in his own work. This focus on legacy extends beyond wine production; Jim is deeply committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship, ensuring that the land is preserved for future generations.

Throughout the episode, Jim also delves into the evolving consumer landscape, particularly in light of the changes brought about by the pandemic. He explores how the wine experience is shifting, with an increasing emphasis on connection and storytelling. For Jim, each bottle of wine tells a story, reflecting the land, the people, and the passion behind it. He believes that understanding these narratives is essential for both winemakers and consumers alike.

With his warm personality and infectious enthusiasm for wine, Jim Bernau offers listeners a unique perspective on the journey of Oregon wine. He invites us to appreciate not only the flavors and aromas in our glasses but also the rich tapestry of experiences that bring those wines to life.

Tune in to this inspiring episode as we explore Jim’s incredible legacy at Willamette Valley Vineyards, his vision for the future of Oregon wine, and the enduring connections that make the wine community so special. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just beginning your journey, this conversation is sure to deepen your appreciation for the artistry and passion that define the world of wine.

In this episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, I sit down with Boyd Teegarden, the visionary winemaker behind Natalie’s Estate in Oregon’s renowned Willamette Valley. Boyd’s journey into the world of wine is a unique one, rooted in hard work, dedication, and a passion for storytelling through each bottle. Starting his career in the corporate wine world with Gallo, Boyd’s path eventually led him to Oregon, where he and his wife Cassandra purchased their dream property and started building the now-beloved Natalie’s Estate in 1999. The vineyard, once a walnut and turkey farm, sits on a warm, south-facing site with rich history and has become a beacon of expressive, handcrafted wines.

Throughout our conversation, Boyd shares his deep connection to the land, the influences of old-world winemaking, and the importance of creating wines with minimal intervention. He explains how each wine is a snapshot of a vintage and a reflection of the unique vineyard site. At Natalie’s Estate, Boyd’s philosophy is simple: make the wine in the vineyard, allowing the true essence of the fruit to shine. The result is a portfolio that spans from elegant Pinot Noirs to robust wines like Zinfandel and Barbera, each telling a story of the vineyard’s diverse terroir and Oregon’s ever-changing seasons.

We explore Boyd’s experience growing up on a soybean farm in Missouri, where he first cultivated his love for agriculture, and how he made a full-circle return to farming in wine country. He also reflects on the challenges and triumphs of starting a winery in a region that was just beginning to get recognized in the world of fine wine.

But Boyd isn’t just about the wine – he’s a storyteller, a mentor, and someone deeply invested in the community. He emphasizes the importance of pairing wine with food, a lesson he learned during his time spent traveling through Europe. His approach to wine tastings always incorporates food, bringing people closer to the cultural roots of wine and showing how the perfect pairing can transform both the dish and the wine. Boyd also shares stories about his time working with legendary winemakers, his love for the outdoors, and his ongoing projects in Montana where he supports river restoration initiatives.

For Boyd, Natalie’s Estate isn’t just a winery—it’s a family endeavor. He talks about raising his daughter in this environment and how each member of the family plays a role in the business. Boyd also reflects on the future of Oregon wine and how the region has grown exponentially since he first planted his roots. From sustainable farming practices to experimenting with different grape varieties, Boyd continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the Willamette Valley.

As always, I wrap up the episode with a blind tasting, and this time Boyd is joined by his assistant winemaker Jeff Granger. Together, they give their thoughts on the wine in the glass, demonstrating their shared love for discovering new flavors and textures. Whether you’re a wine novice or an enthusiast, this episode offers something for everyone—insight into the craft of winemaking, the joy of great pairings, and a reminder that, sometimes, the best journeys come from simply following your passion.

Step into the world of Kelsey Glasser, the visionary behind Portland’s renowned Arden PDX, where wine, food, and art seamlessly blend in one unforgettable dining experience. In this episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, Kelsey shares her journey from growing up with a passion for Shakespeare to becoming one of Portland’s most respected restaurateurs. Discover how her deep love for storytelling and the arts, combined with a dedication to locally-sourced Pacific Northwest ingredients, led to the creation of Arden—a sanctuary for food and wine enthusiasts.

Kelsey opens up about the inspiration behind Arden’s name, drawn from Shakespeare’s As You Like It, and how the philosophy of escape, rejuvenation, and empowerment plays a pivotal role in her restaurant’s ethos. We explore her early days as a theater major, the challenges of running a restaurant through the pandemic, and the joys of collaborating with some of Oregon’s top winemakers. From blind tastings of rare vintages to her love for experimenting with new projects like house-made wines, Kelsey is always pushing boundaries in the culinary world.

In this engaging conversation, you’ll hear stories about the magic of winemaker dinners, the resilience of her team, and how Arden has become a place where Portland’s vibrant food and wine scene thrives. Whether you’re a wine lover, food enthusiast, or just curious about what it takes to create an iconic dining spot, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and a lot of heart. Tune in to discover how Kelsey Glasser is shaping the future of Portland’s culinary landscape, one glass of wine at a time.

In this episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, we sit down with Anthony Sereni, head winemaker at Flâneur Wines, to dive deep into his fascinating journey from rollerblading in the streets of Philadelphia to making world-class wines in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Anthony’s path to winemaking is anything but traditional—starting with a love for roller hockey that morphed into a passion for viticulture and winemaking during his travels in New Zealand.

Throughout the conversation, Anthony reflects on his early days in the wine industry, the invaluable mentorship he received, and how working at top wineries like Archery Summit shaped his approach to winemaking. He shares stories from his time working with renowned winemakers like Kate Payne Brown and Grant Coulter, and how these experiences have influenced his style at Flâneur Wines.

Anthony also discusses the nuances of working with varietals like Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Aligoté, as well as Flâneur’s focus on sparkling wines. He reveals what it’s like to step into the role of head winemaker and his vision for the future of Flâneur, all while maintaining a commitment to the principles of thoughtful winemaking.

The conversation takes unexpected turns, from Anthony’s love for rock climbing and literature to how his journey to New Zealand sparked a deeper appreciation for agriculture and sustainable farming. Through humor, humility, and deep insights, Anthony opens up about the joys and challenges of making wines that truly reflect the land they come from.

If you’ve ever wondered about the creativity and dedication that go into making wine, this episode offers an engaging and inspiring look into the life of a winemaker who is always learning and evolving. Join us as we explore the fascinating world of Flâneur Wines and the incredible journey that led Anthony Sereni to where he is today.

In this insightful episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, we sit down with Brenda Smola-Foti and Frank Foti, the passionate minds behind The Ground, a multifaceted project in Oregon's Willamette Valley that encompasses sustainable farming, agritourism, and hospitality. Brenda and Frank share their journey of turning a dream into reality, starting with a humble 33-acre farm and expanding it into a thriving ecosystem that connects people with nature.

They share their experiences and the challenges of water scarcity in the region, leading to innovative solutions such as regenerative practices and permaculture. Their vision for The Ground goes beyond traditional farming. It's about creating immersive experiences that reconnect people with the land, be it through farm-to-table dining at their restaurant Humble Spirit, or offering agritourism experiences that leave lasting impressions on their guests.

Throughout the episode, we explore their commitment to sustainability, the importance of community, and the joy they find in bringing people closer to nature. Whether you’re curious about farming, wine, or just want to hear a fascinating story of resilience and innovation, this episode will leave you inspired.

Tune in as Brenda and Frank share their passion for sustainable living, the creation of The Ground, and their plans for the future, including a vineyard and winery venture rooted in regenerative viticulture. It’s a conversation about building something meaningful and leaving behind a legacy of love and respect for the planet.

Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that’s all about connection—between people, land, and the natural world.

Join us for a captivating episode of the Weinnotes Podcast as we sit down with Jessica Cortell, the passionate and pioneering force behind Cortell Collection in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. In this episode, Jessica shares her incredible journey from fighting forest fires to becoming one of the most respected names in viticulture.

Jessica’s love for the outdoors started early, leading her to a career that combined her passion for plants with her desire to be outside. Her early experiences fighting fires and working with the Forest Service shaped her tenacity and determination—qualities that would later fuel her success in the vineyard. Jessica dives into the challenges and rewards of vineyard management, offering insights into the 2024 vintage, dealing with powdery mildew, and the intricate details that go into growing exceptional wine grapes.

Listeners will be fascinated by Jessica’s deep understanding of the land and her innovative approach to farming. She explains the nuances of different farming practices, including organic, biodynamic, and regenerative agriculture, and how she incorporates elements from each to create a sustainable and holistic approach to viticulture. Jessica’s commitment to protecting the earth and fostering soil health is at her core.

But Jessica’s story doesn’t stop in the vineyard. She also opens up about her journey to creating her own wine label, the Cortell Collection. From managing multiple vineyards to launching her brand, Jessica’s drive to push the limits of what’s possible in Oregon’s wine industry is truly inspiring. She shares the joy of experimenting with different grape varieties, including her first Chardonnay from the 2022 vintage, and the excitement of seeing her vision come to life in each bottle.

Throughout the episode, Jessica reflects on the serendipitous moments that have shaped her path, from meeting key figures in the industry to the unexpected turns that led her to where she is today. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, curiosity, and the willingness to embrace new challenges.

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a budding winemaker, or simply someone who appreciates a good story, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Tune in to hear how Jessica Cortell has carved out a unique place in the wine world, blending science, art, and a deep respect for nature to create wines that truly reflect the terroir of the Willamette Valley.

Welcome to an inspiring episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, where we sit down with Dave Jachter, the dynamic force behind Jachter Family Wines in Oregon's Willamette Valley. In this engaging conversation, Dave shares his incredible journey from the automotive industry to the world of winemaking, revealing the passion and dedication that drive his success.

Dave’s story begins with a leap of faith, leaving a flourishing career in the car business to pursue his lifelong dream of making wine. He recounts how his fascination with wine started back in 1975 with a memorable bottle of Château de Beaucastel, sparking a journey that would eventually lead him to the heart of Oregon’s wine country.

One of the highlights of the interview is Dave’s discussion on his revolutionary approach to the car business, which laid the groundwork for his winemaking philosophy. He talks about transforming the car buying experience by reducing the number of people involved, thereby increasing customer satisfaction—a concept he translates into creating a personalized, high-quality wine experience at Jachter Family Wines.

Dave takes us through the meticulous process of establishing his vineyard, from selecting the perfect site with red volcanic soil to partnering with renowned winemaker Jared Etzel. He emphasizes the importance of doing things right, without cutting corners, and his commitment to minimal intervention winemaking. This dedication ensures that every bottle of wine reflects the unique terroir and the story of each vintage.

Listeners will be captivated by Dave’s reflections on the importance of family in his winemaking journey. His son and daughter-in-law play crucial roles in the vineyard and production, making Jachter Family Wines a true family endeavor. Dave’s pride in working alongside his family shines through as he shares anecdotes of their involvement and contributions.

The episode also delves into Dave’s innovative projects, including his venture into Nebbiolo and his plans for a sparkling wine program. His willingness to experiment and push boundaries is a testament to his adventurous spirit and relentless pursuit of excellence.

Throughout the conversation, Dave highlights the supportive and collaborative nature of the Willamette Valley wine community. He expresses gratitude for the guidance and mentorship he received from experienced vintners, which has been instrumental in his success.

Join us for this down-to-earth and heartfelt episode as Dave Jachter opens up about his transformative journey, the challenges and triumphs of starting a winery, and his vision for the future of Jachter Family Wines. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply love a good story of passion and perseverance, this episode offers a compelling glimpse into the world of winemaking.

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Get ready for an insightful and engaging episode of the Weinnotes Podcast as we sit down with Tony Rynders, the acclaimed winemaker behind Tendril Wine Cellars in Oregon's Willamette Valley. Join us as Tony shares his journey, experiences, and the philosophy that drives his winemaking approach.

In this episode, Tony dives into his diverse background, from his early days working in hospitality in Wisconsin to his transition into winemaking. He shares how his time at Domaine Serene and his work with renowned figures in the wine industry shaped his path and led him to start Tendril Wine Cellars. Tony's story is one of passion, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Listeners will be captivated by Tony's reflections on the 2024 vintage, drawing comparisons to previous years and discussing the unique challenges and opportunities each growing season brings. His detailed observations on bud break, flowering, and the critical May weather patterns offer a glimpse into the meticulous planning and adaptation required in winemaking.

One of the highlights of the episode is Tony’s discussion about whole cluster fermentation. He recounts his initial skepticism and how a pivotal 2011 vintage transformed his perspective, leading to the incorporation of whole cluster techniques in his winemaking. Tony’s explanation of the sensory impact of whole cluster fermentation and its influence on wine structure and complexity is both enlightening and inspiring.

Tony also shares his innovative approach to creating white Pinot Noir, a wine he has been perfecting since 2004. His description of the process, from the initial idea sparked by a conversation with an Italian winemaker to the meticulous execution, showcases his commitment to pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities in winemaking.

Throughout the episode, Tony emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration in the wine industry. He reflects on the support and camaraderie among winemakers in the Willamette Valley and the role of mentorship in nurturing new talent. His dedication to creating distinct wines for his clients, ensuring each wine has its own unique personality, highlights his integrity and craftsmanship.

Tony’s passion for sustainability and his commitment to quality are evident in his approach to winemaking. He discusses the significance of barrel aging, the careful selection of oak, and the importance of releasing wines that are ready to enjoy. His philosophy of avoiding the use of new oak in white wines to preserve their purity and ageability offers a refreshing perspective on winemaking practices.

Tune in to hear Tony Rynders’ full story and gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and dedication behind Tendril Wine Cellars. This episode is a testament to the power of innovation, the importance of community, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in winemaking. Don’t forget to subscribe and join us for this unforgettable conversation!