The Inside Winemaking Podcast With Jim Duane

This episode is a discussion of juice and wine chemistries focusing on harvest winemaking.  Chemistries covered include the essential elements like pH, titratable acidity, Nitrogen, sugars, and ethanol.  Actual chemistry panels are discussed in great detail with the goal of making these technical concepts accessible for casual winemakers and professionals.    The episode also covers wine analysis and adjustments for popular varietals such as Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, and Cabernet Sauvignon, discussing stylistic approaches and the tactical actions to take in the winery. Winemaking Class Offers and Show Notes for all episodes at https://www.insidewinemaking.com/ Resources from this Episode MyEnologist - http://www.myenologist.com/ Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Wr

This episode is very special because it’s the 10-year anniversary episode of Inside Winemaking! I'm deeply grateful for the support from you — the listeners, as well as the incredible guests and generous sponsors who have been with me throughout this decade. Over the course of 182 episodes, featuring more than 175 amazing guests, we’ve had the privilege to explore the world of winemaking together. This milestone has opened doors to educational opportunities, including winemaking classes and tours in Napa and Europe, and allowed us to address the challenges faced by novice winemakers. Thank you once again for being a part of this incredible journey over the past ten years. Winemaking Class Offers and Show Notes for all episodes at https://www.insidewinemaking.com/ Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select

In this episode, winemaker Shawn DeMartino shares his journey from Argentina to becoming a winemaker in Napa Valley. He discusses his experiences working with renowned mentors and the significance of hands-on learning in winemaking. Shawn also highlights his innovative work building the Sentinel Vine Manager app, a program leveraging high fidelity geospatial technology to monitor vineyard health and production. The episode explores the balance between tradition and innovation in winemaking and offers tips for managing vineyards of all sizes. Winemaking Class Offers and Show Notes for all episodes at https://www.insidewinemaking.com/ Resources from this Episode Sentinel Vine Manager - https://www.sentineltech.eu/ Grace Family Vineyards - https://www.gracefamilyvineyards.com/ Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Sim

Dan Person of Carboniste discusses the art and science of sparkling winemaking in this episode. The conversation covers technical aspects of winemaking, including sugar and CO2 pressure management in Pet-nat production, the impact of acidity and pH on wine quality, and the evolution of American sparkling wines. Dan also talks about the unique packaging and branding of Carboniste, aiming to bring a fresh perspective to the sparkling wine market.  Whether you're a novice or an experienced connoisseur, this episode offers valuable knowledge and practical tips on creating distinctive sparkling wines. Winemaking Class Offers and Show Notes for all episodes at https://www.insidewinemaking.com/ Resources from this Episode Carboniste - https://carboniste.com/ This episode is sponsored by Sentia. This revolutionary portable device measures six critical analytes during wine production: free sulphur dioxide, malic acid, glucose, fructose, titratable acidity, and acetic acid. Save time, save money, and take control of yo

In this episode, winemaker Jon-Michial Carter shares first-hand knowledge on building a successful boutique winery, emphasizing the importance of direct-to-consumer (D2C) sales and personal relationships with club members. Jon-Michial discusses his unique business model, which focuses on maintaining quality and personal touches by capping production at 3,000 cases and 1,000 club members.  The conversation covers various aspects of winery operations, including grape sourcing, innovative shipping techniques, blending strategies, and the challenges of starting a winery outside of California. Winemaking Class Offers and Show Notes for all episodes at https://www.insidewinemaking.com/ Resources from this Episode Carter Family Wines - https://carterfamilywines.com/ Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Rat

In this episode, we have a conversation with Peter Devison, the winemaker behind Devison Vintners, as he shares how he moved from Vancouver's dining scene to becoming a winemaker in Washington. Peter discusses his winemaking education in New Zealand and the experience that led him to Washington. He explores the challenges and successes of launching his own label and working as a consultant for other wineries.  We talk about the potential of white wine production in Washington, touching on the unique terroir shaped by geological events like the Missoula floods. Peter also offers insights into native fermentation techniques and the distinctive characteristics of the Rocks District in Walla Walla. Winemaking Class Offers and Show Notes for all episodes at https://www.insidewinemaking.com/ Resources from this Episode Devison Vintners - https://www.devisonvintners.com/ Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’

In this episode, we discuss contemporary winemaking with insights from industry pioneer Britt Richards. Britt Richards of Head High Wines shares her inspiring journey from early influences to hands-on experiences at Fresno State and various esteemed vineyards, highlighting the balance of science and art in crafting exceptional wines. We explore the complexities of producing high-quality Chardonnay, emphasizing the importance of fruit quality and minimalist winemaking techniques. We also cover the challenges of creating affordable yet premium wines and dive into innovative trends such as skin-contact white wines and de-alcoholized wines.  Winemaking Class Offers and Show Notes for all episodes at https://www.insidewinemaking.com/ This episode is sponsored by Innovint. Finally, a user-friendly software built with winemaking in mind. InnoVint helps wineries of all sizes grow, make, and sell wine more efficiently. See how our vineyard tracking, wine production, and inventory management solutions can help your win

In this episode, we have a conversation with Greg La Follette of Marchelle Wines. We discuss Greg's extraordinary journey from nearly becoming a professional bagpiper and priest to becoming a celebrated winemaker renowned for his expertise in mouthfeel and Burgundian techniques. Listeners will hear the importance of patience, community support, and strategic winemaking practices.  Greg also shares his deep knowledge of yeast health, nutrient balance, and the meticulous process of long, slow fermentations, offering practical advice for winemakers of all skill levels. This episode offers wisdom, resilience, and creativity in the art and science of winemaking. Winemaking Class Offers and Show Notes for all episodes at https://www.insidewinemaking.com/. Get the free snack bar pack, free shipping, and 15% off with subscriptions at House of Macadamias https://partner.houseofmacadamias.com/inside-winemaking. Resources from this Episode Marchelle Wines https://www.marchellewines.com/ Follow and Review: We’d love for

Join me today for a look into the world of winemaking at Patz & Hall Winery in Sonoma, where tradition harmonizes with cutting-edge technology. My conversation with Patz & Hall winemaker James McCeney offers a deep dive into the meticulous cleanliness and mental preparation required for the winemaking process. Discover how innovative techniques, such as reduced frequency of racking, and advanced technological tools like the BarrelWise system and TankNet, have transformed their daily operations and enhanced their final product. Beyond the technicalities, this episode sheds light on the strategic direction and mission of wineries under new ownership, with a particular focus on crafting distinct styles of Chardonnay and single vineyard Pinot Noirs. You’ll hear firsthand stories about some legendary winemakers James has worked with and the meditative aspects of repetitive winemaking tasks. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned wine enthusiast, this episode promises a fascinating and comprehensive look at

In this episode, we sit down with Vincent Fritzsche of Vincent Wine Company. Vincent shares his journey from California to Oregon, where he has built a unique one-man operation in the Willamette Valley, focusing on crafting high-quality Pinot Noir. Our conversation spans a range of topics, including the impact of mentorship and online wine communities, the balance of technical knowledge and passion in winemaking, and the intricacies of vineyard selection and harvest workflows. Vincent also offers insights into his hands-off approach to winemaking, emphasizing the importance of allowing the natural characteristics of the grapes to shine through minimal intervention. Additionally, you'll hear about Vincent's plans to expand his winery and plant a small vineyard in the Eola Amity Hills.  Winemaking Class Offers and Show Notes for all episodes at https://www.insidewinemaking.com/ Resources from this Episode Vincent Wine Company: https://vincentwinecompany.com/ Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if

In this episode, Guillaume Large from Resonance Winery takes us on an oenological journey to discover the Willamette Valley in Oregon, where tradition and modernity. Sharing his experience from his early days in Burgundy to the making of wines in the United States, Guillaume discusses the evolution of winemaking methods and the search for balance between innovation and heritage.  The episode offers an in-depth look at Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, highlighting the importance of clonal selection and geological diversity. With personal anecdotes and details about winemaking and the future of Resonance Winery, listeners are invited to an exploration that celebrates the art of winemaking and the richness of Oregon's terroirs. Winemaking Class Offers and Show Notes for all episodes at https://www.insidewinemaking.com/ Resources from this Episode Resonance Wines https://resonancewines.com/ Get the free snack bar pack, free shipping, and 15% off with subscriptions at House of Macadamias  https://partner.houseofmacadami

In this episode, we have a conversation with viticulture specialist Fritz Westover. He shares his knowledge of vineyard management, focusing on cane pruning and shoot management methods. We discuss the significance of fruit drop timing, approaches to prevent powdery mildew and the advantages of maintaining a sustainable vineyard floor.  We also go over the emerging wine regions of the U.S., the choice of appropriate trellis systems, and the problems posed by climate change and pests to grape cultivation. This episode is useful for both novice and seasoned winemakers looking to improve their grape farming and winemaking processes. Winemaking Class Offers and Show Notes for all episodes at https://www.insidewinemaking.com/ Resources from this Episode Westover Vineyard Advising: https://www.vineyardadvising.com/ Virtual Viticulture Academy: https://www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/ Download Fritz’s member-only Crop Estimation Grower Guide to learn how to estimate, when to estimate, and tips for improving estima

In this episode, we journey with Jesse Fox, a former small-town chef who followed his passion all the way to becoming a master winemaker in Napa Valley. From his humble beginnings in his mother's kitchen to the hallowed educational halls of Cornell and the culinary scenes of Paris and New York, Jesse's story is one of transformation and tenacity. Listeners will be treated to behind-the-scenes insights into the worlds of both high-end cuisine and meticulous winemaking, learning about the parallels between crafting a perfect dish and a perfect wine. Now at Sequoia Grove, Jesse reflects on the vineyard's expansion, commitment to sustainability, and innovative spirit, all while sharing the pleasures of marrying fine wines with gourmet dishes in the winery's culinary program. Winemaking Class Offers and Show Notes for all episodes at https://www.insidewinemaking.com/. Get the free snack bar pack, free shipping, and 15% off with subscriptions at House of Macadamias: https://partner.houseofmacadamias.com/inside-wine

Listen in for the secrets of winemaking and the stories behind the vines in our latest episode with Rusell Bevan of Bevan Cellars and Adversity Cellars. Russell recounts his journey into the heart of the industry, proving that passion and self-education can create extraordinary success. In this episode, we discuss the meticulous processes defining today's top wines, from the artful sorting of Oakville grapes to the strategic application of glycol-cooled tanks and pulse air systems. We get into climate change, the craftsmanship required in barrel aging, the role of migrant workers in the fabric of agriculture, and the considerations in building a winery. We also reflect on the hard-earned lessons and techniques that outline our industry's response to a changing world.  Resources from this Episode Bevan Cellars - https://www.bevancellars.com/ Adversity Cellars - https://www.adversitycellars.com/ Book: Knowing and Making Wine by Emile Peynaud - https://www.amazon.com/Knowing-Making-Wine-Emile-Peynaud/dp/047188

In this episode, Avery Heelan, the talented winemaker at Larkmead Vineyards, shares her personal voyage from the pharmaceutical industry to the heart of Napa Valley's viticulture scene. Listen in as she recounts the challenges and growth she experienced while transitioning to a career that aligns with her passion. Our conversation takes a worldly twist as we recount the invaluable lessons learned from winemaking internships across the globe. Avery brings her experiences full circle, detailing the sustainable practices and innovative techniques she now employs at Larkmead Vineyards. We discuss the nuances of managing different grape varieties, the delicate balance of the winemaking process, and the team's commitment to preserving the legacy of their historic estate. Resources from this Episode Larkmead Vineyards - https://www.larkmead.com/ Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if

Join me as I bring back viticulturist Fritz Westover to unpack questions from our dedicated Inside Winemaking community. Listen in as we discuss the intricacies of vineyard management, sustaining vineyard health and productivity over time, and the crucial steps involved in preparing a vineyard for replanting, with a particular focus on the nuances of soil health.  Whether you're looking to increase your planting density or enhance soil fertility with innovative practices like biochar, this episode provides guidance for growers facing these universal challenges. We also answer questions on the significance of vine spacing, the challenges of procuring quality vine material, and the cutting-edge world of biological pruning wound protection.  Resources from this Episode Westover Vineyard Advising: https://www.vineyardadvising.com/ Virtual Viticulture Academy:  https://www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/ Fritz’s Online Prospective Winegrape Grower Course: https://www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/is-grape-growing

Join us as we explore the life of Josh Phelps, a seasoned player in the wine industry, from his roots in restaurant work to the strategic cultivation of his winemaking empire. Listen in as Josh recounts his time at Kimberly Jones Selections where he honed his skills in sales and faced the tough skin-building challenge of rejection, and shares how he scaled his initial 100-case winemaking venture to an impressive 40,000. Discover how Josh and his father work together to manage their wine brands while remaining authentic. Get a glimpse into their diverse wine projects, such as Steady State and Spaceage, and understand how these wines evolve with time. We also discuss effective wine sales strategies, the evolving landscape of market gatekeepers, and the indispensable value of personal connections in the wine business.  Resources from this Episode Grounded Wine Co - https://www.groundedwineco.com/ Instagram - @groundedwineco Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple

I recently sat down with Shawn Johnson of Amulet Estate, who shared the revolution in winemaking processes brought by innovative software and fermentation techniques. His story intertwines with mine as I recall my years learning the winemaking craft from mentors like Mark Harold and the brilliant minds at Nicholson Ranch. Come with us behind the scenes of Amulet Winery, where attention to detail and a passion for quality over quantity yield wines that evoke the land and the artists who shape them. From fermentation to the precision required in blending, you'll get a rare glimpse into the winemaking techniques that elevate the Cabernet Sauvignon. As we round out our conversation, get a glimpse into the everyday adventures of the vineyard—from sugar levels and acidity to the use of native yeasts and oak influence. You'll hear firsthand accounts of the historical importance captured in each vintage and how equipment choice and yeasts can bring out the flavors that are a wine's signature. Resources from this Epis

Listen in as I sit down with Dan Limoges, a winemaker and grape grower from North Georgia who has truly immersed himself in the craft. Dan shares the narrative of his transition from Iowa to the wine-laden landscapes of Georgia, where he and his wife have established Limoges Cellars. His passion for the vine-to-bottle process is evident as we talk about their hands-on approach to developing their vineyard and winery. In this conversation, we uncover the challenges of starting a vineyard in the unique climate and geography of North Georgia. Discover the story behind the Limoges’ land search, the importance of community relations, and the strategic decisions that were made, from the layout of the vineyard to the selection of grape varieties. We navigate through the complexities of viticulture in a region where elevation plays a crucial role in combating Pierce's disease and where the beauty of the Appalachian foothills presents both opportunities and obstacles. The journey from concept to reality in Limoges Cel

Join the conversation with viticulturist Fritz Westover and discover the alchemy of grape growing in climates that challenge even the most seasoned growers. From the humble Pennsylvania plant lover to an acclaimed viticulturist, Fritz unpacks his storied journey and the problems faced by vineyards far from Napa Valley. Learn how Fritz helps vineyards weave through the complexities like market saturation and extreme weather while also considering how variety selection can make or break the success of a vintage. Our discourse is a blend of wisdom and practical tips — like combatting hail with side netting — that can determine a vintage’s fate.  The Virtual Viticulture Academy stands as a testament to Fritz's dedication to supporting the viticulture community, providing a shared space for knowledge, guidance, and camaraderie among grape growers across the globe. Listen in and let your passion for the art and science of winemaking flourish with the insights and stories shared in our discussion. Episode Sponsor: T