In this episode of the Vint Podcast, Brady Weller and Billy Galanko sit down with famed wine grape geneticist and researcher, José Vouillamoz. José is a renowned Swiss botanist and geneticist, celebrated for his pioneering contributions to the field of viticulture. With a Ph.D. in plant genetics from the University of Lausanne, José has become one of the foremost experts on the DNA profiling of grapevines. His groundbreaking research has significantly advanced our understanding of grapevine origins, relationships, and diversity.

Collaborating with esteemed colleagues, including Jancis Robinson and Julia Harding, he co-authored the seminal work "Wine Grapes," a comprehensive guide that explores the DNA evidence behind over 1,300 grape varieties. José's meticulous studies have uncovered the parentage of many ancient grape varieties, shedding light on the complex history of viticulture across different regions.

In addition to his academic pursuits, José is a sought-after speaker at international conferences and a respected consultant for vineyards and wine producers around the world. His passion for both the science and heritage of wine makes him a unique and influential figure in the wine industry, bridging the gap between genetic research and practical viticulture.

Chapters:

00:52 Special Guest Introduction: José Vouillamoz, the Foremost Grape Geneticist

02:02 Weekend Wine Tasting Adventures and Discoveries

07:57 Diving Deep into Grape Genetics with José Vouillamoz

08:41 Jose's Journey into Grape Genetics and DNA Profiling

11:09 Unveiling the Origins of Swiss Grape Varieties

13:17 The Impact of DNA Profiling on Wine Genetics and Regional Identities

18:35 Exploring the Foundational Grape Varieties and Their Global Influence

21:35 The Genesis of the Wine Grapes Book with Jancis Robinson and Julia Harding

24:50 Founder Grape Varieties and Their Significance

25:04 Exploring the Roots: The Ancestry of Famous Grape Varieties

26:46 The Science Behind DNA Profiling in Viticulture

35:02 The Impact of Genetic Diversity on Wine Varieties and Climate Adaptation

41:11 The Future of Viticulture: Clonal Identification and Terroir Expression

46:38 The Role of Rootstocks in Combating Climate Change

48:45 Leveraging Genetics for Improved Winemaking and Vineyard Management

The Vint Podcast is a production of the Vint Marketplace, your source for the highest quality stock of fine wines and rare whiskies. Visit www.vintmarketplace.com.

Cheers!

Past Guests Include: William Kelley, Peter Liem, Eric Asimov, Bobby Stuckey, Rajat "Raj" Parr, Erik Segelbaum, André Hueston Mack, Emily Saladino, Konstantin Baum, Landon Patterson, Heather Wibbels, Carlton "CJ" Fowler, Boris Guillome, Christopher Walkey, Danny Jassy, Kristy Wenz, Dan Petroski, Buster Scher, Andrew Nelson, Jane Anson, Tim Irwin, Matt Murphy, Allen Meadows, Altan Insights, Tim Gaiser, Vince Anter, Joel Peterson, Megan O'Connor, Adam Lapierre, Jason Haas, Ken Freeman, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Skyler Weekes, Mary Gorman McAdams, Nick King, Bartholomew Broadbent, Nick Jackson, Dillon Sykes, Mark Bell, David Keck, John Szabo, Channing Frye, Jay Hack, Julia Harding, Austin Hope, Michael Minnillo, Jermaine Stone, Jim Madsen, Santiago Archaval, Tom Smith, Sebastian Lowa, Matthew Crafton, Tony Parker, Andrew Caillard, Mike Veseth, Madeline Puckette, John Olney, Matthew Kaner, Amelia Singer, Chess Martin, and more!

In this episode of the Vint Podcast, Brady Weller and Billy Galanko fly solo to discuss Billy's recent travels to Croatia/Montenegro, and then give their thoughts on some of their favorite wine drinking accessories. If you're interested in some of what you hear on today's episode, head out to your local wine retailer (avoid the big boxes for more niche selection), and ask for Georgian, Croatian, or any Slavic or Baltic wines - you'll be in for a treat!

Chapters:

00:22 Reunion: Back from Travel and Paternity Leave

01:10 Billy's Wine Tasting Journey in Montenegro and Croatia

01:40 Discovering Unique Wine Varieties and Experiences

02:05 An Adventurous Journey to a Montenegrin Winery

09:05 Exploring Croatian Wine Regions and Varieties

17:06 Wine Accessories and Gadgets: Must-Haves for Enthusiasts

22:35 The Importance of a Good Wine Fridge

25:40 Elevating Your Corkscrew Game

28:17 Wine Transportation: Bags and Luggage

32:29 Choosing the Right Wine Glasses

36:21 The Utility of a Wine Bottle Chiller

38:20 Decanting: A Must for Wine Lovers

41:02 The Revolutionary Coravin System

46:13 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Interview

The Vint Podcast is a production of the Vint Marketplace, your source for the highest quality stock of fine wines and rare whiskies. Visit www.vintmarketplace.com.

Cheers!

Past Guests Include: William Kelley, Peter Liem, Eric Asimov, Bobby Stuckey, Rajat "Raj" Parr, Erik Segelbaum, André Hueston Mack, Emily Saladino, Konstantin Baum, Landon Patterson, Heather Wibbels, Carlton "CJ" Fowler, Boris Guillome, Christopher Walkey, Danny Jassy, Kristy Wenz, Dan Petroski, Buster Scher, Andrew Nelson, Jane Anson, Tim Irwin, Matt Murphy, Allen Meadows, Altan Insights, Tim Gaiser, Vince Anter, Joel Peterson, Megan O'Connor, Adam Lapierre, Jason Haas, Ken Freeman, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Skyler Weekes, Mary Gorman McAdams, Nick King, Bartholomew Broadbent, Nick Jackson, Dillon Sykes, Mark Bell, David Keck, John Szabo, Channing Frye, Jay Hack, Julia Harding, Austin Hope, Michael Minnillo, Jermaine Stone, Jim Madsen, Santiago Archaval, Tom Smith, Sebastian Lowa, Matthew Crafton, Tony Parker, Andrew Caillard, Mike Veseth, Madeline Puckette, John Olney, Matthew Kaner, Amelia Singer, Chess Martin, and more!

In this archived episode (previously episode 81) of the Vint Podcast, Brady and Billy sat down with Bobby Stuckey, partner and Master Sommelier at Frasca Hospitality Group. The group’s flagship restaurant, Frasca Food and Wine, has won two James Beard awards for excellence in Outstanding Wine Service (2013) and Outstanding Service (2019). 2023 saw the restaurant achieve a Michelin Star and another Outstanding Service award from Michelin Guide. Bobby is one of America’s most accomplished Sommeliers and someone who has dedicated his life to service, bussing tables and pouring wine on the floors of his restaurants. He is also a fierce advocate for the restaurant industry, leading initiatives to protect workers and keep businesses alive during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Along with his successful restaurant businesses, Bobby is co-founder of the Scarpetta Wine Company, which presents the white wines of Friuli, Italy - a region he is most passionate about. In this episode, we talk restaurant work, Friuli, collecting, and how to make service a sustainable and life-long career. Bobby is a titan of the wine world and can offer wise words of advice for any business looking to treat their customers with hospitality. Enjoy!

The Vint Podcast is a production of the Vint Marketplace, your source for the highest quality stock of fine wines and rare whiskies. Visit www.vintmarketplace.com.

Cheers!

Past Guests Include: William Kelley, Peter Liem, Eric Asimov, Bobby Stuckey, Rajat "Raj" Parr, Erik Segelbaum, André Hueston Mack, Emily Saladino, Konstantin Baum, Landon Patterson, Heather Wibbels, Carlton "CJ" Fowler, Boris Guillome, Christopher Walkey, Danny Jassy, Kristy Wenz, Dan Petroski, Buster Scher, Andrew Nelson, Jane Anson, Tim Irwin, Matt Murphy, Allen Meadows, Altan Insights, Tim Gaiser, Vince Anter, Joel Peterson, Megan O'Connor, Adam Lapierre, Jason Haas, Ken Freeman, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Skyler Weekes, Mary Gorman McAdams, Nick King, Bartholomew Broadbent, Nick Jackson, Dillon Sykes, Mark Bell, David Keck, John Szabo, Channing Frye, Jay Hack, Julia Harding, Austin Hope, Michael Minnillo, Jermaine Stone, Jim Madsen, Santiago Archaval, Tom Smith, Sebastian Lowa, Matthew Crafton, Tony Parker, Andrew Caillard, Mike Veseth, Madeline Puckette, John Olney, Matthew Kaner, Amelia Singer, Chess Martin, and more!

In this episode of the Vint Podcast, Brady Weller and Billy Galanko talk with Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder at Drifter Spirits, and co-founder of Rare Character Whiskey, Peter Nevenglosky. Rare Character is an independent bottler of American whiskies, mainly focused on Bourbon and Rye, with a portfolio predominantly consisting of single barrel selections labeled alongside select partners. Pete shares about the philosophy behind each label, and how the brand came to be in the midst of the pandemic. Rare Character is developing somewhat of a cult following among whiskey enthusiasts in the US, and their new (and exclusive) Brook Hill label has sold out practically everywhere. With a special focus on unique finishing casks through their Native Wood and Finishing Series, fans of Rare Character have the opportunity to explore all kinds of unique expressions of Bourbon and Rye through the portfolio, demonstrating the breadth and complexity of what American Whiskey can be.

The Vint Podcast is a production of the Vint Marketplace, your source for the highest quality stock of fine wines and rare whiskies. Visit www.vintmarketplace.com.

Cheers!

Past Guests Include: William Kelley, Peter Liem, Eric Asimov, Bobby Stuckey, Rajat "Raj" Parr, Erik Segelbaum, André Hueston Mack, Emily Saladino, Konstantin Baum, Landon Patterson, Heather Wibbels, Carlton "CJ" Fowler, Boris Guillome, Christopher Walkey, Danny Jassy, Kristy Wenz, Dan Petroski, Buster Scher, Andrew Nelson, Jane Anson, Tim Irwin, Matt Murphy, Allen Meadows, Altan Insights, Tim Gaiser, Vince Anter, Joel Peterson, Megan O'Connor, Adam Lapierre, Jason Haas, Ken Freeman, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Skyler Weekes, Mary Gorman McAdams, Nick King, Bartholomew Broadbent, Nick Jackson, Dillon Sykes, Mark Bell, David Keck, John Szabo, Channing Frye, Jay Hack, Julia Harding, Austin Hope, Michael Minnillo, Jermaine Stone, Jim Madsen, Santiago Archaval, Tom Smith, Sebastian Lowa, Matthew Crafton, Tony Parker, Andrew Caillard, Mike Veseth, Madeline Puckette, John Olney, Matthew Kaner, Amelia Singer, Chess Martin, and more!

In this episode of the Vint Podcast, host Billy Galanko dives into one of his favorite topics, diving deep into the less-explored grape varieties of German and Austrian wine beyond the familiar Riesling and Grüner Veltliner before interviewing Wine Importer Sebastian Lowa, co-founder of Baire Wines Imports. Sebastian shares his journey into the importation game and his passion for organic and biodynamically farmed wines from Germany and Austria.

The name 'Baire' is a combination of Sebastian's nickname 'Basti' and his wife Claire's name, as well as a nod to the bear on both the Berlin and California flags. Sebastian's interest in wine was sparked during a trip to Italy, where he discovered the diverse flavors and agricultural nature of wine. He then started making his own wine and eventually decided to import wines from Germany and Austria. Baire Wines Imports focuses on importing and distributing German and Austrian wines in the US. They work with producers that use organic and biodynamic farming practices and prioritize soil health.

The wines they offer showcase a wide range of varietals and styles, from classic Mosel Riesling to more unique and experimental wines like orange wines and pet-nats. Baire Wines Imports aims to be diverse in its portfolio, offering wines for every type of account, from Michelin-star restaurants to liquor stores. They believe that wines made with minimal intervention and a focus on the fruit taste more alive and interesting.

Explore Baire Wines' Portofolio
Godforsaken Grapes Book Link

Chapters
03:06 Exploring Unique Varieties Beyond Riesling and Grüner Veltliner

12:31 The Journey of a Wine Importer: Sebastian Lova's Story

14:17 The Birth of Baire Wines: Organic and Biodynamic Focus

15:30 From Beer to Wine: Sebastian's Personal Wine Journey

19:52 Making Wine and Embracing the Vineyard Life

25:44 Exploring Baire Wines' Diverse Portfolio

27:55 Discovering the First Wine Producer

29:17 Exploring Diverse Ways to Connect with Winemakers

30:11 Building a Wine Portfolio with Personal Connections

31:12 Diving Into the Diversity of German and Austrian Wines

41:24 The Philosophy Behind Low Intervention Wines

50:59 Expanding Distribution and Looking Forward

53:16 Navigating the Complexities of Wine Import and Distribution

56:13 Wrapping Up and Future Plans

The Vint Podcast is a production of the Vint Marketplace, your source for the highest quality stock of fine wines and rare whiskies. Visit www.vintmarketplace.com.

Cheers!

Past Guests Include: William Kelley, Peter Liem, Eric Asimov, Bobby Stuckey, Rajat "Raj" Parr, Erik Segelbaum, André Hueston Mack, Emily Saladino, Konstantin Baum, Landon Patterson, Heather Wibbels, Carlton "CJ" Fowler, Boris Guillome, Christopher Walkey, Danny Jassy, Kristy Wenz, Dan Petroski, Buster Scher, Andrew Nelson, Jane Anson, Tim Irwin, Matt Murphy, Allen Meadows, Altan Insights, Tim Gaiser, Vince Anter, Joel Peterson, Megan O'Connor, Adam Lapierre, Jason Haas, Ken Freeman, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Skyler Weekes, Mary Gorman McAdams, Nick King, Bartholomew Broadbent, Nick Jackson, Dillon Sykes, Mark Bell, David Keck, John Szabo, Channing Frye, Jay Hack, Julia Harding, Austin Hope, Michael Minnillo, Jermaine Stone, Jim Madsen, Santiago Archaval, Tom Smith, Sebastian Lowa, Matthew Crafton, Tony Parker, Andrew Caillard, Mike Veseth, Madeline Puckette, John Olney, Matthew Kaner, Amelia Singer, Chess Martin, and more!

In this special episode of The Vint Podcast, we're excited to bring you a unique two-interview episode with the first featuring Tony Parker and Channing Frye, two former NBA champions who have ventured into the wine industry. Tony Parker shares his intriguing journey from the basketball court to the vineyard, detailing his involvement with Chateau La Mascaronne and Maison Jeeper Champagne. He reflects on how his upbringing in Europe influenced his passion for wine and delves into the organic practices at Chateau La Mascaronne. Parker also recounts the fascinating history behind Maison Jeeper, highlighting its World War II connection.

Following Parker's interview, we revisit a conversation from two years ago with Channing Frye, originally aired as Episode 18. Alongside co-owner Jacob Gray, Frye discusses the foundation of Chosen Family Wines and their commitment to inclusivity and diversity within the wine industry. This re-airing allows us to explore the parallels and through-lines between these athletes' transitions into the wine world. Both Parker and Frye reflect on how their experiences in the NBA have shaped their approach to winemaking and their efforts to build community through their ventures.

Chapters
00:25 Special Double Interview Episode: NBA Champions Turned Wine Enthusiasts

03:42 Exploring Tony Parker's Wine Ventures: La Mascaronne and Maison Jeeper

24:39 Channing Frye: Transitioning from the Court to the Vineyard

34:17 Demystifying Wine: A Call for Inclusivity

35:31 Wine as a Gateway to Experiences and Connections

51:03 The Future of Wine: Emerging Regions and Varietals

01:01:41 Exploring the Art of Wine Blending

01:03:08 Discovering Unique Wine Regions and Their Surprises

01:05:38 Exclusive Wine Experiences and Their Impact

01:18:17 The Personal Touch in Wine Making and Business

01:24:33 Championing Diversity and Inclusion in the Wine Industry

The Vint Podcast is a production of the Vint Marketplace, your source for the highest quality stock of fine wines and rare whiskies. Visit www.vintmarketplace.com.

Cheers!

Past Guests Include: William Kelley, Peter Liem, Eric Asimov, Bobby Stuckey, Rajat "Raj" Parr, Erik Segelbaum, André Hueston Mack, Emily Saladino, Konstantin Baum, Landon Patterson, Heather Wibbels, Carlton "CJ" Fowler, Boris Guillome, Christopher Walkey, Danny Jassy, Kristy Wenz, Dan Petroski, Buster Scher, Andrew Nelson, Jane Anson, Tim Irwin, Matt Murphy, Allen Meadows, Altan Insights, Tim Gaiser, Vince Anter, Joel Peterson, Megan O'Connor, Adam Lapierre, Jason Haas, Ken Freeman, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Skyler Weekes, Mary Gorman McAdams, Nick King, Bartholomew Broadbent, Nick Jackson, Dillon Sykes, Mark Bell, David Keck, John Szabo, Channing Frye, Jay Hack, Julia Harding, Austin Hope, Michael Minnillo, Jermaine Stone, Jim Madsen, Santiago Archaval, Tom Smith, Sebastian Lowa, Matthew Crafton, Tony Parker, Andrew Caillard, Mike Veseth, Madeline Puckette, John Olney, Matthew Kaner, Amelia Singer, Chess Martin, and more!

In this episode of the Vint Podcast, your window into the world of wine and spirits. In this California-centric episode, Billy Galanko sits down with Matthew Crafton, head winemaker at the renowned Chateau Montelena. Situated in the picturesque north of Napa Valley, Chateau Montelena is not only a beacon of viticultural history but also a testament to the evolving art and science of winemaking. Crafton, a Virginia native with over two decades in the wine industry, shares insights into the winery's delicate balance of heritage and innovation.

In the interview, Crafton unravels the intricate layers of winemaking that have positioned the winery at the forefront of quality and sustainability. From the careful stewardship of their land to the adoption of cutting-edge technology in the vineyard and cellar, Montelena exemplifies how tradition and modernity can coexist harmoniously. Crafton's discussion offers a deep dive into the meticulous practices that ensure each bottle of Montelena wine reflects the unique character of their estate vineyards, underscored by an unwavering commitment to environmental responsibility and innovation. This episode is a journey through the past, present, and future of a winery that continues to shape the landscape of Napa Valley winemaking.


Time Stamps:

00:22 Diving into California's Wine Scene with Matthew Crafton of Chateau Montelena

00:32 The Legacy of Chateau Montelena and the Judgment of Paris

01:10 The Art of Winemaking: Balancing Heritage and Technology

01:35 A Deep Dive into the World of Oak Barrels

10:12 Behind the Scenes with Matt Crafton: The Craft of Winemaking at Chateau Montelena

24:31 A Journey Through the Vineyards: Replanting and Elevating Quality

32:22 The Challenges and Triumphs of Winemaking: Fires and Integrity

33:16 Exploring Chateau Montelena's Chardonnay from Oak Knoll

33:53 The Evolution of Chateau Montelena's Chardonnay

35:43 The Art and Science of Winemaking at Montelena

38:49 Exploring the 2021 Vintage: A Deep Dive

43:13 The Intricacies of Barrel Selection and Toasting

51:15 Sustainability and Innovation: Shaping the Future of Montelena

01:02:53 Looking Ahead: The Future of Chateau Montelena

The Vint Podcast is a production of the Vint Marketplace, your source for the highest quality stock of fine wines and rare whiskies. Visit www.vintmarketplace.com.

Cheers!

Past Guests Include: William Kelley, Peter Liem, Eric Asimov, Bobby Stuckey, Rajat "Raj" Parr, Erik Segelbaum, André Hueston Mack, Emily Saladino, Konstantin Baum, Landon Patterson, Heather Wibbels, Carlton "CJ" Fowler, Boris Guillome, Christopher Walkey, Danny Jassy, Kristy Wenz, Dan Petroski, Buster Scher, Andrew Nelson, Jane Anson, Tim Irwin, Matt Murphy, Allen Meadows, Altan Insights, Tim Gaiser, Vince Anter, Joel Peterson, Megan O'Connor, Adam Lapierre, Jason Haas, Ken Freeman, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Skyler Weekes, Mary Gorman McAdams, Nick King, Bartholomew Broadbent, Nick Jackson, Dillon Sykes, Mark Bell, David Keck, John Szabo, Channing Frye, Jay Hack, Julia Harding, Austin Hope, Michael Minnillo, Jermaine Stone, Jim Madsen, Santiago Archaval, Tom Smith, Sebastian Lowa, Matthew Crafton, Tony Parker, Andrew Caillard, Mike Veseth, Madeline Puckette, John Olney, Matthew Kaner, Amelia Singer, Chess Martin, and more!

In this episode of the Vint Podcast, we were honored to host Andrew Caillard, a Master of Wine, who has recently completed "The Australian Ark." This three-volume history explores the evolution of Australian wine from 1788 to the present day, offering an unparalleled journey through the vineyards and stories that have defined Australian wine. "The Australian Ark" set is available for purchase with international shipping at AustralianArk.com.

Host, Billy Galanko provides an overview of old vines before the main discussion, highlighting their importance in producing concentrated and nuanced wines. The conversation with Andrew spans critical moments in Australian wine history, from early challenges to innovations that have shaped the industry, including the role of old vines dating back to the 1840s.

Reflecting on the future, Andrew emphasizes the Australian wine community's resilience and innovation. "The Australian Ark" is not just a book; it invites readers to delve into the rich tapestry of Australian wine, promising to ignite passion and interest in its global contributions. Whether you're deeply embedded in the wine world or newly curious, this episode enriches the understanding and appreciation of Australian wine's past, present, and future.

Australian Ark Website - Learn More + Purchase

Chapters:
01:38 The Significance of Old Vines in Winemaking

10:08 Unveiling the Australian Ark: A Magnum Opus on Wine History

14:07 The Making of the Australian Ark: Challenges and Triumphs

19:20 A Deep Dive into the Visuals and Formats of the Australian Ark

22:38 Exploring the Rich Imagery and Multi-Faceted Stories Within the Australian Ark

26:26 The Importance of Vineyards in the Narrative of Australian Wine

26:52 Unveiling Australia's Wine Heritage: The Old Vine Chronicles

29:03 The Battle Against Phylloxera: Australia's Quarantine Triumph

32:55 From Convict Colony to Wine Country: A Brief History of Australian Wine

38:19 The Evolution of Australian Wine: From Fortified to Fine

43:57 Modern Innovations and the Future of Australian Wine

54:10 Reflections and Insights: The Journey of Writing Australian Wine History

57:25 Looking Ahead: The Resilience and Future of Australian Wine

59:04 Wrapping Up: Insights on Australian Wine's Past, Present, and Future

The Vint Podcast is a production of the Vint Marketplace, your source for the highest quality stock of fine wines and rare whiskies. Visit www.vintmarketplace.com.

Cheers!

Past Guests Include: William Kelley, Peter Liem, Eric Asimov, Bobby Stuckey, Rajat "Raj" Parr, Erik Segelbaum, André Hueston Mack, Emily Saladino, Konstantin Baum, Landon Patterson, Heather Wibbels, Carlton "CJ" Fowler, Boris Guillome, Christopher Walkey, Danny Jassy, Kristy Wenz, Dan Petroski, Buster Scher, Andrew Nelson, Jane Anson, Tim Irwin, Matt Murphy, Allen Meadows, Altan Insights, Tim Gaiser, Vince Anter, Joel Peterson, Megan O'Connor, Adam Lapierre, Jason Haas, Ken Freeman, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Skyler Weekes, Mary Gorman McAdams, Nick King, Bartholomew Broadbent, Nick Jackson, Dillon Sykes, Mark Bell, David Keck, John Szabo, Channing Frye, Jay Hack, Julia Harding, Austin Hope, Michael Minnillo, Jermaine Stone, Jim Madsen, Santiago Archaval, Tom Smith, Sebastian Lowa, Matthew Crafton, Tony Parker, Andrew Caillard, Mike Veseth, Madeline Puckette, John Olney, Matthew Kaner, Amelia Singer, Chess Martin, and more!