170: Russell Bevan – Bevan Cellars and Adversity Cellars
Inside Winemaking - the art and science of growing grapes and crafting wine
Release Date: 05/07/2024
Inside Winemaking - the art and science of growing grapes and crafting wine
Discover the untapped potential of Arizona winemaking as Kent Callaghan, a pioneer in the Sonoita Valley, shares his approach to crafting exceptional wines in a region south of Tucson. In this episode, Kent explores the distinct challenges of Arizona's high-altitude landscapes, from managing diverse grape varieties to navigating the state's unpredictable climate. Gain perspectives into sustainable practices, blending techniques, and the partnerships that help mitigate risks. This episode offers a straightforward exploration of the art and science behind Arizona's growing wine...
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Discover the innovative world of Arizona winemaking through the eyes of Todd Bostock from Dos Cabezas WineWorks. Todd shares his entry into the winemaking industry, highlighting the challenges and opportunities of crafting wines in the Sonoita Valley's diverse climates and soils. We discuss the impact of regional diversity on grape varieties and the techniques being used, such as co-fermenting grape varieties and producing canned and sparkling wines. The episode also touches on the importance of local support in building a sustainable wine industry in Arizona and the ongoing...
info_outlineInside Winemaking - the art and science of growing grapes and crafting wine
Stu Ake from The Wine Foundry joins us to discuss the art of personalized custom-crush winemaking. Stu shares his journey into winemaking, which began at Crush Pad in San Francisco. The episode covers the opportunites that The Wine Foundry provides, the logistics and creativity involved in crafting small batches of wine, emphasizing how younger generations are redefining wine conventions. Listeners will learn about the "share a barrel" concept, which makes winemaking more accessible and fosters community. Stu also talks about the importance of sourcing quality grapes from renowned...
info_outlineInside Winemaking - the art and science of growing grapes and crafting wine
In this episode, Noah Chichester, a specialist in Galician wines, guides us through the vineyards of Galicia, Spain. Raised in Potsdam, NY, Noah shares how his passion for Galician wines was sparked by his Spanish-influenced upbringing. The discussion covers the distinct grape varieties of Galicia, such as Albariño and Godello, and the unique challenges winemakers face in the region's Atlantic climate. Noah also highlights the evolving landscape of Galician wine production, featuring both small producers and larger cooperatives. Additionally, the episode explores Galicia's rich...
info_outlineInside Winemaking - the art and science of growing grapes and crafting wine
In this episode, we have the honor of having a conversation with Sarah Placella, founder of Root Applied Sciences, to explore sustainable vineyard management through innovative technologies. We discuss the role of spore traps in detecting powdery mildew, enabling grape growers to reduce chemical use while maintaining vineyard health. The episode discusses advancements in air sampling techniques, including solar-powered models and dry cyclone systems, which optimize pathogen detection. We also cover the economic benefits of reduced pesticide applications and the potential of biological...
info_outlineInside Winemaking - the art and science of growing grapes and crafting wine
In this episode, we have a conversation with Kurtis Ogasawara, the Director of Winemaking at Robert Mondavi Winery. Kurtis shares his expertise into the challenges and successes of managing such a prestigious winery in Napa Valley. The discussion covers the winery's rich history, including the legacy of Robert Mondavi. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the art of blending, extended maceration, and the evolving techniques in winemaking that balance tradition with innovation. The episode also highlights the winery's diverse portfolio, focusing on the elegance and complexity of...
info_outlineInside Winemaking - the art and science of growing grapes and crafting wine
This episode features a conversation with Guillaume Maugeais, a seasoned barrel cooper and winemaker with a diverse background in the global wine industry. Guillaume shares his journey from becoming a copper in Burgundy to exploring winemaking across continents, including his experiences in Cognac, New Zealand, Australia and California. We discuss the role of oak in winemaking, how Guillaume evaluates a cooper’s toasting abilities, barrel sanitation in a winery, caring for empty barrels, and seasoning of barrels including chimney stacking staves, which is unique to the barrels Guillaume...
info_outlineInside Winemaking - the art and science of growing grapes and crafting wine
In this episode, we explore the journey of Neza Skrt, a pioneering winemaker who transitioned from biotechnology in Slovenia to leading innovative winemaking practices in La Rioja, Spain. At the forefront of the Aiurri Winery, Skrt shares her insights on blending tradition with modern techniques, emphasizing sustainable viticulture amidst the challenges of climate change. We discuss vineyard management, the significance of preserving old vines, and the complexities of Spanish wine classifications. Additionally, we touch on the impact of climate change on grape growing in Spain and...
info_outlineInside Winemaking - the art and science of growing grapes and crafting wine
This episode is dedicated to some cellar Q&A and a highlight covering three key winemaking tools. Listeners will learn about managing sulfur consistency, dissolved oxygen, and free SO2 levels to maintain wine quality. The episode highlights essential winemaking tools, such as the densitometer and optical sorter, which aid fermentation tracking and optimize grape sorting. Additionally, we discuss the FermRite fermentation bung as a modern solution to traditional bubblers. Winemaking Class Offers and Show Notes for all episodes at Resources from this Episode Anton Paar Densitometer DMA 35: ...
info_outlineInside Winemaking - the art and science of growing grapes and crafting wine
In this episode, Germán di Cesare from Bodega Trivento shares his journey in Argentinian winemaking, focusing on innovations like the creation of white Malbec. Growing up in Mendoza, Germán's passion for wine was influenced by local traditions and his family's vineyard roots. He discusses the unique climate challenges in Mendoza, the importance of vineyard management, and the collaborative efforts among Argentinian wineries to enhance the country's wine reputation. The episode highlights Trivento's diverse Malbec offerings, from the Reserve line to the iconic Golden Reserve, emphasizing the...
info_outlineListen 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/047188149X
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Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.