Wine Talks with Paul K.

All you knew about wine is about to bust wide open… We are going to talk about what really happens in the wine business, and I’m taking no prisoners. Learn more at: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/. I am your host, Paul Kalemkiarian, 2nd generation owner of the Original Wine of the Month Club, and I am somewhere north of 100,000 wines tasted. How can Groupon sell 12 bottles for $60, and the wines be good? How do you start a winery anyway and lose money? And is a screwcap really better than a cork? Sometimes I have to pick a wine at the store by the label and the price... and I get screwed. Subscribe now and prepare to be enlightened.

Behind the Scenes at Paris’ Barbecue Championship: Judges, Prizes, and Local Impact 01/08/2026

Behind the Scenes at Paris’ Barbecue Championship: Judges, Prizes, and Local Impact Paris.....Texas. The subject to two movies over the years, the most recent a romantic comedy. Listen, folks, this ain't no joke. I can personally attest that BBQ is alive in well in Texas and this day was a Championship Blowout. Wine Talks was so intrgiued about the whole culture of BBQ, that we set up a podcast with Steven White, last years Grand Champion, Laura Caldwell, the representative from the Championship Barbecue Alliance, and Paul Allen, the 8 year President of the Paris, Texas Chamber of Commerce. We had a hoot. This episode is all about barbecue in Paris, Texas, but it’s also a celebration of community, camaraderie, and a bit of competition. The host, Paul Kalemkiarian, kicks things off with heartfelt family anecdotes and dives straight into the welcoming spirit of Paris. Our guests — Steven White, Laura Caldwell, and Paul Allen — are true barbecue champions, and their love for bringing people together through food is practically contagious. A few tasty tidbits: Barbecue isn’t just about grilling meat — it’s about balance. As Steven White explains, the trick is not being “too sweet, not too spicy, not too anything.” The competitions are run by alliances like the Champions Barbecue Alliance, who keep judging modern with QR codes and cell phones — no greasy, handwritten scorecards here! Newbies are ALWAYS welcome. Veteran pit-masters love sharing tips, but the real trick is in the execution (and maybe wrangling an occasional bacon stretcher just for laughs). The event supports local scholarships for kids, blending culinary skills with giving back. Most importantly, it’s all about the joy of gathering around good food. Whether you’re debating the merits of beer, whiskey, or a surprising glass of wine with your brisket, you’re guaranteed to find laughter and friendship. If you want more nitty-gritty details, heartwarming stories, or just an excuse to fire up your grill this weekend, this episode’s transcript is packed with flavor. Just ask if you want to zoom in on a specific part! Let me know if you want more fun facts, tips from the pit, or favorite wine pairings to go with those ribs. I’m here to serve — lighthearted and informative, just like this Paris, Texas shindig! YouTube: https://youtu.be/PYXxTffwzdI?si=zObHVBSRQdP9j2PM #BarbecueCompetition #WineTalksPodcast #TexasBBQ #FoodCommunity /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/39663105

Women Leading Armenia’s Wine and Tourism Revolution 01/06/2026

Women Leading Armenia’s Wine and Tourism Revolution The wine movement is Armenia is "pedal to the medal." Katie, bar the door, no holds barred. As it should be. And leading the helm are some tough no non-sense women. Sisian Boghossian is one of them. Clearly, her commitment to her heritage country is firmly planted, as her intentions when arriving in Yerevan were set on gaining some experience and returning to her home in Canada. Oops, sometimes the best laid plans of mice and women are derailed. In this episode of Wine Talks, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Sisian Boghossian, who brought an incredible breadth of insight and personal experience to our conversation about Armenia—her homeland and her passion. The focus of the episode was on what makes Armenia an authentic, vibrant destination, especially beyond its capital, Yerevan. Sisian Boghossian immediately set the scene by sharing how the real beauty of Armenia lies in its regions, where the authenticity of its culture truly shines. It was inviting and heartfelt, and I could sense her pride in encouraging travelers to explore beyond the city. Our discussion dove into tourism and how post-Soviet Armenia is evolving, especially with growing international interest. It was eye-opening to learn how government strategies, infrastructure improvements, and a slow but steady climb in visitor numbers—particularly after bouncing back from Covid—are changing the perception of Armenia on the global stage. Sisian Boghossian broke down the challenges and successes and explained how diverse marketing efforts target both the diaspora and international tourists, touching on those untapped markets of Armenians who have never even visited their ancestral homeland. We also explored the culinary and nightlife explosion in Yerevan, shaped by influences from Syrian and Lebanese Armenians, and the shift toward Armenia being recognized as a safe, welcoming country with a deep-rooted sense of family and hospitality. From hiking spots to world-class cuisine, the reasons to visit Armenia are multiplying—and being discovered by publications like Forbes and Conde Nast. One of my favorite threads of the conversation was Armenia’s blossoming wine industry and how wine tourism is putting the country on the map. We talked about the international events Armenia has hosted, like the UN Global Wine Conference and the upcoming prestigious wine competitions, which bring global experts right to Armenian soil. In this context, we touched on the stories of passionate winemakers and entrepreneurs—many of them women—who are shaping the industry and breaking molds in what is traditionally a patriarchal society. There was a delightful detour into culture and film, as Sisian Boghossian shared her involvement in “A Winter’s Song,” a Christmas romantic comedy shot in Armenia, which aims to showcase the country to a global audience—not just Armenians. We laughed about the unique joys and challenges of cultural exchange, and celebrated how accessible the arts and events are to the local public, from free outdoor concerts to dazzling holiday festivities. Throughout the episode, I felt a deep admiration for Sisian Boghossian’s passion for her country and her commitment to helping Armenia evolve, not just through government and policy, but by bridging local and diaspora voices and talents. The episode closed on a hopeful note, reminding listeners that Armenia welcomes contributions of all sorts—whether through tourism, investment, or simply sharing in its vibrant culture. I left our conversation feeling inspired, moved by Sisian Boghossian’s story and the powerful sense that Armenia’s brightest days are ahead, fueled by its resilient and talented people. YouTube: https://youtu.be/Rlh_Lp_Me9w #WineTalks #Armenia #PaulKalemkiarian #SisianBoghossian #WineTourism #ArmenianWine #TravelArmenia #WomenInWine #HiddenGem #Diaspora #Yerevan #ArmenianCulture #TourismStrategy #Winemaking #UNWineConference #FilmInArmenia #WinterInArmenia #ArmenianFood #ArmenianHospitality #Entrepreneurship /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/39618565

Too Small to Fail: Passion, Humility, and Purpose at Saarloos and Sons Winery 12/30/2025

Too Small to Fail: Passion, Humility, and Purpose at Saarloos and Sons Winery In all industries there are the visionaries. People that make industry veterans raise an eyebrow and reflect "this is exactly who we need." Keith Saarloos is that person for me. I won't bore you with my tenure but suffice it to say, I've been around the block...enter Keith Saarloos. I am so inspired by this man, I want to find a way to start a podcast with him. News on that later. What is cool....eac and every time I receive an inquiry to visiting the Central Coast wine district and specifically, Los Olivos, I recommend Saarloos and Sons...and each and everytime, Keith takes the moment to engage the guest...in my opinion, this is rethinking the wine business, not social metrics and boxed wine. We started off with Keith Saarloos sharing his roots—growing up in Southern California, the life lessons learned working in his family's business, and his journey that eventually led him to the Santa Ynez Valley. I loved listening to Keith reminisce about those early days, from delivery routes that taught him everything about the region to how customer service is at the heart of every great business. Keith opened up about how his family shifted from the dairy industry to farming and, after a tough chapter as apple growers, ultimately found their way to planting grapevines. He talked about the serendipitous way the winemaking journey began for the Saarloos family—less out of a carefully mapped business plan and more because of resilience, optimism, and a willingness to learn by doing. We got into the nitty-gritty of what it means to be a real farmer and winemaker—how everything from humility to the willingness to "burn the ships" and never quit has shaped the Saarloos approach. Keith emphasized how much of wine’s magic comes from the honest, sometimes gritty, work in the vineyard—not just from slick marketing or a pretty label. If you came into winemaking thinking it was all about lifestyle and glamour, Keith quickly dispels that myth and gives you the reality: hard work, family, and a deep connection to the land. One of the most moving parts of the episode was when we talked about the legacy of family. Keith spoke about the loss of his father, what it means to try to fill those big shoes, and how the wisdom and values passed down through generations end up in each bottle they produce. I could really feel the passion when Keith explained that every bottle is a story—often with a family member’s photo on the label—a piece of living legacy. We didn’t shy away from the philosophical side of wine, either. We discussed why people are drawn to this lifestyle, the concept of terroir in Ballard Canyon, and the intangible, almost spiritual connection between what’s in your glass and the land it comes from. We even touched on biblical references to wine, and what it means for wine to be more than just a beverage—but rather something soulful, connecting people and places through time. And of course, we contrasted this authentic, family-driven approach with the rise of mass-market, formulaic wines. Keith was gracious in saying there’s a place for gateway wines like Cali Red and even Martha Stewart Chardonnay, but he also explained why the heart and humility found in bottles from people like him is irreplaceable. All in all, this episode was about more than just winemaking—it was about family, authenticity, hard lessons, and the kind of artistry that comes with real passion and a sense of place. Whether you’re into wine professionally, come from a farming family, or just love a good story, I think you’ll take something away from my conversation with Keith Saarloos. Thanks for joining me on this episode of Wine Talks—until next time, cheers! YouTube: #WineTalksPodcast #SantaYnezWine #FamilyWinery #WineStories /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/39561625

Inside Valentino: Piero Selvaggio on LA’s Italian Food Revolution and Wine Culture 12/16/2025

Inside Valentino: Piero Selvaggio on LA’s Italian Food Revolution and Wine Culture Step into the story of LA’s culinary evolution with Wine Talks, where conversations are poured as generously as the wine. In this episode, I welcomes legendary restaurateur Piero Selvaggio—a man whose career spans the golden age of Los Angeles dining, and whose philosophy on food and wine has inspired chefs, winemakers, and bon vivants the world over. Wine Talks isn’t just about swirling glasses and describing bouquets—it’s about the unforgettable people behind the bottle, and the moments that shape the table. Imagine LA in the early 1970s, when Italian cuisine meant little more than checkered cloths and spaghetti. Into this world, Piero Selvaggio arrived with little more than $5,000 and a vision—an immigrant’s drive, sharpened by honesty and the hunger for authenticity. Through his iconic restaurant Valentino, Piero Selvaggio became both a host and a bridge—introducing LA to the wonders of Italian food beyond the basics, and to wines that would soon rewrite world history. The cast is rich with characters: Jim Barrett of Chateau Montelena, the quiet revolutionary behind the Judgment of Paris; Wolfang Puck and Michael McCarty, friends and culinary disruptors; and a procession of winemakers, chefs, and critics who together transformed LA’s dining scene from backwater to beacon. But at the heart of the story is Piero Selvaggio's enduring message: passion and curiosity are what make the journey worthwhile. He shares how a well-timed piece of honest criticism set him on a path of discovery, how the bonds between food, wine, and people mean more than accolades, and how restaurants aren’t just businesses—they’re places of memory, inspiration, and celebration. As Paul Kalemkiarian and Piero Selvaggio unfold the tale, you’ll hear about earthquakes that shatter cellars but never friendships, about the pursuit of true ingredients, and about the resilience behind the glamour—especially in times of uncertainty. The conversation is a tribute to tradition, innovation, and the spirit that keeps us gathering, toasting, and tasting no matter what. Listen to Wine Talks for a seat at the table of LA’s great culinary adventure, and find yourself inspired not just to drink, but to savor the story in every glass. winepodcast, LArestauranthistory, Italiancuisine, PieroSelvaggio, PaulKalemkiarian, Valentinorestaurant, winecollecting, JudgmentofParis, Californiawines, foodandwinepairing, restaurantbusiness, Michelinguide, chefculture, winedistributors, winelistcuration, pandemicrestaurants, culinaryinnovation, sommelierstories, finedining, wineeducation, neighborhoodrestaurants /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/39418530

Breaking Wine Barriers: Rita Rosa’s Journey from Nigeria to Bordeaux 12/09/2025

Breaking Wine Barriers: Rita Rosa’s Journey from Nigeria to Bordeaux Wine Talks has been watching this woman. She is making waves in a part of the wine world that one might not consider in daily converstaion: Nigeria. How does one become a Bordeaux specialist in Nigeria? Where does that inspiration come from? I have to tell you, having Rita Rosa on Wine Talks was like catching a warm breeze off the Mediterranean—unexpected, lively, and full of stories you want to tuck away for a rainy day with a glass of red. I started our conversation, as I often do, thinking I’d heard most things about the global wine world, but Rita took me right to the heart of Nigeria, weaving its vibrancy into the fabric of Bordeaux’s storied cellars. Let’s be honest: when you hear “African wine market,” most folks in the business still think it’s in its infancy, maybe a curiosity for big European houses sniffing after emerging markets. But Rita set me straight right from the jump—Nigerians have been drinking wine for quite a while, thank you very much. She explained that Lagos, with its 30 million people and a nightlife that rivals New York, is a place where wine shops mingle with the energy of a city that never sleeps. What struck me most was Rita’s insistence that wine, at its core, is about what makes your heart beat and your mouth feel alive—forget the technical jargon for a moment, and just savor the connection it brings between people. I’ve always found wine to be the great equalizer at the table, but Rita has this beautiful ritual, telling her guests—ministers, commissioners, presidents—to leave their titles at the door and just be human, united by the “elixir which brings all of us joy.” And talk about insight—she moved from banking into wine through a happy twist of fate, marrying into a family that started an actual wine store in Nigeria. She didn’t just open the doors; she redefined what a wine shop was in Lagos by bringing Bordeaux’s best right to West Africa. Rita didn’t mince words about what it felt like to be a black woman in the predominantly male, white-dominated world of wine—walking into tasting rooms in Bordeaux and feeling the eyes on her, questioning her authority and knowledge. And yet, her sense of pride in being Nigerian, in holding space for herself and others like her, was palpable. That same energy she poured into her business, her studies, and later into programs like Bordeaux Mentor Week, aiming to open doors for young hopefuls from emerging wine countries. One of my favorite moments was when she shared her disdain for wine pairing rules. Rita throws caution (and orthodoxy) to the wind—she’s out there pairing Bordeaux with Nigerian meats and letting guests explore, taste, and challenge all the old conventions. As someone who’s never shied from having strong opinions about pairing, I found her approach utterly refreshing. It reminded me of my own tendency to resist being put in a box, especially by tradition-bound French winemakers. Throughout our conversation, Rita kept tying things back to connection, humanity, and the healing power of wine—how her own store in Lagos became not just a business, but a sanctuary during grief. I resonated with that, having seen the same in my own shop over the years. In a world where the market is consolidating, distributors are cautious, and cell phones threaten genuine interaction, Rita’s approach stands as a glowing reminder that the heart of wine is, and always should be, its power to bring people together. So here’s to Rita—her infectious energy, her resilience, and her vision for a new, more inclusive wine world. I count myself lucky to have had a front-row seat to her story, and if you ever get a chance to pair Amarone with plantains or taste Bordeaux alongside cassava ravioli, take it. That’s the kind of experience that makes Wine Talks more than just a podcast—it’s a journey. Or watch on YouTube: #WineIndustry #AfricanWine #WomenInWine #WineCulture /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/39343805

Terroir, Technology, and Taste: The Future of Wine in Armenia 12/04/2025

Terroir, Technology, and Taste: The Future of Wine in Armenia This might meet with controversy, but I think Adam is correct. growing non-indigenous varietals, whether it be Armenia, Georgia or anywhere else, supports the chances of burgeoning wine regions to get any traction in the world of wine. It is tough out there where brand recognition is a tough battle to win, and consumers are inundated with messaging. Adam has taken, not sure I can call it the high road, but "A" road to getting his wines recognized as worthy of your attention. And he has done it by growing what otherwise would be sacreligious varietals. In this special episode, I sit down with Adam Kablanian, the visionary founder and owner of Alexandria Winery in Armenia—a man whose life has spanned the worlds of microchip design and ancient terroir, bringing together the precision of Silicon Valley and the heart of Armenian soil. Our story begins with Adam Kablanian's ambitious dream: to put Armenia on the world wine map, proving that its volcanic soils and diverse terroirs can produce wines of excellence and distinct character. Raised in physics and forged in the fires of tech entrepreneurship, Adam Kablanian isn't your typical winemaker. He talks about hiring talented minds for his tech companies and learning, through trial and success, that potential is more about people and environment than just experience. This philosophy naturally transitioned when he began examining the land, the grapes, and the possibilities in Armenia—a nation with a deep but interrupted history of winemaking. Adam Kablanian shares how he could have chosen the comfort and prestige of Napa, but instead, he was drawn to the challenge and the adventure of Armenia, where land is cheaper, and the story richer. His approach is pragmatic and inspirational; recognizing the headwinds of unfamiliar grape names and unknown regions, he decided to bridge old and new by producing international varietals alongside Armenia’s indigenous grapes. His winemaking isn’t just about bottles—it’s about creating honest wines that echo the terroir, about blending ancient vines with modern techniques, and, most importantly, about making wine accessible. From his initial days struggling with unremarkable local wines, to witnessing Armenia’s transformation as technology and global culture elevated the nation’s palate, Adam Kablanian reflects on the intersection of progress and tradition. He sees his winery not just as a business—“a $10 million investment in belief”—but as a proof point that Armenia, with its elevation, volcanic soils, and unique varieties, can inspire the world. This episode invites you behind the curtain—to learn not just about wine, but about vision, persistence, and the courage to marry old roots with new dreams. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or just wine-curious, the journey of Adam Kablanian will remind you that wine is much more than a drink; it’s an expression of humanity, a link between land, culture, and the boldness it takes to create something lasting. So pour a glass, settle in, and let this story inspire your next sip and next adventure. YouTube: #WineTalks #ArmenianWine #WinePodcast #Terroir /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/39215150

Oregon Wine's Evolution: In the Vineyard with Robert McKinley of Norris Winery 12/02/2025

Oregon Wine's Evolution: In the Vineyard with Robert McKinley of Norris Winery Wine is family. True wine, true expression, true passion only comes from the support of the family. Not just your blood relatives, but the family of wine. One who is in the trade and has an earnest appreciation for the value of an honest wine, is welcome all over the world by their fellow brothers and sisters. I have seen if first hand over and over again. In this case, Robert McKinly came to Wine Talks through what might be the most authentic, meaning non-commercial, path...through a USC fraternity brother. We learned of our mutual involvement in the wine trade when we were both asked to participate in creating a wine dinner for upt 50 guests. And when I tasted the wines they were making out of Williamette Valley, Oregon, I became an instant fan. Robert McKinley, the winemaker, is the son of my college brother and he got caught the jist of wine at an early age. Our discussion was fascinating. For this episode, I have the pleasure of sitting down with Robert McKinley of Norris Winery—an Oregon vintner whose journey embodies the restless curiosity, grit, and humility that define the Willamette Valley’s rise. The tale begins like all good wine stories do: with family and a patch of earth no one quite knows how to love yet. Robert McKinley's parents purchased what was then a hazelnut orchard in 2005, right as Ribbon Ridge earned its AVA status. A teenager, Robert spent his formative years amidst newly planted vines, not yet knowing the soil would shape not just Pinot Noir, but his destiny. He recounts, with genuine awe, the slow, collaborative growth of an entire region—neighbors lending a hand, grapes shared and bartered, and a sense that the Willamette was still, in his words, “the wild, wild West” of winemaking. What’s compelling about Robert McKinley is his philosophy—a conviction that great wine is made in the vineyard, not the cellar. “Our goal is just to guide the fruit through,” he says, placing nature, patience, and attentive farming above the artifice of heavy-handed cellar work. Each year brings new weather, new tests, and new opportunities for discovery. Some years, smoke from wildfires changes everything. Some years, unexpected frost demands nimble thinking. The constant, Robert McKinley says, is the discipline and humility to let the land—and the vintage—speak for itself. We explore what it means to chase the elusive concept of terroir, to collaborate with neighbors instead of merely competing, and to endure the challenges of a winemaker's life: distribution headaches, shipping woes, and generational change. Robert McKinley shares his love for Riesling—a grape he calls misunderstood and loves to see guests discover in his tasting room. His story isn’t one of overnight success, but of dedication, adaptability, and the deep satisfaction of crafting something authentic. Come listen, and you’ll find echoes of your own passions—the patience required to build something meaningful, the vulnerability of weathering change, and the inspiration to put your own fingerprint on whatever field you call home. Pour a glass, lean in, and join us: this is Wine Talks, a story as much about Oregon’s soil as it is about the human spirit taking root. YouTube: https://youtu.be/ucETmLVwQyQ #WinePodcast #WillametteValley #OregonWine #WinemakerStories /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/39212790

Reflections on Wine, Family, and Finding Passion in Life’s Unlikely Journeys 11/27/2025

Reflections on Wine, Family, and Finding Passion in Life’s Unlikely Journeys I came into the studio today to get some wine and organize a few things. I also wanted to test the internet connections because yesterday I had two show fall apart from internet issues. It seems they were on the guests side. As I started testing, it turns out I had something to say (shocker). Absolutely! Here’s a warm recap of the episode from my point of view as the narrator: In this episode, I took a moment to share both some personal reflections and a few heartwarming stories from the wine world. As Thanksgiving approached, I found myself in the office, grabbing wines for our family gathering, and reminiscing about the journey that brought me here—especially how grateful I am for my father’s decision to offer me the Wine of the Month Club before selling it. I never planned on being in the wine business, but looking back, I’m thankful every day for the path it set me on. I also spoke about the tight-knit fraternity and sorority within the wine trade, highlighting friendships with people like Veronique Sanders and Alexander Van Beek of Bordeaux’s Chateau Giscours. Their support—taking my niece Lisa in as an intern at Château Batailley—perfectly illustrates how the wine world feels like an extended family. Lisa’s journey from hesitance to a newfound love of working in the vineyard reminded me that the passion for wine truly begins in the soil. The episode was also a chance for me to talk about upcoming podcasts, including my recent interviews with figures like Nick Karavitas—who’s been in the wine business for 45 years—and Walter Georis, the musician behind the iconic surf film, The Endless Summer, who now owns a winery. It’s always fascinating to see the serendipitous ways people find themselves in the wine industry! I reflected on the two very different sides of the wine trade: the premium, terroir-driven wines that express a unique sense of place and time, and the mass-market, consumer-driven labels found in supermarkets. I made it clear that I value both, but I have a special place in my heart for the wines that reflect honest craftsmanship and their natural origins. Lastly, I expressed pride in helping my nephew navigate the world of wine as he builds his corporate career, teaching him that understanding wine isn’t just about the drink—it’s about opening doors and connecting with people around the world. All in all, this short episode was my chance to share gratitude, celebrate the connections made through wine, and offer a few human stories along the way. Cheers and Happy Thanksgiving! YouTube: https://youtu.be/irTHdpjPATY #WinePodcast #WineIndustry #WineStories #WineEducation /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/39193985

How French Village Life Changed the Hoffman Family’s View of Food, Wine, and Culture 11/25/2025

How French Village Life Changed the Hoffman Family’s View of Food, Wine, and Culture It is a dream for many people to pick up and move to another country. Virtually, no one acts on that dream. Steve Hoffman did. And it seems it takes a certain type of partner, a certain type of children and a certain type of risk tolerance. What do you do? Throw a dart and a map of France and moce there? The answer to that question and just about any question you might have in regardst o moving your entire family to a foreign country is answered in his book "" In this episode, I sat down with Steve Hoffman—a truly fascinating guest whose life journey has taken him from tax preparation in Minnesota to writing about food, wine, and the adventures that come when you upend your comfortable life and move your family to rural southern France. We kicked things off by talking about Steve Hoffman's unusual career blend: by day he’s a seasoned tax preparer (25 years in the game), but his real creative passion lies in writing, especially about food and travel. We dove into his book, "A Season for That," which chronicles his family’s adventure as they left behind their predictable Minnesota routine for a small French village—with two kids in tow. That journey was as much about immersing themselves in French culture and language as it was about discovering how to cook the local food and connect with the local winemaking traditions. One of the big themes we explored was creativity—how hard it is to switch gears from the structured world of numbers to the freewheeling world of writing. Both of us agreed: creativity is a skill you have to practice, nurture, and work at. We also talked about how the relentless pace of social media and AI-generated content creates burnout for today’s creators, and how meaningful writing (and winemaking) always comes from a deep, unique personal perspective. We took the listeners through the excitement and challenges of integrating into French village life—the struggles with unfamiliar and often pungent cuisine, and how difficult it was for Steve Hoffman's kids to adjust. We got honest about failed dishes, peculiar local ingredients, and the cultural value of not wasting any part of the food. The conversation was filled with stories about learning from neighbors, the importance of family meals, and how sharing food and wine became a way of connecting across cultures. Of course, wine was front and center. We talked about the deep agricultural roots of winemaking in France, the differences between American and European wine culture, and why wine is so much more than just a beverage—it's a time capsule, capturing the character of a particular year and place. We compared the American pursuit of "great vintages" to the French view: that every vintage is valuable if it honestly expresses that year and terroir. Lastly, we dove into the mystique of wine pairing—questioning whether there’s really a “perfect match” or if the best pairings are simply what fits the moment and mood. Sometimes you open a special bottle and let the food catch up, rather than the other way around! This episode was packed with personal anecdotes, deep dives into creativity and culture, and, most importantly, a celebration of wine as a connector between people, places, and memories. Whether you’re a wine geek, a foodie, or just looking for inspiration to shake up your routine, you’ll find something to savor here. Pull up a glass, and join us for the ride! YouTube: https://youtu.be/0MtN3SANKak #WineTalksPodcast #WineCulture #FrenchWine #FoodAndWine /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/39168630

Inventing the Coravin: Greg Lambrecht on Transforming Wine Culture and Expanding By-the-Glass Exploration 11/18/2025

Inventing the Coravin: Greg Lambrecht on Transforming Wine Culture and Expanding By-the-Glass Exploration Who invents these things? and what experience do they have that gets them to the point that they can invent these things? Entrepreneurs are a crafty bunch. They dream. They test themselves. They switch gears on the fly. So goes the story of Greg Lambrecht, the inventor of the Coravin wine preservation and dispensing system. You have to believe the story, though it seems unbelievable, because it is true. Imagine a podcast where invention, passion, and the enduring mystique of wine come together—where stories of ingenuity inspire new perspectives on the familiar rituals of sharing a bottle. Welcome to Wine Talks, and in this special episode, we sit down with none other than Greg Lambrecht: medical device inventor, Chairman, and founder of Coravin, the revolutionary wine preservation system that’s changed the way we taste and savor the world’s finest bottles. Our journey begins not in a vineyard, but deep inside the world of plasma physics, where a young Greg Lambrecht first dreamed of fusion reactors before pivoting toward medicine and, ultimately, the creative crossroads that would see him transform both fields. It’s the kind of path mapped by an insatiable curiosity, a "ferocity of purpose"—as Greg Lambrecht puts it—that won’t let go until a solution is found. Whether protecting healthcare workers with safer needles or opening doors to rare wines without ever pulling a cork, Greg Lambrecht's inventions answer needs no one thought to ask out loud. What sets this conversation apart isn’t just its recounting of triumphs over glass and grape, but the philosophy animating Greg Lambrecht’s work. He believes wine’s true essence lies not in luxury, but in experience: its power to bring people together, its infinite variety ripe for exploration, its uncanny knack for weaving memory and flavor into moments we’ll never forget. Wine, as he reminds us, is the "most social beverage," a thread running through history that binds strangers and friends alike. Threaded throughout the episode is an unyielding optimism: that even as wine faces cycles of challenge—from shifting tastes to industry headwinds—it will endure, because what it offers is elemental and unchanging. Imbued with the joy of discovery and a respect for craftsmanship, this episode doesn't just trace the arc of an inventor’s career; it champions a deeper message. Innovation and tradition aren’t adversaries, but partners that keep the world of wine vital and surprising for the generations yet to come. So pour a glass, settle in, and let this episode remind you that sometimes, the best stories—and the best bottles—are those we share together, with curiosity and an open mind. The future of wine, it turns out, is a journey made one meaningful sip at a time. #WineTalksPodcast #GregLambrecht #PaulKalemkiarian #Coravin #WineInnovation #WinePreservation #Entrepreneurship #WineIndustry #WineByTheGlass #WineDiscovery #WineExperience #MedicalDevices #WineCulture #WineTasting #WineTechnology #ChampagnePreservation #WineMemories #Sommelier #WineEducation #WineCommunity /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/39063775

Breaking Traditions: Collaboration, Diversity, and Modern Strategies in the Wine Industry 11/11/2025

Breaking Traditions: Collaboration, Diversity, and Modern Strategies in the Wine Industry There is alot of speculation, prognositcatiom, miss-information, ridiculous conclusions, and outright bad data about the wine trade right now. Everyone with an opinion is chiming in. And some of these folks have done nothing more than work in a wine shop or behind the scenes at an agency. How does that quote go? "It is much easier to give advice from the veil of cover, than to use it at the point of attack" That is percisely how I feel about much of what is being said. Enter Barbara Gorder. She gives advice but has used it at the point of attack. You see, she didn't come from the wine trade to convolute and miss-comprehend the data, she came from main stream marketing; high end stuff; Leo Burnett. Barbara Gorder never cared much for the wine itself—at least, not at first. Her fascination started in a Roman-built wine cave, an art history professor and a bottle of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. But what truly pulls Barbara Gorder into wine’s gravity isn’t just what’s in the glass; it’s the changing, challenging business behind it. This episode pours listeners an insider’s view not just of shifting generational tastes or the specter of “neo-prohibitionists,” but the seismic explosion of wineries competing for our (increasingly distracted) attention. You’ll discover how direct-to-consumer (DTC) wine marketing—once an afterthought—has grown into a multibillion-dollar necessity, and how Barbara Gorder helped drive this revolution by importing lessons from fields as disparate as luxury beauty and global snack foods. With wit and blunt honesty, she uncorks tales of exclusion—women in marketing meetings, outsiders “not related by blood or marriage”—and explains how diversity and collaboration are quietly rewriting the rules of success. Listen in as Paul Kalemkiarian grills her on why most wineries have only now started talking to their customers (and still don’t know their acquisition costs), why the wine industry’s language gap drives away curious drinkers, and how the future lies not in doom-and-gloom narratives, but in creative marketing and open doors. This is a rare tasting of industry confessionals, hard marketing truths, and what it really takes to stand out when your competitors have multiplied from 7,500 to over 11,000 in under five years. By the end, you’ll have a seat at the table with the most eccentric thinkers in wine, understand why “my wine sells itself” is a myth, and get a glimpse at the future of how—and to whom—wine is going to be sold. #wineindustry #DTCwine #BarbaraGorder #PaulKalemkiarian #winemarketing #winebusiness #winerycompetition #winesymposium #FreetheGrapes #directtoconsumer #wineclubs #winediversity #wineexperience #wineeducation #winesalesstrategies #winetech #digitalmarketing #womeninwine #wineconsumertrends #winepodcast /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/38981855

Behind the Bottle: Wine, Humility, and Inspiring Stories from Rome to Texas 11/06/2025

Behind the Bottle: Wine, Humility, and Inspiring Stories from Rome to Texas Wine is about the humanity. This concept hit me on a flight home from Rome. I was watching a movie and started to weep. I realized the human soul needs passion, passion forsomething; maybe another person, maybe a lifestyle, maybe a career, but passion drives our will. And wine is full of passion. To do it right, it takes nothing less than passion. Hey there, it’s Paul Kalemkiarian on Wine Talks, and in this episode, I really wanted to get personal and share how deeply humanity and humility run through every thread of the wine world at its highest levels. I open the show reflecting on a profound sense of gratitude after tasting with some top producers—it reminded me why I’m passionate about this podcast. Wine isn’t just a commodity to me; it’s an expression of earth, spirit, and story, and the purpose of Wine Talks is to spread that message. I also let listeners into my own little world, sharing that I’ve tasted 100,000 wines over the years and even built a comprehensive database (and now an AI-driven app) to catalog all these bottles. It’s quirky, but it keeps me grounded in what I love. Then, I shared a special moment from a recent trip to Rome, where I had the honor of attending the Vatican for the canonization of an Armenian archbishop. It was a powerful experience—full of history, pageantry, and meaning. Of course, the promised “private audience with the Pope” wasn’t exactly one-on-one selfies, but still, being there among so many was remarkable. The journey continued to Puglia in southern Italy, where I managed, despite short notice, to meet with Mark Shannon of Amano wines. Mark’s story resonated deeply—an American winemaker settling in an up-and-coming wine region, driven by pure passion. We recorded a heartfelt conversation, shared great food, and I came away reminded how wine connects people at the most human level. On my flight home, I got unexpectedly emotional watching Top Gun: Maverick. It hit home how we all seek passion and escape—sometimes in movies, sometimes in travel, sometimes in wine. No matter our circumstances, that longing for meaningful off-ramps never goes away. The show then explores not only the artistry and soulfulness in winemaking, but also the nuts-and-bolts of the business—from manipulated supermarket bottles that miss the mark to innovative new packaging concepts, marketing strategies, and the challenges faced by artisans like Mark Shannon trying to access the U.S. market. I shared anecdotes about recent guests—a geophysicist connecting volcanic soils to wine character, a business-savvy marketing pro, and other passionate personalities in the wine world. I reflected on the fascinating diversity of experiences, from NBA stars getting into wine to trailblazers supporting Armenian wine in the global conversation. In the end, I emphasized why I do this: it’s for the humanity, the stories, and the connections that wine brings. My hope is always to bring listeners closer to the heart of wine—whether it’s a legendary Bordeaux tasting or a birthday party at my own home. It’s all about sharing, learning, and feeling something real. Cheers to the humanity of wine—and thanks for joining me on this episode of Wine Talks. #winepodcast #WineTalks #PaulKalemkiarian #winetrade #winebusiness #winetasting #humanityinwine #PugliaItaly #Armenianwine #Bordeaux #NapaValley #passionforwine #storytelling #volcanicsoil #winemarketing #appellation #Primitivo #Zinfandel #winemakers #wineculture /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/38943480

Puglian Wine Evolution: Mark Shannon’s 46-Year Passion for Quality and Authenticity 11/04/2025

Puglian Wine Evolution: Mark Shannon’s 46-Year Passion for Quality and Authenticity Wine Talks was invited to meet the Pope....well, at least by the language in the invitation, it sounded like we were going to meet the Pope. It turns out that the word "private audience" meant with 6294 other private invitees. Lol, it was an honor just to be there. Wine Talks took a detour out of Rome to the now-famed wine region of Puglia. Home of Primitivo, Negroamaro, and Fiano, the area of Puglia has a rich Italian history on its own. As the trip was put together on short notice, I searched through my database of Puglian wines tasted and found the wines of A MANO as wines I enjoyed. In the meantime, I reached out to Vahe Keushguerian for some advice on who to contact for a podcast; after all, his famed winemaking career started in Puglia. He mentioned Mark Shannon of A Mano wines...how about that for a serendipitous connection? I put out a quick email to Mark, and he graciously accepted...and offered to bring in a "traditional" Puglian lunch for our group. Mark Shannon may call himself “just a student of winemaking,” but after you hear his journey, you’ll realize he’s more of a wine whisperer—an alchemist who turns curiosity and grit into liquid art. Pour yourself a glass, because in this episode you’ll travel from the bustling streets of Toronto and the sun-drenched vineyards of California, all the way to an ancient town in Puglia, Italy, where Mark Shannon has spent nearly three decades revolutionizing the region’s wines. You’ll discover how he ditched a potential career in medicine for the fermentative fascination of grapes, and how, propelled by his mother’s wisdom to “work at something you really want to do,” he has woven innovation through tradition. Journey me and Mark Shannon as they break down the science, art, and sheer perseverance it takes to make world-class wine in a place once known as Europe’s bulk wine cellar. You’ll learn about the true identity of Primitivo, the surprising origins it shares with California’s Zinfandel, how post-communist Slovakia and Texas played into Mark’s winding path, and why he chooses soil health and vineyard wisdom over trend-chasing packaging fads. They’ll dig into the sociocultural shifts rocking the global wine market, dissect the mythos (and madness) of biodynamics, and debate what makes a wine truly reflect its terroir—even as climate, culture, and commerce threaten to pull it apart. By the end, you won’t just know how great wine is made—you’ll understand why people still obsess over it, why the right bottle at the right table can mean everything, and why Mark Shannon wouldn’t trade his hard-earned slice of Puglia for anything in the world. Amano Wines (also referred to as a Mano or Amano): This is the winery founded by Mark Shannon, and much of the conversation centers around it. Bogle Vineyards (mentioned by Mark Shannon as a place he worked): Fess Parker Winery (another winery Mark Shannon helped build): #WineTalks #Puglia #ItalyWine #MarkShannon #AdamCarolla #AmanoWines #Primitivo #NegroAmaro #Falanghina #BiodynamicWine #VineyardLife #WineMaking #Terroir #WinePodcast #EuropeanWine #GlobalWine #WineCulture #WineTasting #Sustainability #WineEducation /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/38911055

Unlocking Luxury Wine: Charlotte Selles on Brand Strategy, Relationships, and the Business of Wine 10/30/2025

Unlocking Luxury Wine: Charlotte Selles on Brand Strategy, Relationships, and the Business of Wine It is complitcated. Life. Wine. And to help clear up the wine complication (not sure there is a way to uncomplicate life), is Charlotte Selles. With a distinctive path to her new company Tassei, she brings to the table a wealth of experience cloaked in knowedge, philosophy and experience. She is like a wine savant. She was in LA for a speaking gig and breaved an unusual SoCal downpour to come to studio to share her spirit. Charlotte Selles is the kind of guest who’ll have you reconsidering not just what’s in your wine glass, but why you care in the first place. You think you know luxury in wine? Not so fast. Drawing on her roots in Paris, direct experience with Beaujolais, and a career arc that went from family negotiations to the boardrooms of Robert Mondavi and Jackson Family Wines, Charlotte uproots every tired assumption about what makes a winery—or a wine—worth chasing. Listen closely and you’ll discover why luxury isn’t about price tags or pedigrees, but about resilience, grit, and the tension that comes from pouring your soul into the vineyard, braving storms—literal and figurative—and nurturing a legacy. But this episode doesn’t stop with terroir. Charlotte takes you to the frontlines of modern wine business, from the misguided myth of floodgates marketing to the high-stakes realities of retention, data analytics, and AI in today’s DTC world. She’ll have you rethinking the purpose of your tasting room, craving the deep relationships behind the best bottles, and maybe even second-guessing whether a discount culture can ever breed true loyalty. By the end, you’ll have a new definition of success—not in cases sold, but in customers kept, relationships built, and a business as alive and evolving as the wine itself. Walk away with a fresh understanding of the true business of wine, grounded in purpose, powered by connection, and ready for an uncertain but thrilling future. Jackson Family Wines Website: Constellation Brands Website: Robert Mondavi Winery Website: Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Website: Trader Joe’s Website: Gallo (E. & J. Gallo Winery) Website: Enolytics Website: Commerce7 Website: Wine Direct Website: The Wine Group Website: Verité Winery Website: KNL (K&L Wine Merchants) Website: Wally’s Wine & Spirits Website: #WineTalksPodcast, #CharlotteSelles, #PaulKalemkiarian, #LuxuryWine, #WineBusiness, #DTCWine, #WineInnovation, #CustomerRetention, #WineMarketing, #AIandWine, #NapaValley, #Beaujolais, #BrandStrategy, #SonomaState, #CriticalThinking, #WineRelationships, #WineConsulting, #Entrepreneurship, #WineIndustryInsights, #CommunityBuilding Charlotte Selles is a dynamic leader in the wine industry, known for blending deep expertise with an adventurous spirit. Born in Paris, Charlotte grew up immersed in wine thanks to her father’s work in the négociant industry and an ambitious, if slightly misguided, attempt to become a gentleman farmer in Beaujolais. Through this early exposure, she witnessed first-hand the highs and lows of wine production, gaining a nuanced understanding of luxury and the grit required to succeed. Charlotte made the leap to the U.S. in her early twenties, bringing with her a suitcase of Beaujolais and a healthy dose of courage. Over the years, she carved out a reputation as an innovative strategist, serving as the general manager of the renowned Robert Mondavi Winery and Constellation Brands. She also held the position of Vice President of International Portfolio Strategy for Jackson Family Wines, steering global growth for one of the industry’s heavyweights. Her journey ultimately led her to found Tissay, where she now works as CEO, advising premium vineyards and artisan wineries on brand management and growth. Tissay specializes in helping wineries recover from overexpansion, transition to new business models, and build meaningful relationships with their core customers. Charlotte’s approach is anything but one-size-fits-all; she champions retention marketing, customer data analysis, and strategic focus, drawing on her broad experience in both the European and American wine landscapes. In addition to her consulting work, Charlotte teaches at the Sonoma State Wine Business Institute and speaks on topics ranging from leadership and innovation to global market evolution. She’s well-known for her wit, candor, and commitment to elevating both wine and the people behind it. Her path, from Paris to California’s wine country, is proof that embracing adventure—and a bit of chaos—can lead to extraordinary results. /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/38815805

From Rocks to Wine: Diana Khandilyan’s Unique Journey Through Terroir and Winemaking 10/28/2025

From Rocks to Wine: Diana Khandilyan’s Unique Journey Through Terroir and Winemaking I jumped in on a LinkedIn conversation about wine, soil, volcano's and more. Thought I would contribute to the message string. That is when I engaged Diana on the concept of terroir. But not just any terroir, but volcanic terroir. Then I realized that Diana's expertise in the realm of wine...is the soil! She is a expert in energy and geophysics! Diana Kandiglian is the kind of guest who measures her excitement in bottles, not hours. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when a scientist who reads rocks for a living falls in love with wine, this episode is for you. You’ll learn how Diana’s background as a geophysicist shapes her curiosity about soils and terroir, and why she believes the best wines surprise you, just like life itself. Through her stories, you’ll uncover why Armenia’s volcanic soils produce wines unlike any other, how centuries-old vines navigate climate change, and why boutique winemaking has become the soul of the country’s industry. Paul and Diana peel back layers of old world tradition and new world innovation, exploring appellations, indigenous grape varieties, and the risks of chasing global trends at the expense of authenticity. You’ll be puzzled—but enlightened—by the paradox of Armenia’s old vines and young winemakers, and why Diana advocates for some rules to keep the magic alive. There’s a fascinating discussion of soil science, climate, and grape selection: from Texan clays to French boulders, you’ll understand how the land whispers its secrets into every glass. You’ll hear why the future of wine in both Armenia and unexpected places like Texas and Brazil depends on resilience, sustainable practices, and stories worth telling. If your palate craves complexity and your mind seeks narratives from every region, Diana’s “Pour Across America” vision will inspire you to taste wines you’ve never imagined—and appreciate the intersection of science and soul in every sip. By the time you finish listening, you’ll carry away a deeper understanding not only of Armenian wine, but of what it means to seek adventure, surprise, and connection in your glass. Pour Across America Wine Club Website: Grgich Hills Winery Website: Zulal Wines Website: Van Ardi Website: Karas Wines Website: Messina Hof Winery Website: McPherson Cellars Website: En Vino Wine Shop (Envino) Website: Terravox Website: #winepodcast, #winetalks, #DianaKandiglian, #PaulKalemkiarian, #Armenianwine, #terroir, #geophysics, #soilscience, #volcanicwine, #winenatural, #sustainablewine, #boutiquewine, #fingerlakeswine, #pouracrossamerica, #winetasting, #climatechangewine, #winelover, #winenewworld, #wineeducation, #wineinnovation /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/38798130

Wine Innovation: Mini Bottles, Younger Drinkers, and an Industry in Transition: Meet Abby Bogle 10/16/2025

Wine Innovation: Mini Bottles, Younger Drinkers, and an Industry in Transition: Meet Abby Bogle I keep hearing how the industry has to change, how Gen Z is aren't drinking wine, how the trade is slow to do anything....until you speak with Abby Bogle. She is the type of enthusiasm and drive that is needed to move with the times. You have all heard me say that "time will tell" and that "all generations come around to the proper glass of wine." What Abby is doing is making the proper glass of wine more accessible. Be careful, she is a bit infectious. Abby Bogle is not your average disruptor—she’s bottling up tradition, cracking open innovation, and pouring new life into the wine industry one mini-bottle at a time. You’ll discover how Abby moved from the heart of Texas wine country to leading a revolution in single-serve wine formats that could change how generations experience wine. This conversation uncorks why classic 750ml bottles are struggling to captivate younger drinkers and what it will take for wine to rival the convenience of seltzers and cocktails. Abby reveals the secrets behind fractionalization—how her company, Small Lot Bottles, transforms wines into TSA-friendly miniatures for education, gifting, and direct-to-consumer sales. You’ll learn why canned wines fizzled, why PET plastic just doesn’t cut it, and how glass keeps wine’s integrity intact. The discussion dives into the technical challenges of bottling, shelf life, and the sophisticated use of Coravin’s argon technology to preserve taste and tradition. Paul and Abby muse on the frustrations of shipping wine, navigating legal hurdles, and why Gen Z consumers might grab a can of hard seltzer before ever considering a can of wine. As the conversation flows, you’ll gain a behind-the-scenes look at how wineries are adapting, how industry innovators like Paul Mabray are influencing change, and why experience matters more than size. You’ll come away understanding how the wine world is responding to declining sales, changing demographics, and the demand for something different—plus, you’ll hear about Texas’ own pioneering vineyards and what it means for the future. If you’re wondering where wine is headed, pull up a glass—this episode will give you more than just a taste of tomorrow’s wine culture. Small Lot Bottles Abby Bogle is owner and CEO of Small Lot Bottles. Their website is: Napa Valley Wine Academy Coravin Wine Foundry Oakville Grocery (Oakville Grocer) Culinary Institute of America Quarter Masters of America's Wine education partner: Knox & Dobson #wineindustry #fractionalization #smallformatbottles #wineinnovation #GenZwine #winetrends #winepackaging #wineexperience #directtoconsumer #wineeducation #NapaValleyWineAcademy #winesampling #Coravin #miniwinebottles #Texaswine #ONDseason #winesustainability #winewastesolutions #alternativewineformats #winerymarketing #winegifting #podcastinterview /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/38584775

From the LA Lakers Locker Room to Napa Valley vines: Kelly E. Carter on Diversity, Story, and Wine Exploration 10/14/2025

From the LA Lakers Locker Room to Napa Valley vines: Kelly E. Carter on Diversity, Story, and Wine Exploration I can tell you it was like sitting with a long, lost neighbor when sitting with Kelly E. Carter. And in fact, we were neighbors of sorts back in the day. It wasn't until I was searching for images to create the icons for this podcast did I realize I was in the presence of true maverick royalty. Besides being a New York Times best selling author, she has reported from the greatest sporting events of the world: the NBA FInals, Super Bowls, Grand Slams, Stanley Cup Finals and much more. And more intriguing, she was the woman reporter in the locker room! I was so intrigued and we could have spoken for hours because she is the Founder of the wine tourism group, Napa Valley Noir. sitting down with Kelly E. Carter in the studio for this episode of Wine Talks was like taking a stroll down memory lane while simultaneously hitching a ride on a train heading straight for the future of wine tourism. There’s something about Kelly—her energy, her wit, and just her knack for storytelling—that gets you thinking about the wine industry in ways that feel both nostalgic and freshly invigorating. We kicked things off with some good old home turf banter—Kelly’s Windsor Hills childhood (Ray Charles and Ike & Tina Turner for neighbors, no less) and my own roots in Inglewood. Instantly, there was this shared sense that, before wine stole our hearts, Southern California had given us some pretty unique perspectives on culture and community. And as Kelly pointed out, “you’ll never know everything” about winemaking, which is honestly the very reason some of us keep swirling, sipping, and studying. I know I do. What genuinely impressed me was Kelly’s trajectory. She was the first female to cover the Lakers—how many people do you meet who set out in fourth grade to be a sports journalist and actually make it happen? She wasn’t just content to report on sports. She made her mark, switched lanes into entertainment, and then into luxury travel writing, which eventually led her to Florence and Positano. It’s the kind of layered journey you don’t hear about every day. You talk to some folks, they’ve been in wine their whole lives. With Kelly, it’s travel, sports, culture—all converging in the glass. We got into the nitty-gritty of wine and travel writing and how AI could never replace the boots-on-the-ground experience. I had to laugh—when Kelly plugged Napa into chatbots, she got recommendations for wineries that are closed for renovations. "You have to know the latest," she said, reminding me that the best wine stories are always written with real shoe leather, not just code. Her insights into Napa Valley tourism were equally compelling. As the founder of Napa Valley Noir, Kelly’s passion lies in creating experiences rich in narrative, not just pouring cabs for folks who made it big in tech and want a taste of the valley lifestyle. She’s all about partnerships with wineries that have soul, stories, and a genuine connection to their craft—whether it’s a historic vineyard run by women or an impromptu meeting with Thomas Keller that leaves guests starstruck. Frankly, I couldn’t agree more. The stories make the bottle—and the memories. That’s what keeps this business alive, even as the market shifts. Kelly also talked about the recent surge in African American visitors to Napa, thanks in part to celebrity influence (LeBron, Kobe, you name it), and her drive to ensure these visitors experience the full magic Napa has to offer, not just what's on the surface. She’s honest—her intake forms ask straight-up about comfort level on bottle prices. She knows how to match guests with the right wineries, sometimes calling in a favor for an extra pour or a charcuterie board, because that’s how relationships form and deepen in this business. There’s a lesson in Kelly’s methods: whether it’s a group of corporate execs, first-timers, or veteran collectors, she makes sure the experience is tailored and memorable. Maybe it’s the aftermath of her own battles—her candor about beating a rare cancer got me thinking about perspective, gratitude, and the importance of living fully, whether it’s raising a glass or hiking through a vineyard. Talking with Kelly reminded me why I started this podcast in the first place. It’s the human stories behind the wines, the journeys of the people who bring them to life—and the shared desire to know just a little bit more, one sip, one story at a time. Cheers to Kelly and to all of us still curious. YouTube: Napa Valley Noir Alpha Omega Winery Brown Estate Vineyards French Laundry Bouchon Bistro Ad Hoc Visit Napa Valley (tourism board) AAAV - Association of African American Vintners 1010 Wine Bar Vera Wang Tod’s Mohawk Industries #WineTalksPodcast #KellyECarter #PaulKalemkiarian #NapaValleyNoir #NapaValleyTourism #AfricanAmericanWineCulture #WineIndustryStories #WinemakingEducation #WineTastings #TravelWriting #ItalyToNapa #LuxuryTravel #AAAV #WellnessInNapa #WinePricing #BordeauxBlends #WineExperiences #WineBusinessChallenges #CelebrityWineCulture #PersonalMemoir #HeadAndNeckCancer /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/38556205

Wine, Passion, and Perseverance: Why Human Connection Matters in Hospitality 10/09/2025

Wine, Passion, and Perseverance: Why Human Connection Matters in Hospitality Sometimes I just get an hankering. Ya know, a chance to try and tell it like it is. There is no óne-size" fits all solution to what is happening in our trade. And there still are many successes in the trade...more to come on that front. Wine is too important to the existance of man to address the ills of the trade with thinking marketing and packaging solutions will solve the problems. Certainly, the trade can make some contemporary adjustments to those issues, but those are not the core issues. They can't be, wine is a conduit for the human soul to the soil; deep rooted (pun intended) in our human history. My solo chat in this episode of Wine Talks covers a smorgasbord of wine world goings-on, from L.A. distributor drama to the secret sauce behind great wine service. I tell some spicy takes on wine industry passion, poke fun at “credentials” (let’s just say WSET 1 is not exactly rocket science), and reminisces about both snobby and soulful wine moments—because hey, sometimes decanting at home is just as much about the class as the glass. Ialso spin off on stories about meeting the Pope (fingers crossed for that podcast collab!) and a forthcoming series, Song of America, which promises inspiring immigrant tales—because let’s face it, who didn’t dream of inventing the bendy straw? The thread running through it all is passion—whether you’re pouring Pinot or running a carpet empire on Santa Monica Blvd, it’s caring deeply that truly makes life (and wine) taste better. And don’t worry, Ikeep ranting about all the things that make me crazy in the wine world, so stay tuned and pour yourself a glass for the ride! #wineindustry #winepassion #RNDCCollapse #winesales #wineeducation #WSET #wineservice #restaurantwinesales #NapaValley #properwineservice #hospitality #immigrantstories #SongOfAmerica #Armenianwinemakers #VaticanWine #wineculture #winestorytelling #celebritywines #farmtotable #wineexperiences /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/38517520

Beyond the Vines: Tony Biagi’s Journey Through Napa, To Kalon, and Winemaking Wisdom 10/07/2025

Beyond the Vines: Tony Biagi’s Journey Through Napa, To Kalon, and Winemaking Wisdom One of the on-going themes with Wine Talks, with virtually all guests, is the idea that you never stop learning in the wine trade. I supposed you could say that about many industries, but wine carries with it the idea of the harvest; the surrounding conditions that otherwise would be called "terroir" when discussing the differences from one year to the next. And there in lies the "never stop learning" aspect of wine. Each year is different and each your your knowledge and curiosity is compounded. Tony Biagi relishes in this concept. He finds the will and the drive directly from the annual but perrenial unkowns when the next harvest arrives. We had an inspiring conversation at the Robert Mondavi tasting room in downtown Napa (a must stop when visiting). ony Biagi might claim his parents thought he was crazy for joining the wine world, but on this episode, it’s clear that his unique path—from wrestling recruit to celebrated Napa winemaker—brings bold insight to every bottle he touches. You’ll walk away with a fresh perspective on what really makes a wine legendary—not just the soil or variety, but the relentless curiosity and humility of those who tend the vines. Listen as Tony wrestles with the legacy of To Kalon, Napa’s most storied vineyard, unraveling its mysteries alongside Paul Kalemkiarian. You’ll learn how American and French traditions collide in the heart of California, why the freedom to experiment drives vintners across the Atlantic to our shores, and how the “Burgundianization” of Napa reflects a deeper search for identity and place. Tony lays bare the tension between making wine for the critics versus crafting honest, vintage-driven wines—the kind that can never quite be replicated and, like a great song or timeless meal, stir something primal in us all. Hear the unvarnished truth about organic farming, weathering adversity like wildfires, and how a single harvest offers but one shot each year to get it right. Find out why the energy in a morning vineyard or the quiet wisdom of mentors shapes every glass, and discover how genuine hospitality—not snobbery—keeps the wine world alive. By the end, you’ll possess an insider’s grasp of not only To Kalon’s rarefied terroir and innovative spirit, but the soulful alchemy that endlessly draws winemakers and drinkers back to the table. Robert Mondavi Winery (owners of part of To Kalon Vineyard) Website: Ridge Vineyards Website: Ravenswood Winery Website: PlumpJack Winery Website: Duckhorn Vineyards Website: Hourglass Wine Company Website: Cade Estate Winery Website: Chateau Cheval Blanc Website: Harlan Estate Website: Staglin Family Vineyard Website: Domaine Leflaive Website: Dalla Valle Vineyards Website: Turley Wine Cellars Website: Terravox (Missouri) Website: Wine Spectator (wine magazine frequently cited) Website: #NapaValley #TonyBiagi #PaulKalemkiarian #winemaking #TokalonVineyard #terroir #CabernetSauvignon #CabernetFranc #organicfarming #vineyardhistory #winebusiness #wineratings #hospitality #winetourism #innovation #tradition #vintage #wineindustry #RobertMondavi #winetastingrooms /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/38466880

Navigating Napa and Beyond: Wine Adventures with Paul Kalemkiarian 09/30/2025

How CellarTracker and AI Are Changing Wine Collecting 09/25/2025

How CellarTracker and AI Are Changing Wine Collecting I have had a dozen cellar apps. In fact, many were brought to me as the President of the Original Wine of the Month Club to be tested. The current database that houses all my internal tastings over the past 35 years was never produced as a commercial product. And as you can imagine, it is so 1993. Thanks to the energy and self proported "tech geek" Eric LeVine, keeping track of your cellar and much more is at your fingertips. Not only has he created an incredibly robust app in the wine trade, but he has also created a community of collectors and novices alike. When your name rhymes with “wine,” it seems only natural you’d play a key role in reshaping the world of wine collecting. Eric LeVine—yes, “LeVine” with a capital V, as in “wine”—joins Wine Talks to uncork a conversation that’s as much about technology as it is about terroir. In this fascinating episode, you'll discover how a meticulous software engineer transformed from a tech geek into a bona fide wine enthusiast after a life-changing cycling trip through Tuscany. You’ll hear first-hand how Eric’s frustration with clunky, outdated wine cataloguing tools led him to build CellarTracker—a platform that's now indispensable for collectors and curious drinkers alike. Listen in to understand how CellarTracker blossomed from a personal spreadsheet to a global community, amassing over 12 million tasting notes, helping both green beginners and seasoned oenophiles keep track of their treasured bottles (and avoid that collector’s nightmare of opening a vintage past its prime). You’ll also learn how CellarTracker leverages cutting-edge AI to make wine research and cellar management nearly effortless, whether you’re uploading receipts or hunting for that perfect Loire red hidden on your top cellar shelf. Eric goes beyond geekery, showing how technology—and even a little bit of chat-based wizardry—makes wine less intimidating, more approachable, and, most importantly, more social. If you’ve ever wondered how technology can add confidence and curiosity to your wine journey, or how the experience of each bottle is about more than just what’s in your glass, this episode will leave you swirling with inspiration. CellarTracker (Eric Levine is the founder and CEO) Website: #wine #podcast #technology #CellarTracker #winecollecting #winesoftware #AIinwine #wineinventory #winereviews #EricLeVine #winetech #winedatabase #wineenthusiasts #PaulK #winetalks #wineeducation #wineexploration #winetasting #winecommunity #winejourney /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/38328435

From Ancient Roots to Modern Bottles Armenia’s Journey to World-Class Wine Status 09/23/2025

From Ancient Roots to Modern Bottles Armenia’s Journey to World-Class Wine Status The Armenian wine trade, like the rest of the wine world, has headwinds and maybe a bit more than the more established countries and regions where wine is well known and respected. You have to add to the mix of struggles; unknown grape varietals, no port of entry, unknown regions and 75 years of Soviet oppression. Enter Zara Muradyan; a wine romanticist and proud Armenian vintner. She is fast becoming the one to know in the wine trade out of Armenia and possibly single-handedly recruited the famed and infamous Concours Mondial de Bruxelles International wine tasting to Yerevan, Armenia in May of 2026. It took a bit, but Wine Talks sat with Zara to hear her perspective. Zara Nuradyan can hardly believe it herself: in just fifteen years, Armenia has gone from a forgotten wine outpost—where the post-Soviet legacy meant brandy trumped wine—to a vibrant, world-class wine region inviting international acclaim. In this episode, you’ll discover how Zara, the dynamic director of the Vine and Wine Foundation of Armenia and founder of Zara Wines, is not only championing Armenia’s ancient winemaking heritage but also steering its modern renaissance. You’ll hear how the country, armed with indigenous grapes like Areni and Voskahat, is shaking off its low-profile past to carve out a place on the international wine map—and why you might just see Armenian bottles on the tables of Tokyo, Los Angeles, or at your next masterclass. From government investment and educational initiatives to the role of diaspora and global tastings, Zara pulls back the curtain on how Armenia unites old-world traditions and new-world ambition, even courting major international competitions right in Yerevan. You’ll get an insider’s look at the challenges and headwinds, the heady joys of a growing industry, and the story of how passion, terroir, and a can-do spirit have created not just better wine, but a new cultural touchstone for Armenians at home and abroad. If you’ve ever doubted that a “brand new ancient” wine country could dazzle the global stage, Zara’s journey will leave you uncorking more than a few assumptions—and maybe reaching for a bottle of something you’ve never tasted before. Zara Wines (founded by Zara Nuradyan) Website: Not specifically listed in the transcript, but based on the company name, the most likely official site is: Geisenheim University (collaborator in founding the Wine Academy in Armenia) Website: Karas Wines (a key Armenian wine producer mentioned) Website: Alexandria Winery (producer in Armenia) Website: Vine and Wine Foundation of Armenia (Zara is the director) Website: or Icare Foundation (collaborator for the Wine Academy) Website: YouTube: https://youtu.be/4hLWvOPDjZw #ArmenianWine #WineIndustry #WineTourism #WineEducation #IndigenousGrapeVarieties #WineHistory #WineRenaissance #Armenia #WinePodcast #WineCulture #InternationalWineMarket #WineExport #WineFoundation #WineMaking #WinePromotion #WineEvents #WineFestivals #zarawines #zaramuradyan #WineInnovation /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/38317015

Behind the Scenes at the Original Judgment of Paris Tasting 09/18/2025

Behind the Scenes at the Original Judgment of Paris Tasting Wine Talks is deeply connected to the Judgement of Paris. Not only were the Barretts good customers of our wine shop, Warren Winiarski stayed in our home on a trip to Los Angeles. The industry was completely different then. California wine had always been a thing, particularly before prohibition. It had even made its way to the east coast in the 1800's. But then came that fateful day in Paris at the Intercontinental Hotel, the Americans won. In Paris, there was a journalist named George Taber. He had heard about this tasting pitting California's boutique gems against the equivalent (at least from a grape standpoint) French stars. It turned out to be no contest and set the wine world on its ears. Can you imagine, French judges choosing American vintages over their beloved French wines? George Taber was the only journalist to show up...and almost didn't. George Taber never meant to shake the wine world—he just happened to be the only journalist in the room when California shattered centuries of French pride. As you join us on Wine Talks, you’ll walk beside Taber through the candlelit salons of 1970s Paris, where the unsuspecting French sat down to a blind tasting designed to showcase their invincibility, only to watch that myth dissolve, glass by glass. In this episode, you’ll learn how a simple event—what began as a friendly challenge orchestrated by Steven Spurrier—ended up catalyzing the global rise of American wine and undermining the Old World’s complacency. You’ll get an intimate portrait of the Parisian wine scene in its heyday: corner wine shops, eager expatriates, and the odd British merchant shaking things up with unorthodox ideas. Follow Taber’s transformation from a young Time magazine reporter, new to France and mostly ignorant of wine, to the accidental chronicler of one of history’s most dramatic palate shifts. Discover how logistical headaches and legal loopholes almost kept California’s best bottles out of the competition, and what happened when French wine judges realized—too late—that their favorite “Meursault” was actually a Napa Chardonnay. You’ll hear about the aftershocks reverberating through both continents; how careers were built, fortunes made, and the entire wine business transformed overnight. Plus, Taber reveals the stubborn role of luck in history and how something as small as attending the right tasting at the right time can change everything. By the end, you’ll not only understand the Judgment of Paris, but also the passion, humility, and disruption that lie inside every bottle. #WineTalks #JudgmentOfParis #CaliforniaWine #FrenchWine #GeorgeTaber #StevenSpurrier #ChateauMontelena #StagsLeapWineCellars #NapaValley #WineHistory #WineTasting #WineEducation #BlindTasting #WineIndustry #PodcastInterview #WineStorytelling #WineCulture #CorkHistory #FrenchLifestyle #NewWorldWines Time Magazine Website: (Armen refers to working as a journalist at Time magazine.) Chateau Montelena Website: (Referenced in the discussion about the Judgment of Paris tasting.) Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars Website: (Mentioned as one of the winning wineries in the Judgment of Paris.) Charles Krug Winery Website: (Referenced in a story about being poured at an event with President Eisenhower.) Sebastiani Vineyards & Winery Website: (Mentioned when Paul recalls stocking the shelves.) Ackerman Wines Website: (Ackerman, a major New York wine retailer, is referenced.) St. Francis Winery & Vineyards Website: (Discussed in context of early synthetic cork usage.) Barefoot Cellars Website: (Mentioned regarding synthetic corks.) Taylor Wine Company (Taylor Cellars) Website: (Referenced in the cork closure story.) /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/38271530

From Paris to New York: Jonathan Waxman on Food, Wine, and Cooking’s New Frontiers 09/16/2025

From Paris to New York: Jonathan Waxman on Food, Wine, and Cooking’s New Frontiers Famed Chef Jonathan Waxman came to Wine Talks through a mutual friend who we lost last year to cancer; Melvin Masters was a one-of-a-kind character in the wine trade and Jonathans partner in the famed Jams Restaruarant. On a recent trip to Nashville, Tennessee, I insisted that the group I was with follow me to Roberts Western (most probably the last true country bar in Nashville), for a fried bologna sandwich. They looked at me crosseyed and followed blindly. You see, we had just finished dinner and everyone had overeaten and were tired. But I knew if I didn't go the first night we were there, I wouldn't make it. Pray tell, why would one do that? Well, if Jonathan Waxman says the first thing he did was take famed Italian Chef Giada De Laurentiis to experience the $5 fried bologna sandwich. Who shouldn't? A slice of flat top freid bologna between two pieces of white bread with a side of Lays potatoe chips, I was in hog heaven. Add a PBR, and you are off to the races. Jonathan Waxman is the kind of chef who can turn a honky tonk fried bologna sandwich in Nashville into high culinary art, then philosophize about the virtues of a perfectly marbled 1961 steak—all before your first glass of Beaujolais is finished. In this episode, you’ll discover the inner workings of an acclaimed chef’s mind as Jonathan shares the flavors, friendships, and formative experiences that shaped his career. You’ll hear about how “wine comes first, food comes second” became his guiding principle, the serendipitous plane rides sourcing lamb and lobster for legendary winery dinners, and the awe-inspiring meals in the kitchens of France that sparked his lifelong passion for simplicity and flavor. Alongside host Paul Kalemkiarian, Jonathan revisits the rollicking days at Michael’s and Jams, brushes elbows with food world icons from Alice Waters to Melvin Masters, and reveals the quiet intensity required to survive and thrive in the high-wire environment of fine dining. From the intricacies of nouvelle cuisine to the rainbow of immigrant influences shaping American food culture, you’ll gain an insider’s appreciation for the nuances of restaurant evolution, the subtle art of pairing local wines with regional dishes, and the uncompromising drive that keeps chefs inventing and adapting—even when the world turns upside down. Whether you’re curious how the Michelin Guide still shapes a restaurant’s fortunes, or just want to know what it’s like to be mentored by legends while flying by the seat of your pants, this episode peels back the layers of taste, tradition, and tenacity, one delicious story at a time. Jordan Winery Willie’s Wine Bar (Paris) Chez Panisse Domaine Chandon Bordeaux Wine Region Napa Valley Michael’s Santa Monica Barbuto Jams (NYC) Wally’s Wine & Spirits Blue Hill Daily Provisions (NYC) Lutèce (Historic, closed, for reference) L’Orangerie (Historic, closed, Los Angeles) Spago (Wolfgang Puck’s Restaurant) Mi Piace (Pasadena, CA) Campanile (Historic, closed, Los Angeles) Union Pasadena Benno (NYC) French Culinary Institute/New York French Cooking School (now Institute of Culinary Education) Le Cordon Bleu Monterey Bistro (Historic, closed) Ritz Paris Place Vendôme #WineTalks #JonathanWaxman #PaulKalemkiarian #ChefInterview #FoodAndWinePairing #RestaurantStories #Barbuto #JamsRestaurant #ChezPanisse #AmericanCuisine #ItalianCuisine #WineCulture #MichelinStars #CulinaryInspiration #FoodHistory #ImmigrantInfluence #WineTasting #RestaurantIndustry #NouvelleCuisine #CulinaryMentorship #WineExperiences #PBR #bolognasandwich #giada #giadadelaurentiis /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/38225910

Wine Industry at a Crossroads: Changing Tastes, AI, and Where the Money Goes 09/11/2025

Wine Industry at a Crossroads: Changing Tastes, AI, and Where the Money Goes You can't speak of trends in the wine trends in the wine trade without mentioning Felicity Carter. You can't talk data mining in the wine trade without mentioning Felicity Carter...in fact, I can't think of many surrounding the wine trade that you could speak of without mentioning Felicity Carter. She is a force of date (substituting for "nature"). I've got to tell you, sitting down with Felicity Carter for this episode of Wine Talks was like uncorking an old Burgundy—layered, surprising, and deeply satisfying. There’s something about Felicity’s perspective that just sharpens the mind. Maybe it’s because she’s perched out there in Neustadt an der Weinstraße, on the wine road of the Rhineland Pfalz, right at the border with Alsace. Or maybe it’s just down to the years she’s logged at the intersection of writing, advisory work, and researching high-end wine trends. You know me—I love a guest who isn’t afraid to press into the hard truths and then turn them over like a newly racked barrel. Felicity didn’t disappoint. Right out of the gate, she set the tone: before you start spinning stories about your wine, you better know your cost of goods. Learn Excel, she said. It wasn’t fancy, but, boy, did that resonate with me. Nothing romantic about spreadsheets, but there’s also nothing more sobering than realizing that most people in this business skip the basics. What I really appreciated was how Felicity drew a line in the sand about the current state of the wine industry—not just saying “it’s tough out there” (though it surely is), but also peeling back the bigger picture. She’s got this knack for linking what we see at the store or on Instagram right back to seismic shifts underway. She brought up this old book, “The Empty Raincoat” by Charles Handy, to frame what’s happening now: the wine industry is at the tail end of a 40-year golden run and we’re sliding into a new, uncertain era. It reminded me of my own business, the highs of 2007, and how everything since then feels like riding out after a storm, trying to read new winds that keep shifting. Felicity didn’t shy from the stickier discussions either—like the damage done by “mummy juice” wines and those forgettable bulk bottles that flooded the market in a misguided effort to market to women. She’s got strong opinions on that, and so do I. We both bemoaned how those wines aimed at mothers after a long day might have alienated a generation—or at least set the table for younger drinkers to turn their noses up at what their parents drank. And while I always want to reach for the romance of wine—the history, the sense of being part of something ancient—Felicity was bracing with her take: people buy wine because they like the taste and the fit, and they make up the romance later, mostly to themselves. We commiserated over antiques collecting dust—literally and figuratively—in our homes, the same way “tradition” can just become a nice story rather than a selling point. But here’s what I loved: Felicity isn’t a doomsayer. Sure, the wine industry is congested. Sure, Gen Z might be drinking less wine—maybe because, as Felicity points out, no one wants to do what their mother did—but she still sees opportunity. There’s hope in innovation, in making products for new tastes, and, yes, in getting our business basics right. If you want to make money in wine, she says, embrace the numbers before the stories. And I have to agree. At the end of the day, Felicity brought the clarity that’s so easy to miss when we get caught up in the swirl of nostalgia. Sometimes you need someone to remind you that, yes, wine is culture, and yes, it’s business too—and the two are tangled in ways we all have to keep learning to navigate. Thanks, Felicity. This one’s worth a slow sip. Drinks Insider Felicity Carter mentions she is the founder of Drinks Insider. Website: Areni Global Felicity Carter is the communications director for Areni Global, described as a fine wine think tank. Website: Riedel Glassware Company Max Riedel, owner of Riedel, is referenced in the introduction. Website: #WineIndustry #WineMarketing #WineBusiness #WineTrends #FelicityCarter #WinePodcast #WineInnovation #WineEconomics #Areniglobal /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/38182960

Ancient Roots, Modern Revival: Exploring Armenian Wine and Enotourism with Lilit Grigoryan 09/09/2025

Ancient Roots, Modern Revival: Exploring Armenian Wine and Enotourism with Lilit Grigoryan Not of all wine news is about a drop in sales or activity...wine tourism is up. On Wine Talks I regularly discuss the idea that wine is headed back in time to the days where the experience of wine is driving the interest in wine. Winery tastings, wine pairing dinners, day long wine excursions and more are peaking the interest in not only wine enthusiasts but wine novices the same. One destination that is working hard at luring wine travel is Armenia. I have keen interest in understanding the value of and the current climate of wine tourism in my country of heritage. Lilit Gregoryan is on the forefront of the movement and we had a chance to catch up and discuss the current state of Armenian wine travel. I have to tell you, sitting down (virtually, in this case) with Lilit Grigoryan for this episode of Wine Talks was one of those conversations that leaves you thinking long after you hit “stop recording.” Now, I’ll let you in on a little behind-the-scenes secret: this was our third crack at getting the tech to play nice for a clear connection between sunny Southern California and Yerevan, Armenia. You could say we worked up a thirst before we even started talking wine. Right from the get-go, Lilit came in with the big picture view—“Winemaking and wine are rooted as a nation in our DNA.” That statement stuck with me. For all the talk we have about terroir, varietals, and fancy cellaring techniques, sometimes you need a reminder that, in places like Armenia, wine’s not just a beverage or even an export—it’s part of the cultural bedrock. She made the bold and very true point: Armenia isn’t just learning from Europe; it’s reminding Europe, and the world, where winemaking really started. What really fascinated me was her work in building up the Council of Enotourism. Now, enotourism anywhere is having its moment, and Armenia is no exception. I’ll admit, I ended up tumbling down memory lane—remembering road trips that started off about something else (the Monaco Grand Prix, in my case) and somehow veered, as everything in my life seems to, straight into wine country. The magic of enotourism, Lilit pointed out, is that it’s about more than tasting rooms. It’s about connecting public, private, and even academic stakeholders—guides, wineries, archeologists, whole communities—to put Armenia back on the wine map. There’s a humility that runs deep in Armenian winemakers, which, as Lilit mentioned, maybe ought to be set aside for a bit of healthy self-promotion. Why not, when you have 6,100-year-old wine caves that literally rewrite the history of viticulture? This is a nation where, she told me, even the rituals carved into fourth- and sixth-century churches tell the story of wine’s place in life and faith. “We are the shoulders that the Old World stands on.” I scribbled that down—it’s one for the ages. We got into some wine geek talk (couldn’t resist)—about amphora and the ancient methods now making a comeback from Bordeaux to California. Funny thing, the rest of the world calls it trendy; for Armenians, it’s just Tuesday. And I had to laugh—she talked about roadside wine in Coke bottles, and yeah, in 2007, I could barely choke down what I found. But the leap in quality is astounding. Armenian winemakers today are winning international gold medals! You can feel the pride simmering up—and frankly, that’s as it should be. Lilit’s also candid about the challenges—lack of unity among stakeholders, the need for more education, and the always-present tension of getting government support. Reminded me of local feuds in the LA trade; everyone wants the same thing, but getting consensus? It’s like herding cats with corkscrews. But what I love most is her conviction: this is a marathon, not a sprint. Armenians have always been resilient—she’s sure, and so am I, that Armenia’s renaissance is just getting started. And let’s not forget, she humbly attributes her passion to being “one cheeky university girl” drinking wine with her friends, which, honestly, is how the best careers begin. Lilit is creating a movement, and you can feel it—one that won’t just put Armenian wine on the table but will make it impossible for the world to ignore. So, next time you’re reaching for something old-world or new-world, remember Lilit’s words: “We are ancient world.” And maybe, just maybe, it’s time to pour Armenia into your next glass. Wines of Armenia Organization: "Wines of Armenia" (NGO) Website: eNoturos / Council of Enotourism in Armenia Organization: eNoturos, Council of Enotourism in Armenia Website: There is not a direct website publicly available from the information provided in the transcript at this time. Areni-1 Foundation Organization: Areni-1 Foundation (involved with the Areni-1 cave) Website: There is not a direct website publicly available from the information provided in the transcript at this time, but general information on the Areni-1 cave can be viewed here: (Areni Wine Factory), though this is not an official page for the "Areni-1 Foundation." Wine and Vine Foundation of Armenia Organization: Wine and Vine Foundation of Armenia Website: Zatik Wine Festival Event organized by Wines of Armenia Website: Not directly available; may be found through Wines of Armenia's site or social media. Enofest/Enotalks Event by EnoTourism Council Website: Not directly available; check Wines of Armenia for events: Global Wine Tourism Organization Organization referenced as the global enotourism network Website: Cordy Brothers / Corti Brothers Referred to as a famous wine shop in Sacramento Website: Massanois Imports Mentioned as a wine distributor Website: #wine #winetalks #armenianwine #enotouris, #winedna #armenia #ancientwine #wineheritage #wineducatio, #wineculture #winerenaissance #wineindustry #armenianculture #foodandwine #winehistory #winesofarmenia #winemaking #viticulture #winetourism #armenianhospitality /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/38147000

Navigating Change in the Wine Industry with Bernardus Winemaker Jim McCabe 09/04/2025

Navigating Change in the Wine Industry with Bernardus Winemaker Jim McCabe The wines of the Monterey Peninsula, and particularly those of the Carmel Valley, are exquisite. It is always just so interesting to have the some grape grown in different parts of the world and be so different...soely on the location and environmental influences of the vineyard. When tasting Bernardus wines, you taste complexities entirely different than anywhere else in California. These wines are something special and Jim McCabe is responsible. I also had to alert him to the famed folk guitar store, McCabes in Santa Monica. You might say Jim McCabe’s side hustle—building guitars—makes him a craftsman twice over, but it’s his day job as winemaker at Bernardus Winery that will have you tuning your curiosity to new frequencies. In this episode of Wine Talks, I invites you to uncork not just bottles, but the entire lived experience of crafting wine in California’s stunning Carmel Valley. You’ll learn why great wine isn’t just about the grapes, but the ebb and flow of history, land, and a willingness to embrace both tradition and careful, gradual innovation. Jim doesn’t just talk barrel aging or fermentation science; he brings you to the heart of winemaking’s enduring mysteries—the art of blending picks from different harvest moments, the challenge of warding off smoke taint during wildfire years, and the ever-changing dance with nature that means no two vintages are ever the same. What does it take to draw younger generations to honest wine when technology and taste are shifting faster than vines grow? Jim and I candidly dissect the battle between old-school storytelling and the rise of social influencers, while reflecting on the timelessness of grassroots, word-of-mouth enthusiasm. Along the way, you’ll pick up on the slow, patient work behind the scenes—why relationships with grape growers matter, why incremental rather than drastic change is key, and how history and tradition shape every bottle. By the end of the conversation, you’ll come away with more than the technical notes of Bernardus’ famed Pinots and Chardonnays; you’ll understand the emotional charge that a simple sniff of a great wine can trigger, and why, whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or new to the wine world, this is a craft that always keeps you guessing, learning, and savoring just one more glass. Bernardus Winery Website: Hotel Amarano Website: McCabe’s Guitar Shop Website: #winepodcast #CarmelValley #MontereyPeninsula #BernardusWinery #PaulKalemkiarian #JimMcCabe #winemaking #wineindustry #boutiquewineries #winemakerstories #winehistory #vineyardmanagement #wineinfluencers #socialmediawine #SauvignonBlanc #PinotNoir #Chardonnay #winetourism #winetasting #winetrends #mccabesguitarshop /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/38036975

Wine, Terroir, and Storytelling: Cecilia Guzman and the Evolution of Chilean Winemaking 09/02/2025

Wine, Terroir, and Storytelling: Cecilia Guzman and the Evolution of Chilean Winemaking When people enter a room, you instantly get a sense of their disposition in life. Are they smiley? Frowning? friendly? Gregarious? and you instantly if this is going to work. I knew instantly that this was going to work when Cecilia Guzman walked into the studio. Sitting down in the studio in beautiful Southern California for this episode of Wine Talks was a real treat—one of those times you just know you’ve got the right guest in the right seat. Cecilia Guzman, winemaker at Haras de Pirque (and yes, I stumbled through the name a couple of times—years of Spanish and still getting tripped up), joined me for a conversation that took us deep into the world of Chilean wine, from the fun of making it to the relentless challenge of selling it. Right from the top, Cecilia hit me with one of those insights I love: “Making wine is kind of easy. It’s fun and easy, but selling wine, it’s another stuff.” Isn’t that the story of this business? We’re all drawn in by the romance—the vineyards, the sunshine, the “lifestyle”—but it’s once the barrels are tucked away and the corks are in the bottles that the real grind begins. And, as she pointed out, the business has changed dramatically in the last twenty years. Getting your label noticed in today’s flooded market is a whole different challenge than staking out your vineyard back in the day. Now, Cecilia’s story isn’t the usual “dreamer buys some vines” tale. She’s the general manager and winemaker at Aras de Pirque, a property now 100% owned by the Antinori family—six hundred years in wine. Yes, you read that right, six centuries! I always marvel at how these wine dynasties, whether Italian, French, or American, get the itch to go explore somewhere new. In this case, the Antinoris, looking for that “departure from the regular,” were drawn to Chile’s potential—the terroir, the freedom from strict appellation rules, the lure of doing something different. Cecilia’s philosophy on wine really shines when she talks about letting the place shine through—how it’s not about making the best Chilean Cabernet, but making the best wine for that unique spot in Pirque. That notion of terroir, of honest wines that truly express where they’re grown, is something I can get behind. The challenge, as we both lamented, is getting that magic to translate to the consumer, bridging that gap from heartfelt winemaking to the retail shelf. But what I found most refreshing was her practical outlook. She sees Chile as a land with advantages—natural barriers, low disease pressure, and a real push towards sustainability. There’s a bit of humility in her voice when she talks about how Chile can almost do “organic by default.” Yes, their greatest challenge is, as she puts it, the weeds! (The kind in the vineyard, not the grain—note to self, remember the translation next time). What really stuck with me, though, was Cecilia’s sense of continuity and patience. When you only get one shot a year, it takes decades to build real wisdom—and she’s been racking up vintages for thirty years. The Antinoris may have centuries behind them, but every year in Chile still brings new lessons, new surprises, new stories. And isn’t that just the heart of wine? It’s history in a bottle, culture at the table, a product that’s always made better when it brings people together—at home in Chile, or halfway across the world. If you ever get the chance, I’ll tell you, visiting Chile is on that bucket list. From the vineyards to the Andes to those family tables where stories linger as long as the finish on a great Cabernet. Cheers to Cecilia, and to the stories we keep uncorking together. Haras de Pirque Website: Antinori Family (Marchesi Antinori) Website: Los Vascos Website: (Owned by Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite)) Undurraga Website: Don Melchor Website: #winepodcast #Chileanwine #CeciliaGuzman #PollyHammond #winemaking #winetourism #AntinoriFamily #sustainablewine #terroir #vineyardmanagement #winemarketing #womeninwine #organicfarming #Argentinewine #CabernetSauvignon #Merlot #wineculture #biodynamicwine #wineindustry #foodandwinepairing /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/38025800

Science, Grapes, and Adventure: A Wine Student’s Summer at Chateau Haut-Bailly 08/28/2025

Science, Grapes, and Adventure: A Wine Student’s Summer at Chateau Haut-Bailly A few years ago, a young woman was interning at the Original Wine of the Month Club. Her internship revolved around social networking, office duties, and one particular job that may have set her career path. Lisa Kassabian was to write the talking points for all my podcasts that featured a woman in wine. She would research the guest, write up peritnent points, present the to me and together we would redirect or correct. When that work was completed, Lisa was invited on set to hear how her questions worked and how the guest would respond. Maybe I had something to do with it, it would certainly make sense...because eventually, Lisa became an Enology student at Cornell University. At the University, all students in this curriculum are required to do an internship before they graduate. This is the story of Lisa's internship at the famed Chateau Haut Bailly. For sure, if you want to know the insights a young wine Enology student might gain from the academic side and the practical side of wine...this is the episode. Lisa Kassabian never expected that an afterschool “All About Grapes” club would spark a journey from a Los Angeles vineyard to the heart of Bordeaux. In this episode of Wine Talks, you’ll discover how a childhood passion for science—and a hobby vineyard at home—led Lisa from California to Cornell, and ultimately, to an eye-opening internship in France. You’ll gain a rare behind-the-scenes view of the very real intersections between wine, science, and culture, as Lisa reveals how pruning and fermentation chemistry connect to centuries of tradition. Listen closely and you’ll learn what really happens when theory meets the terroir: from tackling grapevine netting and barrel racking to navigating French hospitality, language barriers, and immaculate cellars. Through Lisa’s first-hand stories, you’ll hear what distinguishes French winemaking—the meticulous attention to detail, relentless innovation, and deep cultural ties that set Bordeaux apart from Napa. Ever wonder what it’s like to balance the academic rigor of soil science classes with tasting your family’s Sauvignon Blanc in sunny California? Or how it feels to pour wine at a charity gala in a historic French château? This episode peels back the reality of building a global wine career, from landing international internships to learning the business beyond the classroom, and even discovering which French pastries pair best with your morning commute. By the end, you’ll understand not only the pathways women are carving into the industry, but also why every bottle holds a world of stories, science, and adventure—a revelation sure to inspire future vintners and aficionados alike. Cornell University https://www.cornell.edu UC Davis (University of California, Davis) https://www.ucdavis.edu Château Haut-Bailly https://www.haut-bailly.com Sequoia Grove Winery https://www.sequoiagrove.com Smith Haut Lafitte https://www.smith-haut-lafitte.com Château Lynch-Bages https://www.lynchbages.com Château Giscours #wineTalks #LisaKassabian #PaulKalemkiarian #viticulture #enology #CornellUniversity #wineinternship #ChateauHautBailly #Bordeaux #NapaValley #womeninwine #Frenchwine #wineeducation #vineyardmanagement #winemaking #winescience #Frenchculture #wineindustry #winecareers #winepodcast /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/37983480

The Changing Tastes of Wine: Trends, Innovation, and Restaurant Realities with Chef David Slay 08/26/2025

The Changing Tastes of Wine: Trends, Innovation, and Restaurant Realities with Chef David Slay I have been hanging around the South Bay beaches since my youth. Maybe you caught my Instagram posts about how that happened. As a family, we spent much of our time in Hermosa Beach; I love the SoCal beach culture. There is an established group of restaurants under the moniker of Chef David Slay. He is a bit of an anomoly in that he has been a chef since his 20's (so well established in that sense), but at the same time, a rising star (usually an accolade for chefs just starting their career). Our conversation was fluid and full of insights. I have to say, sitting down with Chef David Slay for this episode of Wine Talks was a real eye-opener—and honestly, a relief in a business that’s changing faster than most of us care to admit. We met up down in Hermosa Beach, a little outside my usual zone, which always seems to lend itself to looser conversation. There’s no pretense with David; what you see is what you get, and that made for an episode full of straight talk. We kicked things off on common ground—hot yoga, of all things. You’d think two guys from the food and wine world would bond over Burgundy or beef carpaccio, but no, it’s sweating it out in the same studio, talking about how houses and restaurants are being remodeled and how somehow, hot yoga becomes as much therapy as exercise. There’s something grounding about that, and it set the tone for the rest of our conversation. What I appreciate about David is his clear-eyed view of the industry. He doesn’t look at the shift in wine preferences or restaurant trends with nostalgia or bitterness. Instead, he recognizes that consumer tastes have changed, and he’s made it a point to adjust right along with them. “I make wine for what the consumer wants, not for what my taste is,” he says—and you can tell he means it. That’s rare. For some in the business, adapting is an insult to tradition. For David, it’s just good sense. He describes older guests coming in with big Italians and Bordeauxs, while younger tables are ordering orange wine and lower-alcohol options. Rather than resist, he’s leaned in, updating his own winemaking and keeping his wine lists relevant. David also spoke candidly about the business realities—shrinking wine lists, higher prices, and changing buying habits. The days of bragging about a 350-bottle inventory are gone; he’s pared it down to 150 because that’s what works now. What isn’t moving gets cut, and what sells gets the spotlight. He’s refreshingly honest about costs, average bottle prices, and even how certain cult wines just don’t have the cachet with younger drinkers anymore. Running restaurants, building a wine brand, and surviving the post-COVID landscape takes more than passion. David’s approach—focus on quality, pay your people right, and stay involved every day—seems to be the formula. I especially respect how he talks about his crew; he’d rather pay a dishwasher above the norm and keep staff long-term than deal with constant turnover. It’s practical, but it’s also the right thing to do. When we talked about food and wine, he’s got the same data-driven but thoughtful outlook. He doesn’t buy into the old dogma about pairings; instead, he sees the restaurant as a place where anything goes, as long as the customer has a good experience. Honestly, it was one of those episodes that reminded me what I like about this business—the moments where you drop the sales pitch and get real about what’s working, what’s not, and what it means to stay relevant without selling out. David Slay is exactly the kind of guest that keeps me hungry for the next conversation. Arthur J Website: Slay Restaurants (Slay Steak & Fish House, Slay Italian Kitchen, Slay Hermosa, Fête French Bistro) Website: Dragonette Cellars (mentioned as a Pinot Noir and Chardonnay producer) Website: Daou Vineyards (DAOU Family Estates) Website: Caymus Vineyards (Wagner Family of Wine) Website: Silver Oak Cellars Website: Phelps Insignia (Joseph Phelps Vineyards) Website: Wine of the Month Club Website: Greystone (The Culinary Institute of America at Greystone) Website: Chez Panisse (Alice Waters’ restaurant, mentioned in context) Website: Moza (Osteria Mozza, Nancy Silverton) Website: Chateau Bailly (Château Bouscaut in Pessac-Léognan was likely meant, context: internship in Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux) Website: #winepodcast #restaurantindustry #ChefDavidSlay #PaulK #ManhattanBeach #HermosaBeach #winetrends #wineandfoodpairing #winelist #GenZWine #CaliforniaCuisine #restaurantbusiness #wineconsumption #hospitalityindustry #Frenchcooking #seasonalingredients #wineclubs #winebusiness #SlayWines #cheflegacy /episode/index/show/winetalks/id/37966760

Wine Talks with Paul K.

TOPICS