An in studio visits from 4 delightful South Afrinca winemakers began with this incredible conversation with Gavin Slabbert and Josh Raats of Raats Family Winery. 1. The increasing percentage of women winemakers in America inspired a former intern to pursue enology school. 2. Gavin makes an analogy between wine and golf, emphasizing inclusivity. 3. Gavin/Josh’s family winery has been running for 25 years in New Zealand. 4. A unique wine called Mister de Compostela was created by the first qualified black African winemaker in South Africa. ### Podcast Summary In this episode of "Wine Talks with ..read more

Jessica Kogan knows it. Listen to her, and you will know it. I did.   ? **Embrace the Blend of Digital and Physical**: One of the standout themes from the show was the vital intersection between digital engagement and physical presence. Jessica highlighted how integrating digital tools can lead to significant physical world interactions, like finding wine events or tasting venues. However, their discussion illuminated the enduring need for real-world connections, suggesting that, much like a perfectly aged wine, blending the two elements can produce the best results. Imagine syncing your ..read more

A seredipitous conversation with a real estate broker, landed a successful wine influencer in the studio. Meet Lucia Palm. 1. Lucia Palm gained significant popularity after her viral videos about Trader Joe's wines. 2. Paul K plans to take a group on a wine country tour, highlighting his role as an influencer in the wine industry. 3. Lucia Palm wants to start promoting independently owned shops in Los Angeles, focusing on affordable wines. 4. Paul introduces Lucia to an auction house in Glendale that sells movie and TV show props at a discount, blending their love for vintage items with their ..read more

So, who is Reid Kinnett....and what makes him passionate? 1. Reid Kinnett uses DNA testing to confirm the authenticity of indigenous Vitis vinifera grapes. 2. Reid swapped 15 cases of wine for his first ton of grapes in 2021. 3. Reid Kinnett blends a little Petite Syrah with his Zinfandel to enhance its profile. 4. Reid Kinnett is involved in making Zinfandel with no residual sugar, focusing on an acid-driven and medium-bodied profile. What you will learn in this podcast. In this insightful episode of "Wine Talks," host Paul K engaged with guest Reid Kinnett in a thought-provoking discussion a ..read more

Julie started as a representative for a major wine player in America. I thought she would never make it. Oops. She became an executive in the trade. Incredible conversation. 1.) Julie Hernandez had a "light bulb" moment about the power of wearing a suit in a male-dominated business setting, which positively impacted her career trajectory. 2. Despite being experienced and holding a high-level position, Julie was frequently underestimated by male colleagues, sometimes mistaken for being in a lower role. 3. Paul K shared a personal experience from the 1980s, reflecting on encountering sexism in c ..read more

Fun Facts About This Episode: 1. Los Angeles County was a major agricultural area for vines with almost 200,000 acres planted in 1893, and it was even featured on the city seal. 2. Moraga Vineyard in Bel Air has a unique terroir with various elevations and exposures, with maritime influence from Santa Monica Bay. 3. The winery at Moraga focuses on producing just one white and one red wine, modeled after a French house's approach to winemaking. 4. Despite being in the heart of LA, Moraga Vineyard hosts tastings by appointment, surprising many visitors who are unaware of its existence. Summary ..read more

"Wine Talks with Paul K" dives into the vibrant world of wine with the featured guest, Wanda Mann, who brings her extensive knowledge and passion to the conversation. In this not-to-be-missed episode, the main points covered are: 1. **Demystifying Wine Talk**: Paul K and Wanda Mann tackle the complexity of wine terminology, deliberating on how it can sometimes alienate new wine enthusiasts. They discuss the importance of simplifying wine language to make the experience more accessible and enjoyable for consumers. 2. **Consumer Trends and Preferences**: The discussion takes a turn into the late ..read more

In this episode of Wine Talks, we delve into the noble tradition of wine in the corridors of the White House. With the aid of Frederick J. Ryan, whose impressive tome "Wine in the White House: A History" serves as our guide, we explore the nuanced role of wine in American presidential history. Here are 7 points I pulled out of the conversation. ? The White House has long held a tradition of presidential involvement in selecting wines for state affairs. This responsibility demonstrates the significance placed on the presentation and choice of wine as it underscores diplomatic relations and comp ..read more

In the latest episode of 'Wine Talks,' host Claude Rouquet is joined by guest Paul K to delve deep into the world of viticulture, exploring the nuanced journey from grape to glass. The conversation opens with a glimpse into Claude’s background, which was not traditionally rooted in the wine industry as his family came from the medical field. However, his early exposure to fine wines cultivated a passion that, along with his wife, led them to pivot their successful careers to pursue their love for wine, something they felt a strong emotional connection to. The tale of revival at Smith Lafitte v ..read more

George Walker III, a recipient of the Roots Fund scholarship, shares his incredible journey and the impact it has had on his education and career in the wine industry. The Roots Fund, founded in 2020 by Carlton McCoy, Aikimi Dubeau, and Tahir Habibi, aims to provide opportunities for black individuals in the wine industry. George expresses his gratitude for the support he has received from mentors like Matt Nauman and Carlton McCoy, who have helped shape his education and career. George recounts how Matt Nauman, the previous president of Wade Sellers, suggested that he would benefit from worki ..read more