SIP Wine Education Episodes Archive
2022 Events
For this virtual event, Proprietor/Winemaker Bryan Kane of Sol Rouge Vineyard & Winery will join us to discuss the historic and magnificent Châteauneuf-du-Pape. We'll tap into Bryan's first hand passion and knowledge of the famous region.
Wines we will taste at this event:
Sol Rouge 2017 Mourvèdre, Red Hills, Lake County, CA
Sol Rouge 2017 Cinsaut, Red Hills, Lake County, CA
Sol Rouge 2017 'Gypsy Rouge'; Rhône Style Blend, Red Hills, Lake County, CA
For this virtual event we welcome two guest winemakers: Steve Law of MacLaren Wine and Jeff Loomis of Loomis Estate Vineyard. We'll talk about Syrah, learn about the Hermitage region and talk about the Napa and Sonoma expressions of the varietal.
Wines we will taste at this event:
MacLaren Wine 2017 Syrah, Russian River Valley, CA
Loomis Estate Vineyards 2019 ‘Fire’ Estate Syrah, Napa Valley, CA
Special guest, Proprietor/Winemaker Sam Baxter of Terra Valentine joins us to talk about what happens in the vineyards in the wintertime. Join us for a special virtual Valentine's Day event in the vineyard!
Wines we tasted at this event:
Terra Valentine 2015 Amore Red Blend, Atlas Peak, Napa Valley, CA
Owners/Winemakers Brian Callahan and Steve Gower of Crux Winery join us to discuss the broad expanse of the Russian River Valley and why numerous varietals thrive within. Specifically we'll talk microclimates, misnomers and an emerging new system to further define the region without giving up its cachet.
Wine we will taste at this event:
Crux Winery 2015 Petite Sirah Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, CA
Winemaker Andy Schweiger of Schweiger Vineyards will join us to talk about sustainable practices in the vineyards and the Spring Mountain District AVA in Napa Valley. We will specifically focus on the off-the-grid energy sourcing and dry farming.
Wine we will taste at this event:
Schweiger Vineyards 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Spring Mountain District Napa Valley, CA
It's bud break time in California Wine Country! On this episode we meet with Founders of Gaderian Wines, Winemaker Shaina Harding and Natalie Coughlin Hall to ask how bud break can offer signs about the upcoming growing season.
Wine we will taste at this event:
On this episode of SIP we will learn about the legal requirements of wine labels and what to look for when searching for quality wines. Join us with special guests, Proprietor/Winemaker John and Tony Viszlay of Viszlay Vineyards as they explain what wineries can legally place on their wine labels and what they can't. They will also introduce their new project, Sonoma Jones. Be prepared for a unique opportunity to taste and compare two wines made with the same grape.
Wines we will taste at this event:
Viszlay Vineyards Sonoma Jones 2020 Rosé, Russian River Valley, Sonoma, CA
Viszlay Vineyards 2019 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, Sonoma, CA
Shipping your favorite Napa Valley and Sonoma wines to your home is very complicated. On this episode of SIP we'll ask Winemaker Chad Angelo of Angelo Cellars how challenging it is to sell his wine. A representative from Free The Grapes! organization fighting the complicated regulations in every state will also join the conversation to explain the laws and share how wine lovers like you can help change them. Wines we will taste at this event:
It's April Fools Day and on this episode of SIP we'll ask Vintner Kenny Kahn of Blue Rock Vineyard about the history of Merlot, a Hollywood movie that stopped the boom of the varietal and how bulk producers ruined the reputation of this noble grape.
Wines we will taste at this event:
Blue Rock Vineyard 2018 Best Barrels Merlot, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County
Many small wine producers in Napa Valley and Sonoma do not have on-site production facilities to hold all the equipment needed for winemaking. During this session we will learn about custom crush winemaking facilities with Vintner Barry Waitte of Tamber Bey Vineyards.
Wine we will taste at this event:
Tamber Bey Vineyards 2020 Chardonnay, Yountville, Napa Valley
Winemaker Stephanie Trotter Zacharia of Trotter 1/16 Winery joins us to discuss the most common wine bottles, which come in all shapes and sizes, from tall and slender to short and stout. We will learn the reasoning along with the history and tradition that reflects back to where the grape originates.
Wine we will taste at this event:
Trotter 1/16 Winery 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon, Flying J’s Vineyard, Coombsville, Napa Valley
Winemaker Nick Goldschmidt of Goldschmidt Vineyards joins us to discuss his farming practices, common hazards in vineyard management and more. Get your wine geek on, fill your glass with a Goldschmidt wine and join for a fun and educational event.
Wines we will taste at this event:
Goldschmidt Vineyards 2019 Forefathers Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County
Brady Moran, Direct Sales Manager at Red Car winery joins us to discuss the lifecycle of a grapevine. From rootstock to a grape bunch, there are a lot of interesting stages a grapevine goes through before it becomes wine in your glass. Get your wine geek on, fill your glass and join for a fun and educational event.
Wine we will taste at this event:
Learn about the difference between organic, sustainable and biodynamic winemaking practices with Winemaker Laura Barrett of Clif Family Winery in Napa Valley.
Wine we will taste at this event:
Clif Family Winery 2019 'The Climber' Bordeaux Style Red Wine, Napa Valley, CA
Proprietor George Noble of Noble Wines joins us to discuss decanting practices and philosophy. Learn about sediment, crystallization and how to know your wine needs decanting. Our guest will also talk about storing and aging wine at home. During this event, we'll also announce a special wine offer for Cellar Angels supporters.
Wine we will taste at this event:
Noble Wines 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Henessey Ridge, Napa Valley, CA
2021 Events
Episode 1: Red Blends – Bordeaux Style & Field Blend
This episode aired LIVE on February 26, 2021. During the session we learned about Bordeaux style reds and field blends.
Episode 2: Inspiration form the Rhône Valley
Episode 3: The Cabernet Debate
Episode 4: French Origins of Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon
Episode 5: Site Specific Grape Sourcing
For this week’s wine class, we talked about the importance of site specific grape sourcing. Special guest Winemaker Chad Angelo of Angelo Cellars joined this session to discuss his Stagecoach Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon.
Wines tasted during this event:
Angelo Cellars 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon, Atlas Peak AVA, Napa Valley, CA
Episode 6: Demystifying Grape Clones
Episode 7: Oaked vs Unoaked Chardonnay and Food Pairings
For this week’s wine class, we will talk about the differences in aging process between an oaked and unoaked Chardonnay. Special guests and Feeding The Soul Podcast Hosts Sommelier/Educator/Author John Laloganes and Chef/Educator Wook Kang join this session to talk about structural components of each wine and recommended food pairings.
Episode 8: Organic Vineyard Management Practices
Episode 9: The Artistry of Making Rosé Wine
For this week’s wine class, we will talk about the winemaking process of rosé. Special guest Winemaker Adam Hersly of Hersly Wines will join this session to talk about rosé wine production methods. Please purchase the following wine to have for the event, or acquire a SIP Kit:
Wines tasted during this session:
Hersly Wines 2019 ‘Mae’ Rosé of Merlot, Napa Valley, CA
Also discussed: Hersly Wines 2015 Oak Knoll District Cabernet Sauvignon
Episode 10: Winemaking Practices of Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay
For this week’s wine class, we talk about the winemaking process of Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. Special guest Winemaker Nick Goldschmidt of Goldschmidt Vineyards joins this session to talk about harvest, crush and fermentation steps for each wine.
Wines tasted during this session:
Goldschmidt Vineyards 2018 ‘Fog’s Edge’ Chardonnay, Russian River Valley, CA
Episode 11: The Evolution of Zinfandel
For this week’s wine class, we talk about the history of Zinfandel. Special guest Winemaker Jon Phillips of Inspiration Vineyards will join this session to talk about the grape’s heritage and the best places to find great Zinfandel.
Wines tasted during this session:
Inspiration Vineyards 2016 Old Vine Zinfandel, Russian River Valley, Sonoma, CA
Inspiration Vineyards 2018 Gallaway Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma, CA
Episode 12: The Art of Crafting Sparkling Wine
Episode 13: Oak Aging
For this week’s wine class, we talk about the use of oak barrels in winemaking. Special guest Winemaker Michael Trujillo of Trujillo Wines will join this session to share his expertise.
Wines tasted during this session:
Episode 14: The Russian River Valley AVA
For this week’s wine class, we talk about the Russian River Valley AVA with special guest Viticulturist/Winemaker Lise Asimont of Dot Wine.
Episode 15: Climate Change vs Wine
Episode 16: Oxygen in Wine – The Good and The Bad
Episode 17: Pairing Wine with Grilled Meats and BBQ
Episode 18: Why Store and Age Wine in Caves?
For this wine class, we will talk about wine caves and storing and aging wine in caves. Special guest Winemaker Christopher Vandendriessche will also talk about the unique soils and terroir of White Rock Vineyards.
Wines we tasted at this event:
Episode 19: What Makes a Wine Age-Worthy?
Streaming LIVE from Napa Valley! For this wine class, we will talk about age worthiness of wine. Special guest Winemaker Ignacio Delgadillo Jr. will also talk about the unique method of aging and holding wine and releasing when it’s aged to drinking perfection.
Wines we tasted at this event:
Delgadillo Cellars 2016 “The Red” Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, CA
Delgadillo Cellars 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon, Coombsville, Napa Valley, CA
Episode 20: Refreshing White Wine Varieties for Summer
Proprietor Jack Seifrick of Cast Wines talks about the vineyard sources and characteristics that make perfect summer sippers and share summer food pairings.
Wines we taste at this event:
Cast Wines 2020 Bucher Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, Russian River Valley, Sonoma, CA
Cast Wines 2020 Front Porch Vineyard Grenache Blanc, Russian River Valley, Sonoma, CA
Episode 21: What is Pét Nat?
Learn about the labor-intensive winemaking method of producing Pét Nat from grape to glass with Winemaker Elise Nerlove of Elkhorn Peak Cellars. We will discuss the origins of this sparkling wine and what makes it a perfect warm weather sipper.
Wines we taste at this event:
Elkhorn Peak Cellars 2020 Pét Nat of Pinot Noir, Napa Valley, CA
Episode 22: The Art of Blending Wine
For this wine class, we will talk about the art and science of blending wines.
Special guest Winemaker Cindy Cosco of Passaggio Wines will join us to talk about unique blending techniques and her winemaking philosophy.
Wines we tasted at this event:
Passaggio Wines 2017 ‘Connect’ Bordeaux Style Red Blend, Sonoma, CA
Episode 23: Deconstructing Bordeaux Blends
Special guest Winemaker Bryan Kane of Sol Rouge Vineyard & Winery and Howell Mountain Vineyards joins us to talk about using grapes often meant for blending in single varietal bottlings to showcase their true characteristics.
Wines we will taste at this event:
Sol Rouge Vineyards & Winery 2013 Cabernet Franc, Red Hills, Lake County, CA
Howell Mountain Vineyards 2013 Petit Verdot, Napa Valley, CA
Episode 24: Napa’s Italian History
Special guest Katie Migliavacca of Migliavacca Wine Company joins us to talk about her Italian heritage and how her great-great-grandfather Giacomo Migliavacca, an Italian immigrant, helped put Napa’s wine industry on the map
Wine we tasted at this event:
Migliavacca Wine Co. 2018 Sangiovese, Napa Valley, CA
Episode 25: Napa Chenin Blanc
Special guests Winemaker/Co-Founder Shaina Harding and Co-Founder Natalie Coughlin Hall of Gaderian Wines will join this session to discuss Chenin Blanc and its origins.
Wine we tasted at this event:
Gaderian Wines 2019 Henry Ranch Chenin Blanc, Napa Valley, CA
Episode 26: The Importance of Acidity and Aromatics in Food Pairing
Special guest Winemaker Steve Law of MacLaren Wine joins this session to discuss how a wine’s acidity and aromatics impact food pairings.
Wine we tasted at this event:
MacLaren Wine 2020 ‘Aida’ Viognier, Green Valley, Russian River Valley, Sonoma, CA
Episode 27: Food & Wine Pairings Pt.1 – Holiday Meals
For this wine class, we will learn about how to pair food and wine for the holiday season.
Special guest Proprietor Ross Halleck of Halleck Vineyard joins us to talk about the food friendly Pinot Noir and Gewurztraminer wines.
Wines we tasted at this event:
Halleck Vineyard 2017 Three Sons Cuvée of Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, Sonoma, CA
Halleck Vineyard 2019 Dry Gewürztraminer, Calandrelli Vineyard, Russian River Valley, Sonoma, CA
Episode 28: Food & Wine Pairings Pt.2 – Holidays and Beyond
Feeding the Soul Podcast hosts, Chef Wook Kang and Sommelier/Educator John Laloganes are joining the show to help us understand more about pairing food with Syrah by demonstrating braising and stewing techniques. Get ready to learn how to impress your guests this holiday with a hearty meal.
Wine we will taste at this event:
Goosecross 2016 Syrah, Napa Valley, CA
Episode 29: Discovering the Fort Ross-Seaview AVA with Red Car
Winemaker Tanner Scheer from Red Car joins this virtual session to talk about the under-the-radar Fort Ross-Seaview AVA in Sonoma County.
Wine we will taste at this event:
Red Car 2018 Estate Chardonnay, Fort Ross-Seaview AVA, Sonoma County, CA
Episode 30: Family Winemakers of California
Supporting small business is important in all industries, especially wine. The number of small wine producers, the fabric of the wine industry, is shrinking every year. Winemaker Jon Phillips of Inspiration Vineyards joins this event to introduce the Family Winemakers of California organization and talk about its mission to help even the playing field for boutique artisan winemakers.
Wine we will taste at this event:
Inspiration Vineyards 2019 Ceja Farms Grenache, Sonoma Valley, Sonoma County, CA
Episode 31: Why Sonoma’s Healdsburg is the next “Do Not Miss” Wine Country Location
Join us to explore the exciting wine country destination in Sonoma County everyone is talking about, Healdsburg. Special guests, Viticulturist Lise Asimont of Dot Wine and Winemaker Kevin Bersofsky of Montagne Russe Wines join us to taste wine and talk about their tasting spaces at new Bacchus Landing in Healdsburg.
Wine we will taste at this event:
Dot Wine 2018 Lolita Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, Sonoma, CA
Montagne Russe Wines 2018 Silver & Gold Chardonnay, Black Knight Vineyard, Sonoma Coast, CA
Episode 32: Dessert Wines
This week we welcome Proprietor Jack Seifrick of Cast Wines to learn about different types of dessert wines, explore food pairings and winemaking methods.
Wine we will taste at this event:
Cast Wines 2017 ‘Late’ Zinfandel Dessert Wine, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, CA
Episode 33: If the Wine Matters, So Does the Glass
This week we welcome Robert Hall of Bottega del Vino Italian Crystal Stemware to demonstrate and educate how using the correct wine glassware will elevate your wine tasting – and drinking – experience. Be prepared to taste wine side-by-side from your usual glass and the Bottega del Vino stem. A special offer for attendees will be announced during the show.
Wines we tasted at this event:
Trujillo Wines 2018 Madelyn Red Wine, Napa Valley, CA
Inspiration Vineyards 2018 Gallaway Zinfandel, Sonoma, CA
Glassware demonstration using the Bottega del Vino Rosso Wine Glass
Episode 34: The Impact of Drought on Wine
Certified Soil Scientist Bryan Rahn, Viticulturist Dylan Rahn and Winemaker Hannah Rahn of Rahn Estate join us to discuss the impact of drought on winegrowing, winemaking and the wine itself.
Wines we taste at this event:
Episode 36: Davis Estates in Napa Valley
Proprietor Mike Davis of Davis Estates joins us to give a glimpse at the unique wine tasting experiences available at the estate. Mike specifically designed this property to give the wine lover awe-inspiring reveals at very turn of their visit to this state-of-the-art winery in northern Napa Valley.
Wine we taste at this event:
