Brian Brakesman’s dad purchased land above Napa Valley on Howell Mountain in1971 simply because the Valley Floor was too expensive. What a great decision that turned it to be. Today, Brian and his family make Red Thread wine on that same property. While things on the mountain have changed Brian’s commitment to quality, has not. We met with Brian at the winery and talked about their history on Howell Mountain.

You can also hear Brian on our Vino Lingo segment giving us his definition of the wine term “Slutty”

Learn more by visiting www.redthreadwines.com

The best way to make wine “less scary”, is to talk with winemakers. They really do tell the best stories. Winemakers bleed grape juice, work crazy hours and practically live in the vineyard. So we see it as our job to let them tell their stories. Elizabeth Vianna is Winemaker for Chimney Rock Winery in the Stag’s Leap District of Napa Valley. Elizabeth has been a longtime friend and a joy to chat with. She makes spectacular wines and keeps it real. And while making wine in Napa Valley is very cool…making wine in the Stag’s Leap District is just out of this world!

Hear Elizabeth define “Mouth Feel” in our Vino Lingo segment of the podcast.

Learn more by visiting www.chimneyrock.com

Los Carneros AVA is at the very southern end of Napa Valley and in fact the AVA is shared with Sonoma. Well known for exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay due to its cooler climate, Carneros is a special area to visit. Close to the city of Napa, the main highway running through here connects the southern end of Napa and Sonoma. For this podcast we visit Steve Rogstad, Winemaker for Cuvaison Winery in Carneros. This is another must see winery. The property is hilly with vines and new plantings. Carneros is some of the very best wine country has to offer.

Learn more by visiting www.cuvaison.com

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