The Chronicle
Latest dispatches
109 results across all types
- podcast· 1h 02m· Ep 224
224: Fermentation Step by Step
Fermentation step by step In this solo episode, Jim Duane walks through recent harvest and fermentation decisions for the 2026 Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon at Seavey Vineyard. He explains whole-cluster pressing and press cuts for Chardonnay, why he allows some early juice oxidation, and how he handles settling, nutrients, and barrel fermentation. For Merlot, he covers fruit processing, a cold soak, tartaric acid adjustment, native fermentation, nutrient timing, pump-overs, and malolactic bacteria. Jim also discusses how vineyard conditions and juice chemistry shape his choices, including high potassium and pH, the misleading early titratable-acidity readings in red grapes, and why Brix alone cannot confirm that a wine is dry. He shares his nutrient-dosing approach and his plans for extended Cabernet maceration, tasting daily and keeping free-run and press wine separate. This episode is brought to you by the Sentia Wine Analyzer from Scott Laboratories . Sentia is a handhe
- podcast· 55:18· Ep 222
223: Ry Richards - Chappellet Winery
In this episode, I talk with Ry Richards, winemaker at Chappellet on Pritchard Hill, about his circuitous path from selling wine in high school to learning enology on the job and growing into his current leadership role. Ry describes Chappellet's long‑tenured, family‑driven culture, their production team structure, and the importance of process, communication, and harvest "flow state" in managing complex vintages. We dig into recent and challenging Napa vintages (2011, 2013, 2021, 2023, 2025), shatter and low yields in 2026, and how drought, heat, and smoke have reshaped decision‑making. Ry also details Chappellet's estate and sourced vineyards on the Vaca range, their work with Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier, and Bordeaux reds, and why Chenin and site‑specific hillside Cabernet remain central to their identity. Along the way we cover yeast strategy, bottling realities, replanting and trellis choices on steep slopes, the unique trademarked status of Pritchard Hill, and why, despite
- podcast· 1h 00m· Ep 222
222: Jillian Johnson DeLeon - Laffort
Jillian Johnson DeLeon - Laffort In this episode, Jim sits down with Jillian Johnson DeLeon of Laffort to dig into the practical mechanics of yeast nutrition, starting with the difference between organic (amino-acid based) and inorganic (DAP) nitrogen sources. They walk through how to calculate the Nitrogren needs for a successfule fermentation across a two-addition strategy, timing the first dose within 24 hours of pitch (or at first signs of cap formation for native ferments) to support the yeast's growth phase, and the second closer to mid-fermentation to carry them through to dryness without triggering Hydrogen sulfide production. The conversation covers dosing heuristics like the one-third organic to two-thirds DAP ratio for that second addition, how nitrogen demand varies by yeast strain and biomass production, fermentation temperature's effect on ester versus thiol expression, the risks of both under- and over-dosing nutrients, and the case for early co-inoculation with malolact
- podcast· 1h 10m· Ep 221
221: JJ McNab - L'Amitié Wines
In this episode I talk with John "JJ" Julius McNab, assistant winemaker at Matthiasson Wines and founder of Lamitié Wines, about his unconventional path from Chicago brokerage and endurance sports into the wine world. JJ traces his move from finance to Santa Barbara hospitality and DTC sales at Brewer-Clifton and the moment he realized he wanted to make his own wine. We dig into his decision to complete the UC Davis Winemaking Certificate, how that "inch deep, mile wide" technical foundation pairs with on-the-job experience, and what he really learned during his first harvest at Kosta Browne in the middle of COVID and wildfire smoke. We then dive into JJ's Chardonnay-focused Lamitié project: why he chose to be known for one thing, his focus on low alcohol, high-acid chemistry, and what he looks for in vineyards like Charles Heintz (clone 4, cool sites, marine influence). JJ explains his press strategy ("the juice isn't always worth the squeeze"), fermenting Chardonnay in puncheons on f
podcast· 50:44· Ep 220220: Jen Williams - Arrow and Branch
Jennifer Williams joins Jim to talk about her work as a contract winemaker, leading Arrow & Branch and co-owning Zeitgeist Cellars with her husband, Mark Porembsky. They dig into the design and philosophy of the new Arrow & Branch custom crush facility in Oak Knoll—its flexible tank mix, "white glove" service model, and how it's built to handle challenging vintages and a range of client brands. Jennifer explains the stylistic goals and vineyard sourcing for Zeitgeist, including heritage whites like Chenin Blanc and Trousseau Gris, and a Cabernet Franc program that uses barrel fermentation and moderate maceration to shape tannins. Along the way they get into pick-date decisions and herbaceous character in Cabernet Franc, managing slow malolactic fermentations, the realities of custom crush pricing and client expectations, and how small Napa brands are navigating a tougher wine market through relationships, thoughtful growth, and authentic visitor experiences. Resources from this Episode
- podcast· 57:01· Ep 217
219: Elias Fernandez - Shafer Vineyards
This episode features a conversation with Elias Fernandez, longtime winemaker at Shafer Vineyards in Napa Valley. Fernandez, who was raised by migrant farm workers in the Napa Valley, traces his path from studying enology at UC Davis to joining Shafer in 1984, where he became winemaker in 1994. He discusses the winery's evolution under John and Doug Shafer, its shift toward estate-only vineyards with additions like Wildfoote and Altimeter, and the current portfolio, including Hillside Select, TD-9, the One Point Five, and the Wine Spectator–acclaimed Relentless Syrah. The conversation also covers his hands-on approach to extended maceration, his early and enthusiastic adoption of non-Saccharomyces yeasts and crossflow filtration, and his use of AI-based tools like Tule for vineyard water management. Fernandez closes by reflecting on mentoring his son, now assistant winemaker at Shafer, and on the importance of introducing younger generations to wine. Resources from this Episode Shafer
- podcast· 45:01· Ep 218
218: The Barrel Management Episode
In this solo episode of Inside Winemaking, Jim tackles one of the questions he gets most often: how to manage empty barrels. Working through the full lifecycle of a barrel, Jim covers receiving and inspecting new barrels on arrival, keeping them hydrated before harvest (his go-to: shrink-wrap them tight and lock the moisture in), and recovering barrels that have dried out. He walks through swelling and leak-testing before filling, the realities of finding and repairing leaks with spiles, and smart practices for stacking, filling, and leaving proper ullage for young wines still off-gassing CO2. From there, Jim gets into cleaning and sanitizing — why an immediate rinse matters, where he lands on tartrates, and his candid take on the trade-offs between burning sulfur, SO2 gas, ozone, and steam. He closes with short-, medium-, and long-term storage strategies, how often to recharge sulfur based on cellar conditions, and how to tell when a barrel is truly done. Practical, opinionated, and g
- podcast· 1h 07m· Ep 217
217: Alison Rodriguez - Silverado Vineyards
Recorded high above the valley floor in Silverado's Stags Leap estate, this episode with winemaker Alison Rodriguez dives into both Napa viticulture and her global winemaking journey. Alison unpacks the 2025 growing season—early bud break, late rains, and the shadow of El Niño—while describing the constant tension between picking early for safety and waiting for full ripeness in a fire-prone era. She explains what it means to farm 325 acres of 100% estate vineyards, how early-season decisions set up harvest success, and how she manages tannin and extraction in small-berry hillside Cabernets, including the tradeoffs of pressing sweet to keep structure in balance. Alison also shares how a Baton Rouge upbringing and a career in wine sales led her to **Geisenheim** in Germany, European cellar work, and ultimately Napa. She explains the German technique of *Maischestandzeit* for aromatic whites, her evolving approach to Sauvignon Blanc at Silverado (skin contact, neutral barrel ferment, and
podcast· 1h 04m· Ep 216216: Meredith Saboraria - Livermore Valley and Valle de Guadalupe
This episode features Livermore Valley winemaker and consultant Meredith Saboraria for a wide-ranging conversation recorded on location in the heart of the appellation. A proud self-described "Livermoron," Meredith traces her path from tasting room work in the late 1990s to earning her Viticulture and Enology degree at Las Positas College and building her consulting business, Barrel Down Wine Services. Along the way, she paints a vivid portrait of Livermore's wine country — from the outsized influence of Wente and Measure D on land preservation, to the region's sandy loam soils, marine-influenced climate, and its newly adopted signature varietals: Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. She also shares candid insights into the valley's growing community of female winemakers and the collective they've built to support one another. The conversation then shifts to winemaking craft, with Meredith diving deep on the challenges of working with high-acid Barbera, her philosophy of balance over ma
- podcast· 1h 00m· Ep 215
215: Elizabeth Vianna - Chimney Rock Winery
In this episode Jim Duane sits down with Elizabeth Vianna to explore her unconventional path from pre-med student to one of Napa Valley's most respected Cabernet Sauvignon producers. Elizabeth shares how a late discovery of wine in New York City led her to University of California, Davis, and ultimately to a long-term career rooted in estate winemaking in the Stags Leap District. The conversation dives into the evolution of Chimney Rock's vineyard and winemaking philosophy, including its commitment to 100% estate fruit, the use of exclusively free-run wine, and the influence of site diversity on wine style. The episode also goes deep on practical winemaking decisions, from extended maceration strategies and tannin management to sulfur timing, racking protocols, and blending philosophy. Elizabeth discusses her increasing focus on regenerative farming, vine health, and long-term sustainability in the face of climate change, as well as her approach to working with alternative white variet
- podcast· 57:17· Ep 214
214: Patrick Riggs - Jack Neal & Son Vineyard Managment
In this episode, viticulturist Patrick Riggs dives deep into the realities of organic farming in Napa Valley. We unpack what it takes to convert vineyards from conventional to organic, from soil testing and rethinking fertilizer programs to choosing equipment for under‑vine weed control and managing more volatile, season‑driven budgets. Patrick explains how tools and machinery for cultivation have evolved, how he approaches weed control without herbicides, and why organic systems demand a more diagnostic, problem‑solving mindset. Patrick also details integrated strategies for managing vine mealybug organically—combining year‑round mating disruption, biological controls like parasitic wasps and mealybug destroyers, and very selective use of organic sprays. From there, we explore floor management, soil moisture dynamics, and irrigation strategy in drought years: when to irrigate, how to prioritize limited water, why shaded interior leaves can be "water hogs," and how canopy design and tr
- podcast· 1h 13m· Ep 213
213: James Molesworth - Wine Spectator
This Jim sits down with James Molesworth, Senior Editor for The Wine Spectator, to trace James's unconventional path into wine—from a Francophile, academic household in Queens to blind-tasting Burgundy in a tiny West Village cellar, and eventually orchestrating tastings and writing for one of the most influential wine publications in the world. James reflects on formative mentors, the discipline and humility required to learn both tasting and journalism at a professional level, and how his anthropology background shaped his "observe and report" style of wine writing. He also unpacks Wine Spectator's mission to educate and entertain, the magazine's role in the global wine ecosystem, and how landmark moments like the post‑9/11 New York Wine Experience revealed the deep, relationship-driven core of the wine community. The conversation then widens to a rich exploration of regional evolution and the future of fine wine, focusing especially on Bordeaux and Napa Valley. James explains how Bor
- podcast· 1h 06m· Ep 212
212: Matteo Abreu - David Abreu Vineyard Management
In this episode of Inside Winemaking , Jim Duane sits down with Matteo Abreu, fifth-generation Napa Valley farmer and part of the Abreu vineyard management family, to explore what it means to grow and farm at the highest level in one of the world's most demanding wine regions. Matteo shares his path into the family business, the realities of multi-generational vineyard management, and how Abreu approaches vineyard site selection, soil preparation, drainage, and long-term vineyard design. The conversation highlights the importance of matching the right varieties to the right sites, with a particular focus on Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, and how disciplined vineyard preparation sets the foundation for premium wine quality. The discussion also dives into modern challenges and hands-on solutions in Napa Valley viticulture, including heat management strategies such as shade cloth, pre-irrigation cooling, and selective use of misting, along with crop load management and canopy deci
- podcast· 1h 11m· Ep 211
211: Heat and Cold Stabilization of wines with Leigh Meyering from MyEnologist
In this episode of Inside Winemaking , Jim Duane speaks with Leigh Meyering of MyEnologist about the practical and analytical aspects of heat and cold stability in wine. The discussion focuses on how and why protein haze and tartrate instability occur, with an emphasis on white and rosé wines. Leigh explains the principles behind heat stability testing, protein denaturation, and the use of bentonite to prevent haze, as well as how stability concerns differ between red wines and lighter-colored styles. The conversation also addresses the sensory and chemical impacts of stabilization decisions, including common concerns around stripping, mouthfeel, and visual clarity in finished wines. The episode then moves into cold stability, detailing the Davis conductivity, DIT, and ISTC 50 tests and how to choose the appropriate method based on a winery's stabilization strategy. Leigh outlines the roles of traditional chilling and seeding, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), and mannoproteins, including
- podcast· 1h 10m· Ep 210
210: Tommaso Martignon - Seve Consulting
This episode features Tommaso, a vineyard consultant whose career spans from Venice and Montalcino to Burgundy, Bordeaux, and other renowned wine regions. Tommaso discusses his background in viticulture, the technical aspects of working in different European vineyards, and how he manages various grape varieties and regional challenges. The conversation highlights real-world issues such as vineyard management, adapting to climate change, and the critical decisions involved in harvest timing and vine care. A significant part of the discussion focuses on the curretage technique, a method for removing diseased wood from vines using specialized tools. Tommaso explains the origins of this approach, how it is applied in European vineyards, and its role in combating trunk diseases. The episode also covers Tommaso's work as a viticultural consultant specializing team training for vineyard surgery, adapting vineyard design to environmental pressures, and practical steps for maintaining vine heal
- podcast· 54:07· Ep 209
209: Andrea Card - Francis Ford Coppola Winery
In this episode, Andrea shares her unique journey to becoming the Director of Winemaking at Francis Ford Coppola Winery. Starting her career without the initial intention of entering winemaking, she found her path through roles in the laboratory, cellar, and bottling lines, developing a passion for the hands-on aspects of the craft. Andrea highlights the value of practical experience, local education, and her commitment to continual learning, which eventually led her to oversee the winemaking team at FFC. She discusses adapting to changes like the acquisition by Delicato Family Wines, her focus on mentorship and team guidance, and her philosophy of keeping winemaking rooted in the region's character. The conversation covers the structure and innovation at FFC, including their iconic wine programs, creative approaches to blending, and the development of new products such as low-alcohol, low-calorie wines. Andrea explains the logistics of vineyard sourcing across California, their strate
- podcast· 1h 00m· Ep 208
208 Jason Moulton - Whitehall Lane Winery
This episode features an in-depth discussion about winemaking at Whitehall as the team nears the end of the 2025 harvest season. The episode begins with insights into the progression of the harvest, focusing on the completion of most varietals and the ongoing work with late-harvest selections like Semillon. Our conversation runs the gamut of technical issues such as stabulation of Sauvignon blanc juice, cellar techniques to avert the need for fining and filtration, and Whitehall's trials with Pierce's Disease resistant clones from UCDavis. Resources from this Episode Whitehall Lane Winery This episode is sponsored by Harvest Pillar concrete trellis posts. Want to know why more growers are going for concrete? It's because Harvest Pillar is the last trellis post you'll ever need. Check out the Fundamentals of Winemaking Made Easy video course The Inside Winemaking Podcast on iTunes Now on Spotify And Amazon Music
- podcast· 57:35· Ep 207
207: Benjamin Leachman - Walsh Vineyards Management and Vidi Vitis
Ben is a seasoned viticulturist and winemaker currently serving as the Director of Viticulture and Winemaker at Large at Walsh Vineyards Management, overseeing approximately 1,000 acres in Napa and Sonoma. His journey in the wine industry began in 2004 after graduating with a biochemistry degree, starting at RH Phillips and later working with Jim at Seavey Vineyard. At Walsh Vineyards Management, Ben works with a team of 125 full-time employees and up to 400 seasonal workers, focusing on client relations, vineyard management, development. Alongside his professional role, he has created his own wine brand, Vidi Vitis, which started in 2015 with a unique opportunity to salvage a ton of Stags Leap District Cabernet. His winemaking philosophy emphasizes quality fruit, experimentation, and a passion for exploring different grape varieties. Resources from this Episode Walsh Vineyards Management Vidi Vitis / Forgotton Union Wines This podcast is sponsored by InnoVint . Wineries of all sizes r
- podcast· 1h 03m
206: Esther Mobley - San Francisco Chronicle
Join me as I sit down with Esther Mobley, Senior Wine Critic for the San Francisco Chronicle. Esther shares her fascinating journey from an English major to a wine journalist, starting with a harvest internship in Napa Valley and subsequently working in Mendoza, Argentina. Her career path led her through Wine Enthusiast and Wine Spectator before landing at the Chronicle in 2015, where she has since become a prominent voice in wine journalism. Throughout our conversation, Esther discusses her approach to wine writing, emphasizing her role as a reporter who explores wine through broader lenses of society, climate change, immigration, and culture. She explains that her job goes beyond traditional wine criticism, focusing instead on telling compelling stories about the wine industry in California. The episode offers listeners an insider's view of wine journalism, tracing her professional evolution and her unique perspective on covering the dynamic world of wine. Resources from this Episode
- podcast· 1h 10m· Ep 205
205: Rich DeScenzo - ETS Labs
Rich DeScenzo, the Microbiology Group Leader at ETS Labs, came on this episode to discuss the science of wine microbiology and its impact on winemaking. We talked about the roles of yeast and bacteria, such as Brettanomyces, in wine quality and stability. The episode explores the evolution of microbial testing, highlighting advanced techniques like Scorpion PCR technology, which enhances microbial risk assessment and wine quality control. Rich shares insights on managing microbial risks, barrel sanitation, and the challenges of controlling Brettanomyces. The episode also touches on groundbreaking research in grapevine virus detection, emphasizing the importance of understanding microbial populations and wine chemistry for winemakers. Winemaking Class Offers and Show Notes for all episodes at https://www.insidewinemaking.com/ Resources from this Episode Winemaking Class Offers and Show Notes for all episodes at https://www.insidewinemaking.com/ ETS Labs https://www.etslabs.com/ This epi
- podcast· 57:56· Ep 204
204: Chris Morisoli - Morisoli Vineyard
Join us today as we have a conversation with Chris Morisoli from Morisoli Vineyard. Chris is a fifth-generation farmer from Morisoli Vineyard in Napa Valley and he shares his journey from serving as a helicopter pilot and volunteer fireman to managing his family's historic vineyard. The conversation highlights the vineyard's evolution, the challenges of maintaining old vines, and the importance of building strong relationships in the wine industry. Chris also discusses the creation of the Morisoli wine brand, the logistics of grape harvesting, and the significance of traditions like challenge coins. Throughout the episode, Chris emphasizes the importance of long-term planning in vineyard management and maintaining quality in winemaking. Winemaking Class Offers and Show Notes for all episodes at https://www.insidewinemaking.com/ Resources from this Episode Morisoli Vineyard https://morisolivineyard.com/ This episode is sponsored by Harvest Pillar concrete trellis posts. Want to know why
- podcast· 57:45· Ep 203
203: Ashley Hepworth, Molly Hill, and Sally Blum - Abloom Wines
Discover the art and passion behind Abloom, a distinctive rosé wine brand crafted by winemakers Molly Hill, Ashley Hepworth, and Sally Blum. This episode discusses their experiences from UC Davis to Napa Valley, highlighting their unique collaboration and the meticulous process of creating a high-quality rosé. They share about their use of fermentation techniques and the thoughtful design elements that embody their brand's philosophy of flourishing and abundance. Listen as they discuss the challenges and triumphs of building a wine brand, offering a glimpse into the complexities of winemaking and the collaborative spirit that drives A'Bloom's success. Winemaking Class Offers and Show Notes for all episodes at https://www.insidewinemaking.com/ Resources from this Episode Abloom Wine https://www.abloomwine.com/ This episode is sponsored by Innovint. Wineries of all sizes rely on InnoVint's winery operating system to optimize vineyard tracking, manage wine production processes, automate c
- podcast· 58:32· Ep 202
202: Rosemary Cakebread - Gallica Wine
Join us today as we explore the fascinating journey of renowned winemaker Rosemary Cakebread, whose career spans continents and decades. We discuss her early life in Japan, her education at UC Davis, and her groundbreaking work at Inglenook Winery. Rosemary shares information on dry farming and crafting varietals like Albariño and Petite Sirah, revealing the intricacies of her winemaking process. Reflecting on the evolution of Napa Valley's wine community, we discuss her transition from larger corporations to intimate family-owned estates, including her connection to Cakebread Cellars. Rosemary also shares her commitment to sustainable winemaking, offering a glimpse into her passion for unique wines under her Gallica brand. This episode is filled with personal anecdotes and expert insights into the art and dedication behind winemaking. Winemaking Class Offers and Show Notes for all episodes at https://www.insidewinemaking.com/ Resources from this Episode Gallica Wine https://www.gallic
- podcast· 54:30· Ep 201
201: Morgan Twain-Peterson - Bedrock Wine Co.
Join us this week to hear from Morgan Twain-Peterson, Master of Wine, owner and winemaker at Bedrock Wine Co. Influenced by his father, the founder of Ravenswood Winery, Morgan's path is enriched by his experiences in the European vineyards. Listen in for innovative methods in sustainable viticulture, including sap testing for vine nutrient needs and the role of regenerative agriculture. Explore the contrasts between the Master of Wine and Master Sommelier certifications and discover the power of mentorship in the industry. Morgan also offers insights into managing California's historic vineyards, reshaping the perception of Zinfandel, and enhancing vineyard soil health with advanced techniques. The conversation concludes with a celebration of the community spirit among Sonoma winemakers and the evolving landscape of winemaking that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. Winemaking Class Offers and Show Notes for all episodes at https://www.insidewinemaking.com/ Resources from th