Wine Talks with Paul K.

Latest Episodes:

The Vineyard No One Thought Could Exist in Texas with Stephanie Franklin Oct 17, 2024

Show notes

Have you ever dreamed of starting something big–like planting a vineyard–in a place where it seemed impossible? Then this episode is for you.

In this week's episode of Wine Talks, Paul K sits down with Stephanie Franklin, founder of Franklin Vines, who is building her first ever vineyard in the historic yet lesser-known town of Shankleville, Texas.

Stephanie shares her inspiring journey of honoring her family's legacy by creating a vineyard on her grandfather's land, despite the harsh Texas climate and the rarity of vineyards in the area.

Tune in now to hear about her bold vision for Franklin Vines, the unique varietals she's cultivating, and how she's honoring Shankleville's rich history. Plus, discover how she's breaking barriers as an African-American woman in the wine industry, and more.

Let's dive in!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

The rich history of Shankleville, Texas (00:55)

Why Stephanie Franklin planted a vineyard in Shankleville (04:23)

Agricultural challenges and choosing the right varietals (11:08)

Inclusivity in the wine industry (20:58)

Defining wine innovation (24:02)

From first Texas wine sip to winemaker (25:34)

Navigating Texas legalities to launch a winery (27:18)

What it's like planting a vineyard in a historical place (30:04)

Achieving an organic vineyard in a Texas climate (32:48)

Progress updates on vineyard and winemaking process (39:38)

Episode wrap-up (46:43)

Additional Resources:

👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/

👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

👉Connect with Stephanie Franklin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/franklin-vines-wine-maker/

👉Learn more about Franklin Wines here: https://franklinvineshtx.com/

Watch or listen to these episodes:

🔸White House Wine Authority Reveals the UNTOLD Presidential Wine Secrets | Frederick Ryan: https://youtu.be/4M09rYbob6I

🔸How One BAD Wine Led to a Thriving Wine Business with a TWIST | Stephanie Franklin: https://youtu.be/mmyguoWhsPY

🔸Regenerative Farming Is Revolutionizing the Wine Industry | Angelica Mabray: https://youtu.be/f14_Ib14Z-U

🔸May-Éliane de Lencquesaing Forever Changed BORDEAUX'S Wine History: https://youtu.be/vsMXAUtpNns

Let's Connect:

🍷IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/

🍷LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914

–

Wine Talks with Paul K is the ultimate podcast for serious wine lovers who want to know everything about the wine business. Whether you're a novice or an expert, this podcast will introduce you to the wonderful world of wine, one story at a time.

Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won't miss an episode!

You Won't Believe How Icewine is Really Made–The Truth Behind Its Flavor | Randy Dufour Oct 10, 2024

Show notes

Have you ever thought about what makes icewine so unique? You might be familiar with dessert wines, but icewine stands out on its own!

In the latest episode of Wine Talks, Paul K chats with Randy Dufour from Arterra Corporation to break down the fascinating process behind this rare and extraordinary wine. Made from grapes that are naturally frozen on the vine and harvested at just the right moment, icewine is truly one of a kind!

Randy covers everything you need to know about icewine–from its rich history and meticulous harvesting method to the winemaking process itself.

Plus, he dives into what sets icewine apart from other sweet wines, including its strict regulations, serving tips, and more.

Are you ready to explore the world of icewine?

Don't miss out–tune in now!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

The making of icewine and its unique flavor profile (02:14)

The history of icewine and its regulations (10:39)

Small yields from icewine production and its cost (12:40)

Differences between icewines and other sweet wines (15:11)

Sustainability in winemaking and packaging innovation (23:36)

The challenges of today's wine industry (33:35)

How to serve and enjoy icewine (42:17)

Additional Resources:

👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/

👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

👉Check out Inniskillin Wines: https://www.inniskillin.com/

👉Learn more about Niagara wineries here: https://wineriesofniagaraonthelake.com/

👉Connect with Randy Dufour on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-dufour-98b0bab/

Watch or listen to this episode:

🔸Wine Talks with Angelica Mabray: https://youtu.be/f14_Ib14Z-U

🔸Wine Talks with Stephanie Franklin: https://youtu.be/mmyguoWhsPY

Let's Connect:

🍷IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/

🍷LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914

–

Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won't miss an episode!

BULGARI's World-Class Winemaking Secrets Revealed! | Francesco Poggi Oct 08, 2024

Show notes

What happens when a world-renowned luxury jewelry brand like Bulgari decides to create wine?

Giovanni Bulgari, the great-great-grandson of the iconic jeweler, has poured his heart into a different kind of craftsmanship–wine.

In this week's episode, Paul K sits down with Francesco Poggi, export manager for Podernuovo, to explore the fascinating story of the Bulgari family and how Giovanni transitioned from luxury jewels to fine wine.

Francesco gives us an insider's view of how Giovanni brought the same high standards of quality from his family's legacy to his winery, creating wines that honor Tuscany's unique terroir.

They also talk about the art and science of winemaking, the challenges of navigating global wine markets, the unpredictable nature of the wine business, and more.

Want to learn more about the story behind Bulgari's winemaking venture?

Tune in now!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

Francesco Poggi's journey into the wine industry (00:42)

The Bulgari family's history and their entry into winemaking (01:25)

Marketing the winery globally and building a brand (17:11)

The importance of patience and long-term vision in winemaking (19:52)

Reception of Podernuovo's wines in the U.S. (27:31)

Podernuovo's sustainable practices and the hidden design of their facility (34:09)

How Podernuovo is adapting to climate change (44:53)

Additional Resources:

👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/

👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

👉Connect with Francesco Poggi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesco-poggi-45211a115/

👉Visit Podernuovo a Palazzone for more information: https://www.podernuovoapalazzone.com/

Watch or listen to this episode:

🔸Wine Talks with Molly Bossardt: https://youtu.be/ZdqzjfBCHwM

🔸Wine Talks with Angelica Mabray: https://youtu.be/f14_Ib14Z-U

Let's Connect:

🍷IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/

🍷LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914

–

Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won't miss an episode!

Wine Storage on Steroids? This is How Bottle Bank Does It | Damon Raque Oct 03, 2024

Show notes

Imagine a place where you can store your favorite bottles of wine, enjoy them with friends, and indulge in high-end dining–all in one location. Sounds too good to be true, right?

In this week's episode, Paul K chats with Damon Raque about his exciting new concept in Atlanta–-Bottle Bank.

Bottle Bank isn't just wine storage; it's a wine lover's paradise!

Whether you're looking to enjoy your collection in a luxurious setting or explore new wines with like-minded enthusiasts, Bottle Bank has you covered.

Learn more about Bottle Bank's curated selection process, the challenges they have to overcome, what sets them apart, and more.

Tune in now!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

Meet Damon Raque of Bottle Bank (00:25)

The concept behind Bottle Bank (01:28)

Georgia's wine laws and challenges for businesses (02:32)

Damon's living philosophy and the creation of Bottle Bank (08:11)

Bottle Bank's wine curation process (14:49)

Crafting a wine experience beyond just selling bottles (18:35)

How wine tastes evolve with time (20:38)

The value of wine flights and education for customers (25:27)

Growing demand for wine storage facilities (28:59)

The generational differences in wine consumption (46:45)

Additional Resources:

👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/

👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

👉Connect with Damon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damon-raque-21128213

👉Visit Bottle Bank for more information: https://www.bottlebank.com/

Watch or listen to this episode:

🔸Wine Talks with Frederick Ryan: https://youtu.be/4M09rYbob6I

🔸Wine Talks with Jimmy Richie: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/jamie-ritchie-has-storied-history-in-wine-and-spirits-now-is-coo-of-blockbar-crazy-stuff/

Let's Connect:

🍷IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/

🍷LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914

–

Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won't miss an episode!

How South Africa Produces Premium Wines Without the Premium Price with Jacques Viljoen of Boschendal Wines Oct 01, 2024

Show notes

What makes South African wines stand out in the global wine industry?

In this episode of Wine Talks, Paul K sits down with Jacques Viljoen, Cellar Master at Boschendal Wines, to uncover the secret behind South Africa's great-tasting wines.

With a unique balance of old-world tradition and new-world freedom, Jacques explains how South Africa's winemakers are using diverse terroirs and cutting-edge winemaking techniques to produce wines that are both elegant and timeless.

If you are curious to know more about what sets South African wines apart or are interested in the art of winemaking, tune in now to this insightful conversation.

Let's dive in!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

Meet Jacques Viljoen and his role at Boschendal Wines (00:38)

South Africa's unique terroir and climate explained (04:22)

Boschendal Wines' end goal of making timeless, balanced wines (11:32)

Changing wine trends and the global palate (16:21)

Balancing old-world and new-world winemaking (22:35)

The future of wine as both a cultural and economic product (31:00)

Final thoughts (39:58)

Additional Resources:

👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/

👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

👉Follow Boschendal Wines on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boschendalwines/

👉Visit Boschendal Wines' website for more information: https://boschendalwines.com/

Watch or listen to this episode:

🔸Interview with May-Éliane de Lencquesaing: https://youtu.be/vsMXAUtpNns

Let's Connect:

🍷IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/

🍷LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914

–

Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won't miss an episode!

Anthony Rahayel Reveals How Modern Trends Are Ruining Authentic Flavors Sep 26, 2024

Show notes

Are we losing the authentic flavors of our food, or are they just being masked by modern food trends?

In this episode of Wine Talks, Paul K sits down with Anthony Rahayel, founder of NoGarlicNoOnions–a YouTube sensation for food lovers worldwide.

Today, Anthony shares his incredible journey from being a dentist to traveling the world in search of authentic food stories.

With over 8,500 videos to his name, Anthony explains why he's on a mission to preserve traditional Lebanese culinary techniques and how modern cuisine often loses its way through today's food trends.

Tune in now to discover how these trends are affecting our food and how we can strike a balance between tradition and innovation in the culinary world.

Let's jump right in!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

Meet Anthony Rahayel and his brand, NoGarlicNoOnions (00:32)

Evolution of American cuisine and its influence on Lebanese food (02:29)

Anthony's take on how food connects people globally (04:16)

How Anthony's YouTube journey started (05:55)

What you need to know about Lebanese cuisine (10:55)

Modern food trends and its impact (16:05)

Anthony's transition from dentistry to food blogging (32:31)

Importance of equipment and production quality in food blogging (37:04)

The secret sauce to Anthony's success (43:12)

Additional Resources:

👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/

👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

👉Subscribe to Anthony Rahayel's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCACicNDQx-HA5MFnl75a-OQ

👉Connect with Anthony on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nogarlicnoonions/?hl=en

Watch or listen to this episode:

🔸How One BAD Wine Led to a Thriving Wine Business with a TWIST | Stephanie Franklin: https://youtu.be/mmyguoWhsPY

🔸This Missouri Winery is Crafting Wines Like You've NEVER Tasted Before | Jerry Eisterhold: https://youtu.be/Y5mv4wghyWc

Let's Connect:

🍷IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/

🍷LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914

–

Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won't miss an episode!

Napa Valley Wine Academy Exposes the Truth on Wine Education | Christian Oggenfuss Sep 24, 2024

Show notes

Wine isn't just a drink–-it's an experience. So why limit wine education to a classroom? That's exactly what today's guest is here to explore.

In this episode of Wine Talks, we're joined by Christian Oggenfuss, CEO and co-founder of the Napa Valley Wine Academy.

With a rich background in wine education, Christian shares how the wine academy was founded and its crucial role in shaping the wine industry.

He discusses the significance of hands-on learning and understanding wine beyond textbooks. Additionally, they cover key topics such as the challenges of today's wine industry, the need for inclusivity in wine education, and more.

Curious to know more about Napa Valley Wine Academy's approach to learning?

Tune in now!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

Meet Christian Oggenfuss (00:25)

The Origin of Napa Wine Valley Academy (01:29)

Experiential learning in wine education (05:51)

Wine certification and its importance (06:50)

The complexity of wine language (18:26)

Social and experiential aspects of wine (31:42)

Challenges and evolution in the wine industry (39:24)

Fostering inclusivity and diversity in wine education (45:07)

Final thoughts (49:41)

Additional Resources:

👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/

👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

👉Connect with Christian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coggenfuss

👉Visit Napa Valley Wine Academy for more information: https://napavalleywineacademy.com/

Watch or listen to this episode:

🔸Interview with the Producers of the Movie Bottle Shock: https://youtu.be/EcE_nUpOKHY

🔸Interview with Steven Spurrier, Organizer of The Judgement of Paris 1976: https://youtu.be/JlzIAeIpufQ

Let's Connect:

🍷IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/

🍷LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914

–

Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won't miss an episode!

Are Women Still Fighting for Leadership in the Wine Industry? | Tracey Mason Sep 19, 2024

Show notes

What is it like for women to break into the male-dominated wine industry?

For Tracey Mason, a trailblazer and Senior VP of Vintage Wine Estates, the journey has been anything but easy.

Despite women being the majority of wine consumers, they still hold fewer key leadership roles in this industry compared to men.

Today, Tracey shares her experiences as a woman navigating this industry. She talks about the importance of authenticity in leadership and how she's using her position to elevate other women in the industry.

If you're curious about what's next for women in wine, tune in now and get inspired by Tracey's story.

Let's jump right in!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

Meet Tracey Mason (00:38)

The gender dynamics in the wine and spirits industry (02:33)

Elevating women in leadership roles (05:24)

Challenges for women in the cannabis industry (09:00)

Importance of authenticity in leadership (16:28)

Raising a diverse family (17:51)

Tracey's recent speaking engagement (25:52)

The impact of personal experiences on brand advocacy (36:44)

Sustainability initiatives in the wine industry (46:48)

Additional Resources:

👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/

👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

👉Visit Vintage Wine Estates: https://www.vintagewineestates.com/

👉Connect with Tracey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/masontracey/

Watch or listen to this episode:

🔸Interview with Emilia Nardi: https://youtu.be/WrEXMX4eSSU

Let's Connect:

🍷IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/

🍷LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914

–

Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won't miss an episode!

Regenerative Farming Is Revolutionizing the Wine Industry, Here's How | Angelica Mabray Sep 17, 2024

Show notes

Do you ever wonder what it feels like to sip a glass of wine surrounded by world-class art and stunning landscapes? At Donum Estate, wine tasting is a soul-awakening experience.

In this episode of Wine Talks, Paul K sits down with Angelica Mabray, CEO of Donum Estate, a winery that seamlessly blends art, nature, and fine wine in Sonoma's Carneros district.

Angelica reveals how Donum Estate is breaking away from traditional wine tastings by offering visitors an immersive experience with a world-class sculpture collection and breathtaking landscapes.

Additionally, Angelica dives into Donum Estate's approach to sustainable farming, focusing on regenerative agriculture, the winery's commitment to producing exceptional wines, and the advantages of direct-to-consumer sales.

Tune in to learn how Donum Estate is redefining luxury wine experiences and setting new standards in the industry.

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

Donum Estate's holistic sensory experience (01:08)

Impact of regenerative farming at Donum (03:32)

Sustainable practices in the wine industry (07:00)

The value of direct-to-consumer relationships (10:17)

Challenges of balancing consumer expectations and wine quality (13:40)

Differences in wine taste across different vineyard plots (18:44)

The international background of Donum's owners (28:14)

Generational stewardship and long-term vision at Donum (32:23)

Wine innovations through farming, packaging, and mass production (36:53)

Additional Resources:

👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/

👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

👉Visit Donum Estate for more information: https://www.thedonumestate.com/

Watch or listen to this episode:

🔸Interview with the Producers of the Movie "Bottle Shock": https://youtu.be/EcE_nUpOKHY

Let's Connect:

🍷IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/

🍷LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914

–

Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won't miss an episode!

Why the Wine Industry's Old Tactics are FAILING w/ Priscilla Hennekam Sep 12, 2024

Show notes

Is the wine industry holding on too tightly to its traditional strategies? How ready are we for change? Today's guest challenges us to rethink how we market and sell wine.

Meet Priscilla Hennekam, a Brazilian wine expert now based in Australia. With a unique background that spans continents, Priscilla brings valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in exporting wine, particularly between Australia and Brazil.

In this episode, Priscilla shares her experiences navigating the complexities of the wine business and discusses how new strategies and technologies are crucial for engaging the next generation of wine consumers.

Tune in now to discover how the wine industry can adapt to changes and why thinking outside the "bottle" might be the key to its future success.

Let's dive in!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

Priscilla's journey from Brazil to Australia (01:16)

Historical influence on Brazil's wine industry (04:21)

Why Priscilla chose Australia to further her wine career (10:30)

The complexities of exporting wine to Brazil (16:12)

Thinking outside the box in winemaking (27:34)

Marketing wine to younger generations (30:02)

How technology and innovation are reshaping the wine industry (38:04)

The importance of listening to customer feedback (47:23)