Volcanic Soils, Unique Texture and Graceful Style: Exploring Stags Leap District with Elizabeth Vianna

On this episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience, host MJ Towler sits down with special guest Elizabeth Vianna to discuss the Stags Leap District in Napa Valley. Elizabeth highlights the unique geographical features of the area, which contribute to the district's exceptional wines. 

The episode also touches on personal experiences, such as feeling like an outsider during high school and finding solace in music and books. Elizabeth emphasizes the importance of finding a sense of belonging, which she finally found at Vassar College.

The conversation turns to the Napa Wine Company, which is home to several prominent winemakers. It became a learning experience for Elizabeth as she started as a lab director and later became the assistant winemaker, describing it as their "second University of Winemaking."

Elizabeth also talks about her connection with fellow winemaker Heidi Barrett, describing her as gracious, calm, and Zen, unlike other "amazing women" in the industry who are forces of nature. Heidi, one of the first great consulting winemakers, chose this path to have control over her time while raising her daughters.

The episode delves into Elizabeth's background, from doing research in developmental neurobiology to working in a toxicology lab monitoring drugs of abuse. It was in the toxicology lab that they discovered the similarities between the machines used in that field and the study of aroma compounds in wine. 

Elizabeth shares her experience as part of the Stags Leap Growers Association and the creative solution they found in 2020 when half of the producers were unable to make wine.  

This relaxed and casual approach allows for a unique and enjoyable conversation between MJ Towler and Elizabeth Vianna, making it a memorable episode of The Black Wine Guy Experience.

A Massive THANK YOU to Elizabet Vianna!!!

This episode’s wine, 2020 Chimney Rock Elevage Blanc and 2018 Chimney Rock Tomahawk Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Stag’s Leap District

To learn more about Chimney Rock, click the link!

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Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! 

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