Cris Cherry, icon of the Paso Robles rhone scene, talks about Villa Creek Cellars and the MAHA Estate specializing in Grenache and blends. They discuss the high demand for an upcoming event, the significance of the name 'Maha', trends in wine varieties, differences in soil and grape planting preferences, the Maha brand, the challenges of the wine business, and their preferences for red and white wine blends. They also mention their weekend plans and random thoughts.
The podcast episode explores the unique flavors and qualities of Grinashte, a wine in the Paso Robles region that delivers on the promises of Pinot Noir.
The importance of sustainable and regenerative farming practices is emphasized, along with the use of sheep in the vineyard.
Deep dives
Grinashte and Maha: A Taste of Paso Robles
The podcast episode features a discussion about two wines: Grinashte and Maha, both from the Paso Robles region. Grinashte is described as delivering everything that Pinot Noir promises, with its expressive and inviting flavors. Maha, on the other hand, is a blend of Grinashte, Mavadra, Carignan, and other varieties. The focus is on the unique terroir of the Maha estate and the commitment to producing high-quality wines. The episode also touches on topics such as the use of sheep in the vineyard and the importance of sustainable and regenerative farming practices.
Importance of Walla Walla as a Wine Region
Walla Walla is a region with a growing reputation in the wine industry. It offers a lower cost of entry compared to other well-known regions like Sonoma and Paso. This affordability attracts a different attitude and perspective towards winemaking. The presence of vineyards like Valdemar, a renowned Spanish wine producer, further highlights the growth and potential of Walla Walla as a wine destination.
Exploring the Use of Carignan in Winemaking
Carignan is a grape variety that has caught the attention of winemakers like Christoph and his team. They have found that Carignan, when blended with other varietals like Grenache and Mourvèdre, contributes a rustic floral element to the wines. The winemaking process involves managing the fermentation and extraction carefully to achieve the desired flavor profile. Additionally, Chris emphasizes the use of Hungarian oak barrels in aging white wines and highlights the ability of high acid white fruit to absorb and balance the wood influence.
The guys got a special Grenache Day visit from one of the icons and iconoclasts of the Paso Robles rhone scene. Cris Cherry and family run Villa Creek Cellars and the MAHA Estate specializing in Grenache and blends that exemplify their West Paso terroir. The farming is immaculate and biodynamic, the wine making is focused and intense, Cris is passionate and wears his heart on the sleeve. A perfect combination to make for a fun show on a special day. [EP297]
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode