In this episode of the Vint Podcast, co-hosts Brady Weller and Billy Galanko sit down with David Keck, Master Sommelier, winemaker, and proprietor of Stella 14 Wines in Vermont. David shares insights into his journey from opera singing and hospitality leadership to pioneering winemaking in Vermont’s challenging cold-climate vineyards.

This conversation covers everything from Vermont’s burgeoning wine culture and the role of hybrid grape varieties to the unique challenges of farming and winemaking in a marginal climate. David also dives into the upcoming Champlain Valley AVA, his vineyard expansion, and what the future holds for Vermont wine.Episode Highlights:

Must-Visit Recommendations in Vermont:

Breweries: Hill Farmstead, Alchemist, Lot 6 Brewing, Schilling (New Hampshire).
Cideries: Wild Branch Cider, Eden Ciders.
Wineries: La Garagista, Shelburne Vineyard, Ellison Estate, Camila Carrillo's Montanuela.
David’s Stella 14 Wines: Unique and rare wines you’ll have to travel to Vermont to find!

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to the Vint Podcast
00:43 Special Guest: David Keck, Master Sommelier
01:30 Vermont Winemaking Challenges and Innovations
02:03 Record-Breaking Wine Auctions
08:31 David Keck's Unique Winemaking Approach
12:52 David Keck's Background and Journey
16:01 Vermont's Wine Culture and Future
26:58 Challenges of Managing Old Vines
28:49 The Champlain Valley AVA Progress
30:47 Vermont Wine Producers and Distribution
32:25 Impact of Climate Change on Vineyards
35:02 Organic Farming and Its Challenges
38:42 Expanding and Diversifying Vineyards
44:00 Balancing Vineyard Work and Business
48:28 Trends and Concerns in the Wine Industry
52:18 Vermont's Artisanal Scene and Recommendations
54:57 Conclusion and Future Plans

The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com.

Cheers!

Winemaker & Master Sommelier David Keck: Pioneering Vermont Wine