John Olney

In this insightful discussion, John Olney, Chief Operating Officer and head winemaker at Ridge Vineyards, shares his journey from an untrained student to a leader in sustainable winemaking. He discusses the impact of mentors like Paul Draper and Kermit Lynch on his career. Listeners will learn about Ridge's innovative practices, such as straw bale winery construction, and the evolution of California wines. Additionally, John reflects on the vibrant wine culture of Sonoma and playfully compares various grape varietals, adding a touch of humor to the art of winemaking.