Vint Wine Podcast

In this episode of the Vint Podcast, Billy Galanko and Brady Weller have a much-anticipated conversation with long-time friends, and partners in the wine business, Jim Madsen and Santiago Achával. Jim and Santiago became friends at Stanford University and eventually separately caught the wine bug. Collaborating now on a cult-classic-in-the-making project at The Farm Winery in westside Paso Robles has them focused on making incredible wine from old vine Cabernet Sauvignon and some Rhone varietals. In addition, Jim acts as the exclusive US importer for Santiago's Mendoza (Argentina) project, Matervini. These gentlemen do wine the right way: low production, high-quality winemaking and viticulture that takes time and refuses to sacrifice quality for profit. Jim and Santiago are artists each in their own way and their projects are a reflection of the very best things about the world of fine wine. 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!

In this episode of the Vint Podcast, Billy Galanko and Brady Weller have the pleasure of sitting down with Master Sommelier, author, and wine importer, Jane Lopes. Jane's remarkable journey has seen her traversing some of the world's most prestigious dining establishments, from Eleven Madison Park in New York to Melbourne's renowned Attica. In 2018, she achieved the coveted title of Master Sommelier, a testament to her exceptional palate and dedication.But that's not all – Jane is also the author of the captivating book "Vignette: Stories of Life and Wine in 100 Bottles," published in 2019. Today, she joins us to discuss her latest venture, "How to Drink Australian," co-authored with her husband, Jonathan Ross. This groundbreaking book is a comprehensive exploration of the Australian wine landscape, offering insights into the evolution of wine in different regions, the unique terroirs, wine styles, and profiles of both emerging stars and industry legends.Jane and Jonathan take us on a journey across Australia, state by state, region by region, uncovering the fascinating stories and flavors that make Australian wine truly exceptional. With detailed maps by renowned cartographer Martin von Wyss and a handy glossary, this book is a must-read for wine enthusiasts. Join us for an enlightening conversation as Jane Lopes shares her experiences, insights, and passion that fuels her mission to bring the great wines of Australia to the United States.Link to purchase "How to Drink Australian"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!

In this episode of the Vint Podcast, Billy Galanko and Brady Weller dive into Canadian whisky with two brothers whose project, Found North, is the talk of the whisky world. We take a deep dive with founders Nick and Zach Taylor who together have built one of the most exciting new brands in North American whisky. We take a look into the differences between Canadian, American, and Scotch whiskies, and the guys give us the background on their inception, creative process, future vision, and perspective on where the Canadian whisky market is headed. From the Found North website: "Our mission is to make profound Canadian whisky. Using our access to mature stocks from a variety of grains, we blend whiskies that meld the heritage of Canadian distilling with the creativity of the modern age."If you want to learn more about Canadian whisky, and about the hugely popular Found North label, this is the place!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!

In this episode of the Vint Podcast, Billy Galanko and Brady Weller present two interviews with good friends of Vint. First, Billy is joined by Massican's Dan Petroski who recently sold his white-wines-only project to E&J Gallo. The short convo digs into the making of this deal and how an acquisition by a larger family wine brand will allow Massican to achieve its mission long term. We're excited for Dan and for the future of Massican under the Gallo Family umbrella!Then, Josh Entman, Founder and CEO of VINOHEAD joins the podcast for a conversation on wine culture, consumer interests, selling for the next generation of drinkers, and education as a means of driving intrigue in wine. Josh is a student of the wine industry and a fantastic advocate for wine enthusiasts and consumers through his platform, which provides exclusive wine recommendations, travel guides, reviews, wine and merchandise drops, and wine pop-up events around the country. 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!

In this episode of the Vint Podcast, Billy Galanko and Brady Weller talk with Cristie Norman, Lead Sommelier at Delilah (Wynn Las Vegas & Encore). Cristie has been recognized by Wine Enthusiast as a 40 under 40 somm and Wine Educator of the Year. Her role throughout the pandemic in bringing together the LA wine community, as well as her position as President of the United Sommelier's Foundation, are examples of her passion for bringing somms, distributors, and producers together under one roof for learning and support. Cristie has also created online courses for wine beginners dubbed "Driver's Ed" for wine. Her unique role in shaping the wine community in one of the country's most influential wine towns, and her contagious energy for learning and excellence in her trade is palpable. Enjoy!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!

Thomas Savre, winemaker at Lingua Franca, brings his rich experience from prestigious wineries like Domaine de la Romanée‑Conti. He discusses the evolution of Oregon Chardonnay, highlighting its potential and the movement towards finesse. Savre shares insights on how Lingua Franca's acquisition by Constellation enhances their mission without sacrificing quality. He also reflects on key winemaking practices learned in Burgundy, such as whole-cluster fermentation, and details the strategic growth plans for Lingua Franca's vineyards.

In this episode of the Vint Podcast, Billy Galanko and Brady Weller chat with long-time friend of Vint, Kevin Sidders. Kevin is the Founder and President of VinConnect, which "works with leading European wineries, creating and managing mailing list and club programs so U.S. customers can buy directly from the winery." After a career in Investment Banking, Kevin tapped his passion for fine wine and set out to solve the problem of access for those consumers looking to gain consistent access to the wines they love in other countries. Kevin's portfolio of winery clients has climbed to over 80 unique producers from Bordeaux to Italy and Spain, and even Lebanon. Listen in as we chat about the challenges that wineries and consumers have moving wine across the pond, the effects of changing regional climates, and the opportunity that wine brands have to gain life-long customer loyalty through stories and intentional relationships. Enjoy!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!

In this episode of the Vint Podcast, Billy Galanko and Brady Weller talk with High Wire Distillery (Charleston, SC) founder Scott Blackwell. Along with his wife Ann, Scott opened High Wire after selling his "Immaculate Baking Company" to General Mills. As connoisseurs of chocolate, coffee, and craft beer, this step into craft spirits was an exciting (yet challenging) endeavor.  Today, High Wire produces a number of Rye and Bourbon whiskies, and produce 100% Jimmy Red Corn (Jimmy Red Revival Project) and 100% Sorghum whiskies that are altogether unique in the spirits space. This year is High Wire's 10th anniversary, so it's fitting that Scott would join us to talk about heirloom grains, craft distilling, the challenges of growing a whiskey business, and their plans for celebrating their 10th year producing thoughtful and regionally inspired spirits. 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!

In this episode of the Vint Podcast, Billy Galanko and Brady Weller explore the fascinating world of wine, from its rich history to its future amidst a changing climate with Alice Feiring. Billy shares five of his favorite wine books (links below!). Billy's list goes beyond bland reference books to include books with narrative and travel aspects that make them both entertaining and informative.Alice Feiring is a renowned wine writer who shares her unconventional methods of understanding wine and the stories behind each bottle. From war-zone vineyards to the hidden gems of post-Soviet nations, wine has a tale to tell, and we are here to share it.Alice, with her unique perspective on soil types and selected yeasts, brings to light the subtle influences that shape a wine's character. She takes us on a journey that goes beyond regions and into the very heart of terroir. We also delve into the significance of native yeast fermentation, the lasting impact of Robert Parker on the industry, and the evolution of natural wine. It's a spirited discussion that will leave you with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the complexities of wine.But we're not stopping there. We also take time to explore the pressing issues currently shaping the world of wine. Climate change is altering the landscape and, with it, the fate of many vineyards. How are winemakers tackling this? What does this mean for wine enthusiasts like you? We discuss it all, and even touch on the exciting and often overlooked wines of post-Soviet countries and Chile. So, join us as we sip our way through the world of wine, one fascinating story at a time.Alice Feiring Books:To Fall In Love Drink ThisThe Dirty Guide to WineThe Battle for Wine and Love: or How I Saved the World from ParkerizationAll Books on Alice's Website: The Feiring LineBilly Referenced Books:Wine & WarAdventures on the Wine RouteGodforsaken GrapesAmber Revolution: How the World Learned to Love Orange WineThe Dirty Guide to WineThe 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!

In this episode of the Vint Podcast,  Brady and Billy host one of the world's foremost wine critics, William Kelley (Interview at 21:50). He is the Deputy Editor and reviewer at Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate for Burgundy, Bordeaux, Champagne, Madeira and English Sparkling Wines.  You can see his initials, comments, and scores next to the top wines in the world as well as some emerging producers in these storied regions. We discuss his approach to tasting and his advocacy for greater focus on the work of viticulture and the profound impact that diligent and resourceful practices in the vineyards have on the wines we love. Not only does William write about and review wine, he also makes his own wines from a small plot in Burgundy via Domaine William Kelley. 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!