In this episode of The Pour with Adam Montiel, we explore two fascinating wine stories centered on transparency and creativity. Adam Lee was best known as the founder of Siduri Wines, where he became one of California’s leading voices in Pinot Noir. Since then though, he’s continued to innovate, launching Clarice Wine Company and collaborating with the late Philippe Cambie on Beau Marchais, producing wines that have earned critical acclaim. Adam recently made headlines by openly comparing the sugar content of his Pinot Noir, DIal Tone, to that of a bestselling wine, MEIOMI, sparking a conversation about what’s really in the glass, and why Constellation is big mad over the number 32.

For more on this story, you can check out the article in the San Francisco Chronicle: Meiomi Pinot Noir Sugar Controversy (note: there may be a paywall). Alternatively, you can read the coverage from the Press Democrat:Local winemaker in hot water after challenging massive American wine brand.

Later in the episode, Meghan Ball introduces Harvest Speed Tastings, an event designed to add a high-energy twist to wine tasting in Paso Robles. Joining Meghan is Connor McMahon, owner and winemaker of Full Draw Vineyards, who shares his perspective on the event and the unique way it connects wine lovers with Paso's diverse offerings. For more information on Harvest Speed Tastings, visit the official Paso Wine link: Harvest Speed Tastings on Paso Wine.

Finally, don’t forget to check out the latest episode of Where Wine Takes You. This episode features experts from Cal Poly’s wine and viticulture program, diving into the innovative ways they are shaping the future of winemaking. Listen now by following this link: Where Wine Takes You - Cal Poly Episode.

For info on Tin City Distillery’s Private Barrel Club Click Here

***********

About ‘The Pour with Adam Montiel’:

In 2010, Radio Host Adam Montiel combined his longtime love for broadcasting with his, then, new love for wine. He created and produced, ‘The Cork Dorks’. The show was hosted with Adam and his good friend Jeremy West. It was the first of its kind. It began focusing on central coast wineries but as the show grew, so did their ability to travel and meet other winemakers they found everywhere from Napa to Bordeaux that adopted that same Central Coast quality of people willing to share their wines, and their stories.

As the area grew, soon Adam’s interview’s covered everything from spirits, craft beer, cider, cuisine, hospitality, and more. Fast forward to today, the spirit and enthusiasm cultivated with the award winning show, is reborn as The Pour with Adam Montiel, this time independently, and unfettered by corporate authority leaving it even more free to share the journey of making wine more approachable and fun for everyone.

Here, We Taste It. We Spill It. We Leave it All On the Table. This is ‘The Pour’ with Adam Montiel.

__________

Sincere Thanks to those who support The Pour. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Show Credits:

Executive Producer: Adam Montiel

Associate Producer: Pablo Romero

Technical Consideration Provided By: Fly with Wine

** Save 20% and get FREE Shipping when you shop at Fly with Wine by using the Promo Code: ADAM20 **

Original Music, ‘Come Alive’ by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective & Still Time

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Follow Adam on Instagram HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Welcome to another episode of ‘The Pour with Adam Montiel. Today, we're honored to be joined by a true icon in the winemaking world, Randall Grahm. Known for his innovative and often unconventional approach to winemaking, Randall is the visionary behind Bonny Doon Vineyard and now his latest venture, The Language of Yes.

Randall Grahm's journey in the wine industry is nothing short of legendary. He started his career with the ambitious goal of producing "The Great American Pinot Noir" but found his true calling with Rhône varieties. His groundbreaking work with these grapes earned him the moniker "The Rhône Ranger," a title that has stuck with him ever since his 1989 Wine Spectator cover. Over the years, Randall has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Wine and Spirits Professional of the Year by the James Beard Foundation and induction into the Vintner's Hall of Fame.

Today, we are recording from the beautiful Edna Valley, the new home of Randall’s latest brand, The Language of Yes. This venture is a continuation of Randall’s quest to create wines that truly reflect their terroir. The Language of Yes is all about embracing the unique characteristics of the Central Coast, with small-batch experiments and a deep love of the land guiding its creation.

Be sure to visit The Language of Yes to learn more about these extraordinary wines and to make a reservation for a tasting at their Edna Valley location.

Until next time, keep exploring, keep tasting, and as always, leave it all on the table.

**********

The Pour is going to France - and you can join us HERE!

***********

About ‘The Pour with Adam Montiel’:

In 2010, Radio Host Adam Montiel combined his longtime love for broadcasting with his, then, new love for wine. He created and produced, ‘The Cork Dorks’. The show was hosted with Adam and his good friend Jeremy West. It was the first of its kind. It began focusing on central coast wineries but as the show grew, so did their ability to travel and meet other winemakers they found everywhere from Napa to Bordeaux that adopted that same Central Coast quality of people willing to share their wines, and their stories.

As the area grew, soon Adam’s interview’s covered everything from spirits, craft beer, cider, cuisine, hospitality, and more. Fast forward to today, the spirit and enthusiasm cultivated with the award winning show, is reborn as The Pour with Adam Montiel, this time independently, and unfettered by corporate authority leaving it even more free to share the journey of making wine more approachable and fun for everyone.

Here, We Taste It. We Spill It. We Leave it All On the Table. This is ‘The Pour’ with Adam Montiel.

__________

Sincere Thanks to those who support The Pour. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Show Credits:

Executive Producer: Adam Montiel

Associate Producer: Pablo Romero

Technical Consideration Provided By: Fly with Wine

** Save 20% and get FREE Shipping when you shop at Fly with Wine by using the Promo Code: ADAM20 **

Original Music, ‘Come Alive’ by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective & Still Time

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Follow Adam on Instagram HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

The Pour is going to France - and you can join us HERE!



***********

John Munch, a true maverick of the wine world, left an indelible mark on the Paso Robles wine community with his fearless approach and innovative spirit. Arriving in Paso Robles in the late 1970s, John quickly became a pivotal figure in the region's burgeoning wine industry. His winery, Le Cuvier, stands as a testament to his dedication to allowing the grapes to express their natural character through minimal intervention and extended barrel aging. Even as he passed the winemaking reins to Clay Selkirk, John's influence and philosophy continue to shape the unique offerings of Le Cuvier.

In this special episode, we honor John Munch’s legacy by sharing a heartfelt interview where he reminisces about the early days and his close relationship with Neil Collins, winemaker of Tablas Creek and Lone Madrone. Neil’s tribute beautifully encapsulates the profound impact John had on those around him. This clip is from Episode 27 of my podcast "Where Wine Takes You." To listen to the entire episode, check it out here. We hope this episode provides a glimpse into the life and legacy of a true wine pioneer. For those who wish to explore the wines crafted under John’s guiding principles, visit Le Cuvier Winery and discover the unique and expressive wines that continue to honor his legacy. Thank you for joining us in celebrating the remarkable life of John Munch.

**********

About ‘The Pour with Adam Montiel’:

In 2010, Radio Host Adam Montiel combined his longtime love for broadcasting with his, then, new love for wine. He created and produced, ‘The Cork Dorks’. The show was hosted with Adam and his good friend Jeremy West. It was the first of its kind. It began focusing on central coast wineries but as the show grew, so did their ability to travel and meet other winemakers they found everywhere from Napa to Bordeaux that adopted that same Central Coast quality of people willing to share their wines, and their stories.

As the area grew, soon Adam’s interview’s covered everything from spirits, craft beer, cider, cuisine, hospitality, and more. Fast forward to today, the spirit and enthusiasm cultivated with the award winning show, is reborn as The Pour with Adam Montiel, this time independently, and unfettered by corporate authority leaving it even more free to share the journey of making wine more approachable and fun for everyone.

Here, We Taste It. We Spill It. We Leave it All On the Table. This is ‘The Pour’ with Adam Montiel.

__________

Sincere Thanks to those who support The Pour. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Show Credits:

Executive Producer: Adam Montiel

Associate Producer: Pablo Romero

Technical Consideration Provided By: Fly with Wine

** Save 20% and get FREE Shipping when you shop at Fly with Wine by using the Promo Code: ADAM20 **

Original Music, ‘Come Alive’ by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective & Still Time

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Follow Adam on Instagram HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com