In this enthralling episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, explore the exceptional journey of Seth Morgen Long, the pioneering spirit behind Morgen Long Winery in Oregon's Willamette Valley. Seth shares his personal and professional evolution that culminated in producing a 100-point Chardonnay, a testament to Oregon's rising prominence in the global wine scene.

Delve into Seth's philosophical and practical approaches to winemaking, where tradition meets innovation. From his early days absorbing the nuances of viticulture in Burgundy to his committed focus on Oregon Chardonnay, Seth's narrative is rich with insights into mastering the complexities of one of the world's most celebrated varietals. His story underscores the critical importance of understanding terroir, the art of minimal intervention, and the pursuit of expressing the purest essence of the vineyard.

Seth also discusses the broader implications of his success, reflecting on how such achievements not only highlight individual winemakers but also elevate the entire region. He emphasizes the collaborative spirit within the Willamette Valley, praising local winemakers' shared dedication to quality and innovation.

As we journey through Seth's winemaking process, we gain a deeper appreciation for the meticulous attention to detail required to produce wines that resonate globally. Seth's commitment to authenticity and quality offers a glimpse into the daily challenges and rewards that define the life of a visionary winemaker.

Join us on the Weinnotes Podcast as Seth Morgen Long uncorks the secrets behind achieving one of the highest accolades in winemaking and shares his aspirations for the future of his craft. Whether you are a wine aficionado or a newcomer to the world of viticulture, this episode is a masterclass in passion, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in winemaking.

00:00 Welcome to Wine Notes: A Journey with AJ Weinzettel

00:24 A Deep Dive into the Wine Making Process with Seth

02:09 Exploring the Seasons of Wine: From Bottling to Sales

02:46 The Art of Wine Tasting: A Blind Test with Chardonnay

09:56 Seth's Passionate Journey into Winemaking

14:06 Learning Through Harvests: A Global Wine Education

23:33 The Challenges and Triumphs of a Winemaker's Journey

36:24 Embracing Self-Validation in the World of Wine

42:21 The Journey to a Hundred Point Wine

43:28 The Art of Self-Critique and Pride in Winemaking

44:34 Exploring the Philosophy Behind Wine Label Design

45:39 The Evolution of Wine Labels and Embracing Consistency

48:51 Vineyard Stories: From X Omni to Blue Heron

53:29 The Significance of Chardonnay Vineyards in Willamette Valley

59:36 Gratitude and Personal Growth in the Winemaking World

01:04:55 The Challenges and Rewards of Small Business Ownership

01:08:16 Celebrating the Willamette Valley Wine Community

01:11:15 A Candid Conversation: From Childhood Memories to Harvest Playlists

01:17:53 Wrapping Up: The Essence of Wine and Community

Embark on an inspiring journey with Meg Rulli of Flipturn Cellars, as she shares her remarkable transformation from a corporate career to mastering the craft of winemaking in Oregon's Willamette Valley. In this episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, discover how Meg's passion for wine blossomed during a transformative world tour, leading her to pursue winemaking as more than just a passion but a calling.

Meg Rulli's story is not just about wine; it's about adventure, discovery, and personal evolution. Meg’s journey into the world of wine has been anything but ordinary. With a background in entrepreneurship and a spirit for exploration, she ventured into the wine industry without a traditional path, driven by curiosity and a desire to connect deeper with her passions.

Throughout the podcast, Meg opens up about the challenges and rewards of starting Flipturn Cellars. She delves into her experimental winemaking process, reflecting her innovative approach that keeps both her and her wines dynamic and engaging. Meg also discusses the collaborative spirit of Oregon's wine community, her experimental projects like the intriguing white blend made with local winemakers, and her commitment to producing wines that spark conversations.

As Meg narrates her transition from tasting rooms to owning her label, she offers invaluable insights into the nuances of wine production, from managing vineyards to the art of blending. Her story is a testament to the notion that with enough determination and passion, it's possible to turn a dream into a thriving reality.

Join us as Meg Rulli takes us through the scenic vineyards of Flipturn Cellars, sharing stories of late-night harvests, her first vintage challenges, and the joys of crafting wines that reflect both her journey and the rich landscapes of the Willamette Valley. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or new to the world of wines, Meg's story will inspire you to explore, taste, and perhaps dream a little bigger.

Tune into the Weinnotes Podcast for an episode filled with laughter, lessons learned, and a deep dive into what it really takes to make a mark in the competitive world of wine. Meg's approachable demeanor and candid storytelling promise to make this a memorable episode that not only educates but entertains, embodying the spirit of the very wines she crafts.

Join A.J. Weinzettel, host of the Weinnotes Podcast, as he sits down with Paul deLancellotti, the visionary behind the deLancellotti Family Vineyards in Oregon's Willamette Valley. In this captivating episode, Paul shares his incredible journey from surfing the world with Quicksilver to planting roots in the wine industry. As you listen to their conversation, you'll be transported to the picturesque vineyards and immersed in the fascinating world of biodynamic farming, the importance of family and community.

Paul's story begins with his adventurous past as a Quicksilver surf ambassador, traveling the globe and living a life filled with excitement and freedom. However, a deep-rooted love for the land and a desire to create something meaningful led him to the Willamette Valley, where he established the deLancellotti Family Vineyards. As Paul recounts his experiences, you'll learn about the challenges he faced and the valuable lessons he learned along the way.

In this episode, he delves into the principles and practices of biodynamics, explaining how this holistic approach to agriculture helps create a thriving ecosystem in the vineyard. From soil health to vine vitality, you'll gain a newfound appreciation for the delicate balance between nature and nurture in the world of wine.

Family and community play a significant role in the deLancellotti Family Vineyards' story. As Paul shares his experiences, you'll hear heartwarming tales of collaboration, support, and camaraderie among winemakers, vineyard workers, and local businesses. The sense of unity and shared passion for the land is palpable, and it's evident in the exquisite wines produced by the deLancellotti Family Vineyards.

As you listen to Paul deLancellotti's story, you'll be inspired by his passion for the land, and his love for family. This episode of the Weinnotes Podcast offers a unique glimpse into the world of wine through the eyes of a dedicated and down-to-earth vintner. So, grab a glass of your favorite Pinot Noir and settle in for this captivating chat with Paul deLancellotti.

Embark on a vinous odyssey with Thomas Savre, the master winemaker behind Lingua Franca, nestled in the heart of Oregon's Willamette Valley. This episode of the Weinnotes Podcast uncovers Thomas's fascinating journey from his formative years in the vineyards of Burgundy to the pioneering spirit of Oregon's wine country. Dive deep into the tales of his early inspirations, from working alongside legends in Burgundy to bringing European finesse to the vibrant terroirs of Oregon.

Thomas shares the behind-the-scenes magic of Lingua Franca's evolution, including the challenges and triumphs of establishing a new winery, the intricacies of crafting world-class Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, and the future of Oregon as a beacon of sparkling wine. Witness the blend of tradition and innovation that defines Lingua Franca, from the meticulous construction of their tasting room to the collaborative projects that push the boundaries of winemaking.

This episode is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and partnership in creating wines that speak to the soul.

Join us as we traverse the path from grape to glass with Thomas Savre, exploring the essence of Lingua Franca, the community of Oregon winemakers, and the enduring legacy of wine as a connector of people and places. Pour yourself a glass and tune in for an inspiring tale of dreams, dedication, and the art of winemaking.

Remember to subscribe for more stories from the heart of the wine world, and leave us a sparkling review to spread the love for wine and storytelling.

In this heartwarming episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, we uncork the story of Susan and Daniel, the visionary couple behind Lonesome Rock, who turned their youthful dreams into a flourishing reality in the heart of Oregon's wine country. Decades ago, amidst the poetry and romance of French dramas, a seed was planted in their hearts—a dream of crafting wines that would one day tell their story.

Fast forward through years of adventure, learning, and life's inevitable ups and downs, Susan and Daniel have woven their experiences, from the vineyards of France to the trials and triumphs of raising a family, into the very fabric of Lonesome Rock. Now, as their children step into their own paths, Susan and Daniel find themselves at the dawn of realizing their long-cherished dream.

With each bottle of wine, they capture the essence of their journey—a blend of resilience, passion, and a deep connection to the land. This episode takes you behind the vines, offering a sip of the challenges they've faced, the milestones they've celebrated, and the unwavering belief that has guided them through it all.

Join us as Susan and Daniel share their inspiring story, from the initial spark of inspiration in their twenties to the fulfillment of their winemaking dream. It's a tale of love, legacy, and the beautiful realization that it's never too late to pursue your passion. Pour yourself a glass and settle in for a conversation that celebrates the journey of dreams decanted, one vintage at a time.

In this bubbly episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, we're popping the cork with Kenny and Allison, the spirited visionaries behind Arabilis, as they share their sparkling adventure into the world of traditional method sparkling wines. With laughter as effervescent as their creations, this duo takes us behind the scenes of their winery, where dreams are bottled and every sip tells a story of passion, science, and a little bit of magic.

Stories such as hand-bottling with a small team and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to keep the energy up, to the evolution of their business plan from grand dreams in New Jersey to the reality of running a bustling winery, Kenny and Allison's journey is as inspiring as it is delightful. They reveal the challenges and triumphs of transitioning to predominantly sparkling wine production, their commitment to community and collaboration within the Oregon wine scene, and the excitement of bringing new sparkling expressions to life.

But it's not all wine talk; this episode is sprinkled with personal stories that add depth to their winemaking narrative. From Kenny's repeat jacket appearance, the anticipation of a new family member, their personal tales weave seamlessly into the fabric of their winery's story, embodying the joy and complexity of their venture.

As we swirl through the conversation, we're invited to dream along with them about the future of sparkling wine in Oregon, the importance of legacy, and the simple pleasures that come from pursuing one's passions. Join us for a toast to Kenny and Allison's journey with Arabilis – a testament to the beauty of bubbles, the strength of community, and the endless possibilities that come from following your heart. Cheers to the stories that sparkle, one bottle at a time.

Technical issues got me on the last post of this epsiode, apologies.

Join us for a heartwarming episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, where we uncork the stories of Renee and Grant, the dynamic duo behind Hundred Suns. Nestled in the comfort of their winery, this couple shares tales that are as rich and complex as their wines. From battling the elements to bring us their exquisite creations, to the whimsical adventures of winemaking with their children, this episode is a blend of laughter, love, and the labor that goes into every bottle.

As we swirl through their journey, you'll discover how an ice storm turned into an unexpected family bonding experience, shared childhood memories of a dentist, and the role of classic 90s hip-hop in the winemaking process. Renee and Grant's story isn't just about wine; it's about community, perseverance, and the joy found in shared passions. So pour yourself a glass, kick back, and let the warm, inviting conversation of Hundred Suns fill your cup with happiness and maybe a little bit of that dad pride in keeping the home cozy during a storm. Cheers to stories that bring us together, one sip at a time.

Join us for a heartwarming episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, where we uncork the stories of Renee and Grant, the dynamic duo behind Hundred Suns. Nestled in the comfort of their winery, this couple shares tales that are as rich and complex as their wines. From battling the elements to bring us their exquisite creations, to the whimsical adventures of winemaking with their children, this episode is a blend of laughter, love, and the labor that goes into every bottle.

As we swirl through their journey, you'll discover how an ice storm turned into an unexpected family bonding experience, shared childhood memories of a dentist, and the role of classic 90s hip-hop in the winemaking process. Renee and Grant's story isn't just about wine; it's about community, perseverance, and the joy found in shared passions. So pour yourself a glass, kick back, and let the warm, inviting conversation of Hundred Suns fill your cup with happiness and maybe a little bit of that dad pride in keeping the home cozy during a storm. Cheers to stories that bring us together, one sip at a time.