Science. Creativity. Passion. Luna Hart Wines | Owner and Winemaker Gretchen Voelcker

May 29, 2024

Join Gretchen Voelcker, the owner and winemaker of Luna Hart Wines, as she takes us on a tour of Hendricks Vineyard in Ballard Canyon - a key source of grapes for her small-production, minimal intervention wines.

Learn about Gretchen's passion project, Luna Hart, which she started in 2014 with a focus on unique varietals like Grüner Veltliner, Sauvignon Blanc, Cinsault, Counoise, and Syrah. Hear how her background, from growing up on a farm to studying business and plant sciences, led her to the wine industry and the creativity she finds in making small-lot, terroir-driven wines.

Discover why Gretchen chose to base her winemaking career in Santa Barbara County, citing the region's high percentage of women winemakers, entrepreneurial spirit, and diverse microclimates that allow for experimentation with a wide range of grape varieties.

Gain insights into Gretchen's minimal intervention winemaking approach, including native fermentations, limited oak influence, and thoughtful sulfur use, as she navigates the challenges of producing balanced wines in the face of climate change and extreme weather events.

This video provides valuable perspectives for wine enthusiasts interested in exploring the people, places, and philosophies behind some of Santa Barbara County's most distinctive small-lot wine brands.

THIS IS EPISODE 106 OF UNDERSTANDING WINE WITH AUSTIN BEEMAN

SPECIAL THANKS:

Gretchen Voelcker
- https://lunahartwines.com
Tymari LoRe
Chris Kern

https://pasosecco.com
https://forgottengrapes.com

Thank you for helping with the coordination and planning of my enter Trip to Paso Robles and the Central Coast, California.

Work With Austin

Send Me an Email

FOLLOW THE WINE ADVENTURE

EQUIPMENT:

Main Camera: Canon R8

2nd Camera: DJi Pocket 2

Mic: Audio Technica AT875R

Travel Bag: Peak Design Travel Line Backpack 45L.

Camera Bag: Peak Design Everyday Messenger Bag.

Music Licensed from Epidemic Sound.

FTC Compliance: I have no business relationship with Luna Hart Wines. This is not a paid sponsorship. See more.

Sustainability and Syrah in Ballard Canyon | Piazza Family Wines | Winemaker Gretchen Voelcker

May 22, 2024

Join Gretchen Voelcker, the winemaker at Piazza Family Wines, as she takes us on a tour of their stunning estate vineyard in Ballard Canyon. Learn about the region's distinctive limestone soils, coastal fog patterns, and sun and wind exposure that contribute to the exceptional quality of their handcrafted, minimal-intervention wines

Gretchen shares insights into their organic farming practices, native fermentations, and focus on age-worthy wines. Hear about the diverse grape varieties they cultivate, including Syrah, Grenache, Graciano, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Italian varietals like Negroamaro.

Discover why Ballard Canyon is a unique American Viticultural Area (AVA), known for its ideal conditions for growing Syrah. Gain an appreciation for the challenges of vineyard management in this drought-prone region and Piazza Family Wines' commitment to sustainable, regenerative practices.

This video provides valuable information for wine enthusiasts and anyone interested in exploring the terroir and winemaking philosophies of one of Santa Barbara County's most promising small-production wineries.

THIS IS EPISODE 105 OF UNDERSTANDING WINE WITH AUSTIN BEEMAN

SPECIAL THANKS:

Gretchen Voelcker
Tymari LoRe
Ron and Nancy Piazza
- www.piazzafamilywines.com
Chris Kern

https://pasosecco.com
https://forgottengrapes.com

Thank you for helping with the coordination and planning of my enter Trip to Paso Robles and the Central Coast, California.

Work With Austin

Send Me an Email

FOLLOW THE WINE ADVENTURE

EQUIPMENT:

Main Camera: Canon R8

2nd Camera: DJi Pocket 2

Mic: Audio Technica AT875R

Travel Bag: Peak Design Travel Line Backpack 45L.

Camera Bag: Peak Design Everyday Messenger Bag.

Music Licensed from Epidemic Sound.

FTC Compliance: I have no business relationship with Piazza Family Wines. This is not a paid sponsorship. See more.

"We Are All Connected" - Future Perfect | Tasting with Sunny Doench Stricker at Diamond Sky Ranch

May 15, 2024

Join Sunny Doench Stricker, the passionate owner and winemaker of Future Perfect Wines, as she takes us on an intimate tour through her thoughtfully crafted wine portfolio. Discover the unique terroir of Santa Barbara County and how it inspires Sunny's winemaking approach, focused on Old World-style balance and drinkability.

From the crisp, tropical-tinged Sauvignon Blanc to the captivating dry Riesling, Sunny showcases her skill in coaxing vibrant acidity and elegance from California's warm climate. Marvel at the stunning transparency and food-friendliness of her Grenache rosé and Pinot Noir, then delve into the savory, layered complexity of her cooler-climate Syrah.

Throughout the tasting, Sunny shares her personal journey from Ohio to Hollywood, eventually landing in the vineyards of Santa Barbara. Her infectious enthusiasm and dedication to making wines that can be enjoyed as part of a lifestyle will inspire you to explore the world of Future Perfect Wines.

This video offers an engaging and insightful glimpse into the passion, artistry, and unique perspective that Sunny brings to her Future Perfect wines.

THIS IS EPISODE 104 OF UNDERSTANDING WINE WITH AUSTIN BEEMAN

SPECIAL THANKS: