If Vines Could Talk

Dan Nitz joins the podcast for a timely episode as harvest approaches. As a fifth-generation grower and one of the largest producers of vinifera grapes east of the Rockies, Dan brings unmatched experience and insight into Michigan’s wine industry. From the foundational values behind Nitz Wines to the custom crush operations at Arrowhead Vineyards, this episode highlights the energy, preparation, a...

New winery alert! Learn about the man behind Poetson. Alex McNeely has built a career in East Coast beverage programs and now brings that expertise to Michigan wine. This episode explores his professional pivot, his interest in the region’s potential, and how experienced talent can shape Southwest Michigan’s wine community. Learn more at poetsonwine.com or contact Alex directly at alex@poetsonwine...

In this episode, I sit down with Neal Hulkower, an applied mathematician and longtime wine writer based in Oregon. Neal’s deep dive into comparative tastings spans decades, and his recent blind tasting of Oregon and Michigan Pinot Noirs offers a fresh perspective on how our state’s wines stack up. We discuss his methodology, including the Borda count and stars and bars analysis, and reflect on the...

In this episode of If Vines Could Talk, we step into the cellar with Stranger Wine Co. to explore their bold winemaking approach. We taste through an exceptional lineup, including: - 2023 Grüner – Outcross Vineyard, LMS - 2024 Kerner – Lyons Estate, OMP - 2024 Cabernet Franc Blanc Pet Nat (Yeastie Boys) – Fernweh Vineyards, OMP - 2024 Carbonic Pinot Noir – Shady Lane Estate, LP - 2023 Pinot Noir –...

Travel and wine go hand in hand, and today’s guest knows exactly how to blend the two. Laura Danforth, The Wine Travelista, shares her experiences visiting wineries in the Lake Michigan Shore AVA, offering insights on where to sip and explore. If planning a Michigan wine trip feels overwhelming, she’s got you covered. Check out her guide at winetravelista.thrivecart.com/new-buffalo-wine-country-it...

In this episode, Steve and Jayme blind taste three Sauvignon Blancs from different regions—Marlborough, Loire Valley, and Michigan’s own Lake Michigan Shore. They explore aromatics, balance, and the unique winemaking styles behind each. To wrap it up, Modales Head Winemaker Andrew Backlin shares insight into his upcoming 2024 Sauvignon Blanc release.

Eckhard Kaesekamp is the force behind Knights Grapevine Nursery. With 38 years of experience in grapevine propagation, Eckhard shares his expertise on viticulture, the role of a nursery in shaping vineyards, and the importance of a family-owned approach to the business. Discover some the “roots” of Michigan’s wine industry and the commitment to quality that drives Knights Grapevine Nursery forward...

This episode kicks off our June series featuring outside perspectives on Michigan’s wine scene and other regions. Today, we turn to Ningxia, China, an emerging wine region gaining global recognition. Our exploration includes visits to five wineries: Yuange, Yuanshi, Silver Heights, Kanaan, and Longyu. Join us as we examine Ningxia’s winemaking traditions, terroir, and a broader look at China wine...

In celebration of Michigan Wine Month, we take you to The Vintage Inn at Veritas Estate for an insightful and mouthwatering conversation with the unbeatable duo, chef Timothy Schultz and winemaker Dr. Sherry Seston. Together, they share expert food and wine pairing advice that makes the art of enjoying wine both accessible and fun. For more information, visit mivintageinn.com or email stay@mivinta...

Today, we celebrate Michigan Wine Month with an exclusive tasting at Filkins Vineyards, formerly Karma Vista. Hosts Jayme and Steve sit down with winemaker Jason Johnson and co-owner Zach Filkins to explore their journey, their wines, and the evolution of Michigan’s vibrant winemaking culture. In this episode, we highlight four standout wines from their latest release, a collection of seven that d...

I’m honored to welcome Sarah Spoonholtz, a key leader at the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber and the familiar voice of our podcast’s introductions and closings. Sarah and I take a fresh look at Southwest Michigan’s wine industry, sharing perspectives beyond the usual narratives. As a MoodyOnTheMarket 40-Under-40 honoree, Sarah exemplifies leadership, passion, and the art of building meaningful...

As Michigan Wine Month continues, we bring you some of the voices shaping Michigan wine. From skilled artisans to industry experts, this episode captures what makes it truly special, with a few stories recorded at Dreihart Winery’s soft opening, Wine Education Wednesday at Local Pour, and Wine at the Vineyard.

Welcome to Michigan Wine Month! As we celebrate the bounty and richness of Michigan’s wine heritage, there are few people better suited to lead us into this exciting month than Brian Lillie. Known for his multifaceted expertise, Brian offers top-tier wine concierge services through his company, Brian Lillie & Company. Whether you’re looking for virtual or in-person wine tasting events, assista...

Today’s guest is Emily Dockery, Executive Director of the Michigan Wine Collaborative. Emily shares her insights into the vital work of the Collaborative, which supports Michigan’s wine industry through strategic partnerships, advocacy, and education. Learn more about the initiatives connecting wineries, growers, and wine lovers across the state, and discover how Michigan is making its mark in the...

Join Steve on this episode of If Vines Could Talk as he interviews Jason Menken, owner of The Bottle Run, Southwest Michigan’s premier boutique winery tour service. Combining his marketing expertise with a passion for wine, Jason has built a business that takes wine enthusiasts on curated journeys through the region’s beautiful vineyards and wineries. Discover the artistry behind The Bottle Run an...

Join Jayme and me as we conduct a comparative tasting of three exquisite Rosés from the Lake Michigan Shore. With Easter approaching, these wines are perfect additions to your celebration. Go back and explore the art of Rosé production in Episode #35. In this episode, we taste: - Domaine Berrien Rosé 2022 - Lawton Ridge Rosé 2022 - Veritas Estate Beach Day Rosé 2023 For more details, visit domaine...

Today, I welcome back Brian Lillie to the show. Brian wears many hats as a true advocate of Michigan wine. In this episode, we will explore his role as Vice President of Hospitality Operations and Distribution at Chateau Chantal. Recorded in October, we delve into the rich history of this renowned winery and much more. For more information, visit chateauchantal.com or contact blillie@chateauchanta...

Today’s guest is Liana Smith, a soon-to-be graduate of the master's program in Sustainable Viticulture & Enology at Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore in Italy. Liana plans to return to Michigan to apply her expertise in sustainable winegrowing later this year. In this episode, we will define key terms related to sustainable winegrowing and discuss sustainable practices within the indust...

Today, I welcome Zach and Lindsay Filkins to the show. In this interview, we discuss their passion for Michigan wine, and how Zach balances his burgeoning wine career with his commitments to OneRepublic. Recorded in October, we also explore some of their recent releases. For more information, visit filkinsvineyards.com or contact info@filkinsvineyards.com.

Today kicks off an exciting new series, "Michigan Under 40," spotlighting the bright and talented young winemakers and other rising stars in Michigan's flourishing wine industry. The premier episode features Jasmine Hein, a driving force at Lake Michigan Vintners, the wine teaching college affiliated with Lake Michigan College. Though her official title is Winery Technician, Jasmine...

Today we talk with Brian Lillie, a multifaceted advocate for Michigan wine. Over the course of three episodes, we will delve into his various contributions to the industry. Today, we begin with his role as President of the Michigan Wine Collaborative. For more information, please visit michiganwinecollaborative.com or tastemichigan.org. For inquiries, contact: info@tastemichigan.org

Join Jayme and me as we embark on a blind tasting journey with three Cabernet Francs from the eastern United States. Our tasting lineup features:  - Lemon Creek Cabernet Franc 2020 from Michigan's Lake Michigan Shore - Debonné Cabernet Franc 2022 from the Grand River Valley AVA in northeastern Ohio - Heron Hill Cabernet Franc 2019 from the Finger Lakes region in central New York  Visit lemoncr...

Today, Dr. Analisa Leppanen is back. She is the owner and winemaker at Golden Muse Winery, located in downtown Baroda. This interview, recorded in August, provides an update on the latest developments at the winery. We also delve into the stories about her labels and the artists behind them. We hope this insightful conversation offers a captivating glimpse into the Golden Age of Paris. For more in...

Today, we delve into the fascinating world of East Coast American Viticultural Areas (AVAs). Our focus spans from Massachusetts to North Carolina, where we will explore each AVA's unique climate, soil composition, grape varieties, and prominent wineries. Please note, we'll be covering New York and Pennsylvania AVAs in a future discussion. Join us for an informative and engaging conversation about...

Dr. Dave Miller of White Pine Winery is back for a super educational session about viticulture and how proper work in the vineyard helps to make fantastic wines. You can learn more about Dr. Dave and his winery at www.whitepinewinery.com .