If Vines Could Talk

In this episode, I sit down with Sean O'Keefe, former winemaker at Mari Vineyards, to explore his approach to winemaking and the stories behind the blends. Learn about the legacy of Teresa Mari, the vision of owners Marty and Olivia Lagina, and the mystery of Row 7. Since recording, Sean has moved on to new ventures, but his voice remains rooted in Michigan soil. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by...

In this episode, we reconnect with Paula Camp, first featured in episode 56, as she prepares for the sold-out Jacques Pépin Foundation Benefit Dinner on October 19 at Houndstooth in Benton Harbor. This special event honors Jacques Pépin’s 90th birthday and his enduring legacy in culinary education. Paula’s collaboration with Chefs Cheyenne Galbraith and Jean Joho includes a stellar cast of Michiga...

Taylor Simpson shares a major update. She and her brother Sam are now partners with others in Michigan by the Bottle, expanding her leadership across Good Harbor, Aurora Cellars, Harbor Hill services, and MBTB tasting rooms in Auburn Hills, Royal Oak, and Shelby Township. This episode explores her vision for stewardship and the evolving landscape of Michigan wine. michiganbythebottle.com or taylor...

Bryan Ulbrich, owner and winemaker at Left Foot Charley, joins us to share his journey from history and law to pioneering Northern Michigan’s first urban winery. In this episode, Bryan discusses his grower-first philosophy, innovative vineyard management, and commitment to mentoring future winemakers. Recorded in the barn, complete with ambient sounds of birds and farm equipment. Visit leftfootcha...

In this premier episode featuring home winemakers and grape growers, we meet Mike and Craig, two friends who are making remarkable wines off the radar. With grapes grown in clay, gravel, and rock, and varietals ranging from Tannat to Riesling, they’re building something special. We tasted their Super Tuscan 2022, Meritage 2017, and Tannat 2020 while exploring their process and philosophy. These wi...

In Episode 110, we take you through a decanting journey using a Hickory Creek 2021 Merlot Carmenere tasted at zero, 30, 75, 120, and 180 minutes. The evolution was striking. Each stage revealed distinct textures, aromas, and clarity. We share practical tips to help you decant with confidence and reflect on how slowing down can deepen your connection to the wine. Whether you’re pouring for friends...

Mike Laing didn’t set out to lead one of Michigan’s most iconic sparkling wine houses, but the vineyard his parents planted in Lake Leelanau in 2002 quietly set the stage. After leaving teaching in Chicago, he joined MAWBY in 2007, just as the winery was doubling down on its sparkling focus. Today, Mike and his brother Peter carry forward MAWBY’s 50-year legacy while pushing boundaries with nonalc...

Episode 108 features an in-depth conversation with the new owners of Free Run Cellars, Tricia Slevin and Prashanth Pais. Drawing inspiration from the Sanskrit phrase “Atithidevo Bhav,” meaning "a guest is akin to God," they’ve crafted Free Run into a place of intentional hospitality and emotional sanctuary. Tune in for a deep dive into the philosophy, design, and quiet excellence that sh...

Joe Herman, longtime steward of Karma Vista Vineyards, is back on the show. Since selling the property, Joe has embraced a more relaxed pace while diving into regenerative agriculture and the future of sustainable viticulture. Tune in to hear his insights, reflections, and a dose of Michigan vineyard wisdom. Contact Joe at joeherman@mac.com. Books and other resources: The Devil's Element by Da...

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...