The Wine Centric Show

Fifty years ago, a 25-year-old with no money, no connections, and a lot of nerve showed up at an office on the 18th floor of the World Trade Center every single day for two and a half weeks until someone finally let him in. That someone was Barbara Kafka. The place was Windows on the World. And what Kevin Zraly built there over the next 25 years became the greatest restaurant wine program this country has ever seen.On this episode of The Wine Centric Show, Kevin joins co-host Inez Ribustello, former Assistant Cellar Master and Beverage Director at Windows on the World, for a conversation that covers all of it. How a kid from Pleasantville, New York hitchhiked to California in 1972 when there were only 24 wineries in Napa. How Joe Baum told him to build the biggest and best wine list New York had ever seen and not to worry about what it cost. How 30,000 people have passed through the Windows on the World Wine School. How his book, Windows on the World Complete Wine Course, has sold four million copies and never gone out of print.And what it felt like to dance alone on the roof of One World Trade Center on July 4th, 1976, above the fireworks, king of the world.Inez brings her own stories from the 107th floor including a Krug 1976 mistake that became a masterclass, a phone call with Kevin that changed how she leads, and a girls weekend in August 2001 that she will never forget.This one stays with you.Kevin’s autobiography, A Glass Half Full, is coming soon. His 50th anniversary celebration of the Judgment of Paris takes place May 26th at City Winery in New York City. Details at citywinery.com.Inez Ribustello’s book, Life After Windows, is available now.We’re grateful for the support of our episode partners:The preferred wine glass of Matt and the Wine centric show▪️Glasvin: Use code WINECENTRIC for 10% off: https://tidd.ly/41vgdSQ▪️Fearrington House: https://fearrington.com/Episode HighlightsKevin Zraly’s journey from bartender to world-renowned wine educatorThe rise and influence of Windows on the WorldHow wine education evolved in AmericaThe philosophy behind simplifying wine for everyoneMentorship, leadership, and building iconic wine programsThe lasting impact of 9/11 on the wine communityKevin’s perspective on the future of wine🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into wine culture. 🎧 Listen now on YouTube + all podcast platforms 🔗 Full episode and show notes at winecentricshow.comChapters:00:00 Celebrating Windows on the World: A Legacy in Wine Education 02:43 Kevin Zraly's Journey: From Bartender to Wine Educator 05:21 The Evolution of Wine Culture in America 07:49 Teaching Wine: Simplifying Complexity for Everyone 10:44 The Birth of Windows on the World: A Restaurant Icon 13:29 Building a Wine Program: The Art of Selection 16:23 Mentorship and Leadership in the Wine Industry 19:05 Navigating Challenges: Lessons from the Beverage Director 21:47 The Impact of 9/11 on Windows on the World 24:21 Legacy and Recognition: Balancing Career and Personal Life 33:35 The Legacy of Windows on the World 36:26 Innovative Concepts in Dining 39:14 Reflections on 9/11 and Its Impact 45:14 The Evolution of Windows on the World 48:53 Wine Buying Strategies and Experiences 55:20 Memorable Moments and Personal Stories 01:02:33 Looking Ahead: Celebrations and Future EventsThe full episode is available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and at winecentricshow.com.Kevin Zraly, Windows on the World, wine education, wine history, Inez Ribustello, sommelier, wine podcast, judgment of Paris 1976, Joe Baum, Windows on the World Wine School, complete wine course, New York restaurants, World Trade Center, American wine history, wine for beginners, hospitality, iconic restaurants, Wine Centric Show

Carmel Greenberg didn't come to Clos du Val to make bigger wines. She came to make better ones.As head winemaker at one of Napa's oldest estates — and the first Israeli woman to lead a Napa Valley winery — Carmel has worked alongside some of the valley's most respected names: Cakebread, Dominus, Buccella. What she took from all of it wasn't a formula. It was a point of view.In this episode, we get into what that actually means at the winery level — how she thinks about picking, pressing, and blending; why freshness and restraint are harder to achieve than extraction; and what Clos du Val looks like when she's done with it.This is a conversation about the direction Napa is heading — and who's quietly leading it there.Chapters:00:00 – Welcome & Introduction02:15 – Carmel's path into winemaking06:40 – From UC Davis to Napa's top estates10:30 – Joining Clos du Val14:20 – Elegance vs. power — where Napa is heading20:10 – Terroir and vineyard decisions26:45 – Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet philosophy32:30 – Fermentation and barrel aging38:50 – Innovation at a historic property44:10 – The future of Clos du Val48:30 – Final thoughts & little easter eggSubscribe for more conversations with the people behind the wine.Available on YouTube and all podcast platforms.winecentricshow.comFilmed at: Saint Pierre Wine Bar, Raleigh, North🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into wine culture.🎧 Listen now on YouTube + all podcast platforms🔗 Full episode and show notes at winecentricshow.comWe're grateful for the support of our episode partners:▪️ Fearrington House: https://fearrington.com/The official wine glass of the Wine Centric Show is Glasvin.Use code WINECENTRIC for 10% off at https://tidd.ly/41vgdSQWe’re grateful for the support of our episode partners:▪️Fearrington House: https://fearrington.com/This episode was filmed at Saint Pierre Wine Bar in Raleigh, NCBackend Tags:Napa Valley winemaking, Carmel Greenberg, Clos du Val winery, Napa Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc Napa, UC Davis winemaking, women in wine industry, modern Napa wine style, terroir driven wines, wine podcast, wine education, vineyard techniques, wine fermentation, barrel aging wine, wine innovation

Bonus Episode — Breaking News Update Supreme Court has issued a ruling on U.S. wine tariffs — a meaningful development in a long-running legal battle. But despite the headlines, the industry is not out of the woods yet.Millions of dollars have already been paid in tariffs. Importers have faced severe cash flow strain. Jobs across distribution and retail remain exposed. And future trade actions could still pose serious challenges.This episode with Harmon Skurnik examines:• What the Supreme Court actually decided• Why the ruling is significant — and where its limits are• The economic ripple effects across the three-tier system• How tariffs impact pricing, inventory, and working capital• The role of the US Wine Trade Alliance in advocacy efforts• What may come next for the U.S. wine trade“Tariffs are bad for everybody.”“We paid over $6 million in tariffs.”“We’re not out of the woods yet.”A clear-eyed look at where things stand — and what the wine industry should be watching now.🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into wine culture.🎧 Listen now on YouTube + all podcast platforms🔗 Full episode and show notes at winecentricshow.comWe’re grateful for the support of our episode partners:▪️Fearrington House: https://fearrington.com/▪️Conscious Strong: https://consciousstrong.com/ Join Conscious Taste of Tuscany Spring Renewal April 11th-18thhttps://be.consciousstrong.com/tuscany#wineTariffs #supremeCourtRuling #usWineIndustry #wineTradePolicy #wineImporters #economicImpactOfTariffs #usWineTradeAlliance #threeTierSystem #wineBusiness #wineDistribution #tradePolicyNews #tariffLegalChallenge #wineMarketEconomics #smallBusinessImpact #winePricing

What happens when passion meets purpose in the wine world — and a little Disney magic? George Miliotes, legendary Master Sommelier and the visionary behind Wine Bar George at Disney Springs, shares a journey as rich and layered as a vintage Bordeaux.From crafting wine blends for Olive Garden to building one of the most dynamic wine destinations in the country, George brings hospitality, humor, and high standards to everything he touches.🎢 Bonus: We challenge George to pair wines with iconic Disney rides — think Guardians of the Galaxy, Tower of Terror, and Expedition Everest. His answers? As bold as a Napa Cab.📍 What You’ll Learn:George Miliotes is a trailblazer in the wine world and creator of Wine Bar GeorgeHow growing up in hospitality shaped his love of wineThe surprising stories behind his wine collaborations (yes, Olive Garden!)Why Coravin changed the game for by-the-glass programsHis inclusive, no-snobbery approach to wine education and serviceWhy mentorship is key to cultivating great wine professionalsHow Wine Bar George is redefining wine culture — one pour at a timeWhether you're a sommelier-in-training or just here for the vibes (and the vino), this episode brings out the soul behind the service — and a few unexpected twists along the way.🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into wine culture.🎧 Listen now on YouTube + all podcast platforms🔗 Full episode and show notes at winecentricshow.comConscious Strong has an April retreat to Italy - mention Wine Centric for a $250 0ff click the link! We’re grateful for the support of our episode partners, including Fearrington House and

How is wine culture changing, and what still holds true? Eric Asimov, the long-standing chief wine critic for The New York Times, joins us for a candid conversation to answer these questions. With his signature clarity and cultural insight, Eric brings a rare, unpretentious perspective to the complexities of wine criticism, the industry’s growing pains, and the surprising role of wellness and celebrity in shaping what ends up in our glasses.We explore the quiet transformation happening in California wine, the tension between wine as a personal experience and a consumer product, and why wine education needs to feel more like an invitation than an exam. Eric unpacks the way media, tech, and generational values are shifting the center of gravity in wine, not always for better, but not always for worse either.His reflections are rooted in decades of experience, yet they remain open, questioning, and refreshingly grounded. This isn’t about scores or hype. It’s about culture, connection, and the enduring pleasure of a shared bottle.#EricAsimov #WineCentricShow #WineCulture #WineCriticism #CaliforniaWine #MindfulDrinking #WineAndWellness #WineEducation #WineMedia #WineCommunity📍 What You’ll Learn:Eric Asimov sees himself as an observer of the wine industry, not a part of it.Wine criticism can influence sales but is not driven by financial gain.The wine industry is a complex network of small businesses.California wines are evolving towards more diverse styles.Technology has democratized wine discussions and education.Celebrity endorsements can spark interest in wine among new audiences.Wine should be enjoyed in moderation and as part of a balanced lifestyle.Cultural events can enhance the wine experience beyond just tasting.Wine education should be accessible and engaging, not elitist.Personal connections and shared experiences are at the heart of wine enjoyment.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Eric Asimov and His Role in Wine Criticism02:39 The Distinction Between Wine Critic and Industry05:04 Criticism and Confrontation in Wine Writing07:46 The Evolution of Wine Styles and Criticism10:29 Influential Voices in Wine Criticism12:47 California Wine: A Shift in Focus15:24 The Impact of the Internet on Wine Culture18:12 The Power of Wine Criticism and Its Effects20:27 Allocation and Accessibility in the Wine Market29:08 The Economics of Wine Allocation31:27 Martial Arts and Wine: A Unique Comparison34:49 Athletes and Celebrity Wines38:27 The Impact of Celebrity Culture on Wine42:13 Wine, Hip Hop, and Cultural Crossover48:37 The Emotional Connection of Wine Experiences🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into wine culture.🎧 Listen now on YouTube + all podcast platforms🔗 Full episode and show notes at winecentricshow.comWe’re grateful for the support of our episode partners:▪️Fearrington House: https://fearrington.com/▪️Heather Donovan Real Estate: https://heatherdhomes.com/Backend Tags:Eric Asimov, wine podcast, wine culture, wine criticism, California wine, celebrity wine brands, wine education, wine and wellness, mindful drinking, wine industry, sommelier podcast, wine journalism, The New York Times wine, wine lifestyle, wine commentary, wine trends, wine media, wine storytelling, modern wine culture, wine influencers

How does Chateau Musar create a wine so instantly recognizable—vibrant, soulful, unmistakably Musar? In this episode, Marc Hochar takes us inside the family’s collaborative blending process, revealing how each member’s unique palate shapes the final wine. From generational taste differences to the guiding hand of Gaston, the Musar blend is crafted through shared vision, spirited debate, and a reverence for the winery’s heritage.Unlike wines polished to perfection, Musar embraces vibrancy, quirk, and character—the very traits that define its identity. The result is a blend that reflects continuity, lineage, and the soulful imperfections that make Musar one of Lebanon’s most iconic wineries.This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the Hochar family maintains consistency while honoring individuality, ensuring every vintage carries forward Musar’s legacy.📍 What You’ll LearnWhy Gaston has the final say in the blending processHow each family member’s palate contributes to the final wineHow Musar achieves continuity without sacrificing characterWhy vibrancy and quirk are essential to Musar’s styleHow family opinions and collaboration drive blend decisionsWhy “too perfect” is not Musar🔑 KeywordsChateau Musar, wine blending, signature style, family tradition, wine tasting, Lebanese wine, Marc Hochar🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into global wine culture 🎧 Listen on YouTube + all podcast platforms 🔗 Full episode + show notes: winecentricshow.com🙏 Episode Partners▪️ Fearrington House – https://fearrington.com/ ▪️ Heather Donovan Real Estate – https://heatherdhomes.com/ ▪️ Conscious Strong – https://go.consciousstrong.com/

Portugal’s Douro Valley isn’t just beautiful, it’s alive with history, resilience, and over 300 grape varieties that define the essence of Portuguese wine. At the heart of this landscape, Sandra Tavares da Silva and Jorge Serôdio Borges, the visionaries behind Wine & Soul, are preserving and celebrating vineyards that date back generations.Their story is one of devotion, to the land, to grape diversity, and to the complex identity born from old vines. With more than 90 distinct grape types thriving in their vineyards, the wines crafted here reflect a rare harmony of nature, heritage, and human touch.Sandra Tavares da Silva and Jorge Serôdio Borges are more than just acclaimed winemakers — they’re stewards of the Douro’s soul. Founders of Wine & Soul, their mission is to protect and express the raw beauty of ancient vineyards. Both named Winemakers of the Year by Portugal’s leading wine publications, Sandra was also recognized as one of the Top 24 Women Winemakers Worldwide by Jancis Robinson in the Financial Times.More about their wines and philosophy: www.wineandsoul.com📍 What You’ll Learn:Why the diversity of grape varieties in the Douro is unmatched anywhere else in the world.How the Douro went from fortified to fresh winesHow old vineyards survive and thrive through resilience — and what that means for wine lovers.The critical role of plot identity in shaping the character of each bottle.How climate and terroir work together to support this extraordinary grape ecosystem.Why the Douro’s complex blend of grapes results in wines that are layered, expressive, and unforgettable.🎧 Listen now on YouTube + all podcast platforms🔗 Full episode and show notes at winecentricshow.comWe’re grateful for the support of our episode partners, including Fearrington House, Heather Donovan Real Estate, and Conscious Strong.

What does it take to earn the Master Sommelier pin? Max Kast pulls back the curtain on the intense journey, from the pressures of blind tasting to the emotional highs and lows of fine wine service. He reflects on the 2018 Court of Master Sommeliers scandal, how it reshaped the industry, and why integrity remains his guiding principle.In this episode of Wine Centric, Max shares the path that led him from a childhood as one of nine children of German immigrants to becoming Director of BOND Winery in Napa Valley. It’s a conversation about mastery, humility, and a lifelong respect for the vine.Listeners will love Max’s reflections on:The mindset behind becoming a Master SommelierDoes Max have a wine Kryptonite?The philosophy and precision behind BOND Winery’s vineyard expressionThe two people (dead or alive) he’d love to share a bottle with and the wine he’d pourThis is more than a conversation about wine: it’s a masterclass in passion, perseverance, and purpose.Chapters:00:00 The Journey to Master Sommelier10:15 The Scandal and Its Aftermath20:31 The Mindset of a Sommelier32:25 Evolving Perspectives on Wine Tasting35:23 The Evolution of Wine in California38:08 Personal Journey: From Detroit to Missoula41:17 The Path to Becoming a Wine Director44:30 Building a Wine Program: Challenges and Triumphs49:58 Transitioning to Wine Imports52:54 Current Role at Bond Winery: A New Chapter🎧 Listen now on YouTube + all podcast platforms🔗 Full episode and show notes at winecentricshow.comWe’re grateful for the support of our episode partners, including Fearrington House and Heather Donovan Real Estate.

Matthew Weiss hosts a once-in-a-generation conversation with two of American wine’s most influential voices: Tim Mondavi, owner of Continuum Estate, architect of Napa Valley’s modern era, and his son Carlo Mondavi, co-owner of RAEN Winery, a visionary championing sustainable farming and fine wine’s future.This unfiltered interview spans four generations of winemaking. Tim recounts his pivotal role as head winemaker at Robert Mondavi Winery, shaping Napa’s appellation system and elevating California wines globally. He shares how the founding of Continuum Estate became a deeply personal expression of family, land, and legacy.Carlo, co-founder of RAEN Winery, brings a dynamic perspective from Sonoma’s rugged coastline. He delves into Pinot Noir terroir, biodiversity beyond organics, and his work with Monarch Tractor to lead winegrowing into the climate-conscious age.Together, they speak candidly about the family rift that changed the Mondavi legacy, the power of harvest season, and what’s next for California wines.🍷 North Carolina Listeners — Don’t miss the exclusive RAEN & Continuum wine dinner at Fearrington House on September 25, 2025. Experience their wines paired with a seasonal tasting menu in an unforgettable evening of story and flavor. Reserve your seat now → [https://fearrington.com/events/raen-continuum-wine-dinner-september-25-2025/]📍 Key Moments:The definitive Mondavi conversation: four generations of wineThe family rift: what divided them—and what still bindsNapa’s transformation through Tim’s winemaking lensWhy Carlo farms beyond organic and believes in biodiversityCabernet Franc’s rising influence in Napa blendsThe purpose behind Continuum and RAENWine as storytelling, legacy, and a way of lifeChapters:00:00 – Opening Reflections on the Mondavi Legacy02:52 – Harvest Realities: Timing, Tension & Triumph05:14 – Family Rift: What Divided, and What Endures07:53 – Napa’s Transformation Through the Mondavi Lens10:08 – Appellations as a Benchmark for Excellence12:22 – What's Next for California Wines15:03 – Continuum and RAEN: Legacy Meets Innovation17:49 – The Role of Cabernet Franc20:26 – Tradition, Storytelling, and Wine Culture23:17 – Harvest Meals That Became Memories25:49 – The Next Generation: Chiara Mondavi Steps Forward28:22 – Reflections and Future Visions🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into wine culture.🎧 Listen now on YouTube + all podcast platforms🔗 Full episode and show notes at winecentricshow.comWe’re grateful for the support of our episode partners:▪️Fearrington House: https://fearrington.com/▪️Heather Donovan Real Estate: https://heatherdhomes.com/#WineCentricShow #MondaviLegacy #NapaValleyWines #WineCulture #CabernetFranc #ContinuumEstate #RAENWines #CaliforniaWine #WinePodcast #WineHistory #monarchtractor

Step into Alsace with Mélanie Pfister — an eighth-generation winemaker redefining what it means to honor tradition while forging a modern path. From the cellar to the vineyard, Mélanie shares how she blends precision, sustainability, and vision at her family domaine.We explore everything from dry Riesling and Alsace Pinot Noir to sustainability, climate adaptation, and the rising influence of women in wine. This episode is a deep dive into terroir-driven winemaking and the personal evolution behind the label.📌 In This Episode:Why Alsace Riesling isn’t sweet — myth, bustedHow Mélanie Pfister crafted her first orange wineAlsace Pinot Noir’s rise in a warming climateFrom family legacy to biodynamics: her sustainability journeyWomen winemakers changing the face of wine🎧 Listen now on YouTube + all podcast platforms🔗 Full episode and show notes at winecentricshow.comWe’re grateful for the support of our episode partners, including Fearrington House and Heather Donovan Real Estate. #AlsaceWine #WomenInWine #DryRiesling #WinePodcast #SustainableWine #NaturalWine #PinotNoir #WineCentricShowMelanie Pfister, Domaine Mélanie Pfister, Alsace wine, French wine, Winemaker interview, Women in wine, Organic winemaking, Biodynamic wine, Sustainable viticulture, Natural wine, Dry Riesling, Orange wine, Pinot Noir Alsace, Climate change wine, Terroir driven wine, Wine podcast, Wine Centric Show, Wine YouTube channel, Wine education, Matt Weiss

What makes Ridge Vineyards one of the most respected wineries in America?In this episode, Wine Centric sits down with Ridge’s Head of Winemaking & COO, John Olney, and SVP of Global Sales, Michael Torino. Together, they reveal how Ridge built a global reputation while staying deeply rooted in craft, place, and principle.We get into:What “non-interventional” winemaking really meansThe role of corporate ownership—without losing authenticityWhy vineyard practices matter more than any techHow Ridge builds community through the Sommelier SymposiumLessons from decades of aging and legacy vintagesFor decades, Ridge has defined what great American wine should be. Their consistency, integrity, and deep-rooted commitment to place helped put California on the global wine map.Whether you're a sommelier, winemaker, or just a fan of iconic American wine, this episode offers an inside look at one of the most respected names in the industry00:00 Jumping Right In: Tough Questions for Wine Experts00:20 Introducing the Titans of Ridge Vineyards01:43 Debating America's Top Wineries04:37 The Legacy and Philosophy of Ridge Vineyards05:24 Challenges and Variations in Winemaking08:17 Sales and Production: A Harmonious Relationship13:22 Corporate Ownership and Quality Commitment16:58 Exploring Ridge's Signature Wines24:10 The Influence of French Winemaking on Ridge27:23 Exploring Natural Winemaking27:54 Challenges and Techniques in Fermentation29:06 Ridge's Unique Approach to Winemaking33:33 The Santa Cruz Mountains Project36:41 Malolactic Fermentation Explained38:13 The Role of American Oak in Ridge Wines41:33 Ridge's Tasting Trials and Team Dynamics42:47 Building Relationships with Sommeliers51:25 Memorable Moments with Paul Draper54:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

What happens when an NFL quarterback becomes a wine entrepreneur? Drew Bledsoe shares the wine that changed everything—the 1998 Viader—and the full-circle moment he had with its winemaker.He discusses his focus on integrity in the cellar, the role geology plays in his approach, and the team-first mindset behind his estate-driven Washington wines.In this episode, we cover: • The injury that changed his career • How family shaped his next chapter • Building Doubleback, Bledsoe | McDaniels, and Bledsoe Family Wineries • An idea about two very different Josh McDaniels • What he drank at the Tom Brady roast • Which of his wines reminds him of today’s quarterbacksThis is a candid, grounded conversation about wine, identity, and life after football. Subscribe to stay updated on new episodes.

Troy Revell is the only person to have led the wine programs at both The Umstead and Fearrington House—two of North Carolina’s premier hospitality destinations. In this episode, he shares his path from world champion ultimate frisbee player to award-winning wine director.Fearrington House, one of the state’s few Relais & Châteaux properties, blends fine dining with a relaxed, family-owned atmosphere. Troy offers a thoughtful look at how he builds wine programs that are both world-class and approachable.We discuss:The guest experience at The Umstead vs. Fearrington HouseHow to make wine more welcoming without compromising qualityThe benefits of blending restaurant and retail wine expertise at Fearrington What intentional hospitality looks like—and why it mattersWhether you're in the wine industry or just love great service, this episode is full of grounded, insider perspective.👉 Follow The Wine Centric Show for more conversations with the people shaping wine and hospitality from the inside out.