In this episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, we sit down with Drew Voit, the mastermind behind Harper Voit Wines in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Drew takes us on a journey through his fascinating career in the wine industry, sharing how he transitioned from a background in food science and engineering to becoming a sought-after winemaker in one of the most renowned wine regions in the world.

Born into a family with a deep connection to agriculture, Drew’s story began on a farm in the Central Valley of California. From a young age, he was immersed in the world of agriculture, but it was the allure of winemaking that truly captured his heart. Despite initially pursuing engineering, Drew’s passion for wine was sparked in 1995 when he tasted Oregon Pinot Noir for the first time, forever changing his path. The discovery of Oregon’s terroir and the unique characteristics of its wines led him to the Willamette Valley, where he honed his craft.

Drew’s career took off when he joined Domain Serene in 2004, where he played a crucial role in helping the winery triple its production in just a few years. He shares his experiences working alongside some of the valley’s most respected winemakers and how that experience shaped his approach to winemaking. Drew also talks about the value of company culture and how the right team can elevate the success of a winery. His insights on the power of collaboration, mentorship, and building strong relationships in the industry are invaluable for anyone in or looking to join the world of winemaking.

As the founder of Harper Voit Wines, Drew’s focus is on sourcing grapes from exceptional vineyards and working with growers who are passionate about producing high-quality fruit. He talks about the importance of finding hidden gem vineyards that have the potential to produce extraordinary wines. One of the highlights of this conversation is his experience working with the Antiquum Vineyard, a site that has become one of his favorite sources for Pinot Noir. Drew describes how he was drawn to the vineyard’s unique terroir and the relationship he built with the vineyard owner, Stephen Hagen, over the years.

Throughout the interview, Drew also shares his philosophy on winemaking, which blends technical knowledge with an intuitive, hands-on approach. He talks about his process of finding balance in his wines and how he works closely with his team to ensure every bottle reflects the care and passion that went into its creation. He explains how the values of environmental stewardship and responsible farming are integral to the way he operates both at Harper Voit and in his consulting projects.

One of the most heartwarming moments in the conversation is when Drew opens up about his family’s influence on his career. He talks about his son, who has recently started studying viticulture at Cornell University, and reflects on the legacy he hopes to pass on. Drew’s deep appreciation for his family and the lessons they taught him about hard work, dedication, and love for the land are evident in the way he speaks about his work.

Drew also takes a lighthearted turn when discussing some of his personal interests, including his culinary passions and favorite indulgent foods. He shares some fun stories about holiday meals with his family, where cooking becomes an experiment in creativity. His brother, also a food scientist, is his partner in crime during these culinary adventures, and they often take on ambitious projects.

This episode offers listeners a rare glimpse into the mind of a winemaker who is not only passionate about the craft but also dedicated to pushing boundaries and creating wines that tell a story. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, an aspiring winemaker, or simply someone who appreciates good conversation, Drew Voit’s journey is sure to inspire. His thoughtful approach to winemaking, his commitment to...

Join us for an enlightening episode of the Weinnotes Podcast featuring Jim Bernau, the founder and visionary behind Willamette Valley Vineyards. With over 35 years of experience, Jim has been a driving force in establishing Oregon’s wine industry as a prominent player on the global stage. In this conversation, he shares his remarkable journey, from the early days of planting vines to cultivating a legacy of quality and community.

Jim takes us back to the inception of Willamette Valley Vineyards, recounting the challenges he faced in the beginning and the passion that fueled his ambition. He reflects on the invaluable mentorship he received from pioneers like Dick and Betty O’Brien, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing within the Oregon wine community. Jim’s insights into the camaraderie among winemakers illustrate how their collective efforts have shaped a vibrant and thriving wine culture in the region.

A key theme in our discussion is the concept of legacy. Jim shares his thoughts on what it means to leave a lasting impact on the industry and the next generation of winemakers. He discusses the contributions of those who came before him and how their dedication continues to inspire him in his own work. This focus on legacy extends beyond wine production; Jim is deeply committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship, ensuring that the land is preserved for future generations.

Throughout the episode, Jim also delves into the evolving consumer landscape, particularly in light of the changes brought about by the pandemic. He explores how the wine experience is shifting, with an increasing emphasis on connection and storytelling. For Jim, each bottle of wine tells a story, reflecting the land, the people, and the passion behind it. He believes that understanding these narratives is essential for both winemakers and consumers alike.

With his warm personality and infectious enthusiasm for wine, Jim Bernau offers listeners a unique perspective on the journey of Oregon wine. He invites us to appreciate not only the flavors and aromas in our glasses but also the rich tapestry of experiences that bring those wines to life.

Tune in to this inspiring episode as we explore Jim’s incredible legacy at Willamette Valley Vineyards, his vision for the future of Oregon wine, and the enduring connections that make the wine community so special. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just beginning your journey, this conversation is sure to deepen your appreciation for the artistry and passion that define the world of wine.

In this episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, I sit down with Boyd Teegarden, the visionary winemaker behind Natalie’s Estate in Oregon’s renowned Willamette Valley. Boyd’s journey into the world of wine is a unique one, rooted in hard work, dedication, and a passion for storytelling through each bottle. Starting his career in the corporate wine world with Gallo, Boyd’s path eventually led him to Oregon, where he and his wife Cassandra purchased their dream property and started building the now-beloved Natalie’s Estate in 1999. The vineyard, once a walnut and turkey farm, sits on a warm, south-facing site with rich history and has become a beacon of expressive, handcrafted wines.

Throughout our conversation, Boyd shares his deep connection to the land, the influences of old-world winemaking, and the importance of creating wines with minimal intervention. He explains how each wine is a snapshot of a vintage and a reflection of the unique vineyard site. At Natalie’s Estate, Boyd’s philosophy is simple: make the wine in the vineyard, allowing the true essence of the fruit to shine. The result is a portfolio that spans from elegant Pinot Noirs to robust wines like Zinfandel and Barbera, each telling a story of the vineyard’s diverse terroir and Oregon’s ever-changing seasons.

We explore Boyd’s experience growing up on a soybean farm in Missouri, where he first cultivated his love for agriculture, and how he made a full-circle return to farming in wine country. He also reflects on the challenges and triumphs of starting a winery in a region that was just beginning to get recognized in the world of fine wine.

But Boyd isn’t just about the wine – he’s a storyteller, a mentor, and someone deeply invested in the community. He emphasizes the importance of pairing wine with food, a lesson he learned during his time spent traveling through Europe. His approach to wine tastings always incorporates food, bringing people closer to the cultural roots of wine and showing how the perfect pairing can transform both the dish and the wine. Boyd also shares stories about his time working with legendary winemakers, his love for the outdoors, and his ongoing projects in Montana where he supports river restoration initiatives.

For Boyd, Natalie’s Estate isn’t just a winery—it’s a family endeavor. He talks about raising his daughter in this environment and how each member of the family plays a role in the business. Boyd also reflects on the future of Oregon wine and how the region has grown exponentially since he first planted his roots. From sustainable farming practices to experimenting with different grape varieties, Boyd continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the Willamette Valley.

As always, I wrap up the episode with a blind tasting, and this time Boyd is joined by his assistant winemaker Jeff Granger. Together, they give their thoughts on the wine in the glass, demonstrating their shared love for discovering new flavors and textures. Whether you’re a wine novice or an enthusiast, this episode offers something for everyone—insight into the craft of winemaking, the joy of great pairings, and a reminder that, sometimes, the best journeys come from simply following your passion.