FEATURED INDUSTRY: WINERIES

A: Yes, the degree earned in the study of wine is a Bachelor’s Degree in Viticulture and Enology. An Enologist is an expert in the science of wine. Learning the scientific process of winemaking is imperative to making a palatable product. My background in chemistry and science was helpful in learning the fermentation science of winemaking.

Q: Who do you most admire in the world of wine, and why? Who influenced you?

A: My career in the wine industry was influenced by the owner of Peju Winery, Tony Peju. I admire him because he created a winery with beautiful gardens, a wonderful tasting experience, and fantastic wines. His retail sales are off the chart because the wines are consistently fruity, delectable, and delightful. Tony is a successful business man, who is extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of the wine industry and was willing to share his knowledge.

Q: How can you tell good quality wine?

A: Complexity, balance, flavor, and finish.

Q: How long does wine last once opened?

A: You can expect a red wine to last as long as 3 days. If the tannins are heavy, the wine could last as many as 4-5 days. White wines can last as long as 5 days. Keep both the red and white wines in the refrigerator for best results after opening. Oxidation can be avoided by using a spray of Wine Preserve which is a blend of Carbon Dioxide, Nitrogen, and Argon gas. The gas forms a blanket on the wine’s surface keeping it fresh for a longer period of time.

Q: Can inexpensive wine taste good?

A: Yes, inexpensive wine can taste good. Wine is priced based on field yield, harvesting, aging, barrels, packaging. High end wines are low yield, hand harvested, French Oak barrels, heavy glass, cork, tin capsule, label. Inexpensive wines are high yield, machine harvested, American Oak barrels, lightweight glass, imitation cork, Polylam capsules, and label costs. High yield grapes can be adjusted with concentrate, tannins, and oak to make a good tasting bottle of wine. The overhead costs are the same for both. For example, take Two Buck Chuck. a very inexpensive wine that is palatable for a great price.

Q: Are you constantly trying to make new wines?

A: Yes, new wines are always on the horizon. Last year I made a Huckleberry Riesling wine using fresh huckleberries from Idaho. This year I am working on making a chocolate wine. Next year, an orange wine and a wine made from rose pedals.

Q: What is one of your favorite varietals to work with and why?

A: My personal favorite wine to make and drink is Cabernet Sauvignon. This varietal made with