What happens when a powerhouse trial lawyer and his equally driven wife trade suits and city life for vines and vision in Oregon’s Willamette Valley? You get LucidWild — a boutique winery rooted in purpose, passion, and one hell of a view.

In this episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, I sit down with Blair and LJ Nicholas, the couple behind LucidWild, to talk about their incredible journey from the courtroom and corporate world to crafting wine with soul and intention. This isn’t a “retirement” story — it’s a second chapter fueled by grit, heart, and a relentless desire to create something lasting from the land.

We kick things off with a blind tasting (spoiler: it’s a 2016 Chardonnay from their winemaker, the iconic Isabelle Meunier), and then get into the backstory of how LucidWild came to be. From their early inspiration on a trip to Tuscany to planting 300 vines in their backyard, Blair and LJ share how the spark of curiosity turned into a full-blown calling.

You’ll hear how they fell in love with Oregon wine after hearing a Burgundian winemaker tell them, “This is not about the winemaker. This is about the land.” That philosophy stuck. It’s the soul of LucidWild, where every decision — from native ferments to the intentional layout of their immersive, multi-room tasting experience — honors the land and the stories it tells.

LJ takes us behind the design of Lucid Wild’s stunning new tasting space, from the Sky Room to the speakeasy hidden in plain sight. Her approach? Experiential and emotional design that invites guests to feel like they’re walking into a friend’s home — not a pretentious wine fortress. You’ll hear about their “ideal lab” for business meetings, a game room with billiards and bocce, and how the bathrooms (yes, the bathrooms) became an unlikely Instagram hotspot thanks to the label artwork proudly displayed inside.

Blair gets real about why he left law — not to escape, but to build something with meaning. He shares how LucidWild’s wine lineup reflects different expressions of their estate vineyard. Every bottle is made from 100% estate fruit, and they even use a golf cart to take guests right to the vines where the wine comes from. It’s about connection to the land, to each other, and to the stories shared over a great glass of wine.

We talk about their exciting new sparkling wine collaboration made by Isabelle Meunier and her husband, acclaimed sparkling winemaker Andrew Davis. It’s their first sparkling release and a labor of love that brought both families together around the table (literally) to taste through styles and build something uniquely Oregon.

Throughout the interview, we dig into what makes Oregon wine, and Willamette Valley in particular, so special right now. From world-class Pinot and Chardonnay to a rising sparkling scene, Blair and LJ are bullish on the valley’s future and grateful to be part of a region where intention still matters more than mass production.

We also lighten things up with a round of rapid-fire questions. LJ wants the superpower to duplicate herself (because who doesn’t?), Blair wants to solve homelessness, and they both agree that wine is best enjoyed with good people, good music, and a whole lot of heart.

Lucid Wild isn’t just a winery. It’s a philosophy, a commitment to making beautiful wines that reflect place, people, and purpose. Whether you’re a wine lover, a design nerd, or someone dreaming of your own next chapter, this episode is full of inspiration, real talk, and a little sparkle (literally and figuratively).

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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.

Step into the world of Kelsey Glasser, the visionary behind Portland’s renowned Arden PDX, where wine, food, and art seamlessly blend in one unforgettable dining experience. In this episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, Kelsey shares her journey from growing up with a passion for Shakespeare to becoming one of Portland’s most respected restaurateurs. Discover how her deep love for storytelling and the arts, combined with a dedication to locally-sourced Pacific Northwest ingredients, led to the creation of Arden—a sanctuary for food and wine enthusiasts.

Kelsey opens up about the inspiration behind Arden’s name, drawn from Shakespeare’s As You Like It, and how the philosophy of escape, rejuvenation, and empowerment plays a pivotal role in her restaurant’s ethos. We explore her early days as a theater major, the challenges of running a restaurant through the pandemic, and the joys of collaborating with some of Oregon’s top winemakers. From blind tastings of rare vintages to her love for experimenting with new projects like house-made wines, Kelsey is always pushing boundaries in the culinary world.

In this engaging conversation, you’ll hear stories about the magic of winemaker dinners, the resilience of her team, and how Arden has become a place where Portland’s vibrant food and wine scene thrives. Whether you’re a wine lover, food enthusiast, or just curious about what it takes to create an iconic dining spot, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and a lot of heart. Tune in to discover how Kelsey Glasser is shaping the future of Portland’s culinary landscape, one glass of wine at a time.

In this episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, we sit down with Anthony Sereni, head winemaker at Flâneur Wines, to dive deep into his fascinating journey from rollerblading in the streets of Philadelphia to making world-class wines in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Anthony’s path to winemaking is anything but traditional—starting with a love for roller hockey that morphed into a passion for viticulture and winemaking during his travels in New Zealand.

Throughout the conversation, Anthony reflects on his early days in the wine industry, the invaluable mentorship he received, and how working at top wineries like Archery Summit shaped his approach to winemaking. He shares stories from his time working with renowned winemakers like Kate Payne Brown and Grant Coulter, and how these experiences have influenced his style at Flâneur Wines.

Anthony also discusses the nuances of working with varietals like Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Aligoté, as well as Flâneur’s focus on sparkling wines. He reveals what it’s like to step into the role of head winemaker and his vision for the future of Flâneur, all while maintaining a commitment to the principles of thoughtful winemaking.

The conversation takes unexpected turns, from Anthony’s love for rock climbing and literature to how his journey to New Zealand sparked a deeper appreciation for agriculture and sustainable farming. Through humor, humility, and deep insights, Anthony opens up about the joys and challenges of making wines that truly reflect the land they come from.

If you’ve ever wondered about the creativity and dedication that go into making wine, this episode offers an engaging and inspiring look into the life of a winemaker who is always learning and evolving. Join us as we explore the fascinating world of Flâneur Wines and the incredible journey that led Anthony Sereni to where he is today.

In this insightful episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, we sit down with Brenda Smola-Foti and Frank Foti, the passionate minds behind The Ground, a multifaceted project in Oregon's Willamette Valley that encompasses sustainable farming, agritourism, and hospitality. Brenda and Frank share their journey of turning a dream into reality, starting with a humble 33-acre farm and expanding it into a thriving ecosystem that connects people with nature.

They share their experiences and the challenges of water scarcity in the region, leading to innovative solutions such as regenerative practices and permaculture. Their vision for The Ground goes beyond traditional farming. It's about creating immersive experiences that reconnect people with the land, be it through farm-to-table dining at their restaurant Humble Spirit, or offering agritourism experiences that leave lasting impressions on their guests.

Throughout the episode, we explore their commitment to sustainability, the importance of community, and the joy they find in bringing people closer to nature. Whether you’re curious about farming, wine, or just want to hear a fascinating story of resilience and innovation, this episode will leave you inspired.

Tune in as Brenda and Frank share their passion for sustainable living, the creation of The Ground, and their plans for the future, including a vineyard and winery venture rooted in regenerative viticulture. It’s a conversation about building something meaningful and leaving behind a legacy of love and respect for the planet.

Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that’s all about connection—between people, land, and the natural world.

Join us for a captivating episode of the Weinnotes Podcast as we sit down with Jessica Cortell, the passionate and pioneering force behind Cortell Collection in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. In this episode, Jessica shares her incredible journey from fighting forest fires to becoming one of the most respected names in viticulture.

Jessica’s love for the outdoors started early, leading her to a career that combined her passion for plants with her desire to be outside. Her early experiences fighting fires and working with the Forest Service shaped her tenacity and determination—qualities that would later fuel her success in the vineyard. Jessica dives into the challenges and rewards of vineyard management, offering insights into the 2024 vintage, dealing with powdery mildew, and the intricate details that go into growing exceptional wine grapes.

Listeners will be fascinated by Jessica’s deep understanding of the land and her innovative approach to farming. She explains the nuances of different farming practices, including organic, biodynamic, and regenerative agriculture, and how she incorporates elements from each to create a sustainable and holistic approach to viticulture. Jessica’s commitment to protecting the earth and fostering soil health is at her core.

But Jessica’s story doesn’t stop in the vineyard. She also opens up about her journey to creating her own wine label, the Cortell Collection. From managing multiple vineyards to launching her brand, Jessica’s drive to push the limits of what’s possible in Oregon’s wine industry is truly inspiring. She shares the joy of experimenting with different grape varieties, including her first Chardonnay from the 2022 vintage, and the excitement of seeing her vision come to life in each bottle.

Throughout the episode, Jessica reflects on the serendipitous moments that have shaped her path, from meeting key figures in the industry to the unexpected turns that led her to where she is today. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, curiosity, and the willingness to embrace new challenges.

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a budding winemaker, or simply someone who appreciates a good story, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Tune in to hear how Jessica Cortell has carved out a unique place in the wine world, blending science, art, and a deep respect for nature to create wines that truly reflect the terroir of the Willamette Valley.