SOMM TV wine & food

Michael G. Etzel, founder who turned a pig farm into Beaux Frères, and Mikey Etzel, his son who modernized the winery. They trace the farm-to-legend journey, family tensions and reconciliation, shifting from powerful oak-driven Pinot to terroir clarity, and the influence of Robert Parker on their direction. Conversations focus on viticulture choices, stylistic evolution, and the challenges of running a family estate.

Philip Tessier, American chef known for leading Press in Napa and competing in Bocuse d'Or, shares his culinary journey from Per Se to Michelin recognition. He discusses intense competition training, evolving kitchen leadership, rebuilding a restaurant after COVID, and balancing ambition with sustainable, team-focused practices. Expect candid stories about risk, failed dishes, and creative ingredients.

Tim Mondavi, a Napa winemaking legend who led Opus One, Robert Mondavi Winery and Continuum, shares reflections on Napa’s diverse subregions and the legacy of the Judgment of Paris. He talks vintage stories, replanting after phylloxera, climate-driven site decisions, the next generation of curious winemakers, and why shared meals matter to wine culture.

Madeline Puckette, founder of Wine Folly and wine educator known for her visual guides and books. She and Cokie talk creativity and obsession in wine. They discuss ADHD as a creative superpower, balancing fitness and systems, dealing with criticism, and how AI and databases are changing wine media and research.

Claire Coppe, a professional sommelier, brings tasting expertise and strategy. Jonah Beer, wine entrepreneur tied to Gabriel Glass and Pilkrow, adds industry perspective. Steve Mathiason, veteran Napa winemaker, offers winemaking insight. They draft islands known for wine, battle over Sicily, New Zealand, Santorini, Madeira and unusual picks like Pelee and the Azores. Fast-paced picks and lively bidding.

Dr Ben Montpetit, a leading UC Davis wine scientist specializing in grape genetics and fermentation, joins to explore wine science history and future directions. He discusses UC Davis’s century-long influence, CRISPR and breeding for climate resilience, fermentation innovation, and how genetics and vineyard site interact. The conversation highlights research, teaching, and keeping wine enjoyable while embracing new tools.

Ian Cauble, Master Sommelier and SOMM One Star who founded Cobblest and stars in the original SOMM film, joins to debate Europe’s top wine region. He compares Burgundy, Piedmont, Galicia and Rheingau. Travel stories, regional contenders, and why Piedmont takes the crown are discussed in short, lively segments.

A crown jewel in the wine world’s history and heritage, Casa Madero is not only the oldest winery in the New World, but also the cornerstone of Mexican wine.  On this episode we discuss the incredible history of this property originally deeded by the king of Spain in 1597 and  talk to the family bringing this one of a kind property into today’s wine world.  This episode is brought to you by Wine Paris. Wine Paris 2026 is coming. From February 9–11, the global wine, spirits, and no/low community meets in Paris for three days of discovery, business, and trend-shaping conversations. More than 6,000 exhibitors and 60,000 professionals from 155+ markets will gather under one roof — including a major U.S. presence across wine, craft spirits, and emerging categories. Join the industry in Paris. Register for your trade badge Link: https://wineparis.com/newfront/page/why-visit?utm_source=lealb&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=relais 

One of Los Angeles’ best wine bars has just closed its doors for the final time.  On today’s episode we speak to Rebecca Phillips about her time behind the bar as the owner of Vintage, a place that defined a neighborhood through bottles and laughter. She shares some of her craziest experiences, and we attempt to understand what disappears when we lose a local watering hole. Today’s episode is brought to you by Wine Paris.  If you work in wine, spirits, or beverages in the U.S., you should be at Wine Paris 2026 February 9-11. Register online now and secure your trade badge. February is coming fast.Link: https://wineparis.com/newfront/page/why-visit?utm_source=lealb&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=relais 

Today Jason talks the current events happening in Iran with Persian - American winemaker  Darioush Khaledi of Darioush vineyards in Napa. Iran is one of the birth places of civilization and with that had a major hand in discovering and spreading wine across the world.  The country is in the middle of generational upheaval that may change everything from geopolitics and freedom to It’s place in the global tourism, food, and wine space and millions hang in the balance.  Let’s dig in to the history, the potential, and the “what ifs” of Iran.  To watch our brand new episode on the upcoming 2024 Napa vintage free, go to https://sommtv.vhx.tv/videos/napa-valley-vintage-update-2024