Upcoming Events with Laurie

June 4th Wine Comedy Show at Turks Head Wines

June 7th Maryland Crafted VIP Experience

June 25th Red, White & BBQ Virtual Tasting

Summary

In this episode, Laurie Forster talks with William Weese, winemaker at Merriam Vineyards, to explore the deep roots of his winemaking philosophy. From his global journey to Sonoma’s rich terroir, William shares how family, sustainability, and a love for the land shape every bottle he creates. They dive into organic and biodynamic practices, the beauty of minimal intervention, and why Merlot is making a comeback. With reflections on Pinot Noir, sulfites, and the magic of small-lot production, this episode is a celebration of wine as both craft and connection — a story of taste, time, and terroir.

Wines Tasted

Merriam Vineyards 2022 Danielle's Estate Fume Blanc

Merriam Vineyards 2022 Diana's Estate Pinot Noir

Merriam Vineyards 2021 Windacre Vineyard Merlot

Takeaways

• Traveling globally enriched William's winemaking philosophy.
• Organic and biodynamic practices are essential at Merriam Vineyards.
• Sulfites are a natural part of the winemaking process.
• Biodynamics enhances the natural ecosystem of the vineyard.
• Merlot is making a strong comeback in the wine industry.
• Every vintage presents unique challenges and opportunities.
• Taste is the ultimate guide in determining grape readiness.

Find out more about Merriam Vineyards and William Weese HERE

Support the show

SUPPORT the show by sending a small donation to help us offset the costs of production...you'll get a shout out on the show and get special subscriber only benefits. Subscribe Today!

Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.

Let's Stay Connected:
Instagram @thewinecoach
Facebook @winecoach
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Summary
Laurie Forster pops the top on a sparkling convo with Mallory, founder of Saint Spritz, the refreshingly clean ready-to-drink spritz brand. They dive into the fizz behind Mallory’s inspiration, how she's shaking up the beverage aisle with better-for-you ingredients, and what it’s like juggling startups and sippy cups. From inventive flavor profiles to the brand’s surprising connection to America’s fastest-growing sport—pickleball—this episode is equal parts business, bubbles, and bold moves. Bonus: sneak peeks into where Saint Spritz is headed next on the retail map!

Drinks Tasted

• Saint Spritz Amalfi
• Saint Spritz Sicily
• Saint Spritz Hugo

Key Takeaways

• Saint Spritz aims to provide a healthier alternative to traditional spritzes.
• Natural juices and wine are used for sweetness instead of artificial sweeteners.
• Mallory founded the company with JoJo Fletcher (Season 12 Bachlorette) and her brother in law Ben Patton.
• Motherhood has equipped Mallory with adaptability for entrepreneurship.
• Saint Spritz is expanding its availability in major retailers like Target and Total Wine.

Check out Saint Spritz online HERE and their Instagram Page HERE

Upcoming Events

June 4th Wine Comedy Show at Turks Head Wines

June 7th Maryland Crafted VIP Experience

June 25th Red, White & BBQ Virtual Tasting

Support the show

SUPPORT the show by sending a small donation to help us offset the costs of production...you'll get a shout out on the show and get special subscriber only benefits. Subscribe Today!

Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.

Let's Stay Connected:
Instagram @thewinecoach
Facebook @winecoach
TikTok @LaurieForster

Get tickets for my wine comedy show Something To Wine About at Turks Head Wines on June 4th at 6pm...advance purchase is required and limited space is available.

Summary

In this lively episode, Laurie Forster sits down with Laura Barrett, winemaker at Clif Family Winery, to explore the perfect pairing of science and sustainability in winemaking. Laura shares her journey from chemistry to the cellar, her Unoaked Chardonnay & Cabernet, and how lower-alcohol wines are shaking up the industry. They dive into the winery’s unique hospitality experience, the culinary delights that await visitors, and the strategic brilliance of growing grapes in Napa’s Oak Knoll District. From organic farming to climate-conscious innovation, Clif Family Winery is raising a glass to the future of wine—one thoughtful vintage at a time.

Takeaways

• Laura’s journey to winemaking began with a chemistry degree and a well-timed nudge from a friend.
• Clif Family Winery offers a one-of-a-kind experience where fine wine, farm-fresh food, and sustainable farming come together.
• The winery was founded by the innovative minds behind Clif Bar, bringing their passion for wellness and the outdoors into every bottle.
• Lower-alcohol wines are gaining momentum as the go-to choice for lighter, more versatile sipping.
• Located in Napa’s Oak Knoll District, Clif Family benefits from ideal conditions for growing a wide variety of grapes.
• Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s central to how the winery is tackling climate change and future-proofing its practices.

Learn more about Clif Family Winery and Laura Barrett HERE

Support the show

SUPPORT the show by sending a small donation to help us offset the costs of production...you'll get a shout out on the show and get special subscriber only benefits. Subscribe Today!

Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.

Let's Stay Connected:
Instagram @thewinecoach
Facebook @winecoach
TikTok @LaurieForster