Erik and Roger explore the world of wine through a fun and casual blind tasting with guest Moises Lopez, sharing his wine journey from childhood to Bordeaux trips. Discover wine recommendations, learn about new wineries andgreat spots to grab wine in Downtown Sacramento, and find out what’s coming next on the Wine Babblers.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Wine Babblers and Guest Introduction

03:23 Battle of the Mountains – Blind Tasting

09:52 First Wine: 2022 Kathryn Hall Cabernet Sauvignon

14:34 Second Wine: 2019 Courtney Benham Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

17:41 Third Wine: 2019 Davies Vineyards Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

24:58 Fourth Wine: 2019 Cresta Velia Mt. Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon

29:52 Fifth Wine: Predecessor Howell Mountain Cabernet Franc

34:26 Sixth Wine: 2022 Seven Apart

41:52 Seventh Tasting: 2019 Hess Collection Mount VeederEstate Cabernet Sauvignon

46:37 Upcoming Wine Adventures in Bordeaux

50:53 Upcoming No Borders, No Regions Tasting

01:00:39 Revival Wine

01:05:03 Downtown Sacramento Wine Recs

01:08:13 Engaging New Wine Drinkers

Episode Mentions:

Wines: 2022 Kathryn Hall Cabernet Sauvignon, 2019 Courtney Benham Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon,2019 Davies Vineyards Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, 2019 Cresta Velia Mt. Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon, Predecessor Howell Mountain Cabernet Franc, 2022 Seven Apart, 2019 Hess Collection Mount Veeder Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Revival Wine

In this episode, hosts Erik Ellner and Roger Salazar discuss the rich world of South American wines, focusing on Argentinian and Chilean varieties. Joined by guest Jeff Ball, they explore the history and evolution of Malbec, its significance in Argentina, and the differences between Argentinian and Chilean wines. The conversation delves into personal experiences with wine, the importance of aging, and the cultural aspects of wine appreciation. They also taste and review several wines, sharing their thoughts on flavor profiles and the wine tasting experience.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction

04:33 The Evolution of Malbec in the U.S.

07:07 Personal Malbec Journeys

12:29 Wine Preferences and Seasonal Choices

18:18 The Journey Into Wine Appreciation

26:05 Terrazas de los Andes Malbec

29:15 Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

35:16 Sena Aconcagua Valley, Chile 2012

40:04 Moscato Magnanime Cabernet 2018

45:35 Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino

53:52 Luca Old Vine Malbec

01:00:05 El Esteco Malbec 2022

01:05:58 Wine Insight and Advice

01:13:51 Breaking Down Wine Barriers for Younger Generations

Episode Mentions:

Wines: Terrazas de los Andes Malbec, Pascual Toso Malbec, Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Sena Aconcagua Valley, Chile 2012, Moscato Magnanime Cabernet 2018, Catena Zapata Malbec Argentina, Luca Old Vine Malbec, El Esteco Malbec 2022, Achaval Ferrer Malbec

In this episode, hosts Erik Ellner and Roger Salazar are joined once again by the Ghost Raven (Phil Salazar) as they share their recent summer adventure through Lodi, California — where the Salazar’s were born and raised. Together, they explore the unexpected charm and evolving wine culture of this underrated region. From hidden gem wineries to standout vintages, the trio shares personal stories, tasting notes, and local insights that reveal why Lodi is far more than just a pit stop on Highway 99. Whether you're a seasoned wine lover or just curious about California’s lesser-known wine country, this episode uncorks the beauty, history, and surprises of Lodi’s vineyards.

Chapters

00:00 The Evolution of Lodi's Wine Scene

09:52 Bokisch Vineyards

17:15 Harney Lane Vineyards

27:48 Jessie's Grove Winery

32:34 Lodi Wine Visitors Center/Wine & Roses

Episode Mentions

Wineries: Harney Lane, Bokisch Vineyards, Jessie's Grove Winery, Wine & Roses, Papapavlos Bistro & Bar; Lodi Wine Visitors Center