Cork Talk

This is another Best of Cork Talk episode featuring David Bower and Sarah Bowman of the Shelton-Badgett NC Center for Viticulture and Enology at Surry Community College! When we first sat down with David several years ago, we discussed the Center’s role in supporting North Carolina’s wine industry through education, research, and hands-on training for growers and winemakers. As one of the region’s leading resources for viticulture and enology education, the program has continued to evolve alongside the rapidly changing Southeastern wine industry. In this update, we reconnect with David and welcome Sarah to the podcast for the first time. Together, they share how the program has expanded its research into muscadines and other sustainable grape varieties, new approaches to vineyard management, and ongoing efforts to prepare students for careers in the wine industry. We also discuss new wine projects coming out of the teaching winery, including expanded rosé and sparkling wine programs, student-led experiments under the Surry Labs label, and the upcoming Southeastern Grape and Wine Symposium. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, grower, or industry professional, this episode offers a fascinating look at the innovation and education happening right here in North Carolina. If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk. This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

This is another Best of Cork Talk episode featuring Matheson Worrell and Katy Kidd of Dynamis Estate Wines in Jonesville, NC! When we first sat down with Mat and Katy (original 2023 episode: Elevating Wine) they shared their vision of creating a luxury brand while helping redefine perceptions of North Carolina Wine on a national state. From their commitment to estate-grown fruit to their focus on vineyard site expression, it was clear they had ambitious goals. In this update, we reconnect to learn about how their vision has continued to take shape. Mat and Katy discuss the recent 94 and 95 point wine scores for Dynamis Wines. During the discussion we also talk about the national recognition Dynamis received with the nomination of Wine Enthusiast’s North American Winery of the year. After we recorded the episode, it was also revealed that Mat and Katy were nominated for Wine Enthusiast’s Winemaker of the Year as well! In this episode you’ll learn about the growing reputation of Dynamis Estate Wines and how they are truly elevating their wines to a national stage. If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk. This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

In this episode we feature Johnathan Fussel of Duplin Winery in Rose Hill, NC! As Duplin Winery prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary, Jonathan joins us to share the story of how his family helped establish North Carolina’s first modern winery and build one of the most recognizable brands in the Southeast. During our conversation, we discuss the inspiration behind starting Duplin Winery, what it was like making wine in North Carolina before a commercial wine industry truly existed, and the challenges that came with building a winery when there was no established roadmap for success. Duplin Winery has grown tremendously over the past five decades, but its roots remain firmly planted in eastern North Carolina. Jonathan reflects on the milestones, obstacles, and defining moments that shaped the winery’s journey while also discussing Duplin’s contributions to grape growers, wine education, tourism, and the growth of the North Carolina wine industry as a whole. Wine Class with the Wine Mouths is back again! Join us as they talk about Pinot Gris! We also feature a special guest in this episode, food and travel writer Heidi Billotto as she talks to us about the upcoming NCRLA Chef Showdown! For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @Winemouths. The Wine Mouths theme was written and performed by Joshua Morris. You can find him at https://soundcloud.com/joshtime. For more information about the NCRLA Chef Showdown and to purchase tickets, head to: https://ncchefshowdown.com. Use Promo Code NCWineGuys to receive 10% off your ticket price! If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk. This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

This episode of Cork Talk takes listeners inside the NC Wine Competition with special guest Nicole Chesney, Executive Director of the North Carolina Wine & Grape Council. Nicole joins us to discuss the history and purpose of the competition, how wines are judged, and why the event plays such an important role in highlighting the quality and diversity of wines being produced across North Carolina. The NC Wine Competition is more than a judging event. It serves as a showcase for the hard work, innovation, and dedication of North Carolina’s wine industry. During our conversation, Nicole shares insights into the judging process, the value of professional wine evaluation, and how winning wines, meads, and ciders help tell the story of North Carolina wine to a broader audience. Whether you’re a winery owner, wine enthusiast, or someone just beginning to explore local wines, this episode offers a fascinating look behind the scenes of one of the state’s premier wine events. Wine Class with the Wine Mouths is back again! Join us as they talk about Viognier in their lesser known grape varietals segment! For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @Winemouths. The Wine Mouths theme was written and performed by Joshua Morris. You can find him at https://soundcloud.com/joshtime. If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk. This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

In this episode, we visit with Christian and Andrew owners of Christian Paul Vineyards in Elkin, NC! In this conversation, talk about their journey into the world of wine, what inspired them to plant a vineyard, and how they’re building an experience that’s both approachable and welcoming for guests of all backgrounds. Christian Paul Vineyards carries forward a family legacy rooted in Italian winemaking traditions, but their focus today is firmly on creating something unique here in North Carolina. As we discuss in the episode, their approach blends Old World inspiration with a more modern, interactive tasting experience. From their diverse grape plantings to their “Around the World” tasting concept, Christian and Andrew are carving out their own space in the Yadkin Valley while keeping the experience fun and inviting for visitors. Wine Class with the Wine Mouths is back again! Join us as they explore the details of the grape Albariño, a bright and refreshing white grape known for fresh acidity! For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @Winemouths. The Wine Mouths theme was written and performed by Joshua Morris. You can find him at https://soundcloud.com/joshtime. If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk. This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org Explore Christian Paul Vineyards in North Carolina’s Yadkin Valley and discover their unique, interactive approach to winemaking and tasting experiences.

This episode is another Best of Cork Talk episode featuring Grassy Creek Vineyard and Winery in State Road, NC! When we first sat down with Jim and Cynthia Douthit (episode: Growing for Future Generations), it was during the height of COVID and the conversation was recorded remotely. Even then, their dedication to farming, commitment to quality winemaking, and deep connection to the Yadkin Valley and North Carolina Wine community were clear as they shared the story of building Grassy Creek from the ground up. In this updated episode, we reconnect to hear how much has changed over the past several years. Jim and Cynthia walk us through the evolution of the winery as they celebrate 20 years since opening their tasting room, including new leadership in winemaking, ongoing vineyard replanting efforts, and an expanded lineup of wines. We also explore how Grassy Creek continues to enhance the visitor experience with events, trails, and outdoor spaces that reflect its identity as a welcoming, family-friendly farm winery. If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk. This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org Located in State Road near Elkin, Grassy Creek Vineyards is part of the Yadkin Valley AVA and offers visitors a chance to experience North Carolina Wine in a setting that’s both welcoming and distinctly local. Whether you’re planning a trip to the area or exploring more Yadkin Valley wineries, it’s worth adding to your list.

This episode is another Best of Cork Talk conversation featuring Haze Gray Vineyards in Dobson, NC! When we first sat down with Becky and Deane, it was during the height of COVID and just as their tasting room was opening. Even then, their passion for winemaking, dedication to veterans, and clear long-term vision stood out as they began building something truly meaningful in North Carolina wine country. The original episode kicked off Season 3 of Cork Talk with Haze Gray & Underway. In this updated episode, we reconnect to hear how much has changed over the past six years. Becky and Deane walk us through the expansion of their vineyard and wine portfolio and their focus on estate-grown and single-varietal red wines with extended aging. We also dive into how their wine blends continue to honor military-inspired veterans with unique military themed names, with sales of each bottle giving back to veteran organizations. If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk. This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

In this episode, we’re revisiting Raffaldini Vineyards in Ronda, NC! This year marks the 25th anniversary of Raffaldini’s founding. We sit down with Jay Raffaldini to reflect on how the winery has evolved from its earliest days and what lies ahead for the next quarter century. We first interviewed Jay back in season 1, and a lot of things have changed over time so listen in for details. Raffaldini Vineyards has been known for its focus on Italian varietals and embracing Old World traditions. As Jay shares in our conversation, the story of Raffaldini is also rooted in perseverance, experimentation, and deep family connections. At its founding, the North Carolina Wine industry was just taking shape. Many practices, techniques, and vineyard practices for the North Carolina climate were being written in real time. Jay talks to us about those early challenges and what he’s learned over time to establish his house style and build on quality over time. Wine Class with the Wine Mouths is back again! Join us as they talk about Tannat; a bold and structured grape that’s gaining in popularity here in North Carolina. For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @Winemouths. The Wine Mouths theme was written and performed by Joshua Morris. You can find him at https://soundcloud.com/joshtime. If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk. This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

This episode is another Best of Cork Talk episode featuring Golden Road Vineyards in State Road, NC! When we first spoke with them, they walked us through their unexpected journey into wine, how they landed in North Carolina, and the vision behind what they were building. Their story kicked off Season 4, and even then it was clear they were on a path shaped by passion, persistence, and community. In this updated episode, we check in with Chad and Crista to hear how things have evolved. They’ve expanded their wine and beverage offerings, strengthened their social media presence, and shared exciting hints about what’s ahead as they look toward 2026 and beyond. Golden Road continues to grow in inspiring ways and this episode shows just how far they’ve come and where they’re headed next. If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk. This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

Welcome to our first episode of Season 8 of Cork Talk! This episode features Scott and Elizabeth Barone from Castello Barone Vineyards in Ronda, NC! Located in the heart of the Swan Creek AVA, Castello Barone Vineyards is a boutique vineyard and winery that is grounded in Old World wine traditions, service to others, and a deep respect for craftsmanship. Their winemaking journey started as home brewers and home winemakers in Florida. Eventually the hobby became a passion and Scott and Elizabeth were looking for a way to make this into a larger project. They decided to settled in the Swan Creek AVA due to the higher concentration of vineyards in the area as well as on the traditional and homey feel that the region conveys. When you listen their story, you’ll find that the core beliefs of Faith, Family, and Service run throughout everything they do at Castello Barone. Wine Class with the Wine Mouths is back again! For Season 8, they are going back through the vineyard and finding more grape varietals for us to discuss, most of them will be lesser known grapes that you’ll find here in North Carolina. We begin our discussions with Petit Manseng. For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @Winemouths. The Wine Mouths theme was written and performed by Joshua Morris. You can find him at https://soundcloud.com/joshtime. If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk. This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org