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 alongs

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 le

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

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, in

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 Carol

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