Hosts Erik Ellner and Roger Salazar take listeners on a journey through their recent “world tour” of winery visits in Napa. They share their experiences at various wineries, including Burgess, Robert Craig, Hall Rutherford, Seven Apart, William Cole, Markham, Revana and Duckhorn. The conversation highlights the unique aspects of each winery, the wines they tasted, and the overall enjoyment of the tasting experiences. The episode also features special guest Phil Salazar, (The Ghost Raven) who adds his insights and experiences to the discussion.

Chapters:

00:00 The Napa Experience

02:30 Burgess Cellars

06:56 Robert Craig Winery

22:17 Hall Rutherford Winery

29:23 Seven Apart Winery

34:16 William Cole Vineyards

42:24 Markham Vineyards

48:57 Revana Family Vineyard

Episode Mentions:

Wineries: Burgess Cellars, Robert Craig Winery, Hall Rutherford Winery, Seven Apart Winery, William Cole Vineyards, Markham Vineyards, Revana Family Vineyard, Duckhorn Vineyards

Accommodations: Silverado Resort

Wines Tasted:

ROBERT CRAIG

• 2015 Mt Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2015 Spring Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2016 Diamond Mt Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2018 Howell Mt Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2025 Howell Mountain Estate Merlot

• 2016 The Stick Red Wine Blend

HALL RUTHERFORD

• 2021 Sacrashe Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2019 Montagna Mt Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2021 Rainin Vineyard Diamond Mt Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2021 Beller Vineyard Mt Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon

SEVEN APART

• 2021 Basalt Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2021 Shale Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2021 Summit Cabernet Sauvignon

WILLIAM COLE

• 2022 Small Lot Stag’s Leap District Cab

• 2017 Predecessor

• 2015 Cuvee Claire Cab

MARKHAM

• 2017 Yountville Estate Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2021 Meadowrock Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

REVANA

• 2018 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2021 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2021 Cold Springs Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon

DUCKHORN

• 2013 Duck Blind Proprietary Red Blend

• 2021 Patzimaro Cabernet Sauvignon

Hosts Erik Ellner and Roger Salazar delve into the nuances of wine etiquette, exploring the balance between enjoyment and decorum while tasting wines. They discuss the importance of connecting with wine servers, the art of pacing during tastings, the significance of planning ahead for a successful wine tasting experience and their view that “spitters are quitters.”

Wines: Duckhorn Oakville Napa Valley Cabernet, Wallis Denali Estate Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon

Wineries: Caymus-Suisun, Seavey Vineyard

Accommodations: Villa Capricho in Suisun Valley

Erik and Roger uncork the Wine Babblers podcast by sharing their journey into wine, tasting experiences, and touch on the social aspects of wine culture. They also review Cabernet Sauvignon from Kathryn Hall, Markham Vineyards, and Faust Wines, and give you a glimpse of what is to come on thepodcast. Future episodes promise to explore various wine regions and tasting adventures, including interviews expert and celebrity interviews.

Episode Mentions:

Wines: Kathryn Hall Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Marham Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, Faust Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

Wineries: William Cole Vineyards, Seavey Vineyard, Revana Family Vineyard, Markham Vineyards

Accommodations: Silverado Resort and Spa, Carneros Resort and Spa, Ranco Caymus Inn

Welcome to the Wine Babblers Podcast, where two regular guys—Erik Ellner and Roger Salazar—invite you to join them on their journey through the world of wine. With just a basic knowledge, but a deep enthusiasm for vino, Erik and Roger aren’t experts—they’re explorers, ready to learn alongside you as they “babble” about all things wine. Born from their long, laughter-filled “Wine Nights” with friends, the podcast blends honest curiosity with lively conversation. From sharing their favorite bottles to spotlighting go-to tasting spots in Napa, Lodi, and the Foothills, they’ll also dream out loud about future visits to Paso Robles, Temecula, and more. Each episode is packed with down-to-earth insights, stories, and a lot of heart. Whether you're wine-savvy or wine-curious, you’ll feel right at home. So pour yourself a glass and join Erik and Roger for a fun, friendly, and flavor-filled ride on Wine Babblers. Subscribe now!