Season 9 kicks off with two standout Willamette Valley producers who are redefining what it means to build a wine brand with heart, grit, and a little creative edge.

At Varnum Vintners, husband-and-wife team Taralyn and Cyler Varnum are crafting small-production wines that are as approachable as they are expressive. Focused on old-vine Riesling, Pinot Noir, and sparkling wines, their philosophy is simple: “Made to drink, don’t overthink.” From experimenting with unique varietals and styles to pioneering wine in beer bottles and even launching Oregon’s first non-alcoholic wines, Varnum is pushing boundaries while keeping wine fun, inclusive, and unpretentious.

Then we head to the rolling hills just outside Salem to meet the family behind Hudak House. Todd and Lynette Hudak traded a fast-paced California life for a bold leap into wine, taking over a historic, multi-decade vineyard in the Eola-Amity Hills. Today, their 30-acre estate produces a diverse lineup of estate-grown wines, from Pinot Noir to Chardonnay, all rooted in the character of the land. What makes Hudak House truly special is the experience: a welcoming, family-driven atmosphere where wine, community, and connection take center stage, whether you’re sipping in the tasting room or enjoying live music on the lawn.

Two wineries, two unique paths—but a shared passion for storytelling, innovation, and creating wines that bring people together.

Season 9, Episode 1: Maypop Wine Co. & Wild Child Wines

In the premiere of Season 9, we uncork two boundary-pushing forces redefining Oregon wine: Maypop Wine Co. and Wild Child Wines.

Maypop Wine Co., founded by winemaking duo Shea Guevara and Vince Kelsey, is a love letter to the Willamette Valley’s untapped potential. With deep roots in generational winemaking, they’ve traded tradition for exploration—intentionally stepping outside the region’s Pinot Noir spotlight to champion underrepresented varietals like Albariño, Gamay, and Riesling. Their approach is refreshingly low-intervention, allowing the vineyard and vintage to speak with minimal interference, resulting in vibrant, expressive wines that are as playful as they are thoughtful. Sustainability and innovation are woven into their DNA, from reusable glass to experimental fermentation techniques, all grounded in a philosophy that wine should be accessible, unpretentious, and enjoyed anytime.

Wild Child Wines, led by seasoned sommelier Jonathan, brings a different kind of energy—one rooted in freedom, instinct, and a deep love for the craft. After decades in the wine world, Jonathan set out to create something entirely his own: a boutique label focused on classic Willamette Valley styles with a rebellious edge. His wines embrace minimal intervention while delivering freshness, personality, and a sense of adventure in every bottle. From small-lot Pinot Noir to vibrant Riesling and Gamay, Wild Child is about breaking rules just enough to let authenticity lead the way.

Together, these two brands embody the evolving spirit of Oregon wine—where tradition meets curiosity, and where the next generation of winemakers is rewriting the story, one bottle at a time

Troon Winery isn’t just making wine—they’re stewarding the land.

In this episode, we explore the philosophy and passion behind Troon Winery, where biodynamic farming, regenerative agriculture, and deep respect for nature shape every bottle. This conversation goes beyond tasting notes and into the why—why farming matters, why patience is essential, and why great wine starts long before grapes ever reach the cellar.

We talk about balance, biodiversity, and the intentional choices that honor both the vineyard and the people who work it. Troon’s approach is thoughtful, grounded, and refreshingly honest, proving that when you work with the land instead of against it, the result is something truly special.

This episode is for wine lovers who care about where their wine comes from, how it’s grown, and the bigger picture behind what’s in the glass.

Pour something earthy, lean in, and listen—this one’s all about connection, place, and purpose. 🍷🌿