Video · Willamette Valley, Oregon ·
Chase Renton of L'Angolo Estate and Chosen Family — Willamette Valley Winemaker
About this Interview
- Region
- Willamette Valley, OR
- Host
- A.J. Weinzettel
- Published
- January 26, 2023
About this episode
Chase Renton is a winemaker from Oregon who currently works at L'Angolo and Chosen Family Wines. He has a passion for creating unique and high-quality wines that reflect the terroir of the region. With years of experience in the industry, Chase has honed his skills and developed a reputation for producing exceptional wines that are both expressive and delicious. He is dedicated to using sustainable and organic practices in the vineyard and winery. Be sure to check out his wines at https://www.langoloestate.com/ and https://www.chosenfamilywines.com/ Cheers 🍷 NEWSLETTER: https://newsletter.oregonvinocountry.com About A.J. Weinzettel: A.J. Weinzettel is the person behind Weinnotes. With a German last name translating into “wine note”, there is only one mission: Highlight the people and stories of wine with a tag line of “A.J. sent me” when customers visit wineries. Follow A.J. on Instagram - http://instagram.com/oregon_vinocountry Follow Weinnotes on Instagram - http://instagram.com/weinnotes Download the Weinnotes iPhone App - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id1522306889
About Weinnotes
A.J. Weinzettel
Wine journalist and podcaster dedicated to discovering the hidden gems of Oregon wine country. Every week, A.J. brings you inside the Willamette Valley — winemaker interviews, tasting notes, and stories you won't find anywhere else.
Wine Reviews
Wines Featured in this Video
More Videos
All videos →
From Courtrooms to Chardonnay: A Story of an Epic Second Chapter
What happens when a powerhouse trial lawyer and his equally driven wife trade suits and city life for vines and vision in Oregon’s Willamette Valley? You get LucidWild — a boutique winery rooted in purpose, passion, and one hell of a view. In this episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, I sit down with Blair and LJ Nicholas, the couple behind LucidWild, to talk about their incredible journey from the courtroom and corporate world to crafting wine with soul and intention. This isn’t a “retirement” story — it’s a second chapter fueled by grit, heart, and a relentless desire to create something lasting from the land. We kick things off with a blind tasting (spoiler: it’s a 2016 Chardonnay from their winemaker, the iconic Isabelle Meunier), and then get into the backstory of how LucidWild came to be. From their early inspiration on a trip to Tuscany to planting 300 vines in their backyard, Blair and LJ share how the spark of curiosity turned into a full-blown calling. You’ll hear how they fell in love with Oregon wine after hearing a Burgundian winemaker tell them, “This is not about the winemaker. This is about the land.” That philosophy stuck. It’s the soul of LucidWild, where every decision — from native ferments to the intentional layout of their immersive, multi-room tasting experience — honors the land and the stories it tells. LJ takes us behind the design of Lucid Wild’s stunning new tasting space, from the Sky Room to the speakeasy hidden in plain sight. Her approach? Experiential and emotional design that invites guests to feel like they’re walking into a friend’s home — not a pretentious wine fortress. You’ll hear about their “ideal lab” for business meetings, a game room with billiards and bocce, and how the bathrooms (yes, the bathrooms) became an unlikely Instagram hotspot thanks to the label artwork proudly displayed inside. Blair gets real about why he left law — not to escape, but to build something with meaning. He shares how LucidWild’s wine lineup reflects different expressions of their estate vineyard. Every bottle is made from 100% estate fruit, and they even use a golf cart to take guests right to the vines where the wine comes from. It’s about connection to the land, to each other, and to the stories shared over a great glass of wine. We talk about their exciting new sparkling wine collaboration made by Isabelle Meunier and her husband, acclaimed sparkling winemaker Andrew Davis. It’s their first sparkling release and a labor of love that brought both families together around the table (literally) to taste through styles and build something uniquely Oregon. Throughout the interview, we dig into what makes Oregon wine, and Willamette Valley in particular, so special right now. From world-class Pinot and Chardonnay to a rising sparkling scene, Blair and LJ are bullish on the valley’s future and grateful to be part of a region where intention still matters more than mass production. We also lighten things up with a round of rapid-fire questions. LJ wants the superpower to duplicate herself (because who doesn’t?), Blair wants to solve homelessness, and they both agree that wine is best enjoyed with good people, good music, and a whole lot of heart. Lucid Wild isn’t just a winery. It’s a philosophy, a commitment to making beautiful wines that reflect place, people, and purpose. Whether you’re a wine lover, a design nerd, or someone dreaming of your own next chapter, this episode is full of inspiration, real talk, and a little sparkle (literally and figuratively). 📌 Like this episode? Subscribe to Weinnotes for more conversations with the people shaping the future of wine in Oregon and beyond. 👉 Follow Lucid Wild: https://www.instagram.com/lucidwildwine 👉 Learn more: https://lucidwildestate.com 0:00 – Intro & Welcome 1:10 – Meeting Blair & LJ 2:00 – Full Circle: A.J.’s First Vineyard Visit 3:30 – Inheriting a Legacy 5:10 – Blind Tasting Begins 7:00 – The Tuscany Spark That Started It All 9:30 – From Law to the Land 12:30 – Building Something Together 15:30 – Vineyard Roles & Shared Vision 17:00 – Finding the Right Winemaker: Isabelle Meunier 20:00 – Sparkling Wine & the Power Couple Behind It 22:00 – The Rise of Oregon Sparkling Wine 24:30 – Oregon’s Boutique Wine Identity 26:00 – Wine Book Club: ‘The Boys Up North’ 28:00 – Designing with Experience in Mind 30:00 – Instagram-Worthy Moments (Yes, Even the Bathrooms) 32:00 – The Speakeasy Reveal 33:00 – Redefining ‘Retirement’ 35:00 – Wine as Purpose, Not Product 37:00 – The Wine Lineup 39:30 – Why They’re Staying Small 40:30 – Vine-to-Glass Connection 41:00 – Bathroom Label Curation 42:30 – The French Poem on the Lust Label 43:30 – Rapid Fire Questions 45:30 – Wine Reveal 46:30 – Final Reflections & Farewell
Drew Voit: Revolutionizing Willamette Valley Winemaking Through Innovative Vineyard Sourcing
In this episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, we sit down with Drew Voit, the mastermind behind Harper Voit Wines in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Drew takes us on a journey through his fascinating career in the wine industry, sharing how he transitioned from a background in food science and engineering to becoming a sought-after winemaker in one of the most renowned wine regions in the world. Born into a family with a deep connection to agriculture, Drew’s story began on a farm in the Central Valley of California. From a young age, he was immersed in the world of agriculture, but it was the allure of winemaking that truly captured his heart. Despite initially pursuing engineering, Drew’s passion for wine was sparked in 1995 when he tasted Oregon Pinot Noir for the first time, forever changing his path. The discovery of Oregon’s terroir and the unique characteristics of its wines led him to the Willamette Valley, where he honed his craft. Drew’s career took off when he joined Domain Serene in 2004, where he played a crucial role in helping the winery triple its production in just a few years. He shares his experiences working alongside some of the valley’s most respected winemakers and how that experience shaped his approach to winemaking. Drew also talks about the value of company culture and how the right team can elevate the success of a winery. His insights on the power of collaboration, mentorship, and building strong relationships in the industry are invaluable for anyone in or looking to join the world of winemaking. As the founder of Harper Voit Wines, Drew’s focus is on sourcing grapes from exceptional vineyards and working with growers who are passionate about producing high-quality fruit. He talks about the importance of finding hidden gem vineyards that have the potential to produce extraordinary wines. One of the highlights of this conversation is his experience working with the Antiquum Vineyard, a site that has become one of his favorite sources for Pinot Noir. Drew describes how he was drawn to the vineyard’s unique terroir and the relationship he built with the vineyard owner, Stephen Hagen, over the years. Throughout the interview, Drew also shares his philosophy on winemaking, which blends technical knowledge with an intuitive, hands-on approach. He talks about his process of finding balance in his wines and how he works closely with his team to ensure every bottle reflects the care and passion that went into its creation. He explains how the values of environmental stewardship and responsible farming are integral to the way he operates both at Harper Voit and in his consulting projects. One of the most heartwarming moments in the conversation is when Drew opens up about his family’s influence on his career. He talks about his son, who has recently started studying viticulture at Cornell University, and reflects on the legacy he hopes to pass on. Drew’s deep appreciation for his family and the lessons they taught him about hard work, dedication, and love for the land are evident in the way he speaks about his work. Drew also takes a lighthearted turn when discussing some of his personal interests, including his culinary passions and favorite indulgent foods. He shares some fun stories about holiday meals with his family, where cooking becomes an experiment in creativity. His brother, also a food scientist, is his partner in crime during these culinary adventures, and they often take on ambitious projects. This episode offers listeners a rare glimpse into the mind of a winemaker who is not only passionate about the craft but also dedicated to pushing boundaries and creating wines that tell a story. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, an aspiring winemaker, or simply someone who appreciates good conversation, Drew Voit’s journey is sure to inspire. His thoughtful approach to winemaking, his commitment to sustainability, and his personal stories make this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to learn more about Oregon’s wine scene and the people who are shaping its future. 0:00 - Introduction 2:00 - Early Life & Career Beginnings 5:00 - The Transition to Winemaking 8:00 - The Launch of Harper Voit Wines 11:30 - Vineyard Sourcing and Terroir 14:00 - Winemaking Philosophy 18:00 - Sustainability & Farming Practices 22:00 - Custom Winemaking Approach 26:00 - Collaboration with Other Winemakers 29:00 - Looking Ahead: The Future of Harper Voit Wines 33:00 - The Role of Food & Wine Pairing 37:00 - The Role of Family & Legacy 40:00 - Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks NEWSLETTER: https://newsletter.oregonvinocountry.com About A.J. Weinzettel: A.J. Weinzettel is the person behind Weinnotes. With a German last name translating into “wine note”, there is only one mission: Highlight the people and stories of wine with a tag line of “A.J. sent me” when customers visit wineries.
Oregon's Pioneer Wine Legend Jim Bernau on Community, Wine, and Legacy
Join us for an enlightening episode of the Weinnotes Podcast featuring Jim Bernau, the founder and visionary behind Willamette Valley Vineyards. With over 35 years of experience, Jim has been a driving force in establishing Oregon’s wine industry as a prominent player on the global stage. In this conversation, he shares his remarkable journey, from the early days of planting vines to cultivating a legacy of quality and community. Jim takes us back to the inception of Willamette Valley Vineyards, recounting the challenges he faced in the beginning and the passion that fueled his ambition. He reflects on the invaluable mentorship he received from pioneers like Dick and Betty O’Brien, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing within the Oregon wine community. Jim’s insights into the camaraderie among winemakers illustrate how their collective efforts have shaped a vibrant and thriving wine culture in the region. A key theme in our discussion is the concept of legacy. Jim shares his thoughts on what it means to leave a lasting impact on the industry and the next generation of winemakers. He discusses the contributions of those who came before him and how their dedication continues to inspire him in his own work. This focus on legacy extends beyond wine production; Jim is deeply committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship, ensuring that the land is preserved for future generations. Throughout the episode, Jim also delves into the evolving consumer landscape, particularly in light of the changes brought about by the pandemic. He explores how the wine experience is shifting, with an increasing emphasis on connection and storytelling. For Jim, each bottle of wine tells a story, reflecting the land, the people, and the passion behind it. He believes that understanding these narratives is essential for both winemakers and consumers alike. With his warm personality and infectious enthusiasm for wine, Jim Bernau offers listeners a unique perspective on the journey of Oregon wine. He invites us to appreciate not only the flavors and aromas in our glasses but also the rich tapestry of experiences that bring those wines to life. Tune in to this inspiring episode as we explore Jim’s incredible legacy at Willamette Valley Vineyards, his vision for the future of Oregon wine, and the enduring connections that make the wine community so special. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just beginning your journey, this conversation is sure to deepen your appreciation for the artistry and passion that define the world of wine. 0:00 - Introduction 1:30 - Jim’s Background 4:00 - The Founding of Willamette Valley Vineyards 8:15 - Mentorship in the Industry 12:00 - The Role of Community 15:30 - Sustainable Winemaking Practices 18:45 - The Evolution of Oregon Wine 22:30 - Changes in Consumer Attitudes 27:00 - Storytelling and Wine 31:00 - Legacy and Future Plans 35:00 - Innovations in Winemaking 40:00 - Engaging the Next Generation 44:00 - The Experience at Willamette Valley Vineyards 48:00 - Final Reflections 52:00 - Closing Remarks NEWSLETTER: https://newsletter.oregonvinocountry.com About A.J. Weinzettel: A.J. Weinzettel is the person behind Weinnotes. With a German last name translating into “wine note”, there is only one mission: Highlight the people and stories of wine with a tag line of “A.J. sent me” when customers visit wineries. Follow A.J. on Instagram - http://instagram.com/oregon_vinocountry Follow Weinnotes on Instagram - http://instagram.com/weinnotes Download the Weinnotes iPhone App - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id1522306889
From Missouri Farm Roots to 25 Years of Oregon Wine: Boyd Teegarden of Natalie's Estate
In this episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, I sit down with Boyd Teegarden, the visionary winemaker behind Natalie’s Estate in Oregon’s renowned Willamette Valley. Boyd’s journey into the world of wine is a unique one, rooted in hard work, dedication, and a passion for storytelling through each bottle. Starting his career in the corporate wine world with Gallo, Boyd’s path eventually led him to Oregon, where he and his wife Cassandra purchased their dream property and started building the now-beloved Natalie’s Estate in 1999. The vineyard, once a walnut and turkey farm, sits on a warm, south-facing site with rich history and has become a beacon of expressive, handcrafted wines. Throughout our conversation, Boyd shares his deep connection to the land, the influences of old-world winemaking, and the importance of creating wines with minimal intervention. He explains how each wine is a snapshot of a vintage and a reflection of the unique vineyard site. At Natalie’s Estate, Boyd’s philosophy is simple: make the wine in the vineyard, allowing the true essence of the fruit to shine. The result is a portfolio that spans from elegant Pinot Noirs to robust wines like Zinfandel and Barbera, each telling a story of the vineyard’s diverse terroir and Oregon’s ever-changing seasons. We explore Boyd’s experience growing up on a soybean farm in Missouri, where he first cultivated his love for agriculture, and how he made a full-circle return to farming in wine country. He also reflects on the challenges and triumphs of starting a winery in a region that was just beginning to get recognized in the world of fine wine. But Boyd isn’t just about the wine – he’s a storyteller, a mentor, and someone deeply invested in the community. He emphasizes the importance of pairing wine with food, a lesson he learned during his time spent traveling through Europe. His approach to wine tastings always incorporates food, bringing people closer to the cultural roots of wine and showing how the perfect pairing can transform both the dish and the wine. Boyd also shares stories about his time working with legendary winemakers, his love for the outdoors, and his ongoing projects in Montana where he supports river restoration initiatives. For Boyd, Natalie’s Estate isn’t just a winery—it’s a family endeavor. He talks about raising his daughter in this environment and how each member of the family plays a role in the business. Boyd also reflects on the future of Oregon wine and how the region has grown exponentially since he first planted his roots. From sustainable farming practices to experimenting with different grape varieties, Boyd continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the Willamette Valley. As always, I wrap up the episode with a blind tasting, and this time Boyd is joined by his assistant winemaker Jeff Granger. Together, they give their thoughts on the wine in the glass, demonstrating their shared love for discovering new flavors and textures. Whether you’re a wine novice or an enthusiast, this episode offers something for everyone—insight into the craft of winemaking, the joy of great pairings, and a reminder that, sometimes, the best journeys come from simply following your passion. 0:00 - Introduction 2:30 - Early Years and Missouri Farm Roots 5:45 - Transition from Gallo to Oregon Wine 8:00 - Founding Natalie’s Estate 25 Years Ago 10:30 - Winemaking Philosophy 13:15 - Varietals and Vineyard Management 17:00 - Importance of Food and Wine Pairing 20:45 - Mentorship and Influences 24:00 - Community and Family in the Wine Business 28:15 - Sustainable Farming Practices 32:00 - The Future of Natalie’s Estate 35:00 - Final Thoughts and Wine Tasting NEWSLETTER: https://newsletter.oregonvinocountry.com About A.J. Weinzettel: A.J. Weinzettel is the person behind Weinnotes. With a German last name translating into “wine note”, there is only one mission: Highlight the people and stories of wine with a tag line of “A.J. sent me” when customers visit wineries. Follow A.J. on Instagram - http://instagram.com/oregon_vinocountry Follow Weinnotes on Instagram - http://instagram.com/weinnotes Download the Weinnotes iPhone App - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id1522306889
Kelsey Glasser of Arden PDX: Blending Theater, Wine, & Farm-to-Table Dining in Portland
Step into the world of Kelsey Glasser, the visionary behind Portland’s renowned Arden PDX, where wine, food, and art seamlessly blend in one unforgettable dining experience. In this episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, Kelsey shares her journey from growing up with a passion for Shakespeare to becoming one of Portland’s most respected restaurateurs. Discover how her deep love for storytelling and the arts, combined with a dedication to locally-sourced Pacific Northwest ingredients, led to the creation of Arden—a sanctuary for food and wine enthusiasts. Kelsey opens up about the inspiration behind Arden’s name, drawn from Shakespeare’s As You Like It, and how the philosophy of escape, rejuvenation, and empowerment plays a pivotal role in her restaurant’s ethos. We explore her early days as a theater major, the challenges of running a restaurant through the pandemic, and the joys of collaborating with some of Oregon’s top winemakers. From blind tastings of rare vintages to her love for experimenting with new projects like house-made wines, Kelsey is always pushing boundaries in the culinary world. In this engaging conversation, you’ll hear stories about the magic of winemaker dinners, the resilience of her team, and how Arden has become a place where Portland’s vibrant food and wine scene thrives. Whether you’re a wine lover, food enthusiast, or just curious about what it takes to create an iconic dining spot, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and a lot of heart. Tune in to discover how Kelsey Glasser is shaping the future of Portland’s culinary landscape, one glass of wine at a time. 0:00 - Introduction 2:30 - The Inspiration Behind Arden 5:45 - From Theater to Hospitality 8:15 - The Wine Program at Arden 11:30 - Challenges of Opening a Restaurant 14:00 - Navigating the Pandemic 17:15 - Collaborations and Winemaker Dinners 21:30 - Arden’s Focus on Local, Seasonal Ingredients 25:45 - The Role of Community in Arden’s Success 30:00 - Personal Philosophy on Hospitality 33:45 - Future Projects for Arden PDX 38:00 - Advice for Aspiring Restaurateurs and Sommeliers 40:00 - Final Reflections and Closing Remarks NEWSLETTER: https://newsletter.oregonvinocountry.com About A.J. Weinzettel: A.J. Weinzettel is the person behind Weinnotes. With a German last name translating into “wine note”, there is only one mission: Highlight the people and stories of wine with a tag line of “A.J. sent me” when customers visit wineries. Follow A.J. on Instagram - http://instagram.com/oregon_vinocountry Follow Weinnotes on Instagram - http://instagram.com/weinnotes Download the Weinnotes iPhone App - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id1522306889
From Rollerblades to Vines: Anthony Sereni's Journey at Flâneur Wines
In this episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, we sit down with Anthony Sereni, head winemaker at Flâneur Wines, to dive deep into his fascinating journey from rollerblading in the streets of Philadelphia to making world-class wines in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Anthony’s path to winemaking is anything but traditional—starting with a love for roller hockey that morphed into a passion for viticulture and winemaking during his travels in New Zealand. Throughout the conversation, Anthony reflects on his early days in the wine industry, the invaluable mentorship he received, and how working at top wineries like Archery Summit shaped his approach to winemaking. He shares stories from his time working with renowned winemakers like Kate Payne Brown and Grant Coulter, and how these experiences have influenced his style at Flâneur Wines. Anthony also discusses the nuances of working with varietals like Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Aligoté, as well as Flâneur’s focus on sparkling wines. He reveals what it’s like to step into the role of head winemaker and his vision for the future of Flâneur, all while maintaining a commitment to the principles of thoughtful winemaking. The conversation takes unexpected turns, from Anthony’s love for rock climbing and literature to how his journey to New Zealand sparked a deeper appreciation for agriculture and sustainable farming. Through humor, humility, and deep insights, Anthony opens up about the joys and challenges of making wines that truly reflect the land they come from. If you’ve ever wondered about the creativity and dedication that go into making wine, this episode offers an engaging and inspiring look into the life of a winemaker who is always learning and evolving. Join us as we explore the fascinating world of Flâneur Wines and the incredible journey that led Anthony Sereni to where he is today. 0:00 - Introduction 2:30 - From Rollerblading to Winemaking 5:45 - Discovering a Passion for Wine in New Zealand 8:00 - Mentorship and Learning from the Best 11:30 - Joining Flâneur Wines 14:15 - Working with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay 17:45 - Flâneur’s Sparkling Wine Program 21:00 - Regenerative Farming at Flâneur 24:45 - Stepping into the Role of Head Winemaker 28:30 - Personal Passions: Rock Climbing and Literature 31:00 - Looking to the Future of Flâneur Wines 34:45 - Advice for Aspiring Winemakers 37:00 - Final Reflections and Closing Remarks NEWSLETTER: https://newsletter.oregonvinocountry.com About A.J. Weinzettel: A.J. Weinzettel is the person behind Weinnotes. With a German last name translating into “wine note”, there is only one mission: Highlight the people and stories of wine with a tag line of “A.J. sent me” when customers visit wineries. Follow A.J. on Instagram - http://instagram.com/oregon_vinocountry Follow Weinnotes on Instagram - http://instagram.com/weinnotes Download the Weinnotes iPhone App - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id1522306889