Wineries

Vented Fermentation

1220 Bennett Way, Spc 13, Templeton, CA 93465
www.ventedfermentation.com

Region: Paso Robles

Owner/Winemaker: Mitch McMinn

About: Vented Fermentation is made in Paso Robles, CA and was based on the idea that when filling or emptying a tank, the tank must be “vented” to prevent an explosion or implosion— similar to a juicebox. It also calls out the idea that one should be calm and collected in a cellar, while also remaining creatively open to new ideas.

What is your favorite undiscovered grape? Picpoul Blanc

What was your first experience with an undiscovered grape? Gewurztraminer was the first forgotten grape I tried, made by one of my favorite wineries, Union Sacre. I first experienced this grape varietal at Sans Liege under Xavier Arnaudin during my first harvest.

What do you love most about the undiscovered grapes? I really enjoy experiencing new and different flavor profiles of forgotten grapes.

Verdad Wine Cellars

4665 Santa Maria Mesa Rd, Santa Maria, CA 93454
verdadandlindquistfamilywines.com

Region: Santa Maria Valley

Owner/Winemaker: Louisa Sawyer Lindquist

About: Specializing in the forgotten Iberian grapes Albariño, Tempranillo, Godello, and Graciano.

What is your favorite undiscovered grape? Tempranillo

What was your first experience with an undiscovered grape? First memories include a Pinot Auxerois from an Alsatian producer and Picpoul while I worked at Amagansett Wines & Spirits in 1989. There was an Alicante Bouschet Rosé at Joseph Swan winery in 1992-ish. And in 2008 or 2009, I tried some Loureiro and Louiero blends in Northern Portugal, while visiting wineries near the Galicia border.

What do you love most about the undiscovered grapes? They make great wines too…they are not undiscovered in Spain!