Since launching his career on Wall Street the same year as Gordon Gekko’s Hollywood debut, Jay Raffaldini decided to search for his future second act while riding the ups & downs of the market. This New York City business man set his eyes on the historic but now more lesser-known wine region of North Carolina to try his passion at producing something special & unique with his goal of making the best wine possible through his “house style” of Appassimento.

Not familiar with this Italian wine making method or the Italian native grapes grown at his estate? Listen to our A Wine Affair podcast episode with Raffaldini Vineyards to learn why the hot Carolina weather and Appalachian setting create a distinct foundation for his wine and AVA experience. Plus, you’ll hear more on what else they have planned for visitors & wine club members of all ages & wine preferences!

Test your own Italian pronunciation, and tune in for more about Jay & Raffaldini Vineyard’s other blockbuster moment when their wine was selected for President Obama’s White House dinner for the President of Italy’s 80th Birthday!

Visit Raffaldini Vineyards yourself in North Carolina nestled near the Yadkin River and Blue Ridge Mountains. Dive into all their details on their website: www.raffaldini.com and follow on Instagram @raffaldini

Salute!

Can’t get enough!? Check out Jay’s Ted Talk expanding more on his pursuit to “be a jellyfish” (the image behind his video interview with us) - it’s another great story!

What should we pour next!?

Celebrating Rosé month in August this summer, A Wine Affair Podcast welcomes Marilee Bramhall, Founder of Iola Wines, a wine importer specifically focused not only on French and Italian wine, but women growers and producers creating inspiring wines in a sustainable practice.

Pouring rosé from the Bandol commune of the Provence region in southern France, we learn more about the wine growers and makers Iola Wines features, plus Marilee’s story on how and why she became so passionate about what she does. Go behind the scenes of a year in the life of a wine importer and hear why Iola Wines and their producers are so special.

Follow Marilee and her importing journey @iola.wines on Instagram and visit her website at iolawines.com

What should we pour next!?

Ever wonder what goes on to create the wonderful wine found in each pour? Join A Wine Affair Podcast as we welcome Tom Payette, Winemaking Consultant, to share the insights and magic that goes into winemaking production. Learn more about the process, steps, and evolving days in the life of a winemaker. Tom talks us through the impact of oak aging and specialized winemaking techniques like sur lie, how to know when it’s time for harvest, production methods based on the grape, and how they select the final wine through the blending sessions.

With three decades of winemaking experience, Virginia Tech’s Department of Food Science and Technology’s Distinguished Alumnus in Industry Award, and mentorship from one of the top Bordeaux winemakers, Tom has worked with hundreds of wineries to create their own unique flavors and award-winning, signature wines. Don’t miss this week’s episode featuring Wine Business Monthly Magazine’s 2020 Wine Industry Leader recognized for his contributions to making a difference in the North American Wine Industry and learn more about Tom via his website winemakingconsultant.com.

What should we pour next!?