#107: Brian Smith | Oyster River Winegrowers

Graining In

We're joined this week by Brian Smith of Oyster River Winegrowers, at he and his wife Allie's farm/ vineyard/orchard in Warren, ME. Despite over a hundred episodes, we've yet to talk with a winemaker, due not to lack of interest but lack of a vibrant grape-based wine/vineyard culture in Maine and New England. The inherent difficulty in growing grapes suitable for winemaking in the region makes Oyster River's products -- and its nearly fifteen year history -- all the more impressive. Brian lays out his view on what defines "natural wine" (all of Oyster River's products) means, relays how he's developed a habit of doing things before he knew they had a term, and reveals that orange wine is not, in fact, made from oranges. The conversation came on the heels of a multi-hour tour of the property, so the guys do their best to keep their excitement engines from overheating as Brian discusses everything from harvest, carbonic maceration, Pet-Nat, and disgorgement, before wrapping with an Old MacDonald-esque Three Bay. There wasn't a better place or person to open the door on oenology with; Listen to Natural Wine 101 in full NOW! ................... ...................................... ................................ ........................................... ................................................Music: "Mountain Climb" by
Jake Hill