Join me today for a look into the world of winemaking at Patz & Hall Winery in Sonoma, where tradition harmonizes with cutting-edge technology. My conversation with Patz & Hall winemaker James McCeney offers a deep dive into the meticulous cleanliness and mental preparation required for the winemaking process. Discover how innovative techniques, such as reduced frequency of racking, and advanced technological tools like the BarrelWise system and TankNet, have transformed their daily operations and enhanced their final product.

Beyond the technicalities, this episode sheds light on the strategic direction and mission of wineries under new ownership, with a particular focus on crafting distinct styles of Chardonnay and single vineyard Pinot Noirs. You’ll hear firsthand stories about some legendary winemakers James has worked with and the meditative aspects of repetitive winemaking tasks. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned wine enthusiast, this episode promises a fascinating and comprehensive look at how Patz & Hall Winery successfully navigates tradition and innovation in the winemaking industry.

Winemaking Class Offers and Show Notes for all episodes at https://www.insidewinemaking.com/

Resources from this Episode

Patz & Hall Winery: https://www.patzhall.com/

ETS Labs Concentration Product Analysis: https://www.etslabs.com/analyses/analysis/%23KCP

Barrel Wise Technologies: https://www.barrelwise.ca/

Innovint Wine Production Software: https://www.innovint.us/

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.

175: James McCeney - Patz & Hall Winery

Inside Winemaking - the art and science of growing grapes and crafting wine