Vineyard Underground

How many incredible grape varieties are hiding in plain sight — simply because they don't fit the modern wine script? We dig into that question in this episode with Jenny and Scott Schultz of Sonoma's Jolie-Laide Wines, a winery built around chasing the unfamiliar and turning "pretty ugly" grapes into seriously compelling wines. We trace how Jenny and Scott's very different paths collided into a shared philosophy: start with great farming, intervene as little as possible, and let each site and vintage tell its own story. For vineyard owners and operators, the conversation opens up a practical discussion about risk, opportunity, and how alternative varieties can make both agronomic and economic sense. We also get inside their cellar to talk about what "minimal intervention" really means — early picking for natural acidity, whole-cluster fermentations, neutral barrels and concrete, and a deliberate refusal to erase vintage character. Even the labels change every year, reinforcing the idea that wine is an agricultural product, not a factory formula. The discussion dives into grapes like Melon de Bourgogne, Trousseau Gris, Scheurebe, and Mondeuse Noir, unpacking how they grow, how they're vinified, and why they deserve a bigger spotlight. It's a conversation about curiosity, craft, and what becomes possible when we stop playing it safe with varieties. In this episode, you will hear: Why Jolie-Laide focuses on rare and overlooked grape varieties Working with growers to graft or plant unconventional grapes Minimal intervention winemaking and whole-cluster fermentations Farming considerations for low-alcohol, high-acid styles Blending, carbonic fermentation, and managing tannin and structure Follow and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more listeners. 💜 Click the '+' in the top right corner of Apple Podcasts to follow now. Resources: Have a vineyard question? Go to VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com and click the Ask Fritz button. Come grow with Fritz through https://www.virtualviticultureacademy.com! Save $75 off your first year of membership with the code Underground at checkout. Today's Guest: Jenny and Scott Schultz are the founders and winemakers for the acclaimed Jolie-Laide Winery in Sonoma, California. Connect with Jenny and Scott: https://jolielaidewines.com/ https://www.instagram.com/jolielaidewines https://www.facebook.com/jolielaidewines/ Episode Sponsor: Today's episode was brought to you by Vintner's Vault and Shellt Grow Tubes. Thank you to Vintner's Vault for sponsoring today's episode! Vintner's Vault is the #1 winery equipment company that I recommend to my growers, who are also winemakers. Visit TheVintnerVault.com and use the code UNDERGROUND5 (all caps) to save 5% off of your online order, or mention that you heard about them on the Vineyard Underground podcast when contacting them for a larger piece of equipment, consulting services, or turn-key packages, and they will provide a podcast listener discount for you. Thank you to Shellt Grow Tubes for sponsoring today's episode. Shellt makes the ultimate grow tubes for grape vines and orchard trees. Their grow tubes are reusable, recyclable, and designed to grow with your vineyard by clicking together for taller or wider coverage. I exclusively recommend Shellt Grow Tubes to the growers I work with. Visit https://www.shellt.us/ and order with the code UNDERGROUND to save 15% off all online orders, plus free shipping within the continental United States. 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.

Some of the world's most valuable vineyard lessons are rooted in vines that predate modern viticulture. In this conversation, we are joined by Dr. Laura Catena to explore Argentina's remarkable legacy of old, ungrafted vines and what they reveal about vine genetics, site expression, and long-term resilience. Drawing on her experience, Dr. Catena explains why phylloxera never devastated many Argentine vineyards and how this unique history allowed ancient vine material to survive. The discussion dives into massale selection from old vines, highlighting why genetic diversity matters — especially as vineyard owners contend with climate stress, disease pressure, and the limits of clonal uniformity. We also examine the role of Argentina's high-altitude growing regions and how elevation influences vine physiology, flavor development, and vineyard health. These extreme sites have become a living laboratory for research, helping match plant material to specific conditions and improving long-term vineyard performance. Dr. Catena shares information from the Catena Institute of Wine's ongoing research and how data-driven approaches can elevate both vineyard decisions and wine quality. For growers managing heritage blocks or considering massale selection in new plantings, this episode offers a compelling blend of history, science, and practical guidance — showing how preserving the past can be a powerful strategy for building the vineyards of the future. In this episode, you will hear: Why Argentina has some of the world's oldest ungrafted vineyards The role of massale selection in preserving genetic diversity How old vines contribute to resilience and site expression The impact of altitude and climate on vine health and quality Applying research-driven insights to modern vineyard management Follow and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more listeners. 💜 Click the '+' in the top right corner of Apple Podcasts to follow now. Resources: Come grow with Fritz through https://www.virtualviticultureacademy.com! Save $75 off your first year of membership with the code Underground at checkout. Have a vineyard question? Go to VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com and click the Ask Fritz button. Today's Guest: Dr. Laura Catena is a Harvard University graduate with a Medical Doctor degree from Stanford University. She is a fourth-generation Argentine vintner at the award-winning Bodega Catena Zapata, a passionate vineyard researcher, a practicing part-time emergency medicine physician, and an author. And, in 1995, she founded the Catena Institute of Wine with the vision of making Argentine wines that could stand with the best wines in the world. Bodega Catena Zapata: Website - https://catenazapata.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/catenawines/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/CatenaMalbec Catena Institute of Wine: Website - https://www.catenainstitute.com/ X - https://x.com/CatenaScience Dr Laura Catena: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lauracatenamd/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-laura-catena-054987195/ Books - https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B005H53YWY?ccs_id=4d0248ba-4f00-4c70-b68f-daf91c441439 Episode Sponsor: Today's episode was brought to you by Sunridge Nurseries and Bahco. Thank you to Sunridge Nurseries for sponsoring today's episode. Sunridge Nurseries is the exclusive nursery sponsor of the Vineyard Underground podcast. They have been a family-owned company for over 45 years, and their dedicated focus on quality and consistency has grown them into the largest supplier of grapevines in both North and South America and the industry leader in nursery standards. Visit them today at SunridgeNurseries.com and mention the code Underground to receive a podcast listener discount on your vine order. Thank you to Bahco Tools for sponsoring today's episode. As innovators for more than 165...

Planting a vineyard is a major investment, and the decisions made before the first vine goes into the ground can determine long-term success or costly failure. In this episode, Fritz sits down with renowned viticulture expert Dr. Mark Greenspan to unpack the most common red flags vineyard owners and operators should watch for when planning a new planting. Drawing on more than three decades of scientific research and hands-on field experience, Dr. Greenspan explains why many vineyard problems originate long before planting day. Fritz and Dr. Greenspan also discuss the dangers of relying on assumptions or neighboring vineyard performance instead of site-specific data and professional evaluation. Listeners will learn why thorough pre-plant assessments — including soil testing, climate analysis, and thoughtful rootstock and variety selection — are essential risk management tools rather than optional steps. This episode is especially valuable for growers considering new vineyard development, replanting existing blocks, or expanding acreage. By understanding these early warning signs, listeners can make more informed decisions, avoid expensive mistakes, and set their vineyards up for sustainable productivity and profitability. In this episode, you will hear: Common red flags that signal potential vineyard failure before planting Why site-specific soil and climate data matter more than assumptions Risks of poor variety and rootstock selection The long-term cost of cutting corners during vineyard planning Practical steps to reduce risk and improve vineyard performance Follow and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more listeners. 💜 Click the '+' in the top right corner of Apple Podcasts to follow now. Resources: Register for Fritz's FREE live virtual pruning event, Snip Happens: Pruning Mistakes & Fixes on January 29th at noon Central, and make sure you and your team can spot, fix, and avoid pruning mistakes this season. If you're starting a vineyard or thinking about starting a vineyard, visit VirtualViticulureAcademy.com/growsmart to get Fritz's online Prospective Winegrape Grower Course to help you get your vineyard planned and planted correctly from the start. Use the code PODCAST at checkout to save $89.00 as a thank you for being a podcast listener. If you have questions about today's episode or ideas for future episodes, go to VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com and click the Ask Fritz button. Today's Guest: Mark Greenspan is a viticulture expert with 3 decades of scientific, technical, and field experience. He is a Certified Crop Advisor (CCA), Certified Professional Agronomist (CPAg), and licensed Pest Control Advisor (PCA) in California and the founder of Advanced Viticulture, a leading vineyard services company in California. Learn more about Advanced Viticulture or connect with Mark: https://advancedvit.com/ https://www.instagram.com/advanced_viticulture/ Episode Sponsor: Today's episode was brought to you by HydroGeo Environmental and Bahco Tools. Thank you to HydroGeo Environmental for sponsoring today's episode. For over 20 years, Bubba Beasley and his team have helped vineyard growers with site assessments, mapping, soil and groundwater evaluations, and optimal vineyard layouts. Using the latest technology and industry expertise, HydroGeo brings clarity to even the most complex landscapes. Visit HydroGeoEnvironmental.com and mention the Vineyard Underground podcast for a special discount on your service. Thank you to Bahco Tools for sponsoring today's episode. As innovators for more than 165 years, Bahco has introduced the most advanced tools in the world, and Bahco products are manufactured in factories across Europe. I exclusively prune with the Bahco ERGO™ Bypass Secateurs with Elastomer Coated Fixed Handle (size medium). Visit www.bahco.com/int_en to find a dealer near you to get the best...

Pruning is one of the most influential decisions vineyard owners and operators make each season, and in this solo Q&A episode, Fritz tackles the most common — and most misunderstood — questions he hears in the field. Drawing on hands-on experience, Fritz walks listeners through the practical realities of dormant pruning, why it matters far beyond vine appearance, and how pruning choices directly impact vine balance, yield, and long-term vineyard health. Throughout the episode, Fritz addresses real-world concerns from growers, including how aggressive pruning should be, what mistakes show up most often in young versus mature vineyards, and how to adapt pruning strategies to site conditions and vine vigor. Fritz explains how pruning windows can influence bud burst and frost risk, and why "earlier is always better" isn't necessarily true. He highlights warning signs that a vineyard may be over- or under-pruned and offers guidance for adjusting course before problems compound over multiple seasons. This episode is particularly valuable for vineyard owners who want to move beyond rote pruning rules and better understand the "why" behind their pruning decisions. By the end, listeners will have clearer expectations for what good pruning should accomplish and how small, intentional changes can pay dividends in vine performance and fruit quality over time. In this episode, you will hear: Pruning decisions directly influence vine balance, yield, and longevity Over-pruning and under-pruning both create long-term vineyard challenges Timing of pruning can affect bud break and frost exposure Vine vigor should guide pruning intensity, not habits or tradition Small adjustments made consistently can improve vineyard performance Follow and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more listeners. 💜 Click the '+' in the top right corner of Apple Podcasts to follow now. Resources: If you have questions about today's episode or ideas for future episodes, go to VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com and click the Ask Fritz button. Free Pruning Events: January 15th at 5 PM Central - Cut with Confidence, Not Consequences – Register here: https://www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/product/cut-with-confidence/ January 29th at 12:00 PM Central - Snip Happens: Pruning Mistakes and Fixes – Register here: https://www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/product/snip-happens/ Episode Sponsor: Today's episode was brought to you by HydroGeo Environmental and Bahco Tools. Thank you to HydroGeo Environmental for sponsoring today's episode. For over 20 years, Bubba Beasley and his team have helped vineyard growers with site assessments, mapping, soil and groundwater evaluations, and optimal vineyard layouts. Using the latest technology and industry expertise, HydroGeo brings clarity to even the most complex landscapes. Visit HydroGeoEnvironmental.com and mention the Vineyard Underground podcast for a special discount on your service. Thank you to Bahco Tools for sponsoring today's episode. As innovators for more than 165 years, Bahco has introduced the most advanced tools in the world, and Bahco products are manufactured in factories across Europe. I exclusively prune with the Bahco ERGO™ Bypass Secateurs with Elastomer Coated Fixed Handle (size medium). Visit www.bahco.com/int_en to find a dealer near you to get the best pruning tools on the market, along with loppers, hedging tools, cutting blades, files, and more. 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.

A topic that many growers consider but few understand is mothballing a vineyard. In this episode, Fritz covers it all with Dr. Christopher Chen, Integrated Vineyard Systems Advisor with the University of California Cooperative Extension. With economic pressures, market shifts, and operational challenges affecting vineyard owners across the industry, temporarily idling a vineyard can feel like a practical option — but it comes with important agronomic, legal, and financial considerations. Dr. Chen brings a research-based, boots-on-the-ground perspective to the conversation, helping listeners understand what "mothballing" actually means in a vineyard context. Rather than a simple shutdown, he explains that mothballing requires intentional planning to preserve vine health, soil integrity, and long-term viability. Real-world questions growers are asking get answered, such as when mothballing makes sense, how long a vineyard can remain idle, and what minimum maintenance is required to avoid costly problems down the line. Dr. Chen also highlights common mistakes growers make when they cut corners too aggressively, and how those decisions can significantly increase restart costs later. Listeners will walk away with a clearer framework for evaluating whether mothballing is the right strategy for their operation, along with guidance on how to do it responsibly if they choose that path. In this episode, you will hear: What "mothballing" a vineyard really involves Situations where mothballing may make economic sense Minimum maintenance practices to protect vine health Risks related to pests, disease, and vineyard infrastructure How mothballing decisions impact future restart costs Follow and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more listeners. 💜 Click the '+' in the top right corner of Apple Podcasts to follow now. Resources: Register for Fritz's FREE live virtual pruning event, Cut with Confidence, Not Consequences, on January 15th at 5 PM Central, and make sure you and your crew are ready for a successful 2026 pruning season. If you have questions about today's episode or ideas for future episodes, go to VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com and click the Ask Fritz button. Today's Guest: Dr Christopher Chen is an Integrated Vineyard Systems Advisor for the University of California Cooperative Extension. Connect or follow Chris - https://christopherclchen.neocities.org/ Episode Sponsor: Today's episode was brought to you by Clemens Technologies and SensorInsight. Thank you to Clemens Technologies for sponsoring today's episode. Clemens Technologies is the market leader in machinery for all elements of vineyard management. Visit https://www.clemens-online.com/us/ and provide the code UNDERGROUND to receive 5% off your order of in-stock machinery. Or reach out to Thomas Clemens directly at thomas@clemens-america.com with any questions. Thank you to SensorInsight for sponsoring today's episode. SensorInsight is a leader in vineyard soil moisture and weather monitoring. SensorInsight designs state-of-the-art, remote satellite monitoring of soil moisture and weather, bringing actionable information for your vineyard operations straight to your phone, with real-time data so you can best decide when to turn on your irrigation, how long to run the system, and learn how the dynamics of soil moisture can change over a given season. Visit them today at https://sensorinsight.io. And don't forget to mention the code Underground to receive a discount on your SensorInsight solution. 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.

Growers are turning to AI for vineyard advice — but what happens when the algorithms get it wrong? In this episode, Fritz sits down with Texas A&M Extension Viticulture Specialist Dr. Justin Scheiner to put artificial intelligence to the test and reveal where it helps…and where it falls flat. Fritz and Justin walk through real vineyard questions — on pruning cuts, choosing between cane and spur pruning, designing an effective spray program, and diagnosing puzzling leaf symptoms — then grade the answers provided by AI tools like ChatGPT and Copilot. Justin explains why, despite its convenience, AI can't replace Extension or experienced viticulture support. He breaks down how human experts interpret nuance, adapt recommendations to site-specific realities, and help growers navigate complex issues like fungicide resistance and disease pressure — areas where AI often oversimplifies to a fault. Listeners will come away with a grounded perspective on how to responsibly use AI in vineyard decision-making: as a tool for learning, not a blueprint for management. Justin also shares updates on forward-facing research at Texas A&M, including irrigation strategies powered by sensors and machine learning, and new work aimed at improving winery efficiency. In this episode, you will hear: AI can provide helpful general information — but often misses context critical for vineyard decisions. Pruning advice from AI may be incomplete or incorrect; human expertise is still essential. Spray program recommendations from AI can be risky without resistance management and site-specific strategy. Leaf symptom diagnosis requires more than a photo — pattern, vine history, and testing matter. Follow and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more listeners. 💜 Click the '+' in the top right corner of Apple Podcasts to follow now. Resources: Register for Fritz's FREE live virtual pruning event, Cut with Confidence, Not Consequences, on January 15th at 5 PM Central, and make sure you and your crew are ready for a successful 2026 pruning season. If you have questions about today's episode or ideas for future episodes, go to VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com and click the Ask Fritz button. Today's Guest: Dr. Justin Scheiner is an assistant professor and Extension viticulture specialist in the Department of Horticultural Sciences for Texas A&M University. Connect with Justin: https://hortsciences.tamu.edu/people/scheiner-justin/ Watch Justin's presentation on The Role of Extension in the Age of AI: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_eljEkapndI Episode Sponsor: Today's episode was brought to you by Vintner's Vault and Bahco Tools. Thank you to Vintner's Vault for sponsoring today's episode! Vintner's Vault is the #1 winery equipment company that I recommend to my growers, who are also winemakers. Visit TheVintnerVault.com and use the code UNDERGROUND5 (all caps) to save 5% off of your online order, or mention that you heard about them on the Vineyard Underground podcast when contacting them for a larger piece of equipment, consulting services, or turn-key packages, and they will provide a podcast listener discount for you. Thank you to Bahco for sponsoring today's episode. As innovators for more than 165 years, Bahco has introduced the most advanced tools in the world, and Bahco products are manufactured in factories across Europe. I exclusively prune with the Bacho ERGO™ Bypass Secateurs with Elastomer Coated Fixed Handle (size medium). Visit www.bahco.com/int_en to find a dealer near you to get the best pruning tools on the market, along with loppers, hedging tools, cutting blades, files, and more. 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...

Fritz welcomes longtime colleague and respected viticulture authority Larry Bettiga in this episode for an in-depth look at the evolution of Monterey County's wine industry. With more than four decades of experience, Larry offers a rare, firsthand perspective on how the region transformed from scattered early vineyards into one of the country's most significant cool-climate grape-growing areas. Larry explains how Monterey's dramatic coastal influence, daily wind patterns, and diverse soils shaped both the opportunities and challenges for growers. He and Fritz unpack the early years of vineyard expansion, including the misalignment of some varieties with climate conditions and how improved temperature modeling and clone selection later steered the region toward better outcomes. The conversation also explores Larry's extensive research on rootstocks, irrigation, canopy management, and disease control. His comparison of dormant vines, green potted vines, and tall-format grafted vines provides growers with valuable, practical guidance on establishing healthy, high-performing vineyards. This episode delivers a blend of regional history, applied science, and grounded, grower-focused lessons, capped with Larry's reflections on the future of extension work and its continued importance in California viticulture. In this episode, you will hear: How Monterey County became a major coastal winegrowing region Why early plantings struggled, and how growers adapted with better temperature and clone data A practical comparison of dormant, green, and tall-format grafted vines Lessons from decades of research on rootstocks, canopy management, and disease control The future outlook for UC Cooperative Extension in California viticulture Follow and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more listeners. 💜 Click the '+' in the top right corner of Apple Podcasts to follow now. Resources: Register for Fritz's FREE live virtual pruning event, Cut with Confidence, Not Consequences, on January 15th at 5 PM Central, and make sure you and your crew are ready for a successful 2026 pruning season. If you have questions about today's episode or ideas for future episodes, go to VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com and click the Ask Fritz button. Today's Guest: Larry Bettiga is a Viticulture Farm Advisor and the Acting Monterey County Director at the University of California Cooperative Extension. Connect with Larry and view his research - https://my.ucanr.edu/sites/ucanr-2019/about/directorySearch/index.cfm?facultyid=166 Episode Sponsor: Today's episode was brought to you by Bahco Tools. As innovators for more than 165 years, Bahco has introduced the most advanced tools in the world, and Bahco products are manufactured in factories across Europe. I exclusively prune with the Bahco ERGO™ Bypass Secateurs with Elastomer Coated Fixed Handle (size medium). Visit www.bahco.com/int_en to find a dealer near you to get the best pruning tools on the market, along with loppers, hedging tools, cutting blades, files, and more. 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.

Voles, gophers, and ground squirrels are more than a nuisance — they can devastate vineyards if left unchecked. In this episode, host Fritz Westover sits down with Kelly Mulville of Paicines Ranch and Newt Wimer, an agricultural innovator, to discuss practical, sustainable ways to manage these vertebrate pests. Kelly shares his firsthand experience with a sudden vole outbreak at Paicines Ranch — one of the worst he's ever seen — and explains how quickly the damage escalated. He walks through the telltale signs of vole damage, how girdling kills vines, and why population cycles and rainfall patterns play a role in outbreaks. Newt provides insight into developing an organic-approved, non-poisonous control technology that uses liquid CO₂ to safely and efficiently manage underground pests without harming predators or soil ecology. Together, they emphasize that pest management must balance ecological health, economics, and innovation. Listeners will learn how combining predator support (owls, weasels), physical barriers, and new technologies can help reduce damage sustainably. The conversation also highlights ongoing efforts at Paicines Ranch to create regenerative systems that share successes and failures openly, helping the vineyard community at large. In this episode, you will hear: Voles, gophers, and ground squirrels can cause extensive vineyard damage, especially through girdling and root feeding. Outbreaks are cyclical and may correspond with wetter years that promote vole breeding. Physical barriers like vole tubes and underground fencing can protect vines—but must be properly installed and buried. Encouraging natural predators such as owls and weasels significantly supports organic pest control. New cryogenic CO₂ technology offers a fast, organic-approved, and cost-effective solution for underground pest management. Follow and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more listeners. 💜 Click the '+' in the top right corner of Apple Podcasts to follow now. Resources: Come grow with Fritz through https://www.virtualviticultureacademy.com! Save $75 off your first year of membership with the code Underground at checkout. Have a vineyard question? Go to VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com and click the Ask Fritz button. Listen to Kelly Mulville's previous episode – Episode 17: Using Sheep in Regenerative Agriculture with Kelly Mulville. Today's Guests: Kelly Mulville is a global agricultural consultant and the Vineyard Director at Paicines Ranch in San Benito County, California. Connect with Kelly at Paicinesranch.com Follow Paicines Ranch: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paicinesranch/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PaicinesRanch/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXgoknCxuI2Y-w0CpjmOdug Newt Wimer specializes in product development for agriculture and developed the first organic-approved squirrel and gopher control device. Connect with Newt – Email Episode Sponsor: Thank you to SensorInsight for sponsoring today's episode. SensorInsight is a leader in vineyard soil moisture and weather monitoring. SensorInsight designs state-of-the-art, remote satellite monitoring of soil moisture and weather, bringing actionable information for your vineyard operations straight to your phone, with real-time data so you can best decide when to turn on your irrigation, how long to run the system, and learn how the dynamics of soil moisture can change over a given season. Visit them today at https://sensorinsight.io. And don't forget to mention the code Underground to receive a discount on your SensorInsight solution. 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.

In this episode, Fritz sits down with Callil Capuozzo, the founder and owner of Overhead Vineyards in coastal Rhode Island. Callil shares his unique journey from industrial designer to vineyard owner and walks through the challenges of starting a vineyard on existing farmland. The conversation explores the critical early decisions in vineyard development — from soil sampling and drainage considerations to choosing trellis systems that suit humid, fog-prone climates. Callil’s experiment with a pergola-style trellis, inspired by traditional Albarino vineyards in Rías Baixas, Spain, sparks a deeper discussion on airflow, spray coverage, disease pressure, and long-term scalability. Fritz offers practical guidance on establishing vineyard infrastructure, exploring options like high cordon or Watson systems, managing pests such as Japanese beetles and downy mildew, and the importance of fencing for deer and bird pressure. The episode also dives into variety selection, weighing the benefits of hybrids like Traminette, Baco Noir, and Itasca against the disease challenges of vinifera varieties. Listeners will learn how to match site-specific factors with smart vineyard design decisions and how to plan gradual expansion while keeping labor and management sustainable. It’s an inspiring and technical roadmap for anyone looking to scale from first planting to a working vineyard. In this episode, you will hear: Site evaluation is essential — good drainage and slope can make or break vineyard success Trellis systems should balance airflow, sun exposure, and ease of labor Pergola trellises offer unique benefits, but can become challenging at scale Hybrids are smart choices for humid regions with high disease pressure Start small, expand gradually, and adapt systems as you learn Follow and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more listeners. 💜 Click the ‘+’ in the top right corner of Apple Podcasts to follow now. Resources: If you’re interested in Fritz’s help with getting your vineyard planned and planted, learn more about his Vineyard Establishment Package at VirtualViticultureAcademy.com/GetEstablished. And use the code GetEstablished to save $499 off your purchase of this package as a thank you for being a podcast listener. Learn more about the Watson Training System. If you have questions about today’s episode or ideas for future episodes, go to VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com and click the Ask Fritz button. Today’s Guest: Callil Capuozzo is the founder and owner of Overhead Vineyards in coastal Rhode Island. Connect with Callil or learn more about Overhead Vineyards. Website – https://overheadvineyard.com/ Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/overheadvineyard Episode Sponsor: Thank you to SensorInsight for sponsoring today’s episode. SensorInsight is a leader in vineyard soil moisture and weather monitoring. SensorInsight designs state-of-the-art, remote satellite monitoring of soil moisture and weather, bringing actionable information for your vineyard operations straight to your phone, with real-time data so you can best decide when to turn on your irrigation, how long to run the system, and learn how the dynamics of soil moisture can change over a given season. Visit them today at https://sensorinsight.io. And don’t forget to mention the code Underground to receive a discount on your SensorInsight solution. 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.

In this episode of Vineyard Underground, Fritz welcomes Dustin Hooper, Vice President of Sales at Sunridge Nurseries, to take listeners behind the scenes of how grapevines are made. While growers see the final product when vines arrive at their vineyard, there's a fascinating process that begins long before planting — starting with certified mother vines and continuing through propagation, grafting, greenhouse production, and certification. Dustin shares his personal journey into the nursery business and offers an insider's perspective on the complexities of producing clean, reliable vines for commercial vineyards. Together, Fritz and Dustin explore the differences between own-rooted versus grafted vines, the pros and cons of dormant bare-root versus greenhouse formats, and innovations such as tall and medium-trained vines. They also cover critical topics like soil and water testing, rootstock selection, and how clones are chosen to fine-tune vineyard performance and wine style. A key part of the discussion is the rigorous certification process overseen by UC Davis Foundation Plant Services and state agencies to ensure vines are tested and free from major viruses before they ever reach a vineyard. Dustin emphasizes that selecting the right vine format, rootstock, and clone isn't just about availability — it's about long-term success, sustainability, and profitability. Listeners will come away with a deeper understanding of the nursery side of viticulture and gain practical insights into how to make informed decisions when ordering vines for their vineyard. In this episode, you will hear: The difference between own-rooted and grafted vines, and when each is appropriate Pros and cons of dormant bare-root vs. greenhouse-grown vines How tall and medium-trained vines can help in specific planting scenarios Why rootstock and clone selection are critical to vineyard success The rigorous certification and testing process that protects growers from viruses Follow and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more listeners. 💜 Click the '+' in the top right corner of Apple Podcasts to follow now. Resources: Access Fritz's Young Vineyard Management resources to protect your investment, grow your vineyard, and Be a Better Grape Grower in your first three years of vineyard establishment. If you have questions about today's episode or ideas for future episodes, go to VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com and click the Ask Fritz button. Today's Guest: Dustin Hooper is the Vice President of Sales at Sunridge Nurseries Inc., and a leading expert in the grapevine nursery industry. Connect with Dustin - https://www.sunridgenurseries.com Episode Sponsor: Thank you to Sunridge Nurseries for sponsoring today's episode. Sunridge Nurseries is the exclusive nursery sponsor of the Vineyard Underground podcast. They have been a family-owned company for over 45 years, and their dedicated focus on quality and consistency has grown them into the largest supplier of grapevines in both North and South America and the industry leader in nursery standards. Visit them today at SunridgeNurseries.com and mention the code Underground to receive a podcast listener discount on your vine order. Thank you to Shellt Grow Tubes for sponsoring today's episode. Shellt makes the ultimate grow tubes for grape vines and orchard trees. Their grow tubes are reusable, recyclable, and designed to grow with your vineyard by clicking together for taller or wider coverage. I exclusively recommend Shellt Grow Tubes to the growers I work with. Visit https://www.shellt.us/ and order with the code UNDERGROUND to save 15% off all online orders, plus free shipping within the continental United States. 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...

In this episode of Vineyard Underground, Fritz continues his conversation with winemaker and Inside Winemaking podcast host Jim Duane on what it takes for grape growers to successfully step into winemaking. Following part one, which covered equipment, compliance, and basic chemistry, part two dives deeper into the realities of balancing vineyard management with winery responsibilities. Fritz and Jim explore how harvest decisions shift when you’re making wine from your own fruit, weighing risks like weather and pests against the pursuit of higher quality. Jim shares how winemakers must rethink priorities, and they also break down which lab analyses should be done in-house versus outsourced. The discussion covers the intense workload during harvest, how to plan labor needs, and the value of building a team to avoid burnout. Jim stresses the importance of advance planning to manage the overlapping demands of the vineyard and the winery. He also highlights common mistakes growers face when starting out, including mismanaging SO2 additions, misinterpreting acidity, and relying on incomplete fermentation data. The episode closes with practical advice and resources for aspiring winemakers, from small-scale home fermentations to structured courses and workshops. Fritz and Jim encourage growers to start experimenting, make manageable mistakes, and seek mentorship to build both confidence and competence before fully scaling their operations. In this episode, you will hear: How harvest decisions shift when growers begin making their own wine Why budgeting for laboratory analyses is non-negotiable in commercial winemaking Common mistakes with SO2, acidity adjustments, and fermentation management The importance of advance planning to balance vineyard and winery demands Practical resources and training opportunities for new winemakers Follow and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more listeners. 💜 Click the ‘+’ in the top right corner of Apple Podcasts to follow now. Resources: Watch Jim’s video on how to measure Titratable Acidity in Juice or Wine. If you have questions about today’s episode or ideas for future episodes, go to VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com and click the Ask Fritz button. Come grow with Fritz through VirtualViticultureAcademy.com! Save $75 off your first year of membership with the code Underground at checkout. Today’s Guest: Jim Duane is the head winemaker at Seavey Vineyard in Napa Valley and the host of the Inside Winemaking podcast. Connect with Jim, learn about upcoming winemaking courses and classes, and listen to the podcast at InsideWinemaking.com or follow him on Instagram: https://instagram.com/insidewinemaking or YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyzZ0EiFJEzFdiG6UTnyqMA. Episode Sponsor: Today’s episode was brought to you by Vintner’s Vault. Vintner’s Vault was started and is operated by winemakers, so they have the knowledge and experience to help you make an educated decision on the equipment purchases and winery set-up and layouts that are best for you. They are the #1 winery equipment company that I recommend to my growers, who are also winemakers. Visit TheVintnerVault.com and use the code UNDERGROUND5 (all caps) to save 5% off of your online order, or mention that you heard about them on the Vineyard Underground podcast when contacting them for a larger piece of equipment, consulting services, or turn-key packages, and they will provide a podcast listener discount for you. 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.

Many vineyard owners eventually consider moving beyond grape growing into winemaking, whether to create a new revenue stream, take control of their fruit, or explore a more creative outlet. In this episode, we welcome winemaker and podcaster Jim Duane of Seavey Vineyard and the Inside Winemaking podcast for the first part of a two-part discussion on how growers can make this transition successfully. The conversation discusses the mindset, skills, and resources needed to move from vineyard to cellar. Jim shares why a formal chemistry degree isn’t required to produce quality wine, how growers can build confidence in their palate, and which common flaws are most important to recognize early. He also outlines three stages of winemaking where growers need to focus their attention: harvest chemistry, fermentation management, and post-fermentation protection. Listeners will also gain insight into the required equipment for red and white winemaking, the importance of temperature control at each stage, and why barrels can be a turning point for quality. Fritz and Jim round out the discussion with advice on navigating licensing, compliance, and regulatory hurdles, plus a look at custom crush facilities as an option for growers who want to test the waters without a full winery investment. This episode delivers practical, confidence-building advice for any grower curious about making wine and lays the foundation for part two, where the focus shifts to how vineyard practices change once you’re also the winemaker. In this episode, you will hear: Why a chemistry degree isn’t necessary to make quality wine Three key stages of winemaking where growers must focus their attention The most common wine flaws every new winemaker should learn to detect Equipment essentials for red and white winemaking at a small scale How custom crush operations can help growers test the waters before fully committing Follow and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more listeners. 💜 Click the ‘+’ in the top right corner of Apple Podcasts to follow now. Resources: If you have questions about today’s episode or ideas for future episodes, go to VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com and click the Ask Fritz button. Come grow with Fritz through VirtualViticultureAcademy.com! Save $75 off your first year of membership with the code Underground at checkout. Today’s Guest: Jim Duane is the head winemaker at Seavey Vineyard in Napa Valley and the host of the Inside Winemaking podcast. Connect with Jim, learn about upcoming winemaking courses and classes, and listen to the podcast at InsideWinemaking.com. Episode Sponsor: Today’s episode was brought to you by Vintner’s Vault. Vintner’s Vault was started and is operated by winemakers, so they have the knowledge and experience to help you make an educated decision on the equipment purchases and winery set up and layouts that are best for you. They are the #1 winery equipment company that I recommend to my growers, who are also winemakers. Visit TheVintnerVault.com and use the code UNDERGROUND5 (all caps) to save 5% off of your online order or mention that you heard about them on the Vineyard Underground podcast when contacting them for a larger piece of equipment, consulting services, or turn-key packages and they will provide a podcast listener discount for you. 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.

In this episode, Fritz walks through the full planning process for a brand-new vineyard alongside guest Matthieu Wheeler. Matthieu, the winemaker at Cassidy Hill Vineyard in Connecticut and founder of Wheeler Winery, is preparing to establish his own vineyard on a newly purchased property. With Fritz’s guidance, listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into selecting vineyard sites, designing blocks, and preparing the land for long-term success. Fritz and Matthieu cover vineyard economics, including the realistic costs of establishing and maintaining vines, equipment investments, and the role of sweat equity. They also explore soil testing, nutrient management, and the importance of addressing amendments before planting. The conversation digs into key topics such as vineyard orientation, trellis design, row spacing, mechanization potential, and wildlife management. Fritz also emphasizes strategies to minimize risks from frost events, disease pressure, and poor site preparation. Whether you’re a prospective grower or expanding your existing operation, this episode provides guidance and a real-world example of how thoughtful planning lays the groundwork for decades of vineyard success. In this episode, you will hear: The importance of soil testing and incorporating amendments before planting Budgeting realistically for vineyard establishment and equipment needs Balancing wine program goals with varieties suited to local conditions Considering labor, mechanization, and long-term management in vineyard design Why starting small and scaling over time helps new growers avoid costly mistakes Follow and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more listeners. 💜 Click the ‘+’ in the top right corner of Apple Podcasts to follow now. Resources: If you’re interested in Fritz’s help with getting your vineyard planned and planted, learn more about his Vineyard Establishment Package at VirtualViticultureAcademy.com/GetEstablished. And use the code GetEstablished to save $499 off your purchase of this package as a thank you for being a podcast listener. If you have questions about today’s episode or ideas for future episodes, go to VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com and click the Ask Fritz button. Today’s Guest: Matthieu Wheeler is the winemaker at Cassidy Hill Vineyard and the founder and owner of Wheeler Winery. Connect with Matthieu or learn more about Cassidy Hill Vineyard and Wheeler Winery. Cassidy Hill Vineyard Website - https://cassidyhillvineyard.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057098184176# Wheeler Winery Website - wheelerwinery.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wheelerwinery/ Episode Sponsor: Today’s episode was brought to you by Vigneron Toy Store. Vigneron Toy Store specializes in Harvesters, Sprayers, Frost Mitigation Equipment, Canopy Management Trimmers, and more. As grape growers themselves, they can expertly help you determine the best equipment for your specific vineyard needs. And, as a special offer for our podcast listeners, you can save 5% off in-stock machines by entering the promo code Underground on the contact form at vignerontoystore.com. 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.

In this episode of Vineyard Underground, Fritz welcomes Adam Huss — host of the Beyond Organic Wine podcast, winemaker at Centralis Wine, and creator of the Crenshaw Crew Wine Garden in South Los Angeles. Adam shares his unconventional path into winemaking, beginning with a career in the nonprofit sector before launching a winery focused on ecological and community-driven practices. The conversation explores Adam’s philosophy of going “beyond organic” to embrace an ecological approach to winegrowing — one that avoids getting boxed into industry buzzwords and instead focuses on the interconnectedness of soil, plants, people, and place. He discusses his work with regenerative agriculture pioneer Kelly Mulville at Paicines Ranch, his shift toward sourcing local fruit (including prickly pears and other native plants), and his experimentation with vitiforestry — a centuries-old practice of integrating grapevines with trees to create resilient, biodiverse systems. Adam also explains how transparency in winemaking, creative use of wild or locally abundant ingredients, and community involvement shape his vision for wine that is both place-specific and environmentally sound. Listeners will hear stories from his LA-based wine garden, lessons from crop failures, and his plans for a vitiforestry project in New York that could produce wines unlike anything on the market. Whether you grow grapes conventionally, organically, or somewhere in between, Adam’s journey offers a fresh perspective on how to balance environmental stewardship, economic sustainability, and community engagement in vineyard operations. In this episode, you will hear: How “beyond organic” focuses on ecological connections rather than labels Lessons from Paicines Ranch on listening to the land before planting The concept and practice of vitiforestry, from hedgerows to “married vines” Creative use of local and wild ingredients in winemaking The role of community in sustainable agriculture and wine culture Follow and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more listeners. 💜 Click the ‘+’ in the top right corner of Apple Podcasts to follow now. Resources: Join Fritz live to learn about What Our Grapevine Leaves Are Telling Us – Diagnosing & Treating Symptoms on August 26, 2025 | 5:00-6:30 PM CST. Register for FREE - https://www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/symptons. Schedule your 15-minute FREE vineyard help call with Fritz for the week of August 25th at www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/call. Come grow with Fritz through VirtualViticultureAcademy.com/Join! Save $75 off your first year of membership with the code Underground at checkout. If you have questions about today’s episode or ideas for future episodes, go to VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com and click the Ask Fritz button. Today’s Guest: Adam Huss is the podcast host of the Beyond Organic Wine podcast, the owner and winemaker for Centralas Wine in LA, and the creator of Crenshaw Cru Winegarden in South LA. Connect with Adam: Beyond Organic Wine Podcast Website - https://www.organicwinepodcast.com/ Instagram - @OrganicWinePodcast Crenshaw Cru - Perennial Winegarden & Centralas Winery Website - https://www.centralaswine.com/ Instagram @centralaswine and @CrenshawCru Blog - https://www.centralaswine.com/blog Episode Sponsor: Today’s episode was brought to you by Clemens Technologies. Clemens Technologies is the market leader in machinery for all elements of vineyard management. Visit https://www.clemens-online.com/us/ and provide the code UNDERGROUND to receive 5% off your order of in-stock machinery. Or reach out to Thomas Clemens directly at thomas@clemens-america.com with any questions. 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...

In this episode, we welcome Hilary Graves, Vineyard and Grower Relations Manager at Booker Wines, to discuss how she successfully transitioned an Organic vineyard to regenerative organic certification. With over 20 years of field experience on California’s Central Coast, Hilary brings practical strategies and candid stories about what it really takes to move beyond standard organic practices. Hilary explains the core pillars of regenerative organic certification — soil health, social fairness, and animal welfare — and why she and the team at Booker Wines chose to pursue this path. She walks listeners through how integrating multi-species cover crops, implementing low-till and no-till practices, and bringing in grazing livestock have helped improve soil structure, increase water retention, and reduce reliance on inputs. Fritz and Hilary also dig into the challenges of vineyard mechanization on steep terrain, minimizing tractor passes, and creative pest control strategies, including releasing predatory lacewings by drone to combat leafhoppers. Whether you’re already farming organically or just exploring what’s next, this episode offers tangible examples of how even small changes can drive long-term benefits for your soil, your business, and the environment. In this episode, you will hear: The difference between organic and regenerative organic certification How to build a diverse cover crop blend (and why 15 species might be better than five) Using a Yeomans plow to increase water infiltration without disturbing soil structure Grazing sheep for cover crop termination in a mutually beneficial partnership Why releasing beneficial insects by drone can outpace traditional sprays for pest control Follow and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more listeners. 💜 Click the ‘+’ in the top right corner of Apple Podcasts to follow now. Resources: Schedule your 15-minute FREE vineyard help call with Fritz for the week of August 25th at www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/call. Join Fritz live to learn about What Our Grapevine Leaves Are Telling Us – Diagnosing & Treating Symptoms on August 26, 2025 | 5:00-6:30 PM CST. Register for FREE - www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/symptons. If you’re starting a vineyard or thinking about starting a vineyard, visit VirtualViticulureAcademy.com/growsmart to get Fritz’s online Prospective Winegrape Grower Course to help you get your vineyard planned and planted correctly from the start. Use the code PODCAST at checkout to save $89.00 as a thank you for being a podcast listener. If you have questions about today’s episode or ideas for future episodes, go to VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com and click the Ask Fritz button. Today’s Guest: Hilary Graves is a winegrower, winemaker, and viticulture educator with more than 20 years of field experience on California’s Central Coast. She currently works as the Vineyard & Grower Relations Manager for Booker Wines in Paso Robles, CA. Connect with Hilary and learn more about Booker Wines - https://www.bookerwines.com or follow her at https://www.instagram.com/hilarysgraves/ or https://www.instagram.com/bookervineyard/ Episode Sponsor: Today’s episode was brought to you by Clemens Technologies. Clemens Technologies is the market leader in machinery for all elements of vineyard management. Visit https://www.clemens-online.com/us/ and provide the code UNDERGROUND to receive 5% off your order of in-stock machinery. Or reach out to Thomas Clemens directly at thomas@clemens-america.com with any questions. 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.

In this episode of Vineyard Underground, we welcome Dr. Belinda Kemp, viticulture and enology researcher at NIAB in East Malling, England, to explore the evolving wine industry in the UK. With a background in theatrical arts and a PhD in Pinot Noir, Dr. Kemp brings a dynamic perspective to the scientific and practical aspects of cool climate viticulture. The conversation covers England’s emerging reputation for sparkling wine, the impact of climate variability on grape production, and the country's increasing focus on sustainability and innovation. Dr. Kemp discusses the shift from traditional varieties like Chardonnay and Pinot Noir toward disease-resistant hybrid grapes, including the introduction of PiWi varieties. She shares the challenges of managing common diseases like downy and powdery mildew and emerging threats like black rot. Listeners also get a glimpse into the latest research projects at NIAB, including the effects of pruning methods on yield, the role of calcium in sparkling wine stability, and the use of companion plants to improve vineyard biodiversity. Dr. Kemp explains how NIAB integrates technology and sustainability — from acoustic soil monitoring to underground rhizolabs — to support growers and improve wine quality. Whether you grow grapes in England or a similar cool, wet climate like the eastern U.S. or Canada, this episode offers applicable knowledge for tackling vineyard challenges and embracing innovation. In this episode, you will hear: England's wine industry is expanding rapidly, with a strong focus on sparkling wines New disease-resistant grape varieties are being trialed to meet climate and production demands Variability in spring weather creates challenges for cover crops, planting, and pest pressure Calcium stability is becoming an issue in sparkling wine production — NIAB is studying causes and solutions Companion planting and acoustic soil monitoring are part of a systems approach to regenerative viticulture Follow and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more listeners. 💜 Click the ‘+’ in the top right corner of Apple Podcasts to follow now. Resources: Join Fritz live to learn about What Our Grapevine Leaves Are Telling Us – Diagnosing & Treating Symptoms on August 26, 2025 | 5:00-6:30 PM CST. Register for FREE - https://www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/symptons. If you’re starting a vineyard or thinking about starting a vineyard, visit VirtualViticulureAcademy.com/growsmart to get Fritz’s online Prospective Winegrape Grower Course to help you get your vineyard planned and planted correctly from the start. Use the code PODCAST at checkout to save $89.00 as a thank you for being a podcast listener. If you have questions about today’s episode or ideas for future episodes, go to VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com and click the Ask Fritz button. Today’s Guest: Dr. Belinda Kemp is a Group Leader for Viticulture and Oenology Research at the new Wine Innovation Centre in East Malling, Kent, UK. Her current research encompasses vineyard to final sparkling wine research that includes regenerative viticulture practices, Net Zero grape growing, sparkling wine flavor, and cool climate still winemaking. Connect with Belinda and view her research - https://www.niab.com/about/people/dr-belinda-kemp. Episode Sponsor: Today’s episode was brought to you by Sunridge Nurseries Thank you to Sunridge Nurseries for sponsoring today’s episode. Sunridge Nurseries is the exclusive nursery sponsor of the Vineyard Underground podcast. They have been a family-owned company for over 45 years, and their dedicated focus on quality and consistency has grown them into the largest supplier of grapevines in both North and South America and the industry leader in nursery standards. Visit them today at SunridgeNurseries.com and mention the code Underground to receive a podcast listener discount on your...

In this episode of Vineyard Underground, Fritz welcomes Dr. R. Paul Schreiner, recently retired research plant physiologist from the USDA, for a deep dive into the fascinating world of mycorrhizal fungi and their impact on vineyard health. With over two decades of research experience in grapevine physiology and root biology, Dr. Schreiner shares the critical roles these fungi play in nutrient uptake, root efficiency, drought tolerance, and overall soil structure. Fritz and Dr. Schreiner explore what arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are, how they form symbiotic relationships with grapevine roots, and why grapes are considered “super hosts.” They discuss how AMF enhances phosphorus acquisition, especially in low-P soils, and how they support the uptake of other nutrients like potassium, zinc, and copper. They also talk about factors that suppress or encourage fungal colonization, such as excessive fertilization, cultivation, cover cropping, and herbicide use. Dr. Schreiner also previews ongoing research from the High-Resolution Vineyard Nutrition Project, which is helping redefine best practices for tissue sampling and nutrient timing. Whether you’re planting a new vineyard or managing an established one, this episode offers an essential look at how understanding underground biology can elevate your vineyard management decisions. In this episode, you will hear: How grapevines form symbiotic relationships with mycorrhizal fungi Why phosphorus is the most important nutrient supported by AMF The effects of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilization on fungal colonization Whether commercial AMF inoculants are worth the investment Practices that promote healthy fungal populations in vineyard soil Follow and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more listeners. 💜 Click the ‘+’ in the top right corner of Apple Podcasts to follow now. Resources: If you are starting a vineyard or thinking about starting a vineyard, apply to be on the podcast for Fritz’s help planning your vineyard – VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com/Contact/ Come grow with Fritz through VirtualViticultureAcademy.com/Join! Save $75 off your first year of membership with the code Underground at checkout. Today’s Guest: Dr. R. Paul Schreiner is a research plant physiologist specializing in research on grapevine physiology with a focus on plant nutrition and the functioning of roots and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. He is currently working with the High Resolution Vineyard Nutrient Management Project as a co-director, leading the plant nutrition and product quality group. Connect with Paul through the High Resolution Vineyard Nutrient Management Project: https://highresvineyardnutrition.com/. Episode Sponsor: Today’s episode was brought to you by the Inside Winemaking podcast. Thank you to the Inside Winemaking podcast for sponsoring today’s episode. To learn more about the art & science of winemaking with Jim Duane, visit www.insidewinemaking.com/ and listen to the Inside Winemaking podcast on your favorite podcast app with new episodes releasing every other Tuesday. 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.

In this solo episode, we take a deep dive into the many variables that influence young vine training in different climates. Listeners will gain a clear understanding of how climate, trellis selection, rootstock vigor, and regional weather risks shape vine training strategies. Fritz explains how cold-climate growers often rely on double trunks or “spare parts viticulture” to prepare for winter damage, while warmer-climate vineyards may benefit from fast-tracking techniques like green topping and one-shoot training for quicker vineyard establishment. We walk through scenarios where single-trunk systems are ideal, when to consider double trunks, and how the practice of renewing trunks every few years can extend vine longevity. We also break down when to use green topping, how to avoid bull canes, and why mature leaves on developing trunks should never be removed. Growers will leave this episode with specific, actionable tips to match their training approach to their unique vineyard conditions, helping them improve both short-term success and long-term vineyard health. In this episode, you will hear: Differences between trellis systems and vine training systems When and why to use single vs. double trunk strategies What “spare parts viticulture” is and where it makes sense Green topping and other fast-tracking methods explained How to manage training for high- and low-vigor vineyard sites Follow and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more listeners. 💜 Click the ‘+’ in the top right corner of Apple Podcasts to follow now. Resources: Check out Fritz’s additional resources to help you care for your vines and vineyard in years 1-3 at VirtualViticultureAcademy.com/YoungVineyard. If you have questions about today’s episode or ideas for future episodes, go to VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com and click the Ask Fritz button. Episode Sponsor: Today’s episode was brought to you by Sunridge Nurseries and the Inside Winemaking podcast. Thank you to Sunridge Nurseries for sponsoring today’s episode. Sunridge Nurseries is the exclusive nursery sponsor of the Vineyard Underground podcast. They have been a family-owned company for over 45 years, and their dedicated focus on quality and consistency has grown them into the largest supplier of grapevines in both North and South America and the industry leader in nursery standards. Visit them today at SunridgeNurseries.com and mention the code Underground to receive a podcast listener discount on your vine order. Thank you to the Inside Winemaking podcast for sponsoring today’s episode. To learn more about the art & science of winemaking with Jim Duane, visit www.insidewinemaking.com/ and listen to the Inside Winemaking podcast on your favorite podcast app with new episodes releasing every other Tuesday. 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.

In this episode of Vineyard Underground, Fritz welcomes soil scientist Dr. Jaclyn Fiola for an in-depth discussion on one of viticulture’s most misunderstood nutrients — potassium. Drawing from her recent research and extensive fieldwork across the Mid-Atlantic region, Jaclyn breaks down how potassium behaves differently from other macronutrients, where it originates in the soil, and what makes its availability so complex for grape growers. Fritz and Jaclyn explore why vineyards in the Eastern U.S. often see discrepancies between soil and tissue potassium levels and how that can impact grape quality, vine health, and ultimately wine pH. They dive into the implications of both potassium deficiency and excess, emphasizing how water availability and soil mineralogy play pivotal roles in potassium uptake. Growers will also learn why standard soil tests may not give the full picture — and why plant tissue testing, particularly whole-leaf sampling at veraison, is often more reliable. Jaclyn shares the results of her groundbreaking study, highlighting best practices for sampling, how to interpret potassium levels accurately, and actionable steps for managing young versus mature vines. Whether you're planting a new vineyard or managing high potassium levels in an existing one, this episode equips you with the tools to make more informed nutrient management decisions. In this episode, you will hear: Potassium largely comes from soil parent material, not organic matter, making it harder to assess with traditional testing. Moisture-rich soils increase potassium availability, especially in non-irrigated Eastern vineyards. Whole-leaf tissue testing at veraison gives the most accurate indication of potassium status in grapevines. Too much potassium can raise wine pH, affecting mouthfeel, color, and shelf life. Before applying potassium fertilizers, understand your soil minerals and use targeted tissue testing to avoid overcorrection. Follow and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more listeners. 💜 Click the ‘+’ in the top right corner of Apple Podcasts to follow now. Resources: Come grow with Fritz through VirtualViticultureAcademy.com! Save $75 off your first year of membership with the code Underground at checkout. If you are starting a vineyard or thinking about starting a vineyard, apply to be on the podcast for Fritz’s help planning your vineyard - https://www.vineyardundergroundpodcast.com/contact/ Today’s Guest: Dr. Jaclyn Fiola is a soil scientist who specializes in vineyard soils and soil science pedagogy. She works as an Assistant Professor of Soil and Environmental Science at Delaware Valley University. Connect with Jaclyn, follow her, and view her research. Episode Sponsor: Today’s episode was brought to you by Vigneron Toy Store and the Inside Winemaking podcast. Thank you to Vigneron Toy Store for sponsoring today’s episode. Vigneron Toy Store specializes in Harvesters, Sprayers, Frost Mitigation Equipment, Canopy Management Trimmers, and more. As grape growers themselves, they can expertly help you determine the best equipment for your specific vineyard needs. And, as a special offer for our podcast listeners, you can save 5% off in-stock machines by entering the promo code Underground on the contact form at vignerontoystore.com. Thank you to the Inside Winemaking podcast for sponsoring today’s episode. To learn more about the art & science of winemaking with Jim Duane, visit www.insidewinemaking.com/ and listen to the Inside Winemaking podcast on your favorite podcast app with new episodes releasing every other Tuesday. 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...

In this episode of Vineyard Underground, host Fritz Westover welcomes Dr. Katie Gold, Assistant Professor of Grape Pathology at Cornell University, for a deep dive into how research drives informed spray program decisions in the vineyard. Dr. Gold brings her extensive expertise in grape disease management to the conversation, shedding light on how growers can use scientific data and field research to refine their fungicide strategies and protect their crops more effectively. Fritz and Katie explore the critical role of disease forecasting models, including how they are developed and validated, and why it’s important for growers to go beyond the “calendar-based” approach to spraying. Dr. Gold emphasizes the value of using weather-based decision support tools and highlights ongoing research aimed at improving the precision and sustainability of vineyard disease management. Listeners will gain a better understanding of how academic research translates into real-world applications, from identifying pathogen resistance patterns to making timely fungicide applications. Katie also discusses the impact of underutilized research, how misinformation can spread in farming communities, and why continuous learning and outreach are essential for successful vineyard operations. In this episode, you will hear: Research-based spray programs outperform calendar-based models Disease forecasting tools help optimize fungicide timing and efficiency Growers should verify the reliability of sources when seeking vineyard advice Understanding fungicide resistance is key to long-term vineyard health Practical research translation is essential for sustainable vineyard practices Follow and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more listeners. 💜 Click the ‘+’ in the top right corner of Apple Podcasts to follow now. Resources: If you are starting a vineyard or thinking about starting a vineyard, apply to be on the podcast for Fritz’s help planning your vineyard - VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com/Contact/ Come grow with Fritz through VirtualViticultureAcademy.com/Join! Save $75 off your first year of membership with the code Underground at checkout. Today’s Guest: Dr. Katie Gold is an Assistant Professor of Grape Pathology at Cornell University, where she holds primary research and extension responsibilities for grape disease management in New York State. Connect with Katie: https://cals.cornell.edu/kaitlin-gold View her research work: https://blogs.cornell.edu/goldlab/ Episode Sponsor: Today’s episode was brought to you by Clemens Technologies. Clemens Technologies is the market leader in machinery for all elements of vineyard management. Visit https://www.clemens-online.com/us/ and provide the code UNDERGROUND to receive 5% off your order of in-stock machinery. Or reach out to Thomas Clemens directly at thomas@clemens-america.com with any questions. 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.