#12 - Chris Horn, Director of Liquids - Seattle's Purple Cafe & Wine Bar

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Purple Cafe - https://www.purplecafe.com/
Instagram: @purplewinebar
Downtown Seattle | Woodinville
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From the vibrant floors of Seattle's beloved Purple Cafe, beverage director Chris Horn spills the secrets of his rise through the ranks of the wine world. Imagine starting as a busboy and uncorking a career that leads to shaping the palates of an entire city. That's exactly what we unpack with Chris, whose tale of transformation echoes the very bottles he pours – from an '85 Brunello that kindled his love for wine, to his pivotal role in Wild Ginger's ascent and the birth of Purple Cafe. This episode isn't just about the romantic journey through vineyards; it's an homage to the laid-back spirit of the industry and the colorful characters who pour life into every glass.
Every sip tells a story, and in the world of wine marketing, those narratives have the power to transform a grape into a legend. We raise a glass to the art of connection in this episode, exploring how wineries from the States to New Zealand have crafted tales that resonate deeply with consumers. Chris lends his expertise to the discussion of how authenticity and scarcity can create a vintage as sought after as an elusive Bordeaux. It's a conversation that meanders through the changing tastes of generations, where millennials swap out advertising for experiences, and every bottle uncorks a personal story.
And what of the essence of the earth in your glass? We ponder the elusive concept of terroir with Chris, dissecting how a word meant to convey the soul of a place has become a buzzword on the lips of marketers. Yet, amidst this, we celebrate the genuine expression of land and climate that can still be found in the world's most honest wines. We navigate the challenges of mass production and regional labeling laws, pouring out anecdotes that highlight the struggle for authenticity in an industry brimming with complexity. Join us for a spirited discussion that's as rich and varied as the wines we love.

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Chapters

1. Wine Industry Career Journey (00:00:00)

2. The Evolution of Wine Marketing (00:15:36)

3. Evolution of American Wine Culture (00:25:12)

4. Terroir and Wine Marketing (00:37:53)