Episode 5 Chris Hill Virginia Viticulturist

Fine Wine Confidential Podcast

Chris Hill is one of the most accomplished and noted Viticulturalist in Virginia. Many of the clients he has worked with in advising and planting vineyards are amongst the who's, who of the successful modern day Virginia winegrowers. That list includes Michael Shaps, Pollack, Barren Ridge, Veritas, King Family Vineyards, Keswick, Lovingston, and Pippin Hill Farms and Vineyards.
Chris has always viewed his role as part of the winery team and stays focused on the vineyard side of the business.
He was the past President of the Virginia Vineyard Association and received their Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018.
In this interview he shares many thoughts and insights into the challenges of winegrowing in the Old Dominion. His straightforward approach is refreshing as he conveys that at the end of the day it is just farming.
HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:
a). the planting of his first vineyard in 1981 shortly after graduating from Virginia Tech.
b). the importance of elevation in a vineyard to avoid potential frost issues.
c). explains his thoughts on Terroir in Virginia.
d). goes into detail on a little known compound called Methoxypyrazine and its impact on the taste of a wine.
e). gives his opinion on the importance of several of the early contributors to Viticulture and Enology like Lucie Morton, Tony Wolf, & Bruce Zoecklein.
Much, much more to learn. Take a listen to the interview

Thanks for being a listener to the Fine Wine Confidential Podcast. For more information go to www.finewineconfidential.com