Wine Crush - S02E04

Portland Radio Project

In this episode, host Heidi Moore will guide us through two stories of local winemakers. The first takes its name from a particular family heirloom, very special to the craftsman – the second draws inspiration from mythology and the fact that there’s always something new to learn. Guests Ian Atkins, Founder & Winemaker, Flat Brim Wines Corey Schuster, Owner & Winemaker, Jackalope Wine Cellars Guest Biographies Ian Atkins Flat Brim Wines is an Americana Winery. They have two labels in our winery so they can approach each with a specific focus. Their Americana line works with American heritage varietals such as Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Merlot and presents them in new and interesting formats. Ian prefers a refreshing high acid low alcohol profile for his wines, which, makes them perfect for drinking on a front porch with your friends. Their Gold Flag line represents our interest in experimental winemaking. They utilize interesting methods such as carbonic and whole cluster maceration and are always on the hunt for interesting varietals and vineyards. Expect high acid 100% whole cluster Pinot Noir as well as blends of carbonic macerated Pinot Meunier, Pinot Gris and Cabernet Franc. Flat Brim only uses neutral oak and prefer longer cooler fermentations, as to not over extract. They partner with vineyards that are farmed sustainably in varying methods such as organic, biodynamic and live-certified. During harvest they prefer high acids and lower sugars when they pick their lots. In the cellar they utilize the lowest amount of sulfites possible to produce stable wines. They ultimately strive to be minimal interventionist. Corey Schuster Corey began his journey in the wine industry pouring for a small, family-owned winery near Salem, OR. His first career was all office work, so when he found myself working in a bucolic setting, the grin didn’t fade for days. When Fall hit, he joined a harvest crew. Harvest work is hard, wet, with long-hours, but ultimately satisfying work. Camaraderie is formed through the suffering, and there is always something new to learn. The first team lunch he had began his love affair with the industry and wine; a tired, wet, exhausted crew sharing a large meal and a glass, taking a break from the work to regroup and prepare for the afternoon’s tasks. This showed him that the wine industry is about community and a love of the work; something he’d not experienced before. Why Jackalope Wine Cellars? The jackalope has been a sort of totem for Corey for a long time. As a kid, his older cousin would write and send postcards from Nebraska, telling him all about the animal, swearing they were real. This formed a bond early, which gave him fond memories to treasure, as his cousin passed away when Corey was in 8th grade. Fast forward to 2004: unsatisfied with his life as a civil engineer, he decided to make a drastic change and quit his job, sell his valuables, and travel. And now, another turning point in his life: winemaker. The jackalope has become a special form of support for him and he wanted it featured prominently in his adventures. Host: Heidi Moore, Wine Enthusiast You can follow Wine Crush on Social Media: Twitter: WineCrushOR Facebook: WineCrushStoriesUncorked Instagram: Winecrushpodcast