In this episode of Grown in Napa Valley, NVG tackles the economic headwinds facing the wine industry through an in-depth conversation with wine economist Dr. Chris Bitter of Terrain. Bitter breaks down the latest insights from Winescape, Terrain’s quarterly market report, revealing a shift in U.S. alcohol consumption trends. He explains how demographic changes, evolving health attitudes, and a rise in cannabis and GLP-1 drug usage are contributing to a measurable decline in per capita alcohol use—particularly among younger consumers. While all beverage categories are impacted, Bitter notes that wine is facing steeper challenges, with premium pricing and oversupply adding to the pressure. Still, he emphasizes Napa Valley’s long-term strength, citing its reputation for quality as a key advantage in weathering this downturn.
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Later in the episode, Caleb shares a glass of 2016 Heimark Vineyard Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon with veteran vineyard manager Mike Wolf, in a conversation that spans mentorship, humility, and the philosophy of farming. From early lessons learned under the guidance of instinctive farmers in Mendocino to decades spent managing top-tier vineyards in Napa, Wolf reflects on the value of hands-on experience and the importance of staying true to the land. He speaks candidly about the tension between aesthetics and economics, and the quiet pride that comes from getting the work done right—often before anyone notices. Through stories of resilience, collaboration, and a commitment to the next generation of farmworkers, Wolf embodies the spirit of Napa Valley viticulture: rooted in history, shaped by community, and always looking ahead.

• "After decades of growth, we’re now seeing a decline in alcohol consumption—and wine is feeling it more than the rest." - Dr, Chris Bitter 
  
• "Wine isn’t just a beverage—it’s a cultural product. But right now, we’re being challenged to prove that value all over again." - Dr. Chris Bitter
  
• "I’ve never owned a commercial grapevine in my life—but I’ve cared for some of the valley’s most iconic vineyards like they were my own." - Mike Wolf
  
• "If I’m true to the vineyard, then I can sleep at night. That’s how I’ve always measured whether I’m doing the job right." - Mike Wolf 
  
• "You’re not just hopping onto a vintage—you’re stepping into a legacy. This isn’t a straight line, it’s a slinky through time." - Caleb Mosley 
• "You're not just farming grapes—you're stewarding a story that started long before you and will continue long after." - Caleb Mosley 
  

In this episode of Trellis Talks, Caleb Mosley sits down with Dr. James Stamp, founder of Stamp Associates Viticulture and a leading expert on grapevine nursery quality. They discuss the evolving challenges and opportunities in grapevine plant material, including the impacts of nursery consolidation, vineyard fallowing, and the persistent threat of red blotch disease. Dr. Stamp emphasizes the critical importance of starting with clean, high-quality plant material and the need for improved nursery practices, including the potential for greenhouse-grown propagation and new technologies to enhance plant health and vineyard success.
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The conversation also touches on the decline of two major nurseries, Duarte and Wonderful, and what that means for future vine availability. Dr. Stamp shares insights on alternatives like green grafting, Uber vines, and the importance of collaboration among growers to address vineyard replanting and virus management. Despite current challenges, both Stamp and Mosley express optimism that this transitional period presents an opportunity to elevate the standards and innovation within the grapevine nursery sector, ultimately strengthening the foundation of Napa Valley vineyards.