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.

In this special episode of Grown in Napa Valley, host Caleb Mosley visits Ridge Monte Bello to sit down with two influential voices in California wine: Paul Draper and David Gates. Draper reflects on the collaborative tasting culture and experimental spirit that defined his winemaking career, including Napa’s role in his legendary 1971 Eisele Vineyard Cabernet. Gates shares insights on mountain viticulture, Napa's evolution in the 1980s, and the long-term conservation efforts that helped preserve agriculture on Monte Bello Ridge. Together, their stories highlight the enduring power of mentorship, land stewardship, and wines of place. ​

• “What matters most is the wine in the bottle, and that comes from the vineyard, the site, and how you handle it. That’s what Ridge has always stood for.” - Paul Draper 
• “We didn’t know the rules—we were just trying to make the best wine we could, from the best site we could find. And Napa taught us that.” - Paul Draper 
• “I carry Napa with me everywhere, even up here on the mountain. It's not just where I started—it's part of how I see the land.” - Caleb Mosley 
• “What I learned from both of you—and what I hope we’re passing on—is that stewardship isn’t just about farming. It’s about people, mentorship, and memory.” - Caleb Mosley 
• “When you grow grapes on a mountain like this, it humbles you. The vines will tell you what they want—you just have to listen.” - David Gates 
• “We protected this land not just to make wine, but so future generations could feel what we feel standing here.” - David gates 

In this episode of Trellis Talks, host Caleb Mosley reconnects with phenolics researcher James Campbell, now based in Napa Valley and leading a lab focused on vineyard and wine phenolic analysis. Their conversation explores the science behind phenolic development in wine grapes, from early-stage flavonol formation to anthocyanin synthesis and degradation. James emphasizes the importance of early-season practices—like precise leafing and light management—and shares findings from multi-year studies on the effects of heat and irrigation on phenolic preservation. One key insight is that applying moderate irrigation during mid-ripening heat waves can mitigate anthocyanin loss, but late-season interventions are often too late to make a difference.
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The discussion also touches on the nuanced interplay of variety, environment, and stress, noting that different grape cultivars respond uniquely to heat. James shares that Cabernet Sauvignon shows higher resilience compared to varieties like Sangiovese. The episode concludes with a look into James’s new venture, Integrated Phenolics, which offers rapid, in-depth phenolic assays for growers and winemakers. His goal is to equip producers with actionable data to make informed decisions during maceration and fermentation, ultimately supporting the continued excellence of Napa Valley wines in a changing climate.

In this episode of Grown in Napa Valley, NVG celebrates its 50th Anniversary by honoring two influential figures who shaped—and continue to shape—Napa Valley’s viticultural legacy. The episode begins with a rich conversation with Andy Beckstoffer, one of NVG’s founders, who shares the story behind the organization's creation and the pivotal moments that helped elevate grape growers from second-class status to key decision-makers in the wine industry. From advocating for the 75% appellation rule to establishing vineyard-designate branding, Beckstoffer reflects on the early battles for grower respect, the transition from commodity farming to quality-driven practices, and how the region found confidence in its own identity following the 1976 Judgment of Paris.

Then, we share a glass with the 2025 Grower of the Year Oscar Renteria, who reflects on his upbringing in a multi-generational farmworker family and his journey toward leading Renteria Vineyard Management. Oscar speaks with heartfelt optimism about resilience, legacy, and mentorship, emphasizing the importance of education, cultural pride, and finding joy in hard work. His leadership style—rooted in gratitude, empathy, and teamwork—embodies NVG’s mission and offers a forward-looking perspective for the next generation of Napa growers navigating uncertain times with hope and purpose.

• “The background of the formation of the Grape Growers was respect. We wanted respect as growers—and that changed everything.” – Andy Beckstoffer
• “The vineyard brand can be more valuable than the winery brand—if you market your vineyard, not just sell your grapes.” – Andy Beckstoffer
• “I came back to Napa not because I had to—but because I saw the beauty, the legacy, and the chance to build something meaningful with my father.” – Oscar Renteria
• “I find the most fulfillment in mentoring others—helping people grow is how I measure success today.” – Oscar Renteria
• “The mantra is ‘wine is grown in the vineyard’—but for too long, the value wasn’t passed through to the grower. That changed here in Napa.” – Caleb Mosley
• “We're celebrating 50 years of grit, collaboration, and excellence—and the people who made Napa Valley what it is today.” – Caleb Mosley

​In this episode of Grown in Napa Valley, host Caleb Mosley dives deep into the roots of sustainability and stewardship, chatting with two visionary leaders who have helped shape Napa Valley’s farming future. 

Our first guest is Ted Hall of Long Meadow Ranch, whose passion for organic farming runs deep. He brings us stories from his early days in agriculture and explains how thoughtful practices and long-term thinking can transform not just vineyards, but entire ecosystems. 
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Then, we share a glass with Michael Silacci of Opus One, whose deep curiosity and creative spirit shine through in every vintage. Michael walks us through the challenges of the 2022 harvest, the importance of storytelling in wine, and how caring for the land—from vineyard rows to surrounding forests—can shape a more resilient future for Napa Valley. 

As NVG’s 50th anniversary celebration continues, we are taking the month of April to reflect on our collective responsibility as stewards of the land. Our deep-rooted commitment to the health of our environment drives us to educate and promote climate-resilient farming techniques, ensuring the longevity of our cherished vineyards. This holistic approach to stewardship extends far beyond the four corners of the vineyards.  Participating in the development of Napa County's Groundwater Sustainability Plan has allowed us to promote effective and realistic conservation strategies, helping to safeguard one of our most precious resources for the benefit of our entire community. Furthermore, our recognition as a 1% for the Planet Environmental Partner underscores our unwavering dedication to education, conservation, and advocacy. Together, these initiatives reflect how we exemplify leadership in sustainable viticulture, and continually drive us to raise the bar for environmental responsibility in the vineyard.

In this episode of Grown in Napa Valley, host Caleb Mosley sits down with two influential women in the Napa Valley wine industry, both leading their own successful businesses.

First, Dr. Kris Lowe, owner of Vine Balance Consulting and a leader in vineyard research funding, discusses the vital role of research in combating vineyard diseases like Pierce’s disease and red blotch. She also explains the upcoming PDGWIS Board funding referendum and why grower participation is essential for Napa Valley’s future.

Next, Caleb chats with Brittany Pederson, founder of Vintuition, a viticulture consulting company. Brittany shares her career journey, insights into vineyard management, and the challenges and opportunities of being a woman in the wine industry. As they chat, they enjoy a glass of 2015 Phifer Pavitt Cabernet Sauvignon Date Night.

Join us for an engaging conversation filled with expertise, personal stories, and a shared passion for Napa Valley’s grape-growing community.

RESOURCES:
California Department of Food and Agriculture 
National Academies 
NVG ROOTSTOCK: New Research and Trends with Marc Fuchs 

Kicking off this month is our #NVG50 campaign! We’re sharing throwback photos honoring the people and moments that shaped us over 50 years. To start, and in celebration of Women’s History Month, we’re spotlighting trailblazing women in agriculture. Share your own stories and tag us for a chance to be featured!
IG: @Napa_Valley_Grapegrowers
FB: @NapaValleyGrapegrowers​