Podcast Episode 23: Why Wine Still Matters with Felicity Carter & Glass with a Grower, Philippa Ward and Tim Colla

This episode of Grown in Napa Valley brings together two timely conversations that reflect the cultural, generational, and economic shifts shaping today’s wine industry. In the first segment, host Caleb Mosley speaks with journalist and podcaster Felicity Carter at the Unified Wine & Grape Symposium about changing attitudes toward alcohol, health, and moderation. Their discussion explores the rise of wellness culture, generational risk aversion, and how wine is increasingly framed within broader public health narratives. Carter offers perspective on how growers and producers can engage more confidently in these conversations by grounding them in science, history, and wine’s longstanding social role, encouraging pride, visibility, and thoughtful storytelling as tools to navigate uncertainty. 
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The episode then shifts to Carneros for a Glass with a Grower conversation with Philippa Ward and Tim Colla of Saintsbury, recorded amid the energy of the tasting room. Together, they reflect on Saintsbury’s founding vision, Carneros’ role in shaping California Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, and the winery’s evolution across generations. The conversation highlights the importance of curiosity, collaboration between growers and wineries, and a willingness to innovate while honoring legacy. From vineyard partnerships to new winemaking explorations, the segment underscores how adaptability, stewardship, and shared purpose continue to define resilient brands and communities in Napa Valley.

Episode Highlights: 

• “What’s really changed isn’t wine, it’s the culture around alcohol. People don’t talk about wine anymore, they talk about alcohol.” - Felicity Carter 
• “A small amount of alcohol is actually a powerful social technology. It lowers inhibitions, brings people together, and helps communities form.” - Felicity Carter 
• “Saintsbury has always ruled its own way. Even when trends shifted toward bigger, higher-alcohol wines, we stayed true to what we believed in.” - Philippa Ward
• “When we quiet the noise around trends, we can stay focused on making wines that speak honestly to place. They won’t be for everyone—and that’s okay.” - Tim Colla 
  
• “What’s exciting now is seeing longtime supporters alongside an entirely new generation discovering Saintsbury for the first time.” - Philippa Ward
• “Curiosity is how we honor the pioneering spirit Saintsbury was founded on. Exploration is part of our responsibility to this place.” - Tim Colla