Podcast Episode 24: Pathways to the Vineyard with Enoch Shully & Glass with a Grower, John McCarthy

This episode of Grown in Napa Valley features two conversations highlighting the people and perspectives shaping the future of Napa Valley’s wine industry. In the first segment, Caleb Mosley speaks with Enoch Shully of Napa Valley College about his unconventional path from electrical engineering and hospitality to leading wine education programs in Napa. Shully shares how his career in restaurants and wine eventually brought him to California and inspired a passion for creating pathways into the wine industry. At the college, he focuses on expanding education, mentorship, and accessibility, helping prepare students from diverse backgrounds with the technical, hospitality, and marketing skills needed to succeed in the wine world. 
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In the second segment, Caleb sits down with John McCarthy, Vineyard Director for the Far Niente family of wineries, for the podcast’s “Glass with a Grower” discussion. McCarthy reflects on his journey from growing up in Lake County vineyards to leading vineyard operations in Napa Valley, emphasizing the importance of long-term vineyard stewardship and thoughtful farming practices. The conversation explores the realities of modern grape growing, including market challenges, vineyard development, and the role growers play in connecting consumers to the land. Together, the two discussions highlight how education, collaboration, and sustainable vineyard management will shape the next chapter of Napa Valley agriculture.

Episode Highlights: 

• “The future of the wine industry isn’t just about vineyards. It’s about people, education, and creating real pathways into this business." - Enoch Shully 
• “Nothing beats drinking a wine in the vineyard where the grapes were grown. That connection to the land changes everything.” - John McCarthy
  
• “Growers are the bridge between people and the land. When people walk a vineyard, they begin to understand why this place matters.” - Caleb Mosley 
  
• “If we want a stronger industry, we have to start where the talent begins—at education—and give people the tools to succeed.” - Enoch Shully 
• “We farm vineyards for the long game—30 years or more—using modern viticulture to improve quality and consistency.” - John McCarthy 
  
• “If we want the next generation to care about Napa Valley agriculture, we have to invite them into the vineyard and show them what stewardship looks like.” - Caleb Mosley