Podcast Episode 3: Organic Dairy Farming with Albert Straus & Glass with a Grower, Jim Duane

​In this episode*, organic dairy farmer, and keynote speaker at the July 25th Organic Winegrowing Conference, Albert Strauss of Straus Family Creamery, shares his journey into organic farming and the challenges faced by dairy farmers today. He shares insights that apply to grape growers on  the importance of collaboration among farmers, as well as thoughts on the economics of organic products.

In "Glass with a Grower," Jim Duane from Seavey Vineyard  discusses his podcasting adventures on his show, Inside Winemaking, and the benefits of the platform. He shares a bottle of Seavey Vineyards Merlot as he provides his approach to grape growing and winemaking.

* We were having technical difficulties with our microphone for our interview with Albert. We didn't want to scrap it, because the conversation was so good. Caleb just sounds like he's in a car. Thanks in advance for your understanding! ​

Episode Highlights

"We aim to create an economically viable organic dairy farm model that’s good for the planet and our communities while providing high-quality organic food." - Albert Straus

"We’re now recognized internationally as one of the only ways to reverse climate change rather than just reduce it. My assertion is that livestock have an essential role in reversing climate change and mitigating against wildfires." - Albert Straus

"We strive to create a model that’s replicable, so rather than trying to take over the world, we want to make something viable for our community, our farms, and produce high-quality food locally." - Albert Straus

"One of the things I'm most proud of at SEAVEY is that we farm our own grapes for our own production. Every decision we make is focused solely on quality, without a push and pull between quantity and quality." - Jim Duane

"At SEAVEY, we integrate the whole system. It's not just about grapes. We have cattle, sheep, and oak woodlands. We’re constantly thinking about how to keep the entire ecosystem healthy and growing." ​- Jim Duane