Podcast Episode 8: Climate Science with Andrew Isaacs & Glass with a Grower, Jan Kappmeyer

In this episode of Grown in Napa Valley, host Caleb Mosley takes listeners on a journey through two critical aspects of Napa Valley’s wine industry: climate change and grower relations. First, Caleb sits down with Andrew Isaacs, a professor at UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business and climate expert, to discuss the evolving challenges that climate change presents for grape growers. They explore how climate impacts viticulture, and the importance of both mitigation and adaptation strategies in the vineyard. Andrew partnered with NVG on a six-part Climate Science video series to provide on-demand education for the industry.
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Then, for our Glass with a Grower segment, Caleb sat down with Jan Kappmeyer, a seasoned grower relations expert with 15 years of experience at Constellation Brands. Jan shares her career journey and the unique challenges she faced while navigating the dynamic relationships between growers and wineries. She offers valuable advice on how growers can approach contracts, manage market downturns, and maintain strong relationships with winemakers. Jan also introduces a special Viognier that she and her husband produce, sharing the story behind the vineyard and the wine itself. 

Episode Highlights

"Climate is just long-term weather. So day to day, we call it weather, but decade to decade, we call that same thing climate. And that’s what’s changing. For farmers, it’s right in front of our faces." - Andrew Isaacs

"Reducing emissions on a vineyard isn’t just about what happens within the four corners of your property—it’s a holistic lifestyle shift. It’s not just fewer tractor passes; it’s rethinking everything we do." - Andrew Isaacs

“Every single time there’s a downturn in a particular industry, the climate footprint of that industry goes down too. The reason is people cut costs—anything discretionary ends up on the cutting room floor.” - Andrew Isaacs

"In grower relations, you have to be honest and share your opinions—whether it's for one side or the other. That transparency and curiosity are what makes it work." - Jan Kappmeyer

"It’s like having a foot in two different canoes—you’re balancing the needs of growers and winemakers. Sometimes it goes one way, sometimes the other, but it’s all about keeping those relationships strong." - Jan Kappmeyer