Wine World

007: Vine Talk! with Sam Caselli

Pavle Milic Episode 7

How did a dairy farm kid from Santa Rosa end up in the grapevine nursery business? Meet Sam Caselli, whose journey took him from transporting seafood to high-end restaurants and navigating long-haul trucking to becoming a pivotal figure at NovaVines. Over his impressive 24-year tenure, Sam has mastered the art of grapevine propagation, transitioning from logistics to sales and production, and now he’s here to share the secrets behind some of the industry's most intricate processes.

Wondering how to choose the perfect rootstock for your vineyard? Sam breaks down the complexities of selecting between own-rooted and grafted vines. Discover why rootstock selection is crucial, especially when considering soil conditions and pest challenges. Hear firsthand about the critical role expert consultation plays in making these decisions, ensuring that your vineyard thrives in its unique environment. From the drought-tolerant 1103 Paulsen to the disease-resistant varieties, Sam’s insights are invaluable for anyone serious about grape growing.

In this episode, we also dive into the meticulous process of grapevine certification and virus elimination. Learn about the importance of using virus-free plant material and maintaining rigorous testing protocols. Sam shares tips on vineyard planning and logistics, emphasizing the necessity of early ordering due to high demand. Whether you're a novice grower or an experienced vineyard manager, you’ll walk away with practical advice on spacing, planting schedules, and acquiring the best clones and rootstocks for a successful vineyard.

In this episode, you will hear:

  • Sam's journey in the plant industry
  • Rootstock selection in grape planting
  • Grape clonal selection and certification process
  • Grape vine ordering and planting process
  • Virus elimination and grapevine ordering
  • Grape planting tips and recommendations

Resources from this Episode

Email: scaselli@novavine.com 

Phone #: 707-696-1746

www.novavine.com

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Episode Credits

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