Wine World
Welcome to Wine World, the podcast that takes you on a flavorful journey from vineyard to glass. Hosted by Pavle Milic, winemaker, restauranteur, and columnist for Phoenix Magazine, this show dives deep into the world of wine grape growing and winemaking. Each episode, Pavle uncorks the fascinating processes behind your favorite wines, explores the nuances of wine and food pairings, and offers an insider’s look at the thriving wine scenes in Arizona and beyond.
Join us as we visit local vineyards, chat with restaurateurs, and meet the pioneering spirits behind top wineries. Whether you're curious about starting your own winery or vineyard, or simply a lover of good wine and good company, Wine World provides the perfect blend of education and entertainment. Discover the rich histories, the challenging terroirs, and the innovative practices shaping the future of wine. Pour yourself a glass and tune in to discover the stories behind the bottle.
Wine World
013: Michael Pierce, Director Of Viticulture and Enology, Yavapai College
Michael Pierce, a luminary in the Arizona wine scene, unveils his remarkable journey from graphic designer to influential winemaker and educator at the Southwest Wine Center.
Join us as Michael recounts his professional evolution, from his early studies in wine to his pivotal role at Arizona Stronghold. He offers a fascinating glimpse into the intricacies of the Arizona wine market, the challenges of sourcing local grapes, and the art of crafting a distinctly "Arizona" wine. With stories of global wine adventures and his current role as head winemaker, Michael illustrates how accumulated knowledge and mentorship can inspire the next generation of winemakers.
Explore the cutting-edge curriculum at Yavapai College's Southwest Wine Center, where students are immersed in practical learning experiences, from vineyard management to creative wine production and label design. The philosophy of the program emphasizes flexibility, affordability, and the importance of patience and collaboration in winemaking. Discover how this unique educational approach not only shapes skilled winemakers but also contributes to the burgeoning success of Arizona's wine industry.
In this episode, you will hear:
- Michael Pierce's transition from graphic design to winemaking and his impact on Arizona's wine industry.
- The role of education at the Southwest Wine Center and its influence on new winemakers.
- Challenges and evolution of the Arizona wine market, including local grape sourcing and defining Arizona wine.
- Curriculum and hands-on learning experiences at Yavapai College's wine program.
- Importance of practical experience in vineyard management and creative wine production.
- Michael's evolving philosophy on winemaking, emphasizing the vineyard's role and grape selection for Arizona's environment.
Resources from this Episode
https://www.yc.edu/v6/schools/cate/wine.html
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Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.