Podcast
Vino Frankel A Taste of Sculpterra
Hosted by Sculpterra Winery · EN
Join winemaker Paul Frankel of Sculpterra Winery in Paso Robles, California, as he explores the world of winemaking, tasting, and food pairings straight from the heart of the Central Coast. Each episode of Vino Frankel: A Taste of Sculpterra brings stories from the vineyard and the iconic Sculpterra Sculpture Garden, blending the art, science, and joy of wine. Discover the passion behind Paso Robles wines, meet the people shaping Sculpterra’s legacy, and experience how every sip tells a story — and every visit inspires.
13episodes
Episodes
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Episode #35 – Mixology, Syrah & Paso Robles Hospitality with Ashley Harkey
1w ago01:11:59Tap to summarizeIn Episode #35 of Vino Frankel: A Taste of Sculpterra, Paul Frankel is joined by special guests Ashley Harkey and Brian Kusko for a conversation covering Paso Robles hospitality, mixology, Syrah winemaking, vineyard growth, Scottsdale adventures, and Sculpterra’s upcoming Taste & Tour event.The episode features a side-by-side tasting of Sculpterra’s 2023 Syrah versus the nearly sold-out 2022 Syrah, with discussions about vertical tastings, reduction in wine, oxygen exposure during fermentation, and why Syrah remains one of Paso Robles’ most underrated varietals.Ashley Harkey shares how she built her career in hospitality and bartending while also working as a tax accountant. She talks about creating craft cocktails at Bella Sera’s Enoteca restaurant, pairing wine with Mediterranean cuisine, building lasting guest relationships, and why sparkling wine has become her favorite style to drink.Brian Kusko returns to the show with stories from the Scottsdale Reptile Show, including his first ride in a self-driving Waymo vehicle. The group also discusses upcoming Sculpterra Shorts and social media videos, internet audiences from around the world, and the growing reach of the podcast online.Paul gives updates from the vineyard and winery, including:Recent bottling operations and PORT bottling challengesVineyard growth and canopy managementTendrils and how grapevines signal active shoot growthUpcoming vine planting projects at SculpterraThe episode also previews Sculpterra’s upcoming Taste & Tour in the Garden event, featuring detailed food and wine pairings throughout the sculpture garden, including Viognier, Rosé, Figurine, and more.Additional topics include:Wine label laws and “Estate Bottled” requirementsFood and wine pairing philosophyHospitality culture in Paso RoblesBobcats in vineyardsWhy certain Spanish food names sound “cute”🍷 Wines Featured2023 Sculpterra Syrah2022 Sculpterra Syrah📍 Featured GuestsAshley Harkey – Bella Sera Hotel / Enoteca Bar LeadBrian Kusko – Media Producer & Brand Manager#VinoFrankel #Sculpterra #PasoRoblesWine #Syrah#WinePodcast #PasoRobles #CraftCocktails #Hospitality#WineTasting #BellaSera #SculpterraWineryProduced by EZF Media, LLC
Transcribe →Episode #34 – Port Wine, Weddings & Life at Sculpterra
2w ago01:07:30Tap to summarizeIn Episode #34 of Vino Frankel: A Taste of Sculpterra, Paul Frankel is joined by Chris Diez, Hector Palafox, and Craig Pearson for a behind-the-scenes conversation about winemaking, weddings, events, vineyard life, and the art of making PORT-style wine at Sculpterra Winery.The episode begins with a tasting of the brand-new Winemaker Signature #8, a limited-production blend featuring Petite Sirah, Syrah, and Cabernet Franc. Paul explains the inspiration behind the collectible etched bottles, how each one is hand-numbered, and why the wine is designed for long-term aging.Hector shares his journey into the wine industry, from growing up around vineyards to studying wine business at Sonoma State and eventually becoming Sculpterra’s assistant winemaker. The group also talks about barrel steaming, rebuilding wine barrels, harvest work, and the reality of day-to-day winery operations.Craig discusses how he got started in wine sales, his love for Grenache, helping place Sculpterra wines in local restaurants and wine bars, and why he collects bottle #17 from every Winemaker Signature release.Chris talks about balancing both the medical field and wedding coordination at Sculpterra, including recent weddings at the winery, event planning challenges, and why springtime in the sculpture gardens is one of the most beautiful times of year.Paul also dives deep into the world of PORT wine — explaining Ruby Port, Tawny Port, Vintage Port, fortification, bottling challenges, and the history of PORT production dating back to Portugal and British trade routes.The conversation wraps with stories about bears, wildlife around Paso Robles, and what makes Sculpterra such a unique place to work, visit, and experience wine culture.🍷 Wines Featured2025 Winemaker Signature #8J. Jagger Primitivo PORT#VinoFrankel #Sculpterra #PasoRoblesWine #PortWine#Winemaking #WinePodcast #CentralCoastWine #PasoRobles#WineTasting #SculpterraWinery
Transcribe →Episode #33 – Wine, Food Trucks & the Story Behind Choco’s Mexican Grill
3w ago01:07:54Tap to summarizeIn Episode #33 of Vino Frankel: A Taste of Sculpterra, Paul Frankel welcomes José Ricardo Ponce of Choco’s Mexican Grill and returning guest Donna Wolfe for a fun conversation covering food, wine, vineyard updates, and stories behind Sculpterra.The episode begins with a tasting of the brand new 2024 Héroe Primitivo, as Paul breaks down the blend, harvest details, and how Cabernet Franc and Petite Sirah help shape the wine’s flavor profile.José shares the story of starting Choco’s Mexican Grill, his move from Mexico to California, working nearly 30 years at Vons, and how his food truck became a local favorite throughout Paso Robles wine country. The group talks about family influences, the challenges of running a food truck, and why the ribeye tacos have become a customer favorite.Donna discusses wine clubs, seated tastings, art tours, and life in Santa Margarita while also sharing personal memories and stories about legendary sculptor John Jagger, including his work ethic, musical background, and iconic sculptures throughout Sculpterra.The episode also includes vineyard and winery updates as Paul discusses the upcoming bottling, planting 10,000 new Cabernet vines, flowering in the vineyard, and preparing for the growing season ahead.🍷 Wines Tasted2024 Héroe Primitivo2023 Héroe Primitivo#VinoFrankel #Sculpterra #PasoRoblesWine #Primitivo #WinePodcast#FoodTruck #ChocosMexicanGrill #WineTasting #CentralCoastWine #PasoRoblesProduced by EZF Media, LLC
Transcribe →Episode #32 – Cabernet Franc Deep Dive & The Art of John Jagger
4w ago01:04:50Tap to summarizeIn Episode #32 of Vino Frankel: A Taste of Sculpterra, Paul Frankel is joined by Kathleen Bentley and Darren Brown for a deep dive into Cabernet Franc and the incredible legacy of artist John Jagger.The episode begins with a tasting of a 2025 Cabernet Franc barrel sample, where Paul shares insights into early harvesting decisions, vineyard practices like cane pruning, and how this year’s lighter crop could impact the upcoming harvest. The group discusses flavor characteristics like herbaceous notes, balance, and structure that make Cab Franc a unique and sometimes polarizing varietal.Kathleen shares her experience working in the tasting room, including what wine clubs are most popular, how guests engage with wine, and what makes a memorable tasting experience at Sculpterra.Darren dives into wine education, explaining his WSET journey and breaking down the differences between wine education and sommelier paths, while also sharing how he approaches guiding new wine drinkers.In the World of Wine segment, Kathleen presents an in-depth look at John Jagger, the legendary sculptor behind Sculpterra’s iconic artwork. From his background as an IBM engineer and bodybuilder to his globally recognized sculptures, the conversation highlights how his life experiences shaped the art seen throughout the property.The episode continues with a Nerd Out on Wine segment focused on Cabernet Franc, exploring its origins, flavor compounds like pyrazines (that signature green note), and its role in blending and winemaking across regions like Bordeaux and the Loire Valley.The show wraps up with a final tasting of the 2023 Sculpterra Cabernet Franc, comparing it to the barrel sample and highlighting how the wine evolves over time.🍷 Wines Tasted2025 Sculpterra Cabernet Franc (Barrel Sample)2023 Sculpterra Cabernet Franc📌 Hashtags#VinoFrankel #Sculpterra #PasoRoblesWine #CabernetFranc #WinePodcast#WineEducation #Winemaking #CentralCoastWine #JohnJagger #WineTasting
Transcribe →Episode #31 – Photo Booths, Paso AVAs & Wild Turkeys with Amyl & Brian Kusko
4w ago01:05:41Tap to summarizeIn Episode #31 of Vino Frankel: A Taste of Sculpterra, Paul Frankel is joined by Amyl of Synergy Photo Booth and returning co-host Brian Kusko, with a pop-in from Francisco of the Hispanic Business Association.The episode opens with a tasting of 2025 Sculpterra Viognier. Paul shares vineyard updates on the April rain, playing catch-up in the field, and the upcoming planting of 10,000 new Cabernet vines.Amyl shares the story behind Synergy Photo Booth and introduces Juniper, her new AI-driven booth. Brian talks about his path as Sculpterra's videographer and the music videos he's made with his kids. Francisco drops in to invite the community to the second annual Cinco de Mayo celebration at the downtown Paso Robles Park on Sunday, May 3rd.In the World of Wine segment, Paul breaks down wine myths from WSET educator Melanie Webber, including sugar content, Champagne and wedding cake, and the difference between "variety" and "varietal." The Nerd Out on Wine segment dives into the twelve Paso Robles sub-AVAs and Sculpterra's home in El Pomar District. https://pasowine.com/paso-robles/ava/Brian leads a discussion on wild turkeys in the vineyard, and in "Makes Sense in Spanish, Doesn't Make Sense in English," Paul learns the difference between Wheaties and weenies.The episode wraps with a tasting of 2023 Sculpterra Late Harvest Zinfandel paired with chocolate, celebrating Sculpterra's new Dessert Wine Club.🍷 Wines Tasted2025 Sculpterra Viognier2023 Sculpterra Late Harvest Zinfandel#VinoFrankel #Sculpterra #PasoRoblesWine #WinePodcast #Winemaking#WineEducation #PasoAVAs #CincoDeMayo #CentralCoastWineProduced by EZF Media, LLC
Transcribe →Episode #30 – Corks, Wine Blends & Hot Dogs with Rich Tanguay & Bill Saylor
Apr 1601:02:49Tap to summarizeIn Episode #30 of Vino Frankel: A Taste of Sculpterra, Paul Frankel is joined by Rich Tanguay and Bill Saylor for a fun and informative episode covering wine closures, vineyard updates, and a first-ever hot dog pairing on the show.The episode begins with a tasting of 2023 Sculpterra Figurine, paired with specialty hot dogs from Yabba Dabba Dogs, including a unique mac and cheese creation. Paul shares vineyard updates, including recent rainfall totals, early vine growth, fertilizing strategies, and current work being done by the vineyard crew.Rich brings decades of wine industry experience and dives into the world of corks and closures, explaining TCA (cork taint), natural vs. synthetic options, and how modern technology is improving consistency and quality in wine packaging.Bill shares the story behind Yabba Dabba Dogs, from bartering jet skis for a hot dog cart to building a full catering business across Paso Robles and the Central Coast.In the Nerd Out on Wine segment, the group continues the deep dive into corks, exploring their history, sustainability, and how they became the standard for sealing wine bottles.The episode wraps with a tasting of a bold second wine, highlighting the structure and depth of Sculpterra’s Cabernet program.🍷 Wines Tasted2023 Sculpterra Figurine2023 Sculpterra Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve#VinoFrankel #Sculpterra #PasoRoblesWine #WinePodcast #Winemaking#WineEducation #Corks #WineClosures #CentralCoastWine #FoodAndWineProduced by EZF Media, LLC
Transcribe →Episode #29 – Music, Wine & The 75% Rule with Pat Pearson & Debbie Manville
Apr 900:57:09Tap to summarizeIn Episode #29 of Vino Frankel: A Taste of Sculpterra, Paul Frankel is joined by Donna Wolfe, Pat Pearson, and Debbie Manville for a conversation that blends music, wine, and life on the Central Coast.The episode begins with a tasting of 2024 Sculpterra Chardonnay, followed by winery and vineyard updates, including a busy season of shoot thinning, training, and preparing for ideal growing conditions with no frost and minimal rain.Donna leads a conversation with Pat and Debbie, diving into their musical journey, creative inspiration, and what they hope people feel when they hear their music. Paul then reflects on his own background with music and how it connects to building a brand in the wine industry.In The World of Wine, Paul breaks down the 75% rule, explaining how varietal labeling works in the U.S. and how winemakers use blending to shape flavor and consistency.The episode continues with a practical wine tip in the Nerd Out on Wine segment, where Paul shares his method for opening a bottle over multiple days to simulate aging and better understand a wine’s evolution.The show wraps with a tasting of a second wine, comparing styles and structure from the current tasting room lineup.🍷 Wines Tasted2024 Sculpterra Chardonnay2021 Sculpterra Maquette#VinoFrankel #Sculpterra #PasoRoblesWine #WinePodcast #WineAndMusic#WineEducation #Winemaking #CentralCoastWine #Chardonnay #WineCultureProduced by EZF Media, LLC
Transcribe →Episode #28 – Grenache, Bottling Stories & Indoor Golf at Sculpterra
Apr 201:12:04Tap to summarizeIn Episode #28 of Vino Frankel: A Taste of Sculpterra, Paul Frankel is joined by Darren Brown and Paul Ackerman, along with a special guest highlighting indoor golf, for a fun and informative conversation covering wine, bottling, and new experiences at the winery.The episode begins with a tasting of 2022 Sculpterra Grenache, setting the stage for a deeper dive into this versatile grape. Paul shares winery and vineyard updates, including unpredictable weather, vineyard prep, and getting ready for the upcoming bottling season.The conversation then shifts into bottling, where Paul Ackerman shares insights, real-world challenges, and behind-the-scenes stories from working on bottling lines. The group discusses everything from sterility and small lot bottling to changes in the industry like alternative packaging and evolving consumer trends.Darren Brown leads the Nerd Out on Wine segment with a breakdown of Grenache, covering its history, characteristics, and why it continues to thrive in Paso Robles.The episode also introduces a new guest concept with indoor golf, adding a fresh and interactive element to Paso Robles.The show wraps with a tasting of a library wine, highlighting how blends evolve over time and offering a contrast to the younger Grenache tasted earlier.2022 Sculpterra Grenache2018 Sculpterra Repoussé#VinoFrankel #Sculpterra #PasoRoblesWine #Grenache #WinePodcast#Winemaking #WineEducation #Bottling #CentralCoastWine #WineCultureProduced by EZF Media, LLC Wines Tasted
Transcribe →Episode #27 – Live Music, Wine Tasting & Life as a Local Musician
Mar 2601:12:25Tap to summarizeIn Episode #27 of Vino Frankel: A Taste of Sculpterra, Paul Frankel is joined by musicians Jon Millsap and Brian for a conversation centered around music, creativity, and performing on the Central Coast.The episode kicks off with a Sauvignon Blanc tasting experiment, comparing how different glassware impacts aroma and flavor. From there, the discussion shifts into the world of live music—how Jon got started, life as a full-time musician, songwriting, and performing at venues across Paso Robles and beyond.Brian shares his experience playing in bands and leading worship, highlighting how music connects people in different environments—from concerts to church settings.Paul also gives updates from the vineyard, including rapid vine growth due to early heat, new plantings, and a recent trip to San Diego to showcase Sculpterra wines.The episode wraps with fun segments covering song intros that hook listeners, behind-the-scenes realities of live performances, and even a snake encounter at the winery.🍷 Wines Featured2024 Sculpterra Sauvignon BlancPinot Noir (glassware comparison)#VinoFrankel #Sculpterra #PasoRoblesWine #WinePodcast #LiveMusic#CentralCoastMusic #Winemaking #WineTasting #MusiciansLife #PodcastProduced by EZF Media, LLC
Transcribe →Episode #26 – Wine Industry Update, Leafhoppers & New Releases
Mar 1900:59:04Tap to summarizeIn Episode #26 of Vino Frankel: A Taste of Sculpterra, Paul Frankel is joined by Eddie Urman and Mike Hedges for a wide-ranging conversation on the current state of the wine industry, vineyard conditions, and new wine releases.Paul opens the show with vineyard updates, including early budbreak, record heat, irrigation prep, and a new Cabernet blend being prepared for the bulk market. Eddie Urman shares insight into the wine industry, discussing recent harvest trends, declining production numbers, and what may lie ahead for growers and wineries.Mike Hedges brings a different perspective, sharing his background in insurance, winemaking experience, and a breakdown of the meaning behind Saint Patrick’s Day.In the Nerd Out on Wine segment, Paul and Eddie dive into leafhoppers, explaining how they impact vineyards, how to manage them, and why balance—not eradication—is key.The episode also features Sculpterra updates, upcoming events, and a tasting of new releases, including a sweet Muscat and a Primitivo featured in upcoming wine club shipments.🍷 Wines Tasted2024 Sculpterra Muscat2024 Sculpterra Primitivo#VinoFrankel #Sculpterra #PasoRoblesWine #WinePodcast #WineIndustry#Winemaking #Leafhoppers #CentralCoastWine #WineEducation #Primitivo
Transcribe →