Exploring California's Vinicultural Wonders with Randall Grahm
Randall Grahm, the creative force behind Popelouchum, shares insights into his unconventional winemaking journey in San Benito County. He discusses the unique location of his vineyard, straddling multiple county lines, and its transformation from pasture to a vibrant landscape of olive trees, fruit trees, and grapevines. Grahm compares grapevines to children, describing their stages of charm, defiance, and eventual refinement, while acknowledging the mysterious allure of wine despite criticisms of elitism. He talks about the circular layout of his vineyard, influenced by a nearby pond, and his innovative grape-growing techniques, including traditional, head-trained methods and his fascination with the Serene grape, a Syrah clone. Grahm's enthusiasm for experimentation and discovery is evident as he explores the potential of his vineyard to produce distinctive and complex wines, blending tradition with innovation and a profound reverence for the land's terroir, embodying the essence of Popelouchum's quest for vinous excellence.
https://www.popelouchum.com/