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Inside Winemaking - the art and science of growing grapes and crafting wineAuthor: Jim Duane: Winemaker, Grape-grower, and Wine Educator
Welcome to Inside Winemaking, your go-to resource for all things winemaking, designed for those already immersed in the wine industry and anyone with a passion for the art and science of crafting the perfect bottle. Inside Winemaking was created to provide direct access to the people in charge of creating world-class wines and for listeners looking for a non-traditional, informative, and entertaining take on winemaking. Our mission is to be a comprehensive resource hub for winemaking, providing valuable content to enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. Your host Jim Duane (Napa Valley winemaker) interviews some of the top winemakers in California and beyond. Each episode features a winemaker, grape-grower, or technical wine pro and dives deep into their background and expertise. Wine newbies and expert enophiles will be entertained by winemaking stories and learn more about growing grapes and making wine. Join us on Inside Winemaking as we uncork the secrets of winemaking, share valuable insights, and create a vibrant community of wine enthusiasts and industry professionals. Subscribe now and elevate your winemaking journey! Language: en Genres: Arts, Food, Society & Culture Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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212: Matteo Abreu - David Abreu Vineyard Management
Episode 212
Tuesday, 24 February, 2026
In this episode of Inside Winemaking, Jim Duane sits down with Matteo Abreu, fifth-generation Napa Valley farmer and part of the Abreu vineyard management family, to explore what it means to grow and farm at the highest level in one of the world's most demanding wine regions. Matteo shares his path into the family business, the realities of multi-generational vineyard management, and how Abreu approaches vineyard site selection, soil preparation, drainage, and long-term vineyard design. The conversation highlights the importance of matching the right varieties to the right sites, with a particular focus on Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, and how disciplined vineyard preparation sets the foundation for premium wine quality. The discussion also dives into modern challenges and hands-on solutions in Napa Valley viticulture, including heat management strategies such as shade cloth, pre-irrigation cooling, and selective use of misting, along with crop load management and canopy decisions for Cabernet Franc. Matteo also shares insights into Abreu's small-lot winemaking philosophy, co-fermentation practices, and the limits of automation in both vineyard and winery operations. Beyond grapes, listeners will hear about Abreu's olive oil production, olive fruit fly management, and commercial blueberry farming, offering a broader look at how diversified, detail-driven farming supports both wine quality and long-term sustainability.
