In this of episode of Five Questions, Tor Kenward of Tor Wines reflects on nearly 50 years in Napa Valley. From Oakville’s Beckstoffer Dr. Crane and Vine Hill Ranch to Hyde Vineyard Chardonnay, Tor shares his philosophy on single-vineyard Cabernet, the vintages that have defined his career, and the global producers who continue to inspire his palate.
For those who live and breathe wine, this conversation offers a concise yet insightful look at one of Napa’s great interpreters of terroir, and his vision for the region’s future.
Key Topics:
- Working with Napa’s benchmark vineyards: Dr. Crane, Vine Hill Ranch, Melanson, Hyde
- Why single-vineyard Cabernet and Cabernet Franc remain the core of Tor Wines
- Inspirations from Bordeaux, the Northern Rhône, and the Amalfi Coast
- Standout vintages from 1977 to 2024, both celebrated and overlooked
- Napa’s future: viticulture, community, and resisting urbanization
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Vint Wine Podcast
00:24 Welcome to Five Questions
00:49 Meet Tor Kenward
00:55 Vineyard Locations and Varieties
01:42 Introducing Tor Wines
02:20 Inspirations Beyond Napa
03:09 Memorable Vintages
04:55 Looking Ahead for Tor and Napa Valley
05:43 Conclusion and Thanks
Discover more of Tor's story in the newly updated version of his book: Reflections of a Vintner: Stories and Seasonal Wisdom from a Lifetime in Napa Valley
Link here:
https://www.amazon.com/Reflections-Vintner-Tor-Kenward-ebook/dp/B0F37B1GMK
The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com.
Cheers!
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