Season 07 - Episode 8 - Enso and Lagniappe Wines

In this milestone episode of Wine Crush, we are welcomed by the spirited host who is bubbling with enthusiasm as Season 7 advances to Episode 8. This episode features two distinct yet compelling winemakers: Ryan Sharp from Enso Winery and Lizzie with Lagniappe Wines (previously known for her 'Fizzy Lizzy').

First in the hot seat is Ryan Sharp, hailing from Enso Winery. Ryan traces his circuitous path to winemaking, recounting his early days transitioning from graphic design to wine production, driven by his passion for hands-on, earthy work. Ryan delves into the inception of Enso Winery and shares the challenges faced in popularizing the concept of an urban winery in Southeast Portland.

Ryan reveals that his fascination with wine evolved over various careers and his first projects practically lacked typical winery amenities. His story is peppered with anecdotes about DIY solutions and relentless aspiration, from drawing inspiration from traditional Burgundy practices to making his wines in Salisbury.

Interestingly, Ryan's philosophy of Enzo (a Japanese term referring to a single brushstroke circle representing the moment) mirrors his approach to making wine. He explains his reluctance to produce Pinot Noir initially because of the competition but found an innovative angle by co-fermenting it with white wine grapes, creating a distinct vintage true to the moment's uniqueness.

Next, we shift to Lizzie with her brand Lagniappe Wines (originally known for Fizzy Lizzy). Lizzie’s journey kicks off ambitiously in New Orleans and travels through prestigious wine regions across the globe, including Burgundy and Chile. Lizzie shares her story of acquiring the travel bug, working in diverse regions, and ultimately planting roots in Oregon after a rewarding yet unexpected stop during the pandemic.

Lizzie’s vibrant personality shines through as she discusses sourcing fruits from adventurous regions such as the Columbia Gorge. Her whimsical yet insightful recount of her first commercial success with Fizzy Lizzy's swamp water Pet-Nat provides a captivating glimpse into her dynamic world of wine creation. Lizzie’s emotional and professional trajectory illustrates the intersections of culture, tradition, community, and innovation.

In closing, both Ryan and Lizzie discuss their current offerings and interaction in the community. Lizzie's recent introduction to Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, Chenin Blanc, and Riesling adds an exciting dimension to her evolving portfolio. Meanwhile, Ryan’s continued focus on interesting blends and urban winery ambiance in Portland offers a sophisticated yet accessible venture into the wine world.