Rich Aurilia of Red Stitch Wine: From Baseball Diamond to Napa & Santa Lucia Highlands

On this week’s Vine Wine & Dine, live from The Matheson in Healdsburg, hosts Larry Van Aalst, Michael Haney, and Chef Dustin Valette welcome former MLB All-Star Rich Aurilia, co-founder of Red Stitch Wine. Rich shares the story behind Red Stitch—how friendships forged on the baseball field with Dave Roberts and John Micek led to a passion project turned respected boutique wine label.

We dive into the Red Stitch portfolio, featuring a Santa Lucia Highlands Chardonnay from Sierra Mar Vineyard, Pinot Noir from Soberanes/Rosella’s Vineyard, and a Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, discussing vineyard sourcing, winemaking philosophy, and what makes each wine distinct. Paired with dishes like confit lamb shoulder lumaconi, crispy steelhead trout, burrata with spicy coppa, and ahi tuna tartar, the conversation blends wine, food, and storytelling. From his decorated career with the San Francisco Giants to his hands-on role in winemaking today, Aurilia offers insight into passion, partnership, and crafting wines that reflect both place and personal history.

Nicole & Katey Bacigalupi: Preserving Russian River Legacy Through Chardonnay, Pinot & Red Blends

On this week’s Vine Wine & Dine, live from The Matheson in Healdsburg, we welcome Nicole and Katey Bacigalupi of Bacigalupi Winery to explore their family’s rich Russian River Valley legacy. The sisters share the history of their estate, from Charles and Helen Bacigalupi’s 1950s ranch purchase to pioneering plantings of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, including the famed Paris Tasting block featured in the 1976 Judgment of Paris. Nicole and Katey discuss vineyard management, clonal diversity, and minimal-intervention winemaking while highlighting what makes their wines distinct. Throughout the show, we taste and pair three estate wines with gourmet dishes: the 2023 Renouveau “Paris Tasting” Chardonnay, the 2023 Goddard Ranch Pinot Noir, and the 2023 Fondare Red Blend, while also previewing upcoming vineyard experiences celebrating heritage, terroir, and food.

Dan Kosta of Convene & DK Wine Group: From Kosta Browne to DK Wine Group

On this week’s Vine Wine & Dine, we welcome Dan Kosta of Convene and DK Wine Group to explore his journey from restaurant floor to co-founding Kosta Browne, and now launching the Convene Wine Lounge located at Bacchus Landing in Healdsburg.

Dan shares stories from his early career as John Ash’s wine director, co-founding Kosta Browne, and what inspired him to start Convene. We taste three standout wines: the 2023 Convene Russian River Chardonnay paired with Roof 106 ceviche, the 2022 Convene Russian River Valley Pinot paired with roasted chilipepper cod, and the 2021 Grail Campbell Ranch Pinot paired with tempura mushrooms.

Learn how Dan sources vineyards, approaches cool-climate fruit, and crafts wines with Burgundian influence. Plus, hear about the Grail library program and aging potential of Russian River Pinots. Tune in for a rich blend of wine, food, and the story behind one of Sonoma County’s most exciting new wine experiences.

David Ramey & Sean Brosnihan of Ramey Wine Cellars: Featured Wines and Perfect Pairings

On this week’s episode of Vine Wine & Dine, we welcome vintners David Ramey and Sean Brosnihan of Ramey Wine Cellars. Featured wines include the 2019 Claret paired with house-cured pork belly pizza, the 2016 Template Merlot-blend paired with tempura mushrooms, and the 2007 Annum Cabernet Sauvignon-blend paired with Wagyu flat iron steak. We also feature our Last Call guest, Heather Elliott-Hudson, sharing insights from the Hearst Bay Area. Join us for a delicious journey of wine, food, and expert tasting notes that highlight the artistry and flavor of Ramey Wine Cellars’ portfolio.

Art Murray of Flambeaux Wine: From New Orleans Roots to Sonoma Terroir

On this week’s Vine Wine & Dine we welcome vintner Art Murray of Flambeaux Wine for an in-depth tasting and conversation. We explore how three generations of the Murray family blended their roots from New Orleans with the terroir of Sonoma County to create small-production, artisan wines that reflect both craftsmanship and celebration. From Mardi Gras traditions to meticulous vineyard sourcing, this episode celebrates Flambeaux’s joyful spirit, rich heritage, and passion for creating approachable, expressive wines that honor Sonoma’s diverse landscapes. The show features tastings of the 2022 Chardonnay from Sangiacomo Vineyard, the 2020 Zinfandel from Dry Creek Valley, and the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon from Kick Ranch Vineyard, paired with signature dishes from The Matheson..