Claude Has Worked In The Greatest Wine Districts In France. How Did He Get To Napa?

Wine Talks with Paul K.

In the latest episode of 'Wine Talks,' host Claude Rouquet is joined by guest Paul K to delve deep into the world of viticulture, exploring the nuanced journey from grape to glass. The conversation opens with a glimpse into Claude’s background, which was not traditionally rooted in the wine industry as his family came from the medical field. However, his early exposure to fine wines cultivated a passion that, along with his wife, led them to pivot their successful careers to pursue their love for wine, something they felt a strong emotional connection to. The tale of revival at Smith Lafitte vineyard weaves its way into the dialogue, showcasing how the once dilapidated property was brought back to life by Florence and Daniel Katiar in 1990. Claude and Paul discuss the pitfalls that heritage Bordeaux chateaus face, including the risk of complacency that can stem from prestigious classifications. This sets the stage for the Katiars' next adventure, which led them to the renowned Napa Valley where they acquired the Flora Springs trilogy estate in 2019. Their unconventional journey, peppered with remarkable experiences such as attending Woodstock, culminates in their significant contribution to the Napa wine industry. The conversation takes a philosophical turn as they address the arbitrary distinction between old world and new world wine processing techniques, emphasizing a universal approach to quality winemaking. Paul K, during his probing interview, inquires about Claude’s present role at a Burgundy house in America, an opportunity that Claude serendipitously landed through a mutual connection. Paul K's show 'Wine Talks with Paul K' is highlighted, celebrating the wide accessibility of the podcast and giving a nod to a previous episode featuring luxury goods connoisseur Yves de Launay. Claude’s wealth of experience across various prestigious wine regions such as Burgundy, Champagne, and Bordeaux comes to light, underscoring his commitment to integrity and his belief that Napa Valley is capable of producing the best wines on the globe. Towards the end of their exchange, Paul poses a thought-provoking question about the popular Napa wine style not being truly indicative of the region. Cathayard Vineyard, where Claude has spent the past 12 years, is intimately described through its winery and vineyards, mimicking the Bordeaux style with its diverse ecosystem and elevation variance. The vineyard’s distinctive wines, such as the Bordeaux blend 'Hora' and a single vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, reflect its unique terroir. Cathayard’s wine production, somewhat shrouded in mystery, elicits curiosity about who holds the decisive power in the winemaking process. The episode continues with discussions around the concept of 'terroir,' the geographic and environmental factors that influence wine characteristics, as well as the debate over whether to adhere to traditional methods or embrace a more instinctual, personalized approach to winemaking. The influence of mainstream wines on the reputation of wine regions and the perceived snobbery in wine appreciation are also hot topics. Claude emphasizes the 'wow factor' of Cathayard's wines, which prompts Paul to order two cases of each. The episode concludes with Paul promoting 'Wine Talks' and encouraging listener subscriptions. The winemaking philosophy shared by Claude sums up the episode’s narrative: it’s not about making choices but about doing the right things to create expressive wines. This episode of 'Wine Talks' not only enlightens listeners on the intricacies of the industry but also invites them to develop an appreciation for the deeply rooted traditions and innovative paths that shape the world of wine today.