This week on Grape Encounters, Winemaker Larry Schaffer of Tercero Wines gives us a crash course in the use of oak in winemaking.

Chris Kern, of Forgotten Grapes, compares obscure varietals to pop icons, then our Gadget Guru, Matt DuBow, shares words of wisdom about that band of foil on most wine bottles.

This week, it's a very special visit with California's most respected wine historian, Charles Sullivan. Of course, Sullivan's immense knowledge extends far beyond the borders of the Golden State. Sullivan shares stories from his vast experience as a historian and  author – including a ghost story or two, to get you into the Halloween spirit. 

Also on this week's show, David explains why the enjoyment of the wine is generally dictated by the context within which it is consumed.

Then, our Gadget Guru, Matt DuBow, shares some novel ways to take your Halloween party to another dimension.

It's all in good fun on Grape Encounters Radio.

The simple truth is, some things are not what they seem.  And that's especially true when it comes to wine.  What's in it that we can't see?  How  was it made – by hand or machine?  Is it quality at a bargain or inexpensive because it will strip the varnish off your furniture. 

Among those bringing expert insight to these and other questions, is award-winning Wine Journalist, Alice Feiring, whose writing credentials include Time, Condé Nast Traveler, The Los Angeles Times, New York Times, San Francisco Chronicle and more.

On this week's show, Alice introduces us to her very revealing and controversial new book, Naked Wine.  Also, on this weeks show, Wine and Fashion with Matt DuBow and a little more insight into bargain basement wines.

Grab a pen and paper, because this week Wine Expert, Wes Hagen and David are going to give you a plethora of wine-making ideas. Join them as they run down many of the stand-out gold medal winners of the Los Angeles International Wine and Spirits Competition. Learn about hard to beat buying opportunities and other wine surprises.

Then, our Gadget Guru, Matt DuBow, tells listeners how to tip-toe into a wine tasting education with some very nifty products that will have you looking like an expert.

All in all, a very educational edition of Grape Encounters Radio!

This weeks show begins with an impromptu blind tasting with Matt DuBow, our Wine Gadget Guru, that ends with some amazing surprises.

Then, it's off to the Fair  where you'll meet one of the most interesting wine experts on the planet. Knowledgeable, down-to-earth, and totally chaming, Michael Jordan (Sommelier for the People), shares stories and insights that you simply must not miss!

Next, David and Michael drag the Grape Encounters' microphones into the Midway, gather everyone's favorite Fair foods and take them back to the Wine Marketplace for a rousing debate about which wines pair best with fun foods like funnel cake, cotton candy and corn dogs on a stick.

This show is pure fun from beginning to end!

There's an amazing number of songs that celebrate our passion for  wine. How many can you name?

Join us as some of our favorite guests get their knowledge of music  put to the test, including Bad Company Bassist turned wine Producer, Paul Cullen, and wine Gadget  Guru, Matt DuBow. Producer John even throws our host a few curve balls.

Plus, we'll take you to a wine label competition that begs the question, "Can you judge a book by it's cover?"

Very few people get to visit the enormous wine cellar at the LA County Fair, that houses the medal-winning wines from the prestigious Wine & Spirits competition. Grape Encounters was treated to a private tour and you're invited to come along for the ride. 

You'll also meet Richard Crean, CEO of the LA County Fair Association (and a big Grape Encounters fan). 

Learn about converting non-drinkers into wine lovers with insights from Matt DuBow.

You'll also meet Chuck Keagle, the founder of the iconic Cask 'n Cleaver Restaurants.

The L.A. County Fair Wine Marketplace opens on Sept. 3rd and the Wine & Spirits Marketplace is where you want to be. David visits with the Fair's Cellar Master, Mary Ellen Cole who gives us the inside scoop.

Then, it's all about demystifying wine with Ed Masciana, author of "Shortcuts on Wine".

The final segment will leave you in great spirits, as Matt DuBow of EpicStyle.com and David concoct some irresistible wine cocktails that you have to taste to believe!

It's an hour packed full of fun, indispensable information and much more!

On this week's wildly entertaining episode of Grape Encounters, David chats with a man whose book inspired a movie about wine that changed the way America enjoys the beverage and associated lifestyle. Author of “Sideways,” which was adapted into an Academy Award winning feature film, Rex Picket literally altered the habits and tastes of wine lovers everywhere by his depiction of a man who prefers Pinot to Merlot…spawning what is now referred to as the “Sideways' Effect.”

Famed restaurateur Robert Simon also chats with David about his recent move from the Napa Valley to Pasadena to open A/K/A Bistro, hoping to bring a bit of the famous wine region to the LA Basin. Robert shares thoughts about his new eatery as well as an ambitious Santa Barbara County wine-tasting event he will soon host.

Also on the show is Matt DuBow, whose family-built company, EpicStyle.com has affected wine culture at large by introducing a wide range of products like wine charms, which have become “must have” items at dinner parties and gatherings around the globe.