A podcast about craft beverages from an insiders point of view. Our primary focus is on wine made in the Midwest, but topics include other craft beverages and products. Basically, anything you can pour is fair game.
The podcast is hosted by Brian Lesperance, a 14 year veteran of the Michigan wine industry. Brian currently leads Fenn Valley Vineyards, a winery in Fennville, Michigan started in 1973. He also serves on several industry boards, including the Michigan Wine Collaborative and Michigan Wine Producers Association.
Pour Decisions is presented by Fenn Valley Consulting Services (https://www.fennvalley.com/services/) with IT provided by Carrier Signal (https://www.carriersignal.com/). Music provided by Domestic Problems (https://www.facebook.com/DomesticProblems/).
The Story of Muscat...O with Matthew Jannette, Fenn Valley Vineyards
In this special episode we explore the origin of Muscat...O, a new wine produced by Fenn Valley modeled after the famous Italian dessert wine Moscato d'Asti. The product was the vision of Matthew Jannette, who joins us to tell the story.
We specifically dive deep on how Moscato d'Asti is made, and some of the differences between the traditional wines from Italy and the Fenn Valley take. We also cover some thoughts on food pairings with this sweet, low-alcohol sparkling white wine.
Muscat...O Wine Information (https://www.fennvalley.com/product/muscat-o)
Garmin Varia (https://www.garmin.com/en-US/p/721258/)
Have questions you would like to submit for an upcoming Episode? Contact us today! (https://craftpourdecisions.com/contact-us/)
Sponsors
Fenn Valley Vineyards, Inc (https://www.fennvalley.com/)
Carrier Signal (https://www.carriersignal.com/)
Interested in being a sponsor? Click here. (https://craftpourdecisions.com/sponsors/)
Show Links
https://craftpourdecisions.com/ (https://craftpourdecisions.com/)
https://www.facebook.com/craftpourdecisions (https://www.facebook.com/craftpourdecisions)
https://www.instagram.com/craftpourdecisions/ (https://www.instagram.com/craftpourdecisions/)
Music is provided by Domestic Problems.
15 Feb 2026
Tony Jacobson - Founder, Loose Cannon Wines
In the first episode of 2026 we interview one of the most experienced sparkling wine experts around. Tony Jacobson is the Principal Consultant at EnoCraft and Founder of Loose Cannon Wines in Traverse City, Michigan.
We cover some of the challenges and opportunities available in the sparkling category, including not being afraid of acidity. We also delve into how different production techniques offer very different approaches to wine with carbonation. And we wrap with the backstory on Loose Cannon, a boutique winery committed to local fruit.
The "this won't pour" segment showcased some cool wireless mic gear as well as an affordable 3D printer setup!
Enocraft (https://www.enocraft.com/)
Loose Cannon Wine (https://loosecannon.wine/)
2025 Harvest Summary Episode (https://craftpourdecisions.com/2025-season-wrap-up/)
DJI Mic 3 (https://www.dji.com/mic-3)
Bambu A1 Mini 3D Printer (https://bambulab.com/en-us/a1-mini)
Have questions you would like to submit for an upcoming Episode? Contact us today! (https://craftpourdecisions.com/contact-us/)
Sponsors
Fenn Valley Vineyards, Inc (https://www.fennvalley.com/)
Carrier Signal (https://www.carriersignal.com/)
Interested in being a sponsor? Click here. (https://craftpourdecisions.com/sponsors/)
Show Links
https://craftpourdecisions.com/ (https://craftpourdecisions.com/)
https://www.facebook.com/craftpourdecisions (https://www.facebook.com/craftpourdecisions)
https://www.instagram.com/craftpourdecisions/ (https://www.instagram.com/craftpourdecisions/)
Music is provided by Domestic Problems.
21 Dec 2025
2025 Season Wrap-Up - with Matthew Jannette and Andrew Backlin
Winemakers Matthew Jannette and Andrew Backlin review the 2025 growing season, analyzing the transition from a delayed start to a remarkably dry finish in this interview episode.
20 Oct 2025
2025 Harvest Update #5
Brian Lesperance shares harvest updates and discusses Traminette grapes, a hybrid varietal with spicy, floral flavors, while referencing rose production methods and recent rainfall, also featuring Kai Lesperance in this episode.
6 Oct 2025
2025 Harvest Update #4
Industry experts discuss the ongoing 2025 harvest, exploring the history and diverse expressions of Sauvignon Blanc based on ripeness, including its role as a parent grape; this is an update episode.
30 Sept 2025
2025 Harvest Update #3
The hosts of Pour Decisions discuss the ongoing 2025 harvest in Fennville and explore the history and versatility of the Riesling grape, highlighting its use in various wine styles.
21 Sept 2025
2025 Harvest Update #2
Fenn Valley Vineyards shares harvest updates from Fennville, discusses the history of the Cayuga White grape, and overviews hand versus machine picking methods.
12 Sept 2025
Harvest 2025 - Update #1
Host Michael Johnson interviews industry experts about the 2025 harvest, Chardonnay's history, and harvest timing decisions.
9 Aug 2025
Matthew Jannette - Head of Winemaking, Fenn Valley Vineyards
Matthew Jannette, Head of Winemaking at Fenn Valley Vineyards, shares his journey through the craft beverage world and discusses consumer preferences in this interview episode.
20 Jul 2025
AMA #3 - Sparkling Wine
Pour Decisions hosts explore the Méthode Champenoise, Charmat, and Carbonation methods of sparkling wine production, considering time, equipment, winemaking strategy, and resulting product differences.
27 Jun 2025
Scott Graham - Executive Director, Michigan Brewers Guild
Executive Director Scott Graham of the Michigan Brewers Guild explores current and past beer trends, also examining beer's role within the wider craft beverage and hospitality landscape in this interview.
1 Jun 2025
AMA #2 - All About Rose
The hosts of Pour Decisions explore rosé wine production methods, discussing how these choices influence color, flavor, and intensity in this Ask Me Anything episode.
16 May 2025
James Lester - President & Winemaker, Wyncroft
We are joined in this episode by James Lester, the Founder, President, and Winemaker at Wyncroft Wines. Working alongside his wife Daun, James is directly involved in every aspect of this intentionally small winery nestled along the lakeshore in Pullman, Michigan.
The majority of this discussion revolved around Wyncroft's at times tumultuous history, as James recalls nearly losing his winery on at least one occasion. His story is a testament to the grit and determination it takes to make it in our industry.
We also delve into some of the tactics Wyncroft employs to produce among the most revered wines in the Midwest, and lay the foundation for future episodes around James' favorite grape - Pinot Noir.
Some links to things covered...
https://www.wyncroftwine.com/ (https://www.wyncroftwine.com/)
https://www.diewithzerobook.com/welcome (https://www.diewithzerobook.com/welcome)
Sponsors
Fenn Valley Vineyards, Inc (https://www.fennvalley.com/)
Carrier Signal (https://www.carriersignal.com/)
Interested in being a sponsor? Click here. (https://craftpourdecisions.com/sponsors/)
Show Links
https://craftpourdecisions.com/ (https://craftpourdecisions.com/)
https://www.facebook.com/craftpourdecisions (https://www.facebook.com/craftpourdecisions)
https://www.instagram.com/craftpourdecisions/ (https://www.instagram.com/craftpourdecisions/)
Music is provided by Domestic Problems.
25 Apr 2025
Fred Bueltmann - Executive Director, Red Horse Center
We are joined in this episode by Fred Bueltmann from the Red Horse Center for Collaborative Leadership. It is safe to say Fred is among the founders of the Michigan craft beer and spirits industry having served in leadership roles during the early years of two of the most iconic breweries in Michigan - Bell's Brewery (https://bellsbeer.com/) and New Holland Brewing (https://www.newhollandbrew.com/).
We really leaned into Fred's breath and depth of experience to delve into the long arc of the craft scene in Michigan. We used Fred's two published books, "A Rising Tide - Stories from the Michigan Brewers Guild" and "Beervangelist's Guide to the Galaxy" to help ground our wide ranging discussion.
We specifically covered some of the challenges the industry faced at inception, how beer and spirits differ in terms of the market and how to write a cookbook. We also tasted through a couple very unique spirits - a whiskey made from local honey and a pineapple rum.
Some links to things covered...
https://redhorse.red/ (https://redhorse.red/)
https://twojames.com/our-spirits/pineapple-doctor-bird-rum/ (https://twojames.com/our-spirits/pineapple-doctor-bird-rum/)
https://www.ethanologydistillation.com/store/p872/Mel%C2%AE_Vocatus.html#/ (https://www.ethanologydistillation.com/store/p872/Mel%C2%AE_Vocatus.html#/)
https://www.mibeer.com/ (https://www.mibeer.com/)
https://www.thefarmhousedeli.com/ (https://www.thefarmhousedeli.com/)
Sponsors
Fenn Valley Vineyards, Inc (https://www.fennvalley.com/)
Carrier Signal (https://www.carriersignal.com/)
Interested in being a sponsor? Click here. (https://craftpourdecisions.com/sponsors/)
Show Links
https://craftpourdecisions.com/ (https://craftpourdecisions.com/)
https://www.facebook.com/craftpourdecisions (https://www.facebook.com/craftpourdecisions)
https://www.instagram.com/craftpourdecisions/ (https://www.instagram.com/craftpourdecisions/)
Music is provided by Domestic Problems.
21 Apr 2025
AMA #1 - Beverage Experience on a Disney Cruise
In our first ever Ask Me Anything (AMA) episode we cover questions we received following a recent spring break trip onboard the Disney Fantasy cruise ship. Specifically we provide an overview of fermented beverages in the Caribbean, unique challenges and idiosyncrasies of cruise ship beverage service, and some of the unique aspects of the Disney cruise itself.
Have questions you would like to submit for an upcoming AMA? Contact us today! (https://craftpourdecisions.com/contact-us/)
Some links to things covered...
https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/ (https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/)
https://accademia.gaggia.com/ (https://accademia.gaggia.com/)
Sponsors
Fenn Valley Vineyards, Inc (https://www.fennvalley.com/)
Carrier Signal (https://www.carriersignal.com/)
Interested in being a sponsor? Click here. (https://craftpourdecisions.com/sponsors/)
Show Links
https://craftpourdecisions.com/ (https://craftpourdecisions.com/)
https://www.facebook.com/craftpourdecisions (https://www.facebook.com/craftpourdecisions)
https://www.instagram.com/craftpourdecisions/ (https://www.instagram.com/craftpourdecisions/)
Music is provided by Domestic Problems.
4 Apr 2025
Andrew Backlin - Director of Production and Winemaker, Modales Wines
We are joined in this episode with Andrew Backlin from Modales Wines. Andrew grew up outside Napa county and brought his love of wine to Michigan several years ago as Modales was starting up. As the head of production and winemaking Andrew focuses on low intervention wines and has been doing so before it was popular.
We cover a wide variety of topics on this episode, including the use of Non-Saccharomyces yeast, native fermentations, organic farming, and market trends. We also dive pretty deep into Andrew's favorite grape, Riesling!
Some links to things covered...
https://modaleswines.com/ (https://modaleswines.com/)
https://scottlab.com/harnessing-the-unique-powers-of-non-saccharomyces-yeasts (https://scottlab.com/harnessing-the-unique-powers-of-non-saccharomyces-yeasts)
Sponsors
Fenn Valley Vineyards, Inc (https://www.fennvalley.com/)
Carrier Signal (https://www.carriersignal.com/)
Interested in being a sponsor? Click here. (https://craftpourdecisions.com/sponsors/)
Show Links
https://craftpourdecisions.com/ (https://craftpourdecisions.com/)
https://www.facebook.com/craftpourdecisions (https://www.facebook.com/craftpourdecisions)
https://www.instagram.com/craftpourdecisions/ (https://www.instagram.com/craftpourdecisions/)
Music is provided by Domestic Problems.
28 Mar 2025
Brian Lillie - VP, Hospitality Operations and Distribution, Chateau Chantal
In the premier of Pour Decisions we sit down with Brian Lillie with Chateau Chantal. Brian is a legend in the Michigan wine industry and has an incredibly broad perspective on wine and the craft beverage market. In addition to his day job at Chateau Chantal, Brian is the President of the Michigan Wine Collaborative, has a WSET Level 3 wine certification, and is the owner of Brian Lillie and Company.
Specifically we delve into topics including wine aging, the impact of soil on flavors and aromatics, the state of the wine consumer, and so much more.
Some links to Brian's organizations...
https://www.chateauchantal.com/ (https://www.chateauchantal.com/)
https://brianlillieandcompany.com/ (https://brianlillieandcompany.com/)
https://michiganwinecollaborative.com/ (https://michiganwinecollaborative.com/)
Other links to things discussed...
https://libbyapp.com/interview/welcome#doYouHaveACard (https://libbyapp.com/interview/welcome#doYouHaveACard)
Sponsors
Fenn Valley Vineyards, Inc (https://www.fennvalley.com/)
Carrier Signal (https://www.carriersignal.com/)
Interested in being a sponsor? Click here. (https://craftpourdecisions.com/sponsors/)
Show Links
https://craftpourdecisions.com/ (https://craftpourdecisions.com/)
https://www.facebook.com/craftpourdecisions (https://www.facebook.com/craftpourdecisions)
https://www.instagram.com/craftpourdecisions/ (https://www.instagram.com/craftpourdecisions/)
Music is provided by Domestic Problems.
23 Mar 2025
Pour Decisions Trailer
This is the trailer for the Pour Decisions podcast! Learn more at www.craftpourdecisions.com (https://craftpourdecisions.com/).
Pour Decisions is a podcast about craft beverages from an insiders point of view. Our primary focus is on wine made in the Midwest, but topics include other craft beverages and products. Basically, anything you can pour is fair game.
The podcast is hosted by Brian Lesperance, a 13 year veteran of the Michigan wine industry. Brian currently leads Fenn Valley Vineyards, a winery in Fennville, Michigan started in 1973. He also serves on several industry boards, including the Michigan Wine Collaborative and Michigan Wine Producers Association.
Pour Decisions is presented by Fenn Valley Consulting Services (https://www.fennvalley.com/services/) with IT provided by Carrier Signal (https://www.carriersignal.com/). Music provided by Domestic Problems (https://www.facebook.com/DomesticProblems/).
Who has been a guest on Pour Decisions
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Matthew Jannette
Andrew Backlin
Kai Lesperance
Fenn Valley Vineyards
Scott Graham
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
5,051
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
11 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 36 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
14
Social presence
90
YouTube
68
Engagement
32
Host of Pour Decisions?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
