Welcome to Wine Babblers! Join Erik Ellner and Roger Salazar, two regular guys, as they embark on a journey through the world of wine. Tune in bi-weekly for lively conversations, insightful experiences, and valuable learnings that will enhance your appreciation and knowledge of wine. Subscribe and connect with us on Instagram and X (@Winebabblers) and Facebook (@WineBabblersPodcast).
Erik and Roger explore the world of wine through a fun and casual blind tasting with guest Moises Lopez, sharing his wine journey from childhood to Bordeaux trips. Discover wine recommendations, learn about new wineries andgreat spots to grab wine in Downtown Sacramento, and find out what’s coming next on the Wine Babblers.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Wine Babblers and Guest Introduction
03:23 Battle of the Mountains – Blind Tasting
09:52 First Wine: 2022 Kathryn Hall Cabernet Sauvignon
14:34 Second Wine: 2019 Courtney Benham Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
17:41 Third Wine: 2019 Davies Vineyards Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
24:58 Fourth Wine: 2019 Cresta Velia Mt. Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon
29:52 Fifth Wine: Predecessor Howell Mountain Cabernet Franc
34:26 Sixth Wine: 2022 Seven Apart
41:52 Seventh Tasting: 2019 Hess Collection Mount VeederEstate Cabernet Sauvignon
46:37 Upcoming Wine Adventures in Bordeaux
50:53 Upcoming No Borders, No Regions Tasting
01:00:39 Revival Wine
01:05:03 Downtown Sacramento Wine Recs
01:08:13 Engaging New Wine Drinkers
Episode Mentions:
Wines: 2022 Kathryn Hall Cabernet Sauvignon, 2019 Courtney Benham Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon,2019 Davies Vineyards Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, 2019 Cresta Velia Mt. Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon, Predecessor Howell Mountain Cabernet Franc, 2022 Seven Apart, 2019 Hess Collection Mount Veeder Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Revival Wine
20 Oct 2025
"Don't Cry for Me Argentina"
In this episode, hosts Erik Ellner and Roger Salazar discuss the rich world of South American wines, focusing on Argentinian and Chilean varieties. Joined by guest Jeff Ball, they explore the history and evolution of Malbec, its significance in Argentina, and the differences between Argentinian and Chilean wines. The conversation delves into personal experiences with wine, the importance of aging, and the cultural aspects of wine appreciation. They also taste and review several wines, sharing their thoughts on flavor profiles and the wine tasting experience.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
04:33 The Evolution of Malbec in the U.S.
07:07 Personal Malbec Journeys
12:29 Wine Preferences and Seasonal Choices
18:18 The Journey Into Wine Appreciation
26:05 Terrazas de los Andes Malbec
29:15 Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
35:16 Sena Aconcagua Valley, Chile 2012
40:04 Moscato Magnanime Cabernet 2018
45:35 Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino
53:52 Luca Old Vine Malbec
01:00:05 El Esteco Malbec 2022
01:05:58 Wine Insight and Advice
01:13:51 Breaking Down Wine Barriers for Younger Generations
Episode Mentions:
Wines: Terrazas de los Andes Malbec (https://www.terrazasdelosandes.com/en-us/our-wines/reserva-malbec-2021), Pascual Toso Malbec (https://familywineriesdirect.com/collections/pascual-toso), Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 (https://donmelchor.com/en/chilean-wine-don-melchor-2021-crowned-the-best-wine-in-the-world/), Sena Aconcagua Valley, Chile 2012 (https://www.sena.cl/Wines/sena/2012), Moscato Magnanime Cabernet 2018 (https://mascotavineyards.com/wines/magnanime), Catena Zapata Malbec Argentina (https://catenazapata.com/catena-zapata-malbec-argentino-2022/), Luca Old Vine Malbec (https://www.lucawines.com/home.html), El Esteco Malbec 2022 (https://elesteco.com.ar/en/el-esteco-en/malbec-7/), Achaval Ferrer Malbec (https://trade.achaval-ferrer.com/storage/kiSqk36Rt76Y7hKLHJU4CoHKsOGO9TAodTFZz7wU.pdf)
18 Sept 2025
Stuck in Lodi
In this episode, hosts Erik Ellner and Roger Salazar are joined once again by the Ghost Raven (Phil Salazar) as they share their recent summer adventure through Lodi, California — where the Salazar’s were born and raised. Together, they explore the unexpected charm and evolving wine culture of this underrated region. From hidden gem wineries to standout vintages, the trio shares personal stories, tasting notes, and local insights that reveal why Lodi is far more than just a pit stop on Highway 99. Whether you're a seasoned wine lover or just curious about California’s lesser-known wine country, this episode uncorks the beauty, history, and surprises of Lodi’s vineyards.
Chapters
00:00 The Evolution of Lodi's Wine Scene
09:52 Bokisch Vineyards
17:15 Harney Lane Vineyards
27:48 Jessie's Grove Winery
32:34 Lodi Wine Visitors Center/Wine & Roses
Episode Mentions
Wineries: Harney Lane (https://www.harneylane.com/), Bokisch Vineyards (https://bokischvineyards.com/), Jessie's Grove Winery (https://www.jessiesgrovewinery.com/), Wine & Roses (https://www.winerose.com/hotel/), Papapavlos Bistro & Bar (https://www.papapavlos.com/); Lodi Wine Visitors Center (https://www.lodiwine.com)
4 Sept 2025
Central Coast to Granite Bay: Sipping Through the State
In this episode, hosts Erik Ellner and Roger Salazar are joined by Ghost Raven as they share their recent wine tasting adventures across California, including visits to Granite Bay, Santa Barbara, Solvang, Paso Robles, and Napa. They discuss the experiences, the quality of wines tasted, and the overall enjoyment of the journey.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to the Wine Babblers
00:54 Capitol Cellars
05:24 Santa Barbara Tastings
15:12 Solvang Wine Tastings
17:16 Paso Robles Wine Tastings
36:46 Napa Wine Tastings
01:04:18 What's Next on Wine Babblers
Episode Mentions
Wines: 2020 Syrah Andrew Murray Vineyards, 2021 Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
Wineries and Tasting Rooms: Capitol Cellars (https://www.capitolcellars.com/), Andrew Murray Vineyards (https://www.andrewmurrayvineyards.com/), L'Aventure Winery (https://www.aventurewine.com/), Hope Family Wines (https://hopefamilywines.com/?srsltid=AfmBOopBrDQl_S9bAw76ZTILo0I4i1oPlcEGho6TYVNA5CNNyrsTFpfV), Daou Vineyards (https://daouvineyards.com/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=20267496459&gbraid=0AAAAADLNqw0rnHxM_rmAqSSbYf3o0RAfd&gclid=Cj0KCQjw_L_FBhDmARIsAItqgt5N4OBrLUmS11cKU-znQoMmNwrYnpp3niQcpWdtk57MBGTwalLNDlMaAnMKEALw_wcB), Pine Ridge Vineyards (https://www.pineridgevineyards.com/shop/?source=google&medium=cpc&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=20988401218&campaign=20988401218&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=20988401218&gbraid=0AAAAAC0kjG0_GUjMjxg39ac6Klxysvrdi&gclid=Cj0KCQjw_L_FBhDmARIsAItqgt5MMFfeK12f9M837oPBhEJQkXSSQxPUkEKi4iEOE3x_fM1L0-1AqvgaAkrOEALw_wcB), Seavey Vineyard (https://www.seaveyvineyard.com/), Oakville Wine Merchant (https://www.visitnapavalley.com/listing/oakville-wine-merchant/6600/), Robert Craig Winery (https://robertcraigwine.com/), Rutherford Ranch Winery (https://rutherfordranch.com/visit/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=15590375427&gbraid=0AAAAAoVgGJlw_T-V2ljGu25rAm4TSXZq4&gclid=Cj0KCQjw_L_FBhDmARIsAItqgt5amokG7nlmEKTMr4hksBqoylrjYXFrdyDArW32Llx7oHZ3s_8XwZMaAsiFEALw_wcB), Chateau Montelena Winery (https://montelena.com/); Taste of Santa Rita Hills (https://www.tasteofstaritahills.com/?srsltid=AfmBOopB1cnOqX1LAYadgPyC9eSjsXtclilBcWeXLYmD1ZXXOAU0PXFO); Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Cafe (https://www.winemerchantcafe.com/)
Accommodations: Silverado (https://www.silveradoresort.com/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=19764267248&gbraid=0AAAAApCfVTLH1DPU_aTUlJO18doEp28jN&gclid=Cj0KCQjw_L_FBhDmARIsAItqgt4j0LqGn6rjLl4e49l6OOlLG3UTI4dHDgTyW-1mQId8klM3YPPP1DoaAjypEALw_wcB)
25 Jul 2025
Road Trippin’
In this episode, hosts Erik Ellner and Roger Salazar explore the world of wines beyond their familiar California haunts. They share their adventures in discovering wines while traveling, from impromptu tastings on the Rubicon Trail to unexpected finds in Michigan. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious traveler, this episode offers insights into the joys and surprises of savoring wines away from home. Tune in for stories, laughter, and a toast to the unexpected pleasures of wine exploration.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Wine on Vacation
09:02 Wine Tasting on the Rubicon Trail
31:54 Encouragement to Try Regional Wines
48:20 Upcoming Wine Adventures
55:53 The Boldness of Trying New Wines
Episode Mentions
Rubicon Trail Wine Tasting: Austin Hope 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, Carter 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon, Grgich Hills Estate 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon, Schrader Cellars Double Diamond 2021 Cabernet Sauv, Caymus 50th Anniversary Cabernet Sauvignon 2022
13 Jul 2025
Just a Sip: A Mini Wine Tasting Experience
In this mini episode, hosts Erik Ellner and Roger Salazar have a “sipper, sipper” of some unique wines, from ancient vine Zinfandel to Bordeaux blends. The conversation also touches on the challenges of making wine approachable for everyone, sharing personal anecdotes and insights from their experiences. Make sure to listen until the end for a legal tip from Erik.
Chapters:
00:25 Cline Family Cellars Ancient Vine Zinfandel
03:25 Château de la Chapelle Bordeaux
07:51 Wine Pairings
Episode Mentions:
Cline Family Cellars, Château de la Chapelle, Revana Family Vineyard
27 Jun 2025
The Napa Experience (aka Babblers World Tour!)
Hosts Erik Ellner and Roger Salazar, joined by Phil Salazar, explore their Napa winery tour, discussing Burgess, Robert Craig, and other wineries, and highlighting unique wines and tasting experiences in this interview episode.
12 Jun 2025
Spitters are Quitters: Erik and Roger Guide You Through Wine Etiquette
Hosts Eric Elner and Roger Salazar explore wine etiquette, covering server interactions, tasting pace, and planning, while also sharing their opinion on spitting, during this tasting episode.
8 Jun 2025
Wine Babblers Uncorked
Hosts Erik and Roger introduce the Wine Babblers podcast, discussing their wine journey, tasting experiences, and the social culture around wine, while reviewing Cabernet Sauvignons from Kathryn Hall, Markham Vineyards, and Faust Wines.
31 May 2025
Wine Babblers Trailer
Hosts Erik Ellner and Roger Salazar introduce Wine Babblers, inviting listeners to explore the world of wine through their experiences and conversations.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
9 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 43 / 100
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Quality
53
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
81
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