Adam Wolf is back, and he brings a whole new story with him. Since his last visit, he packed up his life in LA and moved to Oregon’s Willamette Valley to work at Saffron Fields. We talk about that jump, what pulled him into the region, and how different the wine world feels when you live inside it instead of tasting from a distance.
Adam walks us through his new role, the tasting room culture, and why Oregon’s wine community feels so supportive. We get into the local food scene, the shift from LA’s global wine focus to Oregon’s drink-local mentality, and what it’s like to taste in a place with more than 800 wineries.
He also sends us a bottle of the 2021 Spectrum Pinot Noir, an entry point into Saffron Fields’ lineup. We dig into what makes it approachable, how the winemaking works, and why clones matter so much in the Willamette Valley. The conversation takes us into tasting structure, flavor differences, and the challenge of keeping your palate alive after 15 Pinots in two days.
It’s an easy, honest episode with a lot of energy. A friend of the pod comes back, brings great wine, and reminds us why the Willamette Valley is one of the most exciting wine regions in the country.
Learn More About Saffron Fields
Saffron Fields Website
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https://www.instagram.com/wineaboutmusic/
Check Out Adam's New Column, 100 Point Wines, on Substack!
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Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to the Podcast and Guests
02:39 - Adam's Transition to Oregon Wine Country
05:25 - Roles and Responsibilities at Saffron Fields
08:04 - Comparing Wine Scenes: LA vs. Oregon
10:51 - Exploring Saffron Fields and Its Unique Offerings
15:23 - The Vibe of Wine Tasting
18:39 - Creating Memorable Experiences
19:09 - The Culinary Scene in Willamette
22:39 - Community and Connection in Wine Country
27:47 - Living the Wine Life
28:20 - Exciting Wine Adventures
28:50 - Exploring Pinot Noir: A Journey Through Flavor
30:47 - Understanding Clones in Winemaking
34:26 - The Spectrum Pinot Noir: A Closer Look
35:59 - Navigating Wine Pricing and Accessibility
37:56 - Tasting Notes: Unpacking the Spectrum Pinot Noir
42:14 - The Structure of Pinot Noir: Tannins and Acidity
45:45 - Willamette Valley: Community and Wine Culture
46:38 - Wine Tasting Tips: Maximizing Your Experience
48:44 - Review
54:49 - Expert Insights: The Future of Willamette Valley Wines
56:13 - Game: Viterations
59:44 - Final Thoughts and Wine Recommendations