At Winemakers Review, our mission to illuminate the world of winemaking through the voices of those who craft, cultivate, and evolve this art form aligns perfectly with the focus of our "Winemaker Series." This series is dedicated to uncovering the personal journeys and philosophies of winemakers who have shaped the industry, offering a window into the lives of those who have not only witnessed but also initiated changes within the winemaking landscape.
In this episode, we have the privilege of speaking with Ric Forman, the visionary behind Forman Vineyards, who is recognized as one of the pioneers in integrating French oak barrels into American winemaking. His contributions to the industry include innovations such as barrel fermenting Chardonnay, sur lees aging, and introducing auto-pump-over devices, now a staple in modern wineries.
Ric's journey into winemaking was sparked by a youthful fascination with science—an interest so intense it once nearly resulted in a catastrophic fire at his home. This brush with disaster ultimately led him to pursue a more structured exploration of science at UC Davis, focusing on enology. His career is marked by tenure at iconic wineries like Stony Hill, Robert Mondavi, Sterling, and Newton, each step building towards his ultimate venture: establishing Forman Vineyard in 1983.
At Forman Vineyard, located on a picturesque ridge at the base of Howell Mountain in Napa Valley, Ric has dedicated himself to producing limited quantities of Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon that reflect both his classical winemaking approach and the unique terroir of his vineyard. His traditional methods, deeply influenced by European practices, underscore a philosophy that prioritizes classic techniques over technological advancements, a theme that resonates deeply with our listeners who appreciate wine as a reflection of time, place, and the meticulous care of its makers.
Join us as we explore Ric Forman's enduring legacy and his continuous passion for winemaking, providing our audience with not just insights into his innovative practices but also the personal story of a man whose life and work are as rich and complex as the wines he crafts.
Find more episodes at: www.winemakersreview.com
