Episode #7
S6E7 The Wine Whisperers: Father, Son & the Art of Saving a Vintage
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Inside the Bunghole , Pam and James sit down with winemaker and consultant Matthew Jacobs of Jacobs Consulting to uncover what really happens behind the scenes of the wine business. Working alongside his father Jac, a veteran with more than four decades of harvests under his belt, Matt explains how their father-son consulting team helps wineries troubleshoot problems, improve wine quality, and navigate the thousands of decisions that separate good wine from great wine. From cellar audits and emergency phone calls to helping wineries avoid costly mistakes, listeners get a rare look at the unsung heroes who keep wine flowing from grape to bottle. The conversation dives deep into the business and science of winemaking, covering everything from vineyard diseases and soil evaluation to barrel aging, blending, closures, and sourcing fruit. Matt explains how modern wine brands can launch without owning a vineyard, why bulk wine isn't necessarily low quality, and how consulting winemakers help clients create wines that match both their vision and their budget. Along the way, he shares insider knowledge about the realities of vineyard management, wine economics, and the balancing act between artistry and profitability in an increasingly competitive industry. But beneath the technical discussion lies a story about family, mentorship, and passion. Matthew reflects on growing up around wineries, learning the craft from his father, and building a business together rooted in integrity and hard work. With plenty of laughs, candid industry truths, and more than a few "how the sausage is made" moments, this episode pulls back the curtain on the romantic image of wine and reveals the dedication, expertise, and relentless problem-solving required to bring every bottle to life. Cheers! Please like, follow, subscribe and rate us! We LOVE to hear your comments! Reach out to us on our social media: Facebook and Instagram @insidethebunghole Twitter @bungholepodcast Our webpage is insidethebunghole.buzzsprout.com OR email us at insidethebunghole@gmail.com
