{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"213: James Molesworth - Wine Spectator","description":"This Jim sits down with James Molesworth, Senior Editor for The Wine Spectator, to trace James\u2019s unconventional path into wine\u2014from a Francophile, academic household in Queens to blind-tasting Burgundy in a tiny West Village cellar, and eventually orchestrating tastings and writing for one of the most influential wine publications in the world. James reflects on formative mentors, the discipline and humility required to learn both tasting and journalism at a professional level, and how his anthropology background shaped his \u201cobserve and report\u201d style of wine writing. He also unpacks Wine Spectator\u2019s mission to educate and entertain, the magazine\u2019s role in the global wine ecosystem, and how landmark moments like the post\u20119\/11 New York Wine Experience revealed the deep, relationship-driven core of the wine community. The conversation then widens to a rich exploration of regional evolution and the future of fine wine, focusing especially on Bordeaux and Napa Valley. James explains how Bordeaux\u2019s garagiste era parallels Napa\u2019s cult Cabernet phase, how shifts in farming (organic, biodynamic, agroforestry, soil health, old vines) are reshaping ripeness, structure, and balance, and why Cabernet Franc is becoming more important on both the right bank and in Napa. He talks candidly about climate pressures, changing consumer behavior, and why he remains bullish on Napa\u2019s future\u2014as long as the valley stays rooted in agriculture, terroir, and authentic hospitality. Along the way, James shares insider perspectives on how Wine Spectator chooses which wines to review, the power of storytelling versus scores, and his \u201cbookshelf\u201d model for building regional expertise.213 ","author_name":"Inside Winemaking - the art and science of growing grapes and crafting wine","author_url":"http:\/\/www.insidewinemaking.com","html":"