Winemaker Interview with Tom Gamble of Gamble Estates

After Wine School

Gamble Family Vineyards: A Conversation with Tom Gamble

In this episode of After Wine School, host Keith Wallace welcomes Tom Gamble of Gamble Family Vineyards. They delve into the rich history of Napa Valley, discussing topics from prohibition era challenges to the intricate relationship winemakers have with certain grape varieties like Charbonneau. Tom shares his experiences as a third-generation Napa farmer and the transition from grape growing to wine making, highlighting the economic and environmental aspects of the wine industry. The discussion also sheds light on the modern wine market dynamics and the passion required to sustain a legacy in wine. This episode is a blend of deep, funny, and honest insights into the world of winemaking in Napa Valley.

00:00 Introduction to After Wine School

00:38 Meet Tom Gamble: Third-Generation Napa Farmer

01:18 Prohibition-Era Napa and Its Impact

01:58 Napa's Agricultural Evolution

03:00 The Struggles and Resilience of Napa Winemakers

04:07 Tom Gamble's Family Legacy and Early Vineyards

07:49 The Challenges of Growing and Selling Wine

15:25 Navigating the Wine Industry's Complexities

19:46 The Importance of Direct-to-Consumer Sales

24:23 Compliance and Legal Hurdles in the Wine Business

27:10 Challenges of Wine Making

27:31 Tasting the Sauvignon Blanc

29:34 Wine Production Techniques

31:29 Exploring Wine Clones

35:29 The Economics of Wine Making

40:43 Generational Shifts in Wine Preferences

47:46 The Passion Behind Wine Making

54:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts