Join us for an extraordinary episode as we sit down with Erich Berg, the 6'2" winemaker with a flair for fashion, in an interview that unveils the fascinating twists and turns of his life's journey. Erich's captivating story begins with an unconventional blend of careers – from his time as a successful model to his current role as a distinguished winemaker in Oregon's Willamette Valley. We'll explore how his unique path, brought him to the world of wine and discover the unexpected parallels between these seemingly disparate worlds. Delve into Erich's role as an indie winemaker and the inspiration behind an event that brought together a remarkable group of winemakers, turning heads in the industry. We'll discuss the success of this event and whether we can anticipate another edition in the future. And, of course, we'll uncover the mystery behind the absence of balloon animals at this gathering! Erich's journey takes us to his early days at Domaine Serene in 2004, where he collaborated with renowned winemakers Drew Voit, Tony Rynders and Micheal Lundeen. Hear firsthand what that experience was like and discover the stories behind the wine. As we explore the ebbs and flows of life, Erich shares his battle with anxiety, a condition he managed while working in a field that often demands social interactions. His insights and advice are invaluable for anyone facing similar challenges. Discover Erich's passion for literature and his ability to introduce captivating works like Cormac McCarthy's "The Road" into the classroom, igniting the imaginations of his students. From teaching to winemaking, Erich's journey is a testament to his unyielding dedication and zest for life. Erich's winemaking story unfolds further as he shares how Brianne Day's encouragement led him to create his own wine. We'll also explore his collaboration with Drew Voit and the remarkable wines that have emerged from their shared facility. Family holds a special place in Erich's heart, and he relishes the flexibility that winemaking offers, allowing him to spend precious moments with loved ones. Discover what brings him the most joy when he's with his family. Our conversation spans from winemaking to literature, from fashion runways to vineyard rows, and from the heights of modeling to the depth of wine cellars. As we explore the vibrant Oregon wine community, Erich's unique perspective sheds light on the camaraderie and collaboration that define this dynamic industry. And, as always, we wrap up with a rapid-fire round of fun questions, where Erich reveals his favorite artist during harvest, indulgent food cravings, his choice of superpower, the eternal digital versus handwritten debate for harvest notes, his beloved superhero, and the last book he devoured. Join us on this unforgettable journey through the extraordinary life and career of Erich Berg, a man whose story is as captivating as the wines he crafts. 🍷👠 #ErichBergWines #OregonWine #UnconventionalJourney