In this enthralling episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, explore the exceptional journey of Seth Morgen Long, the pioneering spirit behind Morgen Long Winery in Oregon's Willamette Valley. Seth shares his personal and professional evolution that culminated in producing a 100-point Chardonnay, a testament to Oregon's rising prominence in the global wine scene. Delve into Seth's philosophical and practical approaches to winemaking, where tradition meets innovation. From his early days absorbing the nuances of viticulture in Burgundy to his committed focus on Oregon Chardonnay, Seth's narrative is rich with insights into mastering the complexities of one of the world's most celebrated varietals. His story underscores the critical importance of understanding terroir, the art of minimal intervention, and the pursuit of expressing the purest essence of the vineyard. Seth also discusses the broader implications of his success, reflecting on how such achievements not only highlight individual winemakers but also elevate the entire region. He emphasizes the collaborative spirit within the Willamette Valley, praising local winemakers' shared dedication to quality and innovation. As we journey through Seth's winemaking process, we gain a deeper appreciation for the meticulous attention to detail required to produce wines that resonate globally. Seth's commitment to authenticity and quality offers a glimpse into the daily challenges and rewards that define the life of a visionary winemaker. Join us on the Weinnotes Podcast as Seth Morgen Long uncorks the secrets behind achieving one of the highest accolades in winemaking and shares his aspirations for the future of his craft. Whether you are a wine aficionado or a newcomer to the world of viticulture, this episode is a masterclass in passion, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in winemaking. 00:00 Welcome to Wine Notes: A Journey with AJ Weinzettel 00:24 A Deep Dive into the Wine Making Process with Seth 02:09 Exploring the Seasons of Wine: From Bottling to Sales 02:46 The Art of Wine Tasting: A Blind Test with Chardonnay 09:56 Seth's Passionate Journey into Winemaking 14:06 Learning Through Harvests: A Global Wine Education 23:33 The Challenges and Triumphs of a Winemaker's Journey 36:24 Embracing Self-Validation in the World of Wine 42:21 The Journey to a Hundred Point Wine 43:28 The Art of Self-Critique and Pride in Winemaking 44:34 Exploring the Philosophy Behind Wine Label Design 45:39 The Evolution of Wine Labels and Embracing Consistency 48:51 Vineyard Stories: From X Omni to Blue Heron 53:29 The Significance of Chardonnay Vineyards in Willamette Valley 59:36 Gratitude and Personal Growth in the Winemaking World 01:04:55 The Challenges and Rewards of Small Business Ownership 01:08:16 Celebrating the Willamette Valley Wine Community 01:11:15 A Candid Conversation: From Childhood Memories to Harvest Playlists 01:17:53 Wrapping Up: The Essence of Wine and Community