Episode 313 of I’ll Drink to That! has been released and it features Bob Cabral of Three Sticks Wines in Sonoma, California.

Bob Cabral is best known for his 17 years at Williams Selyem, following Burt Williams as winemaker there. But as this interview makes clear, Bob had an extremely interesting and varied career before that, working for some of the most successful big personalities in the wine business. This is a person who used to drive Fred Franzia’s car around, and have long, intense conversations with Jess Jackson. There are all kinds of details in this interview that you just don’t normally get to hear from anyone, ever. Part of the appeal of this episode clearly lies with Bob’s frankness in discussing so many of the aspects of a career that has brought him into close contact with some many major players in the California wine business. But another part of the appeal is just his sheer knowledge of the winemaking and vineyards being discussed, as becomes clear when he goes into detail about the work that went into the little known Williams Selyem Chenin Blanc, for instance. And it is worth mentioning that Bob does not spare his own feelings in this interview, and several moments convey that thoroughly. This is an interview to listen to a couple of times, if you get the chance. You will hear something new each time.

Listen to the stream above, or check it out in iTunes.

I’ll Drink to That is the world’s most listened-to wine podcast, hosted by Levi Dalton. Levi has had a long career working as a sommelier in some of the most distinguished and acclaimed dining rooms in America. He has served wine to guests of Restaurant Daniel, Masa, and Alto, all in Manhattan. Levi has also contributed articles on wine themes to publications such as The Art of Eating, Wine & Spirits magazine, Bon Appetit online, and Eater NY. Check out his pictures on Instagram and follow him on Twitter: @levi_opens_wine