Wine Spectator’s Straight Talk podcast is brought to you by Maison Ruinart.
In our Season 4 finale, Wine Spectator senior editor for news Mitch Frank sat down with Andy Beckstoffer, one of Napa Valley’s pioneering and most influential leaders. The interview focused on how Beckstoffer assembled his portfolio of ‘historic vineyards’, his impact on pricing and how a focus on land, instead of just winery brand, helped drive a shift in Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon category
Plus, it’s our annual count down of Wine Spectator’s Top 10 Wines of 2026. Host and senior editor James Molesworth gives the rationale behind each selection. And you’ll also hear an exclusive reaction from the producer behind this year’s winning wine just minutes after they learned the news!
Don’t forget, there’s always more free content at WineSpectator.com.
Editor’s note: After this episode was recorded, Marvin R. Shanken, founder of M. Shanken Communications and editor and publisher of Wine Spectator, passed away on Oct. 29, 2026. We will have more about Marvin in an upcoming episode of the podcast.
Links & Resources
Marvin R. Shanken, Editor and Publisher
Host: James Molesworth
Guests: Andy Beckstoffer, Mitch Frank, Paul Hobbs
Head Producer: Gabriela Saldivia
Assistant Producer: Chris Cardoso
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