Curiosity, Connection, and a Glass (or two) of Wine with Ron Higgs

New to wine or just tired of feeling intimidated by tasting rooms? This one’s for you. I’m joined by Ron Higgs, Navy veteran, systems engineer, craft-beer lover turned wine volunteer, who went from “I can’t drink wine without making a face” to seven years pouring in a boutique Woodinville winery. We trace his journey from Monterey (where both of our palates woke up) to Santa Rosa/Healdsburg weekends and Washington wine country, and we share exactly how to start exploring wine without the fuss.   In this episode: How a non-wine drinker became a tasting-room regular—and then a volunteer Monterey memories: the first “aha” sip and why starting light works Sonoma & Santa Rosa highlights: seeking small, boutique producers over big names Woodinville 101: what makes Washington’s tasting rooms special “Co-opetition” in wine: how small wineries share gear, knowledge, and customers A practical script for walking into your first tasting room with confidence Why travel changes your palate—and how to use that to find wines you love   Connect with me: Questions, ideas, or a favorite pairing to share? Email me at cheers@thewineguy.vin or find all my links at thewineguy.vin. If you enjoyed this conversation, please follow Pour and Explore, rate the show, and share it with a friend who loves to cook and travel.