I don’t know about you, but I really look forward to my ’12 Questions’ posts. These Q&As with cool and influential people in the wine industry are not only fun to read, but it’s amazing to see how each individual’s personality really comes through in their answers. This next participant in my 12 Questions With, winemaker Jeff Fischer, is no exception.
I first met Jeff when I did a story on him for my wine column in the SB Sentinel, but I had heard good things about his wines long before that. Jeff makes wine for his label, Habit Wine, for which he produces varietals such as Chenin Blanc, Gruner Veltliner and Pinot Noir. The wines are low in alcohol, high in acid, big on complexity and just really lovely examples of wine from Santa Barbara County. I’m a big fan!
You may remember that Jeff Fischer is not only a winemaker, but a successful actor, too — most famously known for playing his alter ego TV character in the series American Dad. Cartoon character and winemaker… yep, that’s pretty unique!
Keep reading to find out more about this TV personality/talented winemaker. A few of his answers actually made me laugh out loud. Cheers!
12 Questions with Jeff Fischer
What’s your current job title?
Actor / Winemaker
How did you get started in the industry?
Drinking at a young age. I waited tables for years serving mostly French wine , then started making wine in my garage for years, before working at Margerum Winery in 2008. Doug was kind enough to help me start Habit.
What is your most memorable wine or wine tasting experience?
Drinking wine with my Grandfather and my Dad, eating and laughing. Those are the memories I cherish most about wine, bringing friends and family together.
Do you have a go-to wine and food pairing?
Oysters and Picpoul
What’s the strangest word/s you’ve used to describe the smell or taste of wine?
It’s amazing what can pop into my head when tasting. I’m not as esoteric as some, but I did smell south east Asian temple incense identical to a place I visited years ago.
Which wine varietal do you think is underrated?
Cabernet Franc
Is there one person in the industry you really admire and/or has been a role model for you?
There have been many, anyone who has been making wine for years is a hero in my book. Ernst Storm is the winemaker I have tons of respect for and he has been an amazing mentor to me as a winemaker and great friend.
Side note: Ernst was a recent participant in my ’12 Questions With’ series… be sure to check it out after this!
When you’re all wine-d out, what is your drink of choice?
Anything with Alcohol. I love Gin.
Favorite place in the world you’ve visited?
Cambodia, I went the year the border opened back up and it was the most magical few weeks I’ve spent anywhere. Such a testament to the human spirit.
If you had to describe yourself in 3 words, what would they be?
Mentally Unstable, Outgoing, and Driven
Do you have a random talent or party trick?
The ability to fall asleep anywhere at anytime, not so useful at most parties
What 3 things would you take on a deserted island with you other than water?
Hallucinogenic Drugs (for entertainment) Wasabi (for my sashimi), and a gun (in case I’m forgotten)
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Thanks to Jeff for participating in this month’s Q&A! To learn more about Habit Wine, check out my post earlier this year or visit the Habit Wine website.
