Ep. 051 Mel Goldman, Keuka Lake Vineyards
/🎙️ Legacy, Land, and a Life of Purpose with Mel Goldman
From Peace Corps volunteer to vineyard founder, Mel Goldman has always been driven by something bigger than himself. In this deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation, Mel reflects on the values that shaped his decades of work across continents — from building schools in Nepal to starting a wine legacy in the Finger Lakes.
We cover the why, the where, and the how of his story — and at the center of it all is Mel’s unwavering belief in doing meaningful work, no matter the odds or the season.
In this episode, we explore:
🌍 What the Peace Corps taught Mel about humility, community, and contribution
🧪 The surprising link between international development and winemaking
🧭 The foundation of Keuka Lake Vineyards — and why they planted against the grain
🍇 The terroir, tradition, and tension of growing Riesling and hybrids in the Finger Lakes
🧤 The value of collaborative learning in a “non-fancy” wine region
🛠️ Why starting over at age 50+ might be the most values-aligned move you make
💬 Reflections on legacy, mentors, and what makes the Finger Lakes… the Finger Lakes
Whether you’re curious about global development, entrepreneurship, or just love a good origin story — Mel delivers it all with heart, humor, and honesty.
📍 Learn more: https://www.klvineyards.com