Nightcap 5: Blackthorn by the Glass - Wine Made From Intental Heat

In the latest Nightcap episode from Renegade – A Blackthorn Podcast, we’re heating things up by diving into the fiery magic of carbonic maceration. You might’ve heard of it peeking around in descriptions of fruity reds or whispered by winemakers—tonight, we unpack how the heat inside each grape builds energy and flavor.

Lean in close—this one’s short, punchy, and designed to spark your curiosity (and maybe your palate).

So… What the Hell Is Internal Heat Wine?

Simply put: carbonic maceration is a wine‑making method where whole grapes ferment from the inside out, without crushing or exposing them to oxygen. Think of it as winemaking powered by the internal heat of the berry—transforming itself into bold, expressive wine.

What do you get? Bright, juicy reds that sometimes taste like candy or perfume—but with enough backbone to make you wonder what you’re drinking.

What’s Inside This Episode

• Allie brings us Love You Bunches, a personal favorite showcasing the style’s exuberance.

• We spotlight a wine that’s part of the Carbonic revolution in Santa Barbara County, and beyond.

Why It Matters

Tonight we're talking:

• What carbonic maceration actually does to grapes

• How internal fermentation yields playful aromatics and vivid flavors

• Why this technique turned into a revolution in winemaking right here in Santa Barbara County

• What to look for in labels or tasting notes if you’re ready for something energetic and unfiltered

Pairing Tip from the Episode

Poured one of these wines? Grab some slightly funky cheese or fruity chocolate—this is a sip meant to flirt and surprise, not play it safe.

Join the Rebellion

At The Blackthorn Club, we believe wine should feel alive—unchained from dryness and pretension. Nightcap is where we break the rules, chase the edge, and tell wine like it’s a story you want to sip on.

So light some candles, tweak the lighting, press play, and meet the magma inside your wine glass.

🔐 Want more rebellion in every sip?
Join the (free) Blackthorn newsletter and unlock the password to secret pours and rituals.

Shop this Episode: Love You Bunches Carbonic Sangiovese