Al Spoler
Host, Cellar Notes and Radio KitchenAl Spoler, well known to WYPR listeners as the wine-loving co-host of "Cellar Notes" has had a long-standing parallel interest in cooking as well. Al has said, the moment he started getting serious about Sunday night dinners was the same moment he started getting serious about wine. Over the years, he has benefited greatly from being a member of the Cork and Fork Society of Baltimore, a gentlemen's dining club that serves black tie meals cooked by the members themselves who are some of Baltimore's most accomplished amateur cooks.
His most rewarding immersion in cooking came through his work as a television director at MPT. Spoler served as off-line editor and assistant director on two series featuring the legendary French chef Pierre Franey. He also worked with Mexican chef Patricia Quintana, and with Bed and Breakfast expert Gail Greco on her series "Country Inn Cooking". Al says traveling all over the US visiting country inns and taping recipes that they prepared in little makeshift television kitchens was an incredible education.
Spoler's tastes in cooking are influenced by regional tradition and contemporary casual French fare. Never slavish to recipes, he is never happier than improvising a Sunday dinner with whatever ingredients come to hand.
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From the rugged hills of Rioja to the sun-drenched plains of Ribera del Duero, Spanish red wines are as diverse as the landscapes they come from. In this episode of Cellar Notes, we explore the bold flavors, aging traditions, and regional nuances that make Spanish reds a staple for any wine lover’s cellar. -
Elegant, aromatic, and wonderfully food-friendly, White Côtes du Rhône wines offer a unique blend of richness and freshness. In this episode of Cellar Notes, we explore the character of these Rhône whites—featuring grapes like Viognier, Roussanne, and Grenache Blanc—and why they’re a standout choice for spring and summer sipping.
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Breezy, bright, and brimming with Mediterranean charm, the white wines of Southern France offer a refreshing taste of the region’s relaxed elegance. In this episode of Cellar Notes, we explore the floral notes, minerality, and food-friendly appeal of these often-overlooked gems—from coastal Picpoul to lush blends of Roussanne and Marsanne.
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Crisp, floral, and full of zing, Rieslings are the perfect match for spring’s fresh flavors and lighter fare. In this episode of Cellar Notes, we celebrate the versatility of this vibrant varietal—from dry to off-dry to delicately sweet—and explore how Riesling’s bright acidity makes it a go-to pour as the weather warms.
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Renowned for its elegant wines and stunning coastal terroir, Leeuwin Estate is a crown jewel of Western Australia's Margaret River region. In this episode of Cellar Notes, we delve into the estate’s rich history, world-class Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, and how Leeuwin continues to blend artistry, innovation, and tradition in every bottle.
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Zesty, peppery, and refreshingly versatile, Grüner Veltliner is Austria’s signature white grape—and a rising star on the global wine stage. In this episode of Cellar Notes, we uncork the charm of Grüner, exploring its hallmark citrus and spice notes, food-pairing prowess, and why it’s a must-know for fans of fresh, expressive whites.
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Spring is officially here, and all sorts of little green things are poking their heads up through the soil. Among the daffodils and crocus are the tender little tops of herbs that are making an early arrival. -
With our long-awaited Springtime finally at hand, it’s a good time to mentally shift gears and begin to cook a little differently. Various foods that we haven’t had access to all winter long are now available, and Chef Jerry Pellegrino will tell you that spinach is leading the parade. -
The Cotes du Rhone has long been a source of high quality reasonably priced wines, and Hugh is here to tell you there’s good things on the way. -
When a major French winery decides to invest in California wine country, you know that something good is bound to happen.
