Sonoma to Stew: Onye Ahanotu Blends Science, Culture, and Wine Pt. 1
Forrest welcomes Onye Ahanotu, founder and winemaker of Ikenga Wines in Berkeley, California. Onye shares how his journey—from growing up in Sonoma County to studying chemical engineering—merged with his Nigerian heritage, culinary passion, and artistic drive to create a bold, culturally rooted wine brand. Discover how fufu, palm wine, and art all influence his winemaking philosophy.
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Guest: Onye Ahanotu, founder/winemaker at Ikenga Wines
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Location: Berkeley, California
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Origins: Grew up in Sonoma County, inspired by the rise of the local wine industry
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Educational background: Chemical Engineering (UC Irvine) + Materials Science (University of Michigan)
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Cultural Influence: Nigerian roots, family meals, fufu, and palm wine traditions
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Philosophy: Wine as a fusion of science, food, travel, and art
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Fun Fact: Palm wine can be a breakfast drink in Nigeria!
