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Full Radio Show: Steve Ledson, AmaWaterways Wine River Cruise Host & Head of Lebson Winery, Sonoma: In a rather interesting interview Paul Lasley encounters an AmaWaterways Wine River Cruise host who happens to have a family history going back over 150 years in the Sonoma Valley in Northern California. Steve Ledson, a fifth generation winemaker, tells fantastic stories about his Great Great Grandfather who was making wine in the 1860s and scores of relatives along the way who farmed produce or made in the Valley for generations. The famous Ledson 16,000 square foot Gothic/Normandy style edifice Castle Hotel is a landmark in the area and Steve Ledson has refurbished a number of old buildings in Santa Rose, such as the art deco Rosenberg department store building that houses a Barnes & Noble and Ledson's executive offices. Ledson hosted an AmaWaterways Luxury Wine River Cruise from Paris to Barcelona on the Rhone River, called Provence & Spain, and enjoyed it so much he is booking another one as wine host with the full intention of filling the whole ship with his followers. On the cruise in November 2014 there were 40 people who were booked by AmaWaterways and most all of them came away from the cruise as fans and consumers of Ledson wines. About Ledson Family: Our family winery is located in the heart of Sonoma Valley, a short one hour drive north of San Francisco. Ledson Staircase Emerging like a gothic blast from the past out of acres of rolling vineyards and pastoral calm, our 16,000 square foot French Normandy winery is known as "The Castle" around the world. Originally designed as our family home, the contractor and designer in me got carried away and it quickly became clear that the architectural showpiece was much better suited to house our planned winery. We specialize in small varietal lots that reflect the genuine diversity of our select vineyards and appellations. Ledson wines are sold exclusively at the winery in Kenwood, in our online store, and at the Ledson Hotel in Sonoma. We have developed a number of different wine club programs, offering members preferred pricing and access to wines not available to the public. With over 70 wines to choose from, there is something for everyone. Boasting beautifully appointed hand-crafted tasting bars, impeccable grounds with picnic areas shadowed by 100-year old majestic oak trees, a fully stocked gourmet market as well as a tasteful clothing and gift boutique--the Ledson Winery is the breathtaking backdrop for an afternoon picnic or a weekend getaway.