Uncorked: Wine Lovers Can’t Get Enough of This Jackson Walker Partner
In the latest episode of Legal Speak from Law.com’s Texas Lawyer, host Laura Lorek dives into the world of wine through the lens of John Jackson—a Dallas-based litigation partner at Jackson Walker LLP who’s become a sommelier sensation with millions of online followers. Titled “Uncorked: Wine Lovers Can’t Get Enough of This Jackson Walker Partner,” the November 7, 2025, episode (published November 6) explores how Jackson, a holder of the prestigious Level 4 Diploma from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET), transformed his passion for vino into a burgeoning “wine empire.” It’s a blend of legal prowess and oenological expertise that’s captivating wine enthusiasts far beyond the courtroom.
Who Is John Jackson?
- Professional Background: As a partner in Jackson Walker’s Dallas office, Jackson specializes in complex commercial litigation, representing clients in high-stakes disputes across energy, real estate, and technology sectors. He’s been with the firm since 2008 and is known for his sharp analytical skills—traits that, as he shares in the podcast, translate seamlessly to the nuanced world of wine tasting and evaluation.
- Wine Credentials: Jackson’s WSET Level 4 Diploma is no small feat; it’s the highest level of wine education short of the Master Sommelier certification, requiring deep knowledge of viticulture, winemaking, and global wine regions. He credits his journey to a chance visit to a Napa Valley vineyard during law school, which ignited a lifelong obsession.
Building His Wine Empire
The episode uncovers what drove Jackson to go from courtroom advocate to wine influencer:
- Online Following: With over 2 million followers across platforms like Instagram and TikTok (under handles like @johnjacksonwines), Jackson shares accessible breakdowns of wine pairings, vineyard tours, and blind tastings. His viral series “Wine Wednesdays” features everything from budget Bordeaux under $20 to rare Burgundies, demystifying the often elitist wine world for everyday lovers.
- Business Ventures: He’s not stopping at content creation. Jackson co-founded Uncorked Vineyards in 2023, a direct-to-consumer wine club sourcing small-batch bottles from Texas Hill Country and California producers. Membership has surged 300% year-over-year, fueled by his authentic storytelling—think videos of him harvesting grapes in cowboy boots while debating case law over Cabernet.
- Motivations: In the interview, Jackson reveals his drive stems from making wine inclusive. “Law taught me to dissect arguments; wine teaches joy in the details,” he says. He also highlights Texas’s emerging wine scene, positioning it as the “next frontier” for American viticulture amid climate challenges in traditional regions.
Why Wine Lovers Are Hooked
Jackson’s appeal lies in his unpretentious style—he’s as comfortable discussing terroir as he is Texas BBQ pairings. Fans rave about his recommendations, with one commenter noting, “John makes me feel like a pro without the snobbery.” The podcast episode, available on Law.com and major streaming platforms, clocks in at 45 minutes and includes a bonus tasting guide for listeners to replicate at home.
If you’re a wine aficionado or just curious about blending boardrooms with barrels, this episode is a must-listen. It aired amid growing interest in “lawyer sommeliers,” with Jackson teasing more expansions, like a Jackson Walker-sponsored wine dinner series in 2026. Pour yourself a glass and tune in—salud!