Why yes!  Even though it is late May and most of the United States this very week is heating up to encourage an early arrival of hot summer days, I do say “Cabernet” . . .  I just say “Cabernet Franc” with unbridled enthusiasm.   Hot weather screams for crisp white wines, the icy […]

  Cabernet Franc is a varietal which some may know, some may not know; some may pass over, and some may smartly cherish. Often found as a blending grape in well-know Cabernet Sauvignon wines, from time to time when a winery has exceptional fruit and/or an exceptional year, Cabernet Franc will be bottled as a […]

  It is winter throughout the United States.  For many it involves more time spent indoors with ample opportunity for contemplation.  In the last week Napa Valley at long last received anticipated rainfall.  While many folks have enjoyed a warmer than average winter, I envision many a vintner watching those long overdue raindrops and wondering […]

  With the arrival of the New Year, everything is seemingly up for scrutiny, contemplation and improvement.   In a rush to leave the holidays behind in the rear view mirror, 2011 sits in the background obscured by a cloud of dust.   While innovation, progress and growth are welcome there is still room for reminiscence.  Perhaps […]

  This growing season in Napa Valley has not been without its challenges.  Rain and cooler temperatures visited the valley early in the season and growers watched breathlessly hoping that “shatter” would not happen.   The summer then progressed far cooler than average.   Yields are less, yet flavors should be more concentrated without high sugar levels, […]