Temperatures warmed this past weekend in the Bay Area and back patio doors opened on Father’s Day to fittingly commence one of America’s greatest past times, barbequing.   Grills up and down my neighborhood block fired up and permeated the air with smoky aromas of charcoal and grilled meat.   Despite the warm sun, a cool breeze […]

Elyse Winery’s (“Elyse”) 2005 Syrah may be long gone from the tasting room, but it is not forgotten:  particularly if you had the foresight to set some aside to cellar. Months ago, I brought a bottle of this gem to work on a Friday for an end of the day impromptu happy hour.  A co-worker […]

Red wine:  there are so many varietals and so many personal preferences.  Yet if red wine has one common denominator it is that it is good, pure and simple.   Whether your preference is Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Grenache, Pinot Noir or other varietals, when red wine grapes are made into a blend, the wine has the […]

Winter continues to sidestep the true arrival of spring in the Bay Area as rains fall heavily and fog ensconces homes in the evening.   Continued moisture ensures blooms and on pace, spring continues to press forward despite slightly abnormally wet conditions. Whether in the rain, the fog or by luck of catching a break in […]

Napa Valley and the rest of the Bay Area have been enjoying two weeks of glorious spring-like weather.  Graced with warm sunny afternoons, early signs of spring are emerging whether it is blooming mustard or wild flowers.   Kicking back in the sun with some light appetizers and a glass of wine this weekend, I found […]