Letting Go

Having just come back from the vineyard after a very enjoyable weekend with friends, I realize how truly blessed I am. I often get caught up in day to day worries and obligations and it is invigorating to take a walk around the rows of vines and clear my head. As I looked out over the vineyard, I thought about the stresses of the growing season...bugs, weather, water, soil conditions and as much as I wish I have control over these things, I am quick to realize that the reverse is true. Sometimes you just have to let go! Kirsten and I started this wine adventure ten years ago with passion for the land, and the spectacular views. We knew that this 40 acre spread of raw land on Pine Mountain would be a fantastic place for a vineyard. It took nine stops and starts, a lot of patience, and countless dealings with some of the more interesting characters in the County of Sonoma to finally fulfill this dream! We were able to partner up with Bill Arbios, who planted 21 acres of premium Cabernet grapes which now have deep roots after struggling for many years. One would think that the hard part is now behind us and although they were challenging times, the worries never stop. After harvest winemakers and growers alike ponder the decisions that were made throughout the season and this has been one of the most challenging in recent memory given the cool summer months, burst of intense heat, and rain in the closing weeks, none of which anyone could control or even anticipate. Talk about intense! Our harvest was late this year, and even as of this past weekend, there were still a number of grapes on other vineyards being picked in the rain. But this is the time to "let it go," and as we walked the rows this past weekend and the leaves were turning bright yellow with touches of red and a chill was in the air I couldn't help but look forward to Thanksgiving...my favorite holiday. It brings family and friends together to celebrate, count blessings and share the meal. I look forward to the traditional dishes and the fun of pairing the wines...always an adventure for me! I love the smell of turkey and all the fixings permeating the house and when the afternoon light begins to fade, and we are all gathered together, I am finally able to 'let go' and give thanks!

Here are some fun pairings to consider for the Thanksgiving festivities:

For the starter course:


Ferrari-Carano 2009 Fume Blanc Sonoma County $12.00



Brander Vineyard 2009 Sauvignon Blanc Santa Ynez Valley $11.00



For the Bird:

2007 Inman Family Russian River Valley Pinot Noir $25.00

2009 Melville Vineyards Pinot Noir Estate Santa Rita Hills $22.00



For when it is all done:

Taylor Fladgate Tawney Port 10 Year Old $27.00

Fonseca Vintage Port Bin 27 $18.00




Cheers!!!