Happy New Year! It is time to start all over again. Harvest finished up later than usual but was sufficient in quality and quantity. We are looking forward to making some exceptional wines. The Pinot Noir from “High 9” and the “Clone 6” from Valley View were grapes to wish for. 

 

We couldn’t believe Solvang at Christmastime. Never have we seen so many visitors. The wines were a hit and the Tasting Rooms filled to standing room only. We had a surprise visit from Santa Claus at Christmas and Anjie wanted to sit on his lap! We had a hard time getting the smile off of her face. Andy was thinking of returning to England. How’s that for gossip?

 

2017 Sauvignon Blanc: I think that this Sauvignon Blanc has brought us a step forward.In the past couple of years, we went from a single vineyard designate to using fruit half from Valley View and half from Los Alamos. I hate to use the word “complexity”, but blending the warm climate with the cooler climate grapes just added more flavor and aroma, added a little bit of acidity, and made it fresh, crisp, and more exciting. 

 

2015 Malbec: Definitely one of my favorite grapes, Malbec is still mostly ignored in California. Cheap Argentinian Malbecs fill the marketplace. I consider this vintage to be exceptionally good. Sandy, lead server in our Tasting Room, calls Malbec her favorite variety. She said these famous words: “We’re always better than anything you can get from Argentina or Chile!” How nice to have an authority working for you. All kidding aside, this one has great color, a soft finish, and the nose is so enjoyable that you don’t have to drink it. It makes me dream of lamb chops. (This is what too much medication does to you.)

 

The Queen of Hearts Merlot is back for that special person that you like to talk to heart to heart. On Valentines Day, we have a Valentine Winemaker Dinner at the Alisal Guest Ranch here in Solvang. Room for 150! The time is now! She’s worth it...

 

Each day only comes once in a lifetime. Have a great year.