This year’s harvest started and finished a bit late, but we still had enough time to get all the grapes picked before the rains showed up. Quality-wise, this year’s crop was very good. The size of the crop was below average, which I attribute to the cool spring during the flowering period of the grapes. That cool spell was also partly responsible for harvest finishing late. Dan and Alberto handled some challenging situations in the vineyards and got things done. Megan did an outstanding job making the wine—we made it difficult for her by harvesting so many varieties at the same time. I’ve reviewed the wines, and it should be a very good vintage. Conclusion: the challenge was met!

2021 Sparkling Rosato: My old girlfriend, Malvasia Bianca, showed up a little in this wine! (She was from Delano, so we have to excuse her!) This blend is 95% Chardonnay with a splash of Malvasia Bianca for some spice and Dolcetto for color and finish. It was made in the traditional style, but we added some fun to it. A great holiday party wine—another reason for fun!

2021 Rosso Dolce: I’m not supposed to say this is a sweet wine, but the powerful character and flavor of this grape can cover up the sweetness that would naturally result from the grape sugar. The flavors from the Freisa skins balance the sweetness, giving this wine a new dimension. It’s a new experience—and a good one—especially at the holidays when we serve it with lamb, rich game meats, strong cheeses, or anywhere you’d enjoy a Port.

2020 Toccata Riserva: One of my favorite sayings is that this is the best wine in the Toccata house. This is a true traditional Super Tuscan with Bordeaux grapes blended with Sangiovese. Recently, the Italians began to term Super Tuscan as anything red, which is far from what it was originally conceived to be. Sangiovese complements the Cabernet by softening the tannins a little bit, adding a smoothness to the wine. Over the years, we have made a few adjustments. This vintage has over half “Clone 6” Cabernet Sauvignon, our best and most expensive Cabernet, blended with 20% Merlot, 9% Sangiovese, 9% Cabernet Franc, 5% Freisa, 4% Petit Verdot. I wouldn’t want to change it. It is a unique wine and it has been a hit with almost everybody.

This is a special time for family and friends. I look at Christmas as a gift from heaven. It all begins there. It’s hard to follow that without being naughty or nice!