February 2000

We've got the same old crazy weather even with a new millenium. However, the very dry November, December and early January do seem to be giving way to much needed rain in these pails. The clear autumn we had, however, was very welcome as harvest ran later than normal. Maybe the climate hasn't gone crazy after all.

Our 1997 Chardonnay, 1998 Sauvignon Blanc, and 1995 Merlot are now available.

Chardonnays in general, and ours in particular, can vary much more widely in aging potential than many people realize. The common perception is that all white wines, at least those from the new world, are as good as they are going to get on first release, and won't last very long either. However, we have produced some Chardonnays that are improving at ten years of age and are still excellent at twenty or more. On average they peak at seven to ten years and are most enjoyable until at least fifteen. Our 1997 Chardonnay will attain that median category, at least. But, it is highly pleasurable right now. Richness and viscosity are developing nicely and there is a full complement of flavors and aromas present. It goes well with all but the heaviest of foods.

The Mayacamas 1998 Sauvignon Blanc fits our mold, shows our style, in all facets. Mountain grown Sauvignon Blanc is a rare item in this world and the unusual, intense character we achieve derives from the vineyard. Unusually long aging for its type also, drink it anytime in the next five or six years.

Our 1995 Merlot is 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. The Cabernet adds structure (backbone if you will), depth and complexity to the wine. This, coupled with the enthusiastic fruitiness of the Merlot, yields a bottle most pleasant to enjoy now but suitable for aging until 2010, at least. And, no meal is too rich or flavorful for this wine.

As is their wont, our mailing list has outgrown its cage and must be attended to. If you have not bought wine directly from the winery in the last two years, please let us know if you would like to continue to receive these mailings. We are most happy to have you on but don't want to bother you if they are not wanted.

The crew here got quite excited about twenty years ago when they heard we were buying a Lamborghini. Visions of 175 m.p.h. driving danced through their heads. Alas, its top speed was 12 m.p.h. It was a tractor. Now we have a slick new Italian machine, a Landini, which is decidedly racier. It goes 14 mph.