Why I Love This Business

I have to say that with all life can throw at me - the winery, the kids, the bills, the family BS in a family business, well, sometimes things can get pretty overwhelming.  Sometimes I wonder out loud about hanging up my winery hat and trying something different.  And then, in an instant, I am reminded why I love the wine industry so much. 

Last night, we hosted our annual Sonoma County Harvest Fair judges' dinner at our home.  Each year, on their "off night" we invite the judges and their dates for a casual dinner.  This has become something of an annual tradition and, over the years, we've made lifelong friends with many of the attendees who are invited to judge year after year.  I always like to bring out a "moldy oldie", a treasure from our cellar. This year it was our 1999 Estate Fumé Blanc DCV3 Vineyard. Wow. Breaking bread together is always a terrific way to get to know people and it's great for the winery because we get to share our wines with a mixture of trade and media personalities.

But, that's not really why we have the dinner.  I've come to realize that some of my greatest friends are also a part of the wine industry.  It's so special for us to reconnect over a wonderful meal and some delicious wines all the while enjoying a warm autumn evening in wine country. Sitting around the table last night listening to the din of laughter, clinking glasses and friendly chatter, I took a deep breath and felt very thankful for all that I have. 

Because, at the end of the day, isn't life all about your family, friends and those you cherish?  I think what makes wine so great is that it binds us together in common purpose to share memories and experiences that last a lifetime.  Last night, was one of those memories I will always cherish.