“Follow the Money” Toward Liquor Domination

 No Responses »
Jul 122011
 

Wine Blog“Follow the money,” a quote from  All the President’s Men where Deep Throat advised Bob Woodward that the key to understanding the Watergate mystery was the money. In the case of HR 1161 “The Care Bill” or what should be called the “Wholesaler Protection Act” which seeks to limit or stop direct sales of wine to you from wineries and wine clubs, one only needs to “follow the money.” X

Direct shipment is a critical part of the business plan for many small, family and artisanal wineries.  Small wineries can not compete with large wineries for shelf space in your local wine shop. Direct shipments to happy customers and wine clubs are their best avenue for survival. Continue reading »

Volker Eisele – A Chat with History

 5 Responses »
Jun 292011
 

Wine BlogThe drive from Calistoga to Volker Eisele Family Estate in Chiles Valley (a sub-ava of Napa Valley ava) is a 30 minute climb along a scenic winding two-lane road. As I drove I wondered why anyone would choose to grow grapes in this upper valley. I later learned that Francis Sievers founded Lomita Vineyards in 1870 on the same plot where Volker Eisele planted his predominately Cabernet vineyards a hundred years later. I was greeted at the old Lomita winery building, which now serves as the offices and a museum of sorts, by Volker Eisele himself. His German accent is still pronounced, giving the whole experience an old world feel. Being something of a Napa history buff, I was excited to meet this iconic pioneer vintner. Volker Eisele is featured prominently in the historical book, Napa: The Story of an American Eden by James Conaway. Continue reading »

Valentine’s Day Wine – Sensual or Sexy?

 3 Responses »
Feb 102011
 

Valentine’s Day Wine – Sensual or Sexy? Victoria’s Secret or something a bit more risqué?  Speaking on Temptation, Latin American writer Eduardo Galeano, wrote, “We are all mortal until the first kiss or second glass of wine.” Kisses and wine, a perfect combination for Valentine immortality.

There are plenty of great wines, sparkling and otherwise that would make a wonderful Valentine’s Day gift. But instead of writing about the right bubbly to set a romantic mood, this piece is about two wineries who in their very essence embrace sensuality and the sexual tease. Amorosa Bella embraces and promotes a “Sensual Lifestyle” while the Naked Winery & Orgasmic Wine Company “Aims to Tease.” Continue reading »

H.R. 5034 C.A.R.E. Lives Again… Damn it!

 1 Response »
Sep 162010
 

Wine Blog, best wine blog, love wine

Wineauxs Unite!…

It appeared that the momentum behind the ludicrous H.R. 5034 had waned, but just this Monday retiring Congressman Delahunt of Massachusetts re-filed HR 5034, aka the C.A.R.E. Bill, with some minor changes. He is also asking that the bill be heard before congress adjourns this year. The rumor is a hearing may be scheduled as early as September 29th. Why the rush? Doesn’t Congress have bigger problems than your wine club shipment?

Continue reading »

Page 3 of 812345...Last »