David in California's Page

Here is an interesting video about how the effect of climate change has altered, and will alter in the near future, California's wine fortunes:

Napa Wineries Face Global Warming

The harvest has begun! Yields are down this year due to low rainfall and frosts. This doesn't really impact quality, but it does impact quantity of fruit available. This also means that most vineyards will see higher quality due to small berries that yield more concentrated wine. With the recent warm and dry weather and a very small crop, fruit is ripening quickly... sometimes up to 3 brix per week (up to twice the normal rate). Expect phenomenal fruit!

If I happen to miss an episode of the Cellar Dwellers, I just listen to this short audio tribute. I believe that it captures the true essence of Dave & TOG's charm... :o)

L'essence des Cellar Dwellers

I found this to be an interesting wine-related passage from "Moloka'i", a novel written by Alan Brennert, of the quarantined Hawaiian island during the 1890s:

Sister Victor sat down in the lee of a large sand dune that blocked their view of the convent - and the convent's view of them. Catherine sat beside her.

Sister Victor reached into the pocket of her robe, and to Catherine's surprise pulled out a small bottle with a long fluted neck - and two water glasses! She handed a glass to a puzzled… Continue