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Enjoying Old Wines: Consistently Age-Worthy is the Word

When it comes to racking well-aged red wines look for consistency. Erratically produced wines, especially those that don’t come cheap, are no fun when consumed years down the road.

So, one way to improve your odds of success when you finally pop the cork, is to stick with a consistent producer that you have tasted before buying bottles destined for that long wait...

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Miramonte Tempranillo: A West Coast Rendition

Between San Diego and LA you will find the Temecula wineries. While still quite rural, it's great for a short trip...

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On the Napa Wine Trail: Tasting @ Frank Family

Frank Family’s fully equipped tasting facility is fun and friendly. Now, there are more wines to pick from and even bubbly...

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When Wine is Cheaper Than Beer

One of the most amusing debates is about the perfect beverage to consume with Italian cuisine. But which one actually costs you more...

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Wine, a work in progress

"While many celebrate the official end of winter by flipping the calendar to April, we tend to watch the vineyards for signs that spring is here.

As the days grow longer and the temperature warms, the vines wake up and develop plump buds. Soon, the first green leaves and shoots will appear. The growing season is underway at Alexander Valley Vineyards.

The timing of bud break varies with each grape variety, and Chardonnay is usually one of the first in our vineyards. We estimate harvest will occur 175 days after the buds open.

Vintage 2025 is off to a great start. Between October 1 and today, over 45 inches of rainfall has replenished the water table and provided much-needed moisture in the vineyards.

If you walk around the property and look closely, you will see that the signs of spring are everywhere!"

- The Alexander Valley Vineyards Team, 3/31/25

"Our annual Spring release highlights our two core Cabernets from the 2023 vintage, a vintage that will go down as one of the best in Napa Valley history. The 2023 growing season in Napa Valley was ideal, resulting in superb wines across the board. Dense and lush but with wonderful energy and balancing acidity - these richly fruited wines have sumptuous textures and silky tannins that make them delicious now as well as capable of aging for decades."

- The Dakota Shy Family, Dakota Shy Wine, 3/4/25

"What's Happening in the Cellar:


"It’s a time of constant movement, but also a reminder of why I love what I do—crafting wines that reflect the beauty of Washington State and the passion of our team.

Thanks for following along with the journey! If you have any questions or just want to chat about wine, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’d love to hear from you.

Cheers,"

- Marcus Rafanelli, Winemaker, L'Ecole No. 41, 1/11/25