Sauvignon Blanc, Santa Ynez Valley
With age, this wine has become almost robust and honeyed. Many in the Santa Ynez Valley still talk about the spectacular 1997 vintage and our forecasts for ageablility are holding true. Like many of us, the march of time has brought exciting maturity to this wine, which has become rich in both color and flavor. A burnished golden color leads to subtle almond aromatics and hints of toasty vanilla notes. Pears, Fuji apples and a hint of Fig Preserve, along with a suggestion of almond are complemented by a texture that is rich and honeyed, with a nice little bite of bright acidity. All in all, a lovely, intriguing wine that can be appreciated by the cultured palate! We recommend that you serve the wine only slightly chilled. The 1997 Sauvignon Blanc should be enjoyed now, and is a wine that is most pleasurable when served with a meal. Try with a light-lemon and fig garnished chicken for a perfect marriage!

Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley
It was a challenging vintage in Oregon, and although the sun wasn’t shining at harvest time, this wine is shining now! You will be surprised and delighted at the freshness of this 1997 Oregon Pinot Noir that continues to show bright fruit and a long, lingering finish. The first impression is the color and clarity of the wine – just a slight hint of maroon around the edges suggests that it might be an older wine. An almost jewel-like clarity and a lovely garnet color hint of delights to come. Heady aromas of cherries are persistent on the palate, joined by black licorice, hazelnut, coffee and English toffee. The silky texture coats the palate and leads to a lasting finish replete with earthiness, plum and a hint of rhubarb at the very end. This wine will pair well with a wide range of foods (try Babette’s Date Nut bread!), and is also just delightful on its own. We think it will continue to age well for the next 1-2 years.