March 20, 2011

While this is not intended to be a political or financial entry, I can't help but acknowledge that the economy is still on the comeback trail. The evidence in our business is noted by the bankruptcies and sell-offs of notable and/or respectable brands. There are many luxury producers that are not having much success these days selling $40–$100 bottles of wine. I am sure you have seen some of these seemingly good deals on well known brands in the marketplace as these producers look to liquidate some inventory and generate case. The side you don't see is what happens within the industry. And that is where Michael Pozzan and his background as a Negociant come in. We source from all over and buy wine that these same producers choose not to bottle because sales are off, or (again) they need to raise cash. Recently we purchased a substantial about of 2010 Napa Cabernet and Alexander Valley Cabernet from a very well known luxury producer and we will be aging these wines of French oak for another year before bottling and releasing. I feel that the quality of not only these wines, but the other wines in the queue will be Michael's best wines to date. We will soon bottle Cuvee 15 and Marianna blends our best from Napa. We have been busy and I was really excited after making these blends in the lab.

Finally, there is something cooking in South America. Could it be Malbec? Stay tuned, and more on this subject next time.

Cheers,

Richard Bruno

Consulting Winemaker