03.03
Last week, my family and I had the tremendous honor of accepting the Vintners’ Hall of Fame induction of my grandfather, August. The event, held at the Culinary Institute of America, was an amazing gala. Wine industry royalty were in attendance and as you might guess we ate and drank pretty well too.
The 30 or so members of the Vintners’ Hall of Fame is, understandably, filled with mostly iconic producers of high-end Napa wines: Mondavi, Grgich, Martini, etc. So you could see how we felt a bit like the Clampetts driving down Rodeo Drive in their old jalopy. But… It was heartening to see other Sonomans, like Joel Peterson, founder of Ravenswood, and other value wine producers like Bob Trinchero, proprietor of Sutter Home Winery, both inductees.
I did not have the opportunity to give an acceptance speech. Because no one asked. But if I did, I would probably reflect back on a story my Dad told me from a few decades back…
Dad was out to dinner and someone asked him if he was associated with the winemaking Sebastiani family. Feeling proud and almost-famous, Dad puffed out his chest and confirmed, indeed he was part of our clan. The gentleman nodded and said, ‘I love your wines! I drink them all the time. They go great with dope!’
From being paired with a joint to the Vintners Hall of Fame… We’ve come a long way…
Living in New York, near the southern tip of Cayuga Lake (Finger Lakes), I stumbled upon Don and Sons’ Smoking Loon Pinot Noir a few years back. I have never turned away. The 06 was molto buono. I wish there were more of a Don and Sons selection in this area.
With an 08 Pinot open as this is typed, I must hold up a glass in appreciation of the Smoking Loon line. It is an excellent wine, at an excellent price. From Don’s speech as heard here, August’s goal was achieved in producing this wine. Salute…l’amo!!
Nice!! Good job Uncle Don!! XO