Clark-Claudon’s WeBlog » Engage

Children of the Valley

laurie — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 20:25:19 +0000

My 36th Napa Valley harvest is well on its way. Enjoy my Napa Valley Vintners Blog post about the children’s role in this amazing valley.

I Propose a Toast to Chuck Jenkins!

laurie — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 17:04:23 +0000

We are all hearing such down news every day. But, there are some good stories out there. I had to blog about this particular one. Chuck Jenkins, a wine consultant & educator from Houston, Texas was the winner of the etched 2005 3L we raffled off during Premiere Napa Valley. Rather than just say yahoo and take the wine, Chuck wrote; “

“I originally thought that I’d tell you to to sell the bottle and give the proceeds to your favorite charity (I believe you’re involved with several) but on second thought, I’ve decided to take the bottle and will statrt to make annual contributions to whatever charity you’re featuring on your website. (I see it’s the V Foundation right now, so I’ll be sending them a check in your honor). In the long run, everyone will benefit more, so thank you for getting the ball rolling!”

This again proves that wine can inspire on many levels. I propose a toast to Chuck!

Share a moment?

laurie — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 18:14:33 +0000

Last evening, cooking pasta for dinner; Bocelli’s Italian strains wafting through the kitchen…hmmm, calls for red wine…a bottle of CC ‘05 left over from a tasting two days ago…why not?…soooo yummmy! Dark fruit, deep color, richly delicious…A perfect call…the simplicity of cooking pasta, beautiful music and a great glass of wine.

I always wear a bracelet that says, “Live in the Moment.” It may sound trite, but it helps me keep things in perspective. Life is too precious to do it any other way…sending good wishes

Whoa, stop this…

laurie — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 20:24:49 +0000

I usually love roller coasters. They bring back memories of Santa Cruz, California; we whirled, and screamed through steep climbs, spiraling twists & turns. It kind of reminds me of today, but I am not screaming with joy on this roller coaster.

Everyone in the Napa Valley wine industry has been pretty quiet, but there is no denying that the financial crisis is taking a toll. Many restaurants & wine shops accross the country have a freeze on buying while those who are adding inventory are generally sticking to the under $30 wines. It is not yet clear what this will mean. I suspect that many small wineries & even some large ones will suffer & maybe have to sell. In fact, Kirkland Winery just went on the auction block.

Family owned, small wineries are the soul of the Napa Valley. Winemaking & its connection to nature is their passion while they drive quality, create excitement and assure that the legacy of Napa Valley will survive. After 35 years in the wine industry, I include us in that group. It is up to consumers to insure that the wineries & stories they have grown to appreciate will continue. This holiday season is the perfect time to bring a little Napa Valley soul to your table.