Destemmer/Crusher Update:
You may remember a blog posting from last harvest when our destemmer/crusher (Machine that destems and crushes grapes) broke during the processing of the very last grape of the year. I said that I had 10 1/2 months to fix it. Well, I still haven't even looked at it but the good news is that I still have six months before I need it again. Stay tuned.
I've been on the road for the last 5 days doing tastings in Portland and Seattle. Thursday night I was pouring at McGinn's Wine Shop in Portland. I like this place for many reasons but mainly because the owner, Jerry isn't afraid to crank the music. He doesn't play it quite as loud as WRC Employee of the Month, Runner-up, Ryan, but he still rocks. I enjoyed meeting all who were there and it was nice to see winery visitor, Bill. One time I had to run to the store for something and Bill and his wife, Alice watched the tasting room for a few minutes.
Friday night I poured at Country Cottage Wine in Bothell. This event was fun for several reasons. One, I was pouring all night next to my buddy, Joe from El Mirador. Two, I was entertained late into the night by the shop's owner, Rudy. And three, I got to hang out with some really great people. If you ever get a chance to play darts with Rudy you'll laugh your ass off. I suggest that you wear a full face helmet. CC wine shop does tastings every Friday night and Rudy is a big supporter of Washington wine.
Saturday was one of the most fun tastings I've ever done. I was pouring at George's Wine Shoppe in Bellevue. George has a great selection of wine but my favorite feature in his shop is the under-utilized pole in front of the tasting bar. I challenge any other winemaker to pole dance as well as I did in George's store. Employee, Wendy thought that I had great potential. George may have needed a few glasses of our Cabernet Franc to get the image out of his mind but those who saw me work that pole were eager to get out their $1.00 bills. I also had a great time after the tasting.
Here's a free plug to a nice wine bar/restaurant in Buckley, WA. Coho Wine Bar doesn't sell WRC but I went there for dinner Sunday evening with Ma and Pa Joel. Great food, great service and great wine. I hope to return someday.
I was very pleased to pull up to the winery today and notice that the vineyard pruning is nearly complete. I made a huge dent in it before I left but Vineyard Manager, Gavin has it nearly complete. Nice hustle, Gavin. The next time you visit the winery and run into Gavin, give him a little slap on the ass and tell him "Good job". As a matter of fact, do it to me also.
This coming weekend I'll be pouring wine at the Portland Spring Beer and Wine festival. It's going to be in Portland this year. I'll be sharing a table with Craig from Northshore Cellars. I'm really hoping Craig doesn't cross-dress this year. Come on down and visit. Mention the blog and receive a free pole dance.
You're always welcome to dance on my center stage, Husum!
Joel
