cat shepard

Tina, thank you for sharing your journey. You are off to a wonderful start!

Thank you for today’s FR&D, Rich! Another spectacular morning. 71 and no humidity. Yesterday was a totally “unhumid” day. Hoping for another one. Vanessa, I was so happy to read that you had a good night and didn’t need to do the maneuver yesterday. Here’s to many more! Thank you for taking such care with our lists. No gym today. But Bindi walks and lots of outside chores will keep me busy. Then wrapping up the day at a friend’s for supper. It should be a great day! Prayers for all who need our support. Tana, Terry (so happy the cavalry has arrived), Annie & Chuck, Melisa & DH, Ann & Pat, Bonnie, Terri & Jim, Jane’s son, Tony (so happy to read he is doing a bit better) and Jacqui. Cheers to all who are celebrating! Sandi, happy to read that DS’ surgery went well. I can not imagine not being able to use it for 3 weeks! May we each find a reason to smile today! ************ 2020 Grauburgunder, Jülg, Pfalz This white German Pinot Gris wine has led me on a merry chase. Most sites were in German, and sadly the one that actually seemed to have the best info - could not be translated even with Google. Even the vintner’s site didn’t mention it. 🤔 maybe because one could no longer buy it from them. But Vivino consumers love it. A solid 3.9 out of 5. Medium bodied, on the dry side and not too acidic. Decently priced, but a tad elusive unless you are in Germany. Though I did find one distributor that shipped to England. Average price per bottle - according to Vivino -$16.99. Winemaker notes Recently invited to join the prestigious VDP, Johannes Jülg has taken his place as a producer of some of Germany’s finest Pinot Noir. Weingut Jülg is a stone’s throw from the French border, and half its vineyards are in Alsace. A further French connection is Johannes’s spell under Thierry Brouin at Domaine des Lambrays, which taught him to focus on complexity and elegance rather than obvious primary fruit. He also spent seven years working at top German estates, including Weingut Keller, before returning home in 2011, when his father handed him the reins of the twenty-hectare family estate. His primary focus has been to improve work in the vineyard with new French clones and denser planting, and the resulting wines have become finer and more balanced, with impressive Chardonnay and superb Pinot Noir. He is gradually expanding his Pinot Noir holdings – seizing any opportunity when choice vineyards become available. In 2021 the estate converted to organic practice.

Thank you for today’s FR&D, Rich! It is a glorious morning here! Reminiscent of April & May! And temps are supposed to be low (for here) this weekend. Vanessa, I am so bummed that you are still dealing with the dizziness. I pray that the maneuver makes it go away permanently. I can only imagine how scary that must be. Thank you for keeping up with all of us in spite of everything you are dealing with. Gym, Bindi walks, chores, one hour devoted to “stuff for my next donation” and if possible - pool time. Prayers for all who need our support. Tana, Terry, Melisa & her DH, Annie & Chuck, Pat & Ann, Bonnie, Jane’s DS Tony, Terri & Jim and all our caregivers. Cheers to all who are celebrating! May we each find a reason to smile today! *********** Lynch Bages 2020 (750ML) If you insert the word “Chateau” at the beginning of this Bordeaux wine’s name, it immediately transforms from the name of a horror movie monster to that of a wine. And what a wine. Wines with this type of rating usually sell for a heck of a lot more. The consensus of the critics is that this one is a classic. You can pay a bit less per bottle, if you buy a case of 6 bottles, but online prices for a single bottle start at $125.00. Winemaker Notes #3 Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2023 Blend: 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petit Verdot 99James Suckling beautifully layered red with blackcurrant, hazelnut and lead-pencil character and fine, velvety tannins. Full-bodied and reserved. It’s like a tightly knit ball of polished tannins that are cashmere in texture. So very long and impressive. Give this time. A terrific Lynch. Better after 2027. 98Wine Enthusiast Bold black fruits and dense, textured tannins are very much in the style of the estate. What is new in this vintage is the extra precision that lifts the wine, bringing together the beautiful black currant flavors of ripe Cabernet Sauvignon with a refined texture of sophisticated tannins. This is an impressive wine, sure to age over many years. Barrel Sample: 96-98 98Wilfred Wong of Wine.com COMMENTARY: The 2020 Château Lynch-Bages is a complete wine with substantial and enduring richness. This wine shines with aromas and flavors of bold blackberries and boysenberries balanced with excellent oaky nuances. Enjoy it with slow-grilled, lightly seasoned short ribs. (Tasted: January 27, 2023, San Francisco, CA) 96Decanter The lowest amount of Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend on recent record but the signature of Lynch Bages is very much in play here - tons of liquorice, grippy and charismatic cassis and blueberry fruit with a velvety texture layered with blackcurrant pastilles and rich dark chocolate. This is easily one of the best Pauillacs that I have tasted in the vintage, totally gorgeous. The 33hl/ha yield meant I was worried that it would be too concentrated, but it pulls it off, although you've got to assume that they will need to be careful over ageing. Lower alcohol than both 2018 and 2019, a more classical balance in fact. 4% Cabernet Franc completes the blend. Barrel Sample: 96 96Jeb Dunnuck The 2020 Chateau Lynch-Bages brings even more density and depth and is another vin de garde in the vintage. A blend of 61% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot, and the rest Cabernet Franc, aged in 75% new barrels, this inky hued beauty boasts a ripe, powerful, full-bodied style that carries serious concentration as well as building, ripe, velvety tannins. While it doesn't have the elegance of the 2019, it brings beautiful cassis and blackberry fruit, lots of spice, graphite, and lead pencil aromatics, terrific balance, and a blockbuster finish. It's going to need at least a decade and will have 40-50 years of prime drinking. Best After 2023. 96Wine Spectator Gorgeous from the start, with cassis and violet notes leading off, followed by additional waves of black cherry and blackberry fruit as well as sweet tobacco and iron. Shows subtle savory and cedar hints that stay in the background, as the iron note pierces through the fruit on the finish. Almost approachable for the fruit, but wait if you can. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2026 through 2040. 95Robert Parker's Wine Advocate The vintage that inaugurated the estate's new state-of-the-art winery, the 2020 Lynch-Bages has turned out very nicely, offering up aromas of crème de cassis and blackberries mingled with notions of pencil shavings, spices and classy new oak. Medium to full-bodied, deep and layered, with good concentration, ripe, powdery tannins and a seamless, integrated profile for such a young Lynch-Bages, it shows considerable promise. The blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot incorporates more Merlot than usual, reflecting relative yields in the vintage more than any stylistic shift. Best after 2030. Rating:95+

Thank you for today’s FR&D, Rich! It’s a muggy morning, without even a hint of a breeze. Lots of deer out this morning, including our last fawn of the season. It still has its spots! Vanessa, I am so sorry to read that the dizziness has migrated. Hopefully a “one and done”. When I list the folk I want uneventful medical lives for - you are there. Thanking for keeping up with us. Gym, Bindi walks, chores, a visit to my pharmacy to start my vaccines needed for Egypt and maybe some pool time. Prayers for all who need our support. Melisa, stunned by your news. I pray that whatever treatment is prescribed is successful. Tana, Terry, Chuck, Annie, Jacqui, Jane’s son Tony, Bonnie, Pat, Ann, and all our caregivers. Cheers to all who are celebrating. May we each find a reason to smile today. ******** 2021 Portugieser/Lemberger/Cabernet Sauvignon, Melchior, Markus Heid, Württembe What a name! This light & fruity German red blend sounds like a fun one to try. I usually prefer medium bodied - bolder wines, but it is priced to try. I found a few online distributors, but none that shipped to me. Online prices start at $9.83. Distributor notes Weingut Heid are a certified organic, 12 hectare farm in Fellbach, Wurttemberg, which is widely considered as Germany’s leading region for red wine. The Melchior is an enticing blend of Lemberger, Cabernet Sauvignon and Portugieser that is delicate with crunchy red fruits, hints of parma violets and an elegant, dry finish. Delightfully different and a great wine to drop into a blind tasting.

Thank you for today’s FR&D, Rich! Another lovely morning in the neighborhood. Yesterday’s humidity culminated in a whopper T-storm that totally surprised the painters touching up the building that houses my favorite local wine bar. The storm passed quickly and was done by the time I left. Vanessa, thank you for keeping up with us. Praying that the maneuver helps, and you are able to build up your strength and endurance. Bindi walks, HIIT, my departing neighbor comes over to hang out while her place is being cleaned & I return her spare house key 😞. She signs her closing papers this afternoon and flies out to Utah tomorrow. Prayers for all who need our support. Tana, Terry, Chuck & Annie, Pat & Ann, Bonnie, Terri & Jim, Jacqui and all of our caregivers. Cheers to all who are celebrating. Safe travels Sandi & Dennis. May we each find a reason to smile today. *********** Daou 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon (Paso Robles) In some Countries this would be a red blend, not a Cab. But this blend makes me really want to try this one! Easy to find. Priced to try. And drinkable now! Online prices start at $12.99. Winemaker Notes The 2022 DAOU Cabernet Sauvignon exemplifies Paso Robles. The nose is highly perfumed, showing aromas of black cherry, cassis, plum, desert sage, sandalwood and dusty minerality. Secondary aromas reveal notes of cigar box, leather, bay leaf and black olive. The palate is rich and weighty, offering generous flavors of black raspberry, spicy currant and blueberry compote with impressions of Bing cherry, boysenberry, fig and baking spices. Ripe, fine-grained tannins carry into a structured finish with lingering accents of cherry, espresso and vanilla. Blend: 77.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15.6% Petit Verdot, 6.5% Merlot, 0.4% Cabernet Franc Professional Ratings 91Wine Enthusiast It's amazing that the Daou brothers can produce a formidable Cab that is this accessible at such a young age. The palate combines rich blackberry sauce with espresso bean and cocoa, as lingering, sappy tannins extend through the finish.

Thank you for today’s FR & D, Rich! It is a glorious morning here. Almost cool! But we had some wild storms yesterday afternoon. Coming back from Jacksonville on 95 wasn’t particularly fun. I am so thrilled I don’t have to do that every day. My visit to the Continuous Care Community was a bit overwhelming, but so informative. I love the outdoors and this community was developed in an amazing area. We saw turtles, a Blue Heron and a large white crane just in our short trip around. And one of the gentlemen we met was watching for “the manatee”. So lots to think about as I tour a couple closer to me. Vanessa, glad you can do your maneuver today and hope this will eventually cure it. Thank you for taking such great care of our lists! Gym, Bindi walks, chores, foraging for food at my departing neighbor’s (I hope there isn’t much left), and wrapping up the day at my local wine bar. Prayers for all who need our support. Dixie, Bonnie, Tana, Terry, Annie, Chuck, Terri, Jim, Jacqui. And all our caregivers. Cheers to all who are celebrating! Please wish Dennis a Happy Birthday, Sandi! May we each find a reason to smile today! ********** Brooks 2019 Bois Joli Riesling (Eola-Amity Hills) I guess I need to try this Willamette Valley Riesling. But if I don’t like it, I will just move along to dry Rieslings, which are my current faves. A decent number of distributors with online prices starting at $20.90. Wine Enthusiast 95 If you can't bring yourself to love this medium-dry Riesling, you need to move along to the next grape. Its primary aromas of apricots, Meyer lemons and thyme dance nicely with traces of petrol and earthy petrichor. The lemon curd, white tea, guava and tonic-water flavors are complemented by a wee bit of talc. The Bois Joli's acidity will impress even the most jaded palate.

Best wishes, Dixie!

Terri, thank you. It is not my birthday, but I appreciate the sentiment. Thank you for the suggestions. We toured Westminster Woods. Which is just South of 295 near the Saint John’s River. I talked to two different couples - one today at Westminster Woods and the other who moved to a place in Palm Coast, who visit my favorites local wine bar - who left Cypress Village within the last year. Both said the quality of service had declined and the staff turnover was a big concern. And though I love the beach, I would not want to be very near it. There are two places much closer to where I am now, but the draw of the airport and Mayo is big. I confess my head is whirling from all the info, sights and details of the day. Lots to think about.

Thank you for today’s FR&D, Rich! It was a lovely morning for a walk and I got to see this morning’s launch travel along the Coast before it headed UP! Fascinating, no matter how many I see. Vanessa, thank you for keeping up with all of us! Hope you are feeling better. Today Bindi heads off to day camp at Pet Paradise, and I head North to tour a Continuous Care Community in Jacksonville. My good friend Jan and another woman we work out with are going together. The other woman has a good friend who lives there, so we will not only get the official tour, but also a current resident’s perspective. I am not ready to commit to anything, but I am starting to think about it. My niece & nephew will have enough to worry about with their Mom, so I want see what is out there. We have several in the Ormond Beach area, too. But Jacksonville has two huge things in its favor: an International Airport and a Mayo Clinic. I have my list of questions ready, and with three sets of eyes & ears we can compare notes afterwards. Prayers for all who need our support. Tana & Terry, praying that you both have a good, uneventful day. Chuck & Annie, hope the two of you have a pain free, uneventful day. Joy, praying for Bonnie, you & your entire family. Cheers to all who are celebrating! This means you, Rich! May we each find a reason to smile today. *********** Jermann-Pinot-Grigio 2022 I used the 2022 vintage info, since it should be ready to enjoy now, and is still fairly easy to find. This is not my “go to” white wine. Lately I have gravitated to white blends. But I would definitely try this wine, and who knows - I might really enjoy it. Online prices start at $20.99. Winemaker Notes Pinot Grigio from Pinot Grigio grapes, fermented as a white wine. It has an intense straw-yellow color; its aroma is intense, full and fruity, with excellent persistence. Its taste is dry, velvety, fragrant and persistent. To be paired with fish soups, chargrilled seafood and various dishes based on field mushrooms and porcini mushrooms. This wine is wonderful with squid ink lasagnette pasta and crayfish sauce. 92Wine Enthusiast This classic Pinot Grigio’s aromas flow out of the glass showing fresh orchard notes, white flowers, lemon drop candy and crushed stone. It’s lively on the palate with the sprightly levity of lemon zest, green apple skin, wild green herbs and a zip of acidity. 91James Suckling Really fresh and pure on the nose with typical sliced apple and lime zest characters. Chalk and a hint of white fruit, too. Crisp and refreshing on the palate with bright, zingy acidity and a limey, nervy finish.

Happy Birthday, Rich! @richwmn May you have a great new year Editor-in-Chief! Thank you for creating such a wonderful community! Ann proud member of the F & B team

Prayers for Bonnie, Joy. And you too!

Thank you for today’s FR&D, Rich! A perfect morning for a walk. Yesterday’s rains took a bit of the humidity out of the air. Last night’s dinner was great. The air fryer scallops were perfect So tender and moist. And so easy. A keeper recipe. Actually two recipes since I used the garlic/parsley butter sauce from a second recipe. Though the scallops were tasty enough on their own. Vanessa, thank you for keeping up with our happenings. Gym, Aldi, Bindi walks, clean up from last night and lots of chores. Maybe some pool time. Prayers for all who need our support. Tana & Terry, praying that you have a good, uneventful day. Chuck & Annie, praying that your day is uneventful and pain free. Praying that all our caregivers find time to take care of themselves. Cheers to all who are celebrating. Bon Voyage Maureen & Richard! May we each find a reason to smile today. ************ Francis Coppola Diamond Collection Claret 2021 Lots of fans of this wine. Easy to find and priced to try. I used the 2021 vintage info. Online prices start at $13.02. Winemaker notes The crown jewel of the Diamond Collection showcases flavors of plum, black pepper, and cocoa. Diamond Collection wines are made from grapes grown across California and are carefully combined to create wines perfect for all occasions – including those special just because ones. Since its inception, Claret has been the crown jewel of the Diamond Collection. This year’s Claret reflects a diversity of varietals and vineyards whose soils contribute to the wine’s complexity.

I totally forgot to add this pic of Bindi. She is pouting because I would not give her 74,000 treats. @ottahand7 Nancy what a lovely wedding picture!

Thank you for today’s FR & D, Rich! Sandi, thank you for covering for Rich when he goes off on his next adventure in September! It was just starting to get light when Bindi & I headed out this morning. The crows were just starting to wake up - I bet they wake up all the other birds in the area. Not too humid, and the breeze gained momentum during our walk. I welcome it, since we are under another heat advisory. Vanessa, thank you for keeping up with us. It is an endless task. Gym, Bindi walks, chores & hosting the farewell dinner for my departing neighbor. Just a small group tonight. I am going to try air frying scallops for the first time. Wish me luck. Boy am I glad that I never taught Bindi to read, or spell for that matter. But I have to confess, every day is spoil your dog day here. Prayers for all who need our support. Tana, praying that you and Terry have an uneventful great day! Chuck & Annie, same goes for the two of you. Praying for all our caregivers. Bless them. Jack thank you for Sam’s pictures. Hugs to you & your DW! Cheers to all who are celebrating! Happy Birthday @Tbay Enjoy your day! Safe travels Maureen! May we each find a reason to smile today. ********** Angove Shiraz Vinyard Select 2021 Another Australian wine to enjoy! I used the 2021 vintage info, because it is easy to find. It is certainly priced to try. I would definitely try it, though I prefer my Shiraz tempered with a tiny bit of Viognier. Who knows I just might like it. Online prices start at $11.99. Distributor notes 91 Point Rated & 4.5 Stars Sam Kim Wine Orbit Fifth Generation Family Owned & Operated Winery Premium Single Vineyard Organic McLaren Vale Shiraz Vintage: 2021 Source/Region: McLaren Vale, South Australia Grape Variety: Shiraz Cellaring: Drink now Bottle Top: Stelvin Alcohol Content: 14.50 Standard Drinks: 8.60 Rating: 91 Tasting Notes: Fruited and fragrant on the nose, showing dark plum, blueberry, rich floral and hazelnut notes, leading to a fruit-expressive palate that's succulent and silky. Technical: Angove Vineyard Select Shiraz's aim is to showcase the very best Shiraz that can be made from the McLaren Vale, one of Australia's icon regions for the variety. Sourced from various premium vineyards across the region, the wine simply shouts McLaren Vale! Loads of morello cherry and dark chocolate aromas and flavours are present along with silken tannin integration. A superb long length finishes off a masterstroke in regional expression.

Thank you for today’s FR & D, Rich! It is grossly humid out already, but the breeze is just beginning to wake up. I hope it helps. Under a heat advisory from 10 - 6 today. We had one yesterday, too - but the strong wind had already started before the sun came up. And it helped a lot. Then the evening T-storm helped. Vanessa, thank you for keeping up with all of us! Gym, Bindi walks, chores, and maybe some pool time. Prayers for all who need our support. Jack, thinking of you today. Tana, praying you & Terry have a good day! Chuck & Annie, praying you both have a good day! Cheers to all who are celebrating. Maureen - remember to breathe! This whirlwind prep will be worth it when you board that ship. Jack thank you for the wonderful pictures of little Poppy! She is precious. Happy 80th Birthday Smokey the Bear! May we each find a reason to smile today! ************* Liberty Lake Wine Cellars 2020 Scooteney Flats Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Several distributors refer to this vintner as a boutique winery. I found just a few distributors. Wine Enthusiast’s review stressed the “soft tannins” of this Columbia Valley Cab. It sounds lovely. Online prices start at $26.99. Critical review: SavorNW Complex aromas draw you in with prominent notes of dark berry jam and cedar with secondary hints of black pepper, baking spice, pipe tobacco, vanilla and dried herbs. On the palate, a nice mix of black cherry and chocolate is upfront, followed by notes of bell pepper and dried herbs, finishing with earthy hint of clay dust and graphite. - Reviewed by Gary Hayes AVA: Red Mountain, Washington SavorNW Award: Best of Class 2023 Judges Score: 95 Points

Wine loving travelers, I am not sure how comprehensive this info about tasting rooms is, but it is a great idea. Hope it helps. https://www.wineenthusiast.com/tasting-rooms/

Thank you for today’s FR & D, Rich! It is warm & humid out, but the breeze helps a lot. Debby still hasn’t quite left us we still get sporadic brief showers that are actually pleasant in all this humidity. Even Bindi doesn’t seem to mind them. Can you believe the Arctic Circle’s temp yesterday was higher than Florida’s! Last night’s dinner out with my departing neighbor & a bunch of friends was great. The food was wonderful & we were seated next to a couple we knew! And then our County Sheriff, an amazing man, wandered in for an event, and when we greeted him, he came over to chat. It was a fun night. Vanessa, thank you for all you do. Hoping that your medical life is soon boring. 🤞🏻 Off to my Doc’s for an early visit. I hope to visit Egypt this year and want to discuss which shots I should get & maybe even start them today. At least the ones that won’t expire for a few years - just in case I don’t get there this year. Then Bindi walks, chores and maybe some yard work - ooh and pool time. Prayers for all who need our support. Tana, praying that you have a good day. And that you & Terry are bored - medically. Chuck, praying that you and Annie have a boring day. Really boring! Terri, praying that you and Jim are safe from Debby. Praying that all the bullying bosses see the light and realize that people make it happen. And one should treat them well. Jack, I will be with you tomorrow in spirit. Please hug Sam for me. Cheers to all who are celebrating. May we each find a reason to smile today. ************ Molly Dooker Red Two Left Feet 2022 I love when I can guess a wine’s country of origin by its name! This one just screams Australia! And it sounds like an amazingly powerful red blend. I used the 2022 vintage info, because that is what the winemaker was highlighting. Fairly easy to find, reasonably priced. I would love a taste. Online prices start at $23.99. Winemaker notes WHAT IS TWO LEFT FEET? Two Left Feet is what can happen when you dance after a glass or two of Mollydooker. TASTING NOTES: The 2022 Two Left Feet wine stands out for its lively balance. The Shiraz grape adds depth, while Merlot and Cabernet contribute fragrance and lifted notes. On the palate you’ll notice the dominant plum and mocha notes with a touch of toasty oak. The red fruit flavors feel silky due to the soft tannins. The taste journey continues with hints of licorice and blackberry jam, creating a joyful experience that celebrates the blend’s diverse elements. TECHNICAL NOTES: 70% The Boxer Shiraz, 15% The Scooter Merlot and 15% The Maitre D’ Cabernet Sauvignon. Two Left Feet has been Barrel fermented and matured in 98% American and 2% French oak, using 35% new, 49% one year old and 16% two year old barrels. The required Marquis Fruit Weight™ for the Lefty Series is 65% – 75%. The Actual Fruit Weight for 2022 Two Left Feet is 67%.

Thank you for today’s FR & D, Rich! It is super windy here - perhaps Debby’s last hurrah! But I love how it keeps the humidity tolerable. Still have an occasional sprinkle or shower, but nothing big. Vanessa, happy to read that your ENT visit went well. Thank you for keeping up with all of us! Gym, Bindi walks, chores, then dinner out with a bunch of friends to celebrate my neighbor who is leaving us next week. I will have a final dinner for her this coming Saturday, but this evening’s dinner will be a big group. Corinne is such an amazing lady. Prayers for all who need our support. It pisses me off that I need to pray for Annie & Elizabeth because their bosses aren’t leaders, just managers. Tana, praying that you have a good day. Terry, praying that you have a boring day. Chuck and Annie, praying that you both have good and boring days. For all our caregivers, praying that you take care of yourselves, too. Jack, praying that you find solace in what an amazing life Sam has had with you. Cheers to @RMLincoln Maureen- how wonderful! What a fun thing to do for yourselves. After all the two of you have overcome! Woo hoo! Debbie, thrilled to read that both the back & leg are better! May we each find a reason to smile today. ********** 2022 Pinot Blanc, Maximin, Maximin Grünhaus, Mosel Sorry everyone, I pulled a fast one and changed the vintage to 2022. It should be easier to find, had more info available and more critical acclaim. I would love to try this one! Online prices start at $21.00. Winemaker notes A finely fruity and precisely defined Pinot Blanc from the red slate soil of the Grosse Lage (grand cru) Herrenberg vineyard. Our Pinot Blanc grows exclusively in the upper portion of the Herrenberg vineyard, notable for its red slate soils. It is spontaneously fermented in neutral Fuder casks produced from our own local oak. This ensures that the wood does not influence the taste of the fruitiness and freshness of the wine, although it does impart a refined structure and elegance. The Pinot Blanc is bright and fresh, with all of the verve you would expect from a cooler, higher-elevation site. ABOUT MAXIMIN GRÜNHAUS This historic estate dates back to the 7th century, when the vineyards and buildings were donated to the Benedictine order of St. Maximin. The monastery was privatized by Napoleon in the early 19th century. In 1882, it was purchased by an ancestor of Maximin von Schubert, who is the sixth generation of the family to own the estate. Work in the vineyards is done in close harmony with nature. Fertilization is organic, and no pesticides or herbicides are used. The wines ferment naturally in the deep, cool cellar, where they are matured in stainless steel tanks and neutral oak casks. THE 2022 VINTAGE A warm and dry spring led to an early start to the growing season where budding began in May. The dry conditions were clearly noticeable in the vineyards as the young vines struggled. Our luck changed when rain finally hit the Ruwer at the end of August. Cool nights and small rain showers accompanied us through an otherwise optimal harvest. While 2022 will be remembered as a hot vintage, the wines are extremely fresh, have mouthwatering acidity, and superb precision TECHNICAL INFO Vineyard Source: Maximin Grünhaus Herrenberg Vinification: Native yeast fermentation in neutral Fuder casks; no malolactic fermentation. Alcohol: 12.5% Sustainably Grown Pesticide & Herbicide Free [91] James Suckling “Attractive nose of fresh nuts and generous body are married to a delightful creaminess, the touch of oak deftly complementing this impressive depth. Long finish with a touch of melted butter character.” — August 2023 [90] Wine Enthusiast “Fresh and lively, offering vivid flavors of Bosc pear and green apple, with hints of mineral and floral combining in a distinctive package. Lovely effort.” — May 2024

@Heartgrove Jack, I was sorry to read about Sam’s decline. But remember what an amazing life he has had with you. Always remember that. And know you are giving Sam the most important gift. Ann

Jacqui, this is the perfect place to come & share your feelings. I know we can’t physically help you, but we are rooting for you. I pray everything goes smoothly, so you don’t have anything else to handle. ❤️ PS Thanks for the tip on the wine.

Thank you for today’s FR & D, Rich! The winds are still swirling around & gusting, but we were really lucky. My rain gauge shows I barely received 2 inches at my place. My strong Easterly winds helped out again by bringing huge bands of drier air & mixing it with Debby’s clouds. Still some tornado watches/warnings floating around in Florida, but… the sun just broke through the remaining clouds. I pray that @Cruzin Terri you & Jim literally weathered the storm, Terri. Vanessa, thank you for keeping up with all of us. Praying the ENT can help you. Gym, Bindi walks, chores, maybe some pool time. I see a few small branches down, so need to do a bit of yard cleanup. Prayers for all who need our support. Tana, praying that you have a good day. And that Terry has a boring (relatively speaking) one! Chuck & Annie, I pray you both have good & boring days! Cheers to all who are celebrating! @lobsternight Happy belated Birthday to you! May we each find a reason to smile today. ************ Prager 2021 Ried Zwerithaler Kammergut Smaragd Grüner Veltliner (Wachau) Grüner Veltliner is the one white wine I have never been a fan of. But then again, I have never had one that cost more than $30. This Austrian wine has a huge number of consumer fans and has superb ratings from critics. So perhaps this one is lovely. But I will never know, since online prices start at $134.98. Distributor notes Franz Prager, co-founder of the Vinea Wachau, had already earned a reputation for his wines when Toni Bodenstein married into the family. Bodenstein’s passion for biodiversity and old terraces, coupled with brilliant winemaking, places Prager in the highest echelon of Austrian producers. Smaragd is a designation of ripeness for dry wines used exclusively by members of the Vinea Wachau. The wines must have minimum alcohol of 12.5%. The grapes are hand-harvested, typically in October and November, and are sent directly to press where they spontaneously ferment in stainless-steel tanks. Zwerithaler is a sub-site of Buschenberg and sits to the east of Weißenkirchen. The name Zwerithaler, meaning "nestled between the valleys," is a near monopole of Weingut Prager. It has a complex soil of paragneiss with alternating layers of dark and calcareous rock. Zwerithaler Kammergut is a 0.34-hectare parcel planted before WWI. The wine from these ungrafted, 100-year-old vines was bottled separately by Prager for the first time in 2015. Light greenish yellow, silver reflections. Fine savory, delicate nuances of anise, tobacco notes, delicate yellow fruit, a touch of mango and honey blossom. Full-bodied, juicy white apple fruit, well-integrated, silky acidity structure, finesse and long persistence, saline finish, lingers for minutes, Veltliner at its best. -Falstaff 99 Points "The aromas of this old-vine gruner veltliner leap out and shake you to the core. Full-bodied and full of weighty and balanced layers of papayas, mangoes, nectarines, chives, white tea and oranges. Fantastic concentration, giving so much pleasure already, but it will keep blossoming if you give it time. From vines planted in 1907. Sustainable. Drink or hold." -James Suckling 98 Points

Happy Birthday, Melanie! I am so sorry I am late. Not sure how I missed this. 😞

Wonderful news Jack! Congratulations to the entire family!

Thank you for today’s FR & D, Rich. Though it has been raining steadily since about 5 p.m. yesterday, we have only had a few heavy downpours. I have been able to find enough times to get Bindi out without her even minding too much. Lots of low level swirly winds, but the strong gusts seem to be at the tree top level. Fort Myers had a two foot storm surge yesterday, and places that are still recovering from Ian’s devastation were flooded again. My friends are far enough from the shore, and rebuilt to FEMA standards, so they are ok. @Cruzin Terri and @seagarsmoker be safe. Those outer rain bands reached South Carolina before the real rain started here. You are in my prayers. Vanessa, thank you for keeping up with all of us. I really appreciate knowing that if I miss something important, I will find it out on one of your lists. Gym, Bindi walks (when there is a lull in the rain), lots of chores. I will not have to add water to the pool, though. Prayers for all who need our support. Tana, praying you have a good day. You & Terry deserve a nice, boring day. That goes for you, too - Chuck & Annie. Praying for both of you. Praying for all our caregivers. Bless you & keep you strong. Cheers to all who are celebrating. May we each find a reason to smile today. ************** Marqués de Cáceres Reserva Rioja 2018 I used the 2018 vintage info, since it was widely available and drinkable now - though one expert suggests waiting until next year. It really sounds lovely. And it is reasonably priced. Online prices start at $13.98, though Sam’s Club offered it for $10.99. Distributor notes A sparkling dark ruby shade. An intense and complex nose, combining a multitude of pleasing sensations. Ripe black fruit flavours, milky , coconut and mocha notes are layered against an oak and balsamic background with harmonious structure. On the palate, the wine is flavourful and voluminous with mellow tannins and a subtle spicy finish revealing a hint of eucalyptus. A great wine which expresses luscious fruit, spicy touches revealing a strong identity of its origins. Wine Enthusiast WE93 James Suckling JS91 Wine Spectator WS90

Thank you for today’s FR & D, Rich! Super cloudy this morning. Bindi wanted to know what we were doing out in the dark! The storm track has shifted again to the West, so if it doesn’t change again I might just get a couple of inches of rain. Hope all our West Coast (of Florida) Dailyites are safe. Vanessa, thank you for posting our lists every day & keeping up with all of us. A never ending task! Gym, Aldi, Bindi walks, chores - especially outside ones - before the rain arrives. Fairly certain there won’t be any pool time today. Prayers for all who need our support. Tana, praying that you have a good day, and Terry has a boring one. Chuck, praying that you & Annie both have boring days - at least medically boring ones. Cheers to all who are celebrating! May we each find a reason to smile today. ************* Petrolo Galatrona 2021 (750ML) This Tuscan Italian red blend sounds amazing. I would love a taste even if a bottle is outside of my price range. Widely available. Online prices start at $89.98. Winemaker Notes Intense elegant wine with great structure and complexity, lovely balance between acidity, fruit and tannins. A great wine, beyond the grape varietal it is made from, must be expression of the piece of land it came from. Beyond being essentially good, it has to be a classic in its own way. 98James Suckling The aromas here are very distinct with dried flowers such as lavender and violets. Some sage as well. Black berries and black olive skin. Full-bodied yet linear and energetic with very fine tannins and fantastic length. Fresh and lively in the finish. Merlot. Best after 2026. 97Decanter Vivid purple in the glass, gorgeous black cherry and blackcurrant aromas with touches of florality - this 100% Merlot smells wonderfully scented and inviting. Smooth, ample, really quite seductive on the palate, sensual almost in the silky but gripping tannins, beautifully ripe blackcurrant and cherry fruit and crunchy, crisp acidity that is not too sharp or too obvious but lifts the palate and gives a thrill and wonderful freshness to the overall expression. Beautifully presented, harmonious, balanced and totally enjoyable from the first to last sip. A gorgeous wine, intense yet energetic, full of flavour and textural nuance. Totally unputdownable, although with lots of potential for improvement over ageing. The wine spent 18 months in French oak tonneaux and barriques, 30% new. 3.56pH. 97Wine Enthusiast The nose showcases a vast world of savory aromas, from sanguine to metallic to woody to earthy, with cranberries, currants and dark berries providing sweet contrast. A lively palate runs with the warmth of earth and just-ripened fruit, alongside austere tannin's that promise age worthiness. An absolutely acrobatic feat in Merlot. 97Robert Parker's Wine Advocate The 2021 Val d'Arno di Sopra Galatrona shows extremely focused aromas, but very generous ones all the while, with soft mint, cherry and stracciatella over a full-bodied texture with soft layers of spice and cedarwood. The wine boasts an elegantly chalky quality to the tannins, but the mouthfeel is so generous, everything irons out beautifully over the palate. Rating: 97+ 96Wine Spectator Though seamless and lusciously saturated with black currant, blackberry, violet, iron, tobacco and spice aromas and flavors, this red is also solidly built, with polished tannins. Nevertheless, this is more about finesse and elegance than power, with a vibrant profile and superlong finish.