When I first tasted the ’08 Esperance I could not believe the 15%+. The balance was amazing. I’ve recently tried some local (805) wines that were “labeled” at 15.8% and they rock’d! Not the least bit overly fat. Of course we both know with the TTB, the real % is likely higher….but the point is that there was good acid, good fruit, good balance…..seems to be points some seem to miss when putting 14%+ alcohol on blast.

I wrote something I called “Wine Civil War – Why Do We Do It?” Seems there are far too many divisive aspects in the wine world. Many say “drink what you like” but yet put out the blast…..”oak vs no oak, this region or that region, alcohol levels at this point or lower.” I truly appreciate all styles, including 13% or less. The constant finger pointing relating to wine scores and the American palette……guess I still haven’t been able to figure out why it’s an issue. I’m American, and I drink what I like.

I can make any of my wines in my possession pair. Food friendly has never been an issue for me. Maybe the other guys don’t know how to pair food (joke) or sell wine? No need to apologize for making kick butt wines! Balanced cheers!

After living three years in a blue law State, I’m so appreciative to live in a wine liberated State. In Texas, you cannot purchase alcohol on Sunday before noon in a restaurant, unless there is food on the table. In some counties you cannot buy beer/wine after midnight, but you can drive to a bar and drink till 2 am, then drive home. Some are dry, and you have to drive to another county to make a wine/beer purchase. No logic from my perspective in some of these laws.

I support Free The Grapes, but would likely be more vocal if I did not live in CA.

Andrew