If you have not yet heard from your favorite news sources, over the past few weeks there have been torrential downpours throughout California Wine Country. Although this article points out that, "There were no immediate reports of damage to wineries," we'll have to wait and see what if any damage has occurred to the vines. While the vines are currently in the dormant stage (following harvest), the real threat is that debris such as logs has flown into the vines. In some cases, at lower altitudes, vines were completely submerged.

Chicago Tribune Wine country starts cleanup after rains

Pessagno Winery is the culmination of a 20-year dream of Stephen Pessagno, managing partner and winemaker, to produce limited quantities of exclusive, luxury wines from prestigious single-designated vineyards in Monterey and San Benito counties. The winery and tasting room is located along the River Road that winds through the Santa Lucia Highlands with scenic rural wine country vistas of the Salinas Valley at every turn, a perfect setting to experience Pessagno’s exceptional wines for distinctive tastes.

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The 5-year-long battle over the meaning of "Napa" has moved to what should be the final arena -- the U.S. Supreme Court.

As the whole nation prepares for the NCAA Football National Championship game to be played on January 4th at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, it seems as though California Senator Dianne Feinstein has wagered a bottle of wine that USC will win!

We wonder if we can convert Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison, R-Texas, into a Wine Club member at some point in the future?

ESPN.com - NCF/BOWLS05 - Senators bet wine, roses on outcome of Rose Bowl

Bob and Sue Brakesman purchased the 21 acre Carlo Farazzi Ranch on Howell Mountain in 1971 with a dream of ownership and a passion to make a world class wine. Twenty-five years later, the dream and the passion are an on-going reality. Summit Lake Vineyards is well known for their commitment to produce award winning Zinfandels, and their hospitable down to earth style.

The epitome of a California Boutique Vineyard, Summit Lake is what we are always shouting about. Family operated and ferociously protected, it took me two weeks of groveling to get Bob's daughter Heather to let us bring these extrodinary wines to you. I strongly suggest you take advantage of the opprortunity AVA Wine Club has acquired, and buy up as much of these selections (especially their world famous Zinfandels!) as you can.

With a tasting room "by appointment only", and a perch atop Howell Mountain, Summit Lake Vineyard's limited production, quality driven wines will bring you back to winecountry with every sip.

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