You've very likely heard of the terrible late frosts wreaking havoc in the Loire Valley.

We're very sad to say that Toby and Julie were not spared this year, and are looking at a 90 percent loss for the 2021 vintage. A loss like that is unimaginable for us, but my heart truly breaks for my friends. These two are pure love, their work is honest, and grounded in nothing but generosity and joy.

Of course they aren't alone. One story after another comes in from France regarding frost, and it's still only April. As our life opens up a bit and gets a little freer, please don't let these vignerons stray too far from your mind. In our weird country, we speak with our dollars.
I've no doubt there's a winemaker you love who can use the support right now. If not, I'm proud to make the case for two people close to my heart, who make outstanding wine, and who will be a staple of our portfolio as long as we have a portfolio.

What's coming this week is a first drop of some new things, and some remainders from 2019. Plenty more of the 2020 vintage to come later in the summer.

Vdf “Highway.8” 2019 (Cab Franc)

Sparkling “Johnny Popper” 2020 (Chenin)
NEW CUVEE! This is a slightly effervescent Chenin made after sparkling ciders of Toby's youth. Method Ancestral .

Vdf “50:50” 2020 (Grolleau/Cab Franc)

Sparkling “La Danseuse” Rosé 2019 (Grolleau)

Vdf “Rouge aux Lèvres” 2019 (Grolleau)