Jeff’s Corner 1-25-18

Howdy, Howdy, and one more BIG Howdy!

There’s been lots going on for January, so I thought we could take some time for a couple updates.  Last week, Kath and I returned from Sonoma where I was once again privileged to judge the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.  With 6,960 entries from 35 states and 67 judges from across the country, the SFCWC is the Super Bowl of wine.

Once again, Grape Creek wines were a brightly shining Texas star.  We sent 17 wines, and just like last year all 17 came home with medals.  Our flagship Bellissimo, Viognier, and Pinot Grigio garnered Double Golds; while Mosaic and Muscat Canelli reeled in Golds.  Great job Jason and all your crew; you guys are the best year after year after year…

Personally, I stayed pretty busy.  The first three days of judging (where the medal winners are chosen) I scored 313 wines.  Day four is the Sweepstakes round where we chose the best white, red, rose, sparkling, and dessert wine from 74 finalists.  All the results, with lots of really cool info, is available at www.winejudging.com.  Check it out!

If this weren’t enough, right after we got home it was time for our 4th Annual GCV Staff Appreciation Day.  Holy Mackerel!  Brian and Jennifer spoil us rotten all year in so many ways, but we are so rotten after this event we should probably be put in detox.

This year Brian and Jean rented over 60 luxurious rooms for us at the Hotel Valencia on the River Walk in San Antonio, and treated us to a fabulous dinner at Bohanan’s Prime Steak and Seafood.  Great food, great wine (my favorite was the Inglenook Cabernet, one of the legendary California Cabs from the 60’s), and fantastic company.

When folks ask me what it is like to work at Grape Creek, the first emotion I feel is pride.  It’s what I imagine it would have been like to play for Casey Stengel and the Yankees in the 50’s.  As a team, GCV is invincible.

With all this said, the best part of these evenings is when Brian gets up to speak.  Then, it’s all about us.  One-by-one, he recognizes the many facets of GCV that make us click; starting with Jennifer, and then Jason and the winery crew.  All of us, in every department, in every capacity, get a big pat on the back.

Brian, however, should get the biggest pat on the back of  all.  He is an undeniable force, not just at Grape Creek but in the entire Texas wine industry.  His generosity and compassion for us is ongoing, everyday.  He leads us with example, honesty, and integrity.  Our faith and trust in him is endless.

And so, Jennifer and Brian, thanks not only for the lovely evening and gracious hospitality, but also for the security you have provided in all our lives; we are very proud to be a part of your family.