Happy New Year to you all and thank you sincerely for an amazing first full year of Oakland Yard. We know 2017 was a difficult year for many, but I hope we helped to soften some of its stronger blows; not with the numbing nepenthe of ethyl, but with the conversation, conviviality, and connection that a series of good suppers together can bring about.

And thank you also for your forbearance during our last three days’ hiatus - a much appreciated break for us. Three little piggies went to the coast (one very little indeed). Two little piggies ate oysters. This little piggy shaved his beard and went to Mexico, but Daniel and Jessie will be in today to reopen and pour tasting flights of Spanish wine. You’ll see my face next week, or at least that’s what the return ticket says; I may locate my turtle brethren and fail to resurface.

Speaking of turtles, a third hearty thank you goes to all of you who helped me just barely surpass Daniel in our holiday six-pack sales competition. Slow and steady did win the race, and I hope you enjoyed all of our celebratory selections, whatever your choices. And honestly, I will seek the company of those regal tortugas of the sea, but I’m looking forward to returning to another year at Oakland Yard. With last year under our belt, now we really know what you all like to drink (thankfully, it’s mostly what we like too) and I hope I speak for all of us when I say we’re ready to move into 2018 with renewed strength and confidence.

TONIGHT: Thursday Night Flights! All Spanish Whites or Reds from 4 to 8pm - $12

This SATURDAY, January 5th - from 3 to 6pm: Italian Wine from the Veneto! Tasting flights of Valpolicella and Garganega 

This SUNDAY, January 6th, from 3 to 6pm: Natural Reds from France’s Languedoc-Roussillon and WINE CLUB PICK UP PARTY!!!