I was at an Easter brunch a couple weeks ago. The hosts, on top of preparing a massive feast of everything imaginable, had also organized a Cornhole tournament involving all adults and teenagers. There was an egg hunt and a decorating station. A TV remained on in the main room for those who wanted to step inside and check in on the NCAA tournament. The most thoughtful detail of all was the consideration for the smallest humans there, an assortment of all kinds of Play-Doh and other tactile things laid out in the front room for little ones to play with (my daughters, in this case - the younger who just turned four the day earlier).

There is a particular type of vision: a sensitivity, a uniquely aware heart and a generosity of spirit, that has the ability to consider others – perhaps all others - in such a way. We may be lucky to experience this with a great host - or a rare leader. We may be fortunate to have a parent, sibling, or friend with this quality. Maybe the most admirable quality there is. We talk about this a lot as a staff here, how we can try to see all and best be present, helpful, welcoming. And how we can hold awareness for what may be behind the quick question: a quiet anxiety, a humble joy, or hidden grief beneath our brief interaction.

I also think of Max and his noble quest in this regard too. Him tasting through hundreds of bottles each month, an endless cycle of curation... always with a consideration for everyone who may come through our doors, and their vast spectrum of tastes and interests. His patient and persistent efforts to find new wines that are vibrant, fresh and dynamic - and to maintain a selection of favorites that honor our integrity and represent the highest quality and value. Considering all. And making certain there is something for everyone and for every occasion. Wines that can be paired with a spring feast, or maybe just a game of cornhole in the backyard. Or, perhaps, just a quiet glass to enjoy while watching your little ones make Play-Doh turds.


Beyond our bottle selections, we will continue to do our best to offer some additional excitement for all. There will be more special events, guest winemakers, curated flights, and food Pop Ups coming your way in the weeks and months ahead! Including THIS SATURDAY 4/20: DARUMA KIOSK returns to OAKLAND YARD! Cal-Japanese inspired Takoyaki & Izakaya food from @darumakiosk! Food Pop Up from 1-6pm. Flights from 2-6pm and wines by the glass all day until close!

But first...TONIGHT: THURSDAY NIGHT FLIGHTS: French whites and Austrian reds
2021 Phillipe Viallet Savoie Blanc
2022 Domaine Tardieux Gal 'Les Sagéres' Sauvignon Blanc
2021 Domaine Huards 'Romo' Cour-Cheverny
2021 Felix BLAU Blaufrankish
2022 Johannes Trapl 'Uni6'
2020 Prieler Blaufrankish
Tasting flights $15 from 5-9 and wines by the glass until 9pm

SATURDAY 4/20: LOIRE VALLEY Flights... Daruma Kiosk Food Pop Up from 1-6pm. Flights from 2-6pm and wines by the glass all day until close!
2022 Sebastian Bruntet 'Aprent' Vouvray
2022 Domaine Raffaitin-Planchon Sancerre
2021 Domaine Timothée Delalle 'La Burette' Val de Loire Rouge
2022 Pierre Olivier Bonhomme 'Le Telquel' Rouge
Tasting flights $18 from 2-6pm and wines by the glass until 9pm

Cheers,
Daniel