We had the great pleasure to join a group of about 100 local Carlton residents, winemakers, business owners, etc. at the lovely hilltop estate of Rick & Heather Karl just outside of town. After we closed the tasting room yesterday at five, Martha, Pirrie and I headed up Stag Hollow Rd. to the Karl’s estate and vineyard – what a spectacular view!

That’s the top of one of the blocks of Rivenwood, with Soter’s Mineral Springs vineyards in the distance. The Karl’s place is sweet, the sun was shining, and the prime rib and pork on the grill was sublime. Everybody brought a bunch of great wine, some local micro-micro brews were on tap, and the company was unsurpassed. A great bunch of folks, kids and dogs all over, huge platters of cupcakes and chocolate-chip cookies – it doesn’t get a whole lot better!

We lingered on and chatted the early evening away, while Pirrie and friends soared on the kid-heaven tree-swing that zooms out over the vineyards – one of those moments when it becomes very clear that “life is good” indeed!

Huge thanks to the Karls for putting on this wonderful day! What a great way to kick off a week of celebrating, wining & dining. I’m really looking forward to seeing everybody coming in for IPNC – friends old and new from all over the planet (and perhaps a decent bottle of wine or two along the way!)

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