The Paulée trifecta has begun, and I’m off…
First off, thanks to all who joined us Saturday at the winery and Saturday night at the Allison for our La Paulée de Carlton festivities. It was a huge success and it seems everyone had a blast. Each of these events takes on their own personality and character, driven by those who attend and the wines they bring. Shall we just say that Saturday night was stellar on both counts!
Martha with Guest of Honor Andrea Johnson
So many great wines going around the tables! I pulled one of the last three bottles of our very first Pinot, the 1999 Pisoni Vyd. – and it was showing really well. Very happy to see how it had developed and matured. I had absolutely no idea what I was doing when that wine was made (not that I have much of an idea now), but it is a miracle and a blessing from the wine gods and goddesses that the wine is silky, rich, and stunning today. Huge kudos to my mentor Greg LaFollete who made sure I didn’t screw it up too badly back then!
La Paulée de Beaune 2008
I will use this space today to make the first “soft” announcement of my upcoming first book. I have begun the research and writing process for a book on the history of the La Paulée celebration – from the ancient tradition of throwing a harvest feast for the crew at each Burgundian estate (a practice that continues today) – to the world famous La Paulée de Meursault and other private Paulées in Burgundy and around the world. It should be rich with historical anecdotes from many of Burgundy’s legendary wine personalities, tasting notes on hundreds upon hundreds of once-in-a-lifetime old Burgundies, and of course some wonderful photography as well. It is my hope that it will appeal to Burgundy lovers, and wine lovers of all stripes. The thought is to have it ready for release in the fall of 2011. I’ll keep you updated here as we progress…
And I am off – for a quick couple of weeks in Burgundy for the Hospices de Beaune auction, two Paulées (my poor liver!), and tastings with all of our producers – it will be over before I know it. I will post as often as possible from over there – and hope to update frequently on Facebook & Twitter as well – so stay tuned.
I am detouring on the way back through England, we’re I’ve been invited to Manchester to see the Manchester United v Everton match. Even though I’m a die-hard Arsenal fan, I’m way excited to go to Old Trafford and see my first English Premiere League game in person – the atmosphere and energy in the stadium is supposedly un-matched anywhere on the planet. I am psyched, to say the least. (And will not be wearing my Arsenal jersey to the match!) More from the road – à très bientôt!
