Sunday, August 16, 2015
After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, Cindy and headed down 246 toward Clos Pepe. Andrew had told me to come early because of the crowds. Gave me a chance to talk with Wes before the groupies and hangeroners hit. Very bittersweet day. 2014 is the last label of Clos Pepe for at least 15 years. Vineyard has been leased and Wes is headed to J. Wilkes for new adventures.
We hit the library table early and and tasted some outstanding old vintages of Clos Pepe. The last that exist. Said my goodbyes to Chanda and Peregrine, her service dog.
The charcuterie that was put out today was unbelievable. They went all out. Central Coast Specialty Kitchens in Lompoc was in charge. There was a real runny, soft cheese I had never heard of on the table. Zwimbto from Portugal. Just fell in love with this cheese. Must get some.
Had a long conversation with Cathy Pepe. Wished her well in her retirement. She and Steve plan on traveling a lot. Last big affair at the house. Have wonderful memories of all the open houses and especially the private dinners that I attended. Cathy did say Andrew was planning on doing a few events and I asked to be the first one notified. Andrew will stay on with Clos Pepe until all the wines that are in storage are gone. Then he will follow Wes to J. Wilkes.
Starting to get very crowded so we make our departure. Waved goodbye to Wes and he shouted out "I love you". LOL: He should with the money I spend every year at the Clos. Plan on seeing him a J.Wilkes in November when I head up to Avila.
Went across the highway and visited at Huber Cellars. Norm and Traudl are so sweet and nice. Bought a couple bottles of Hafen, a Dornfelder Port. The Hubers are slowly retiring also and selling most of their grapes off. Norm will continue to make a smaller amount of wine every year. Cindy bought several jars of Jalapeno jam that Traudl makes. All proceeds go the the animal rescue fund.
Stopped at Kessler-Hawk, Longoria and Montemar. At Monetmar ran into a couple that was familiar with FAWG, a wine group in the South Bay that I have to some of their functions. How small the world is when you start conversations with strangers. Saw Steve Arrowood, owner of Montemar. Had not seen him for a few years. Nice conversation. Will make a point of stopping back in next time I am in the area.
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