The Duke has reserved the following dates on his calendar. Don't miss out!! Be sure to mark your calendar, too.

September 21, 2008 (Sunday) The New West Symphony presents its annual Symphony of Wine. This year's Maestros of Food and Wine are "long"-time friends of the Duke - Bob and Pat Long of Long Vineyards! Proceeds from the event support NWS's youth programs. If you would like an invitation and are not on NWS's mailing list, call us here at the store and we will make certain that you receive one. Can't stand the wait for snail mail? Follow this link to learn more details and to purchase tickets online.

September 25, 2008 (Thursday) Join the Duke's next Wine Association seminar as we present an array of affordable 2005 Bordeaux. Yes! You read correctly - "affordable" and "Bordeaux" in the same sentence! Here is a chance to sample wines from a near-perfect vintage that you can actually purchase without postponing retirement a decade or so. Our guest, Steve Winfield, one of the most knowledgeable importers on the West Coast, will lead us through this incredible tasting. More details and the invitation will be published very soon.

October 22, 2008 (Wednesday) The Duke once again will present the tastes of Scotland as we tour the single-malt Whisky-producing areas of that lovely country. From the Highlands to the Islays and all along the river Spey and maybe even Skye and Orkney. Join us as Ed Kohl, North American Sales Manager for Signatory, presents their single-cask, single-malt bottlings. This is a chance not only to taste the wonders of Whisky, but to learn why there is such a range of flavors from such a compact geographic area. We will provide more details, including the line-up, in the next few weeks.

October 23, 2008 (Thursday) Join famed wine writer Robert Parker at the Culinary Institute of America in St. Helena, CA, as he leads the participants through a tasting of fabulous 2005 Bordeaux, including all of the first growths! The proceeds will benefit the Wine Advocate Endowed Scholarship Fund which provides scholarships for the CIA Rudd Center for Professional Wine Studies. Interested? Follow this link for details or call us for more information.

December 3, 2008 (Wednesday) The Duke presents our annual Super Seminar. We have already rounded up two of the usual suspects, Dan Duckhorn and Jim Clendenen, and have an APB out on another special guest. We will have more details as the date nears. Wine Association members will receive priority on seating, as this event always sells out fast!

P. S. The dramatic bronze castings shown above were created by one of our customers, Richard Thomas. Bacchus and his Muse are shown enjoying life in general and the fruits of the vine in particular. They are titled, from left to right, "Grapes of Joy," "Loving Life," and "Grand Opening." The intricate detail on each piece is not obvious from the photos above - you have to see the piece in person. Fortunately, the Duke will has them on display in the store. If you are interested in purchasing one (or all) of the pieces, call the Duke for more information. We love wine and we love fine art. Wine-themed fine art is a no-brainer for us! Can you imagine a more perfect piece for your cellar or tasting area? Or a super-special gift??