New York Sees Boom in Craft Breweries, With More on Tap

Brewers say demand for craft beer is up, driven by an appetite for high-quality, local fare.  Read more here, from The Wall Street Journal.

Duckhorn Vineyards and The Unusual Triumph of Merlot in Napa Valley

These days, Cabernet Sauvignon is king in Napa Valley. It’s been that way for some time now, so consider what Dan Duckhorn and his wife Margaret were thinking back in the late 1970s when they opted to focus, not on this variety, but instead on Merlot. It could have been a folly, even a disaster, but time has shown the wisdom of their decision. Today Duckhorn Vineyards is the most recognized and successful producer of Merlot in Napa Valley, and one of the most famous Merlot producers in the world.

This year, Duckhorn Vineyards, located in St. Helena in northern Napa Valley, is celebrating 40 harvests, and while Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay are produced here, it is Merlot that is the signature variety of the winery. Six different examples are crafted in most vintages, ranging from a Napa Valley blend to various single vineyard offerings from around the valley.

Why did Dan Duckhorn decide on Merlot when he established his winery?  Read the answer here, from Forbes.