A Media Tasting Event at Swanson Vineyards, Rutherford, CA

By: John M. Olney
Phone: 707-299-9548
Web site: http://www.jolney.blogspot.com/
E-mail: jjolneytwcc1@aol.com

Copyright, all rights reserved by
Wine Country Marketing and Promotions,
1370 Trancas St., #409, Napa, CA 94558
Phone: 707-299-9548
Web site: http://www.twccwcmp.blogspot.com/ /
E-mail: winecountrypromo@aol.com

Tuesday, April 20, 2010 Media  Tasting Event

Double click on the picture-map below to enlarge it
and roam around the valley.

 Swanson Winery and Vineyards are highlighted in red.

(Copyright map reproduced by permission of Swanson Vineyards, Aril 22, 2010.
Further reproduction with advanced permission of Swanson Vineyards only)

But before featuring the tasting event, let me give you some history of the winery site and its owners
.
Background
Swanson Vineyards (http://www.swansonvineyards.com/index.cfm  ) is located on a narrow side road, named Manley Lane, on the west of Hwy 29., in Rutherford which is just south of St. Helena, California. The site was originally occupied by the Cassayre-Forni Winery (founded in the mid-1970s and closed in the early 1990‘s).

The current owners, W. Clarke Swanson, Jr. (http://www.swansonvineyards.com/wcs  ) and wife Elizabeth Pipes Swanson (http://www.swansonvineyards.com/eps  ) reopened the winery site in the year 2000 but have owned vineyards in the Oakville area since the mid-1980s.

In the 1950s, Mr. Swansons father and uncle developed the innovative “Swanson TV Dinners” (for some history click here: http://www.loc.gov/rr/scitech/mysteries/tvdinner.html  ) which revolutionized how American families could meet the time required to work, raise the family, juggled with meal preparation, and watch a relatively new media called “Television,” which in those early days was mostly only available during the late afternoon and evening hours. Swanson's TV dinners were first advertised in 1954 and were immediately a hit with consumers who were just beginning to afford and appreciate Television (or simply, “TV“). Swanson was eventually acquired by the Campbell Soup Company which ranks fourth behind Nestle (makers of Stouffer's and Lean Cuisine brands) in a $4 billion industry today.

First the Swansons acquired 100 acres located along Oakville Cross Road (runs between Hwy 29 to the west and Silverado Trail to the east) and it is sandwiched between Opus One and Groth vineyards and wineries. The second purchase was the 40 acre vineyards formerly known as “Schmidt Ranch,” located against the Mayacaymas Mountain range to the west of Hwy 29 and between the famous Napanook vineyards of Dominus winery, and Far Niente and Harlan vineyards and wineries.

The April 21, 2010 Media Awareness Event

Swanson Vineyards (www.swansonvineyards.com/index.cfm ) has been quietly undergoing cosmetic surgery with the addition of what is being called “The Sip Shoppe.” It is immediately adjacent to the original tasting room labeled “The Salon,” and occupies the area formerly used for bottling. Let me get to wine tasting event that we were invited to and then I’ll come back to “The Sip Shoppe” in a short while.

Today, eleven of us representing rather unique sectors of the media trade, were gathered in “The Salon “ to taste Swanson wines with winemaker Chris Phelps (www.swansonvineyards.com/index.cfm?method=pages.showPage&pageid=c1ad32a6-0b39-53b0-b2e0-ae6bf4182c24  ), who joined Swanson in 2003. Attending media invitees were:
Autumn Millhouse, blogger and author, ( http://www.romanticnapavalleybook.com/  )
Fred Swan and wife Eva, NorCal Wine, (http://www.norcalwine.com/ )
Jim White, Napaman, ( http://www.napaman.com/ )
H. Annette Hanami, blogger, frelance writer, Wine Muse, (http://www.wine-muse.com/  )
Daedalus Howell, dhowell media group, (http://www.dhowell.com/ )
John Olney, Wine Blogger & Historian ( http://www.jolney.blogspot.com/ )
Ziggy Eschlimann, radio show host (KRSH Santa Rosa/nationally syndicated, (http://www.ziggythewinegal.com/ )
John Cesano, wine blogger,( http://www.johnonwine.com/ ) with friend, Fred Albrecht
Mary Orlin, blogger and videographer, On Line Media, ,(http://www.onlinemedia.com/  and http://www.shopeatdrink.com/)

Representing the winery were:
Mr. Clarke Swanson, winery owner, (www.swansonvineyards.com/index.cfm)
Chris Phelps, Swanson Winemaker, (www.swansonvineyards.com/index.cfm)
Julie Ann Kodmur, Publicity/Marketing ( http://www.julieannkodmur.com/ ) who was coordinating this event.

As we entered the winery at the classic “The Salon” room, we were offered the first of many wines we would taste; a wonderful 2008 NV Pinot Grigio. As Winemaker Chris would later share with us, he would prefer that the varietal was called by the French name, Pinot Gris, (PG) than the Italian. Ever since Chardonnay’s were being made with too much malolactic fermentation (MF) making them very milky (also known as “buttery) and they were over oaked, I have preferred either Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio and Swanson’s PG is right up there in the top labels I desire. Lots of fruit making it very refreshing while it lingers in my mouth before the inevitable swallow. Hate to see it go but alas there is yet another sip to be taken! However, it disappoints me when the bottle seems to have evaporated just when I wanted yet more. Go figure!?

Next in order was a Merlot tasting of the 2005, 06 and 07 vintages. I particularly liked the 2006. That is not say that there was anything objectionable with either the 2005 or 2007, it is just that the 06 matched what my palate liked the most. Next favorite was the 07. As it breathed, it kept getting better. Because of that, I went back to retry the 05, but it still wasn’t the merlot for me.

Now we moved into the Cabernet Sauvignon, vintages 2005 through 2007, with anticipation at least from my standpoint. These Cabs are named, “Alexis,” after the Swanson daughter, Alexis Swanson Traina (http://www.swansonvineyards.com/ast) , who performs at the winery as the Creative Director.

There are some pictures of “The Salon.”  Double click on the picture-map below to enlarge it

Mr. Clark Swanson, II is the gentleman seated near the center of picture, at the back table.
Seated to his left is H. Annette Hanami.  That's Swanson winemaker Chris Phelps standing
and checking his tasting notes.

We took a break to now go next door to experience “The Sip Shoppe.” For this portion of the show, Shawn LaRue, Salonnier, provided us with an explanation of what Swanson Winery was going to implement. My overall immediate impression was that I was entering a circus tent. Now please, understand that I mean no disrespect to Swanson Winery owners and management, but we just exited the rather classic elegant Salon and within a few small steps we were in a tent-like decorated room with bright white and red narrow strips running vertically from the floor to the peaked ceiling.

Now let's look at some pictures of “The Sip Shoppe.” Let me reiterate, I have no objection to the décor of “The Sip Shoppe” whatsoever. It is just that to me it is such a shape contrast to the image that Swanson Vineyards presents through its ‘The Salon” tasting and education sessions.

If I didn’t know about “The Salon” and my visit took me from the parking lot into “The Sip Shoppe” without a stop at the other tasting room, I wouldn’t know anything different and visa versa. But, the two rooms are only a few feet away from each other. Right outside the door way is  a lovely courtyard.

Swanson does plan to offer a limited food menu that can be paired to the wines being tasted in 'The Sip Shoppe.”

I guess my concern is how will Swanson keep visitors from wandering back and forth between the two co-located tasting rooms and wondering why they were taken to one room but not the other.
Double click on the picture-map below to enlarge it

That's Shawn LaRue, Salonnier, on the right

I’m guessing, but I think the plan is that the more formal and thus pricey wines will be offered in the traditional and classic Salon tasting room while the more casual tastings will be offered in the whimsical "The Sip Shoppe" and patio area. I am truly looking forward to visiting Swanson to experience a tasting in “The Sip Shoppe” when it opens in late spring/summer.

From this room, we were escorted into the barrel room where Chris was about to spoil us rotten with tastes of 2008 Merlot (Oakville), 2008 Alexis - Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, 2009 Chardonnay (Oakville) and 2009 Zinfandel (Napa Valley). In each varietal tasting, everybody present was only complimentary to Chris and Swanson Winery for what they were producing. Just a couple of comments here.

Again, I was particularly fond of the Chardonnay which had no MF thereby eliminating that “buttery quality which I despise in Chardonnays as well as those which are treated to lots of influence of oak, because these treatments seem to cover up the taste of the grape.

The Cab is a wine I’m going to be looking forward to when it is bottled and released. Great nose and lingerer on my palate until the next sip. Another wine that I’ll be happy to see released will be their 09 Zin which was full bodied yet very comfortable as I let it sit in my mouth before swallowing a small amount.

We closed out the media event with a very enjoyable lunch prepared by Chef Shannon Kelley, Knickerbocker’s Oak Avenue Catering,(http://www.knickerbockerscatering.com/about/)

Winemaker Chris paired this lunch with the 2008 Salon chardonnay and 2008 Rosato of Syrah. As I said before, I fully enjoy his Chardonnays since you can actually taste the fruit. I have yet to develop a palate for Syrah so the Rosato was still a different and unfamiliar taste to my palate. This has nothing to do with the quality of Chris’s wine but rather my inexperience with the varietal which I just have not warmed up to yet.

Chris then paired the dessert of Country Apple Galette with his 2005 Tardif, Late-Harvest Chardonnay. What a marvelous finish to a wonderful educational and promotional event.

Congratulations to Swanson Vineyards for giving this media group the opportunity to better understand their winery, their wines and their plans for the future. A job well done, guys and gals, thank you very much.

My name is John Olney and I have been Maria Kitzmiller’s best friend for over 20 years. I am sad to report that  Maria’s two daughters elected not to hold a memorial or celebration of life service for their mother.

In March, six months after Maria’s passing, the daughters have filed suit to contest Maria’s will and trust desires The primary reason for their contest is that they claim I had undue influence on her and convinced her to change her bequeaths significantly from spitting her estate between them to giving the largest sum (about 60%) to leukemia charity. Of course, these charges are false and the daughters will not prevail.

I will attempt to hold a celebration of Maria’s life in the new future. Please stay in touch via the web site I created for her at www.mariakitz.blogspot.com/  or call her phone for messages at 925-825-2901.

The Sattui Wine Family Celebrates 125 years in America

March 25,2010

By John M. Olney

(photo’s by John Olney except where acknowledged)

Web site: http://www.jolney.blogspot.com/
E-mail: jjolneytwcc1@aol.com  

Copyright, all rights reserved by

Wine Country Marketing and Promotions,

1370 Trancas St., #409, Napa, CA 94558
Phone: 707-299-9548

Web site: http://www.twccwcmp.blogspot.com/ /
E-mail: winecountrypromo@aol.com

Dario Sattui sits to on the left hand seat of the Napa Valley wine industry seesaw while Robert Mondavi held the right hand seat with Napa Valley at the fulcrum.  Both men shared one major theme in their approach to wine, food and life and that is that they are passionate in their beliefs and never ceasing goal to offer that pleasure to their followers - their consumers. The fundamental difference between the two men is their perspective as to who the wine consumer is.

If you had been fortunate enough to be included in the V. Sattui media and industry related groups to celebrate the 125th year of the Sattui Family, you would have witnessed a man speaking with immense enthusiasm, joy and passion about producing wine. But that is not the only passion he expresses. He spoke in terms of food and the simple enjoyment of company with whom to share these pleasures. In his exuberant presentation of his philosophy, he made a very simple comparison between the right hand seesaw rider and his left hand approach and I quote, "While they post signs 'Keep off the Grass,’ we at Sattui encourage all to sit, stand, sprawl, and picnic on the lawn!’ Dario went on to say, “We are certainly interested in making money but that is not our only objective. We want our consumers to enjoy both our facilities and themselves.”

But I’m getting ahead of myself. Let me back up and report on the media/trade event 125 years since they first started wine production in San Francisco (1885) and then followed that with a resurrection of wine production in Napa Valley, California (1976).

The North Beach Restaurant (Click here for full details: http://www.northbeachrestaurant.com/ ), located near the corner intersection of Columbus, Green and Stockton, was only a couple blocks away from Dario’s Great Grandfather’s original winery site back in 1885, which was our meeting place at high noon. Here is what “Open Table” has to say:

“Since 1970, the North Beach Restaurant has been renowned as San Francisco's #1 Italian Restaurant for its Tuscan culinary excellence, relaxed ambiance, warm hospitality, and great service by Bay area families, tourists, romantics, conventioneers, business managers, politicians, sports celebrities, and movie stars!”

We were seated in the downstairs banquet room; about 60 of us representing just about every form of media outlet to the consuming public; magazine and newspaper columnists, TV/radio, bloggers, twitters and all the rest of the social media communications links as well as in-the-trade representatives.

I arrived a few minutes after noon and was among the first about 20 guests milling around after Pat Krueger, Sattui’s VP of Sales & Public Affairs, escorted me to my seat located among Veronica Stone (District Director, State Assembly Member Noreen Evan’s office ) on my right, and Tom Luther, (former owner of Food and Beverage Magazine) on my left. Across the table from me were Robert O’Malley (Vice President at V. Sattui) and Eric Christoffersen (Executive Director of “The Mint Project.” Click here for details: http://www.themintproject.org/)

I started looking at the extensive media package when I noticed that there were pictures hanging in front of the wine racks behind the seats and tables and my curiosity required me to go look at then. Click here to view the picture: http://jolney.blogspot.com/2010/03/sattui-family-wine-in-san-francisco.html . They were all of the San Francisco winery operations and are presented herein courtesy of V. Sattui Winery and family.

Dario called the group to order and then provided an outline of the speakers who would fill us in on the celebration of 125 years and their knowledge of Dario in relation to the wine industry. He then introduced his President of V. Sattui operations, Tom C. Davies.

Following his opening remarks, Tom introduced Francis Tsang, community liaison for Mayor Gavin Newsom, who read and presented Dario with a proclamation dedicating March 25, 2010 as “V. Sattui Day.”

This was followed by the introduction of Professor Victor W. Geraci, Ph. D. Author, Food and Wine Historian, from the Bancroft Library of the University of California, Berkeley (Click here for background: http://bancroft.berkeley.edu/ROHO/projects/food_wine/bio.html ) , who provided us all with a presentation that featured the importance of the Italians who had migrated to America, specifically California, and their impact on the wine industry.

While he spoke, we were treated to a magnificent lunch accompanied by five fabulous V. Sattui wines as described here:  http://jolney.blogspot.com/2010/03/v-sattui-125-year-aniversary-luncheon.html  

The beginning portion of Dr. Geraci’s presentation was most interesting but this speaker was difficult to hear for many attendees seated towards the back of the long tables stretching the length of the room. Consequently many of those distant from the speaker broke off in side conversations. I however, was close enough to be able to pay attention to his excellent historical and statistical review of the Italians and their contributions. This was easier for me than most because I am a student of the history of wine in America, particularly California and especially Napa Valley. But, it may have been a little too technical for many others in attendance. From my standpoint, I hope to contact the Professor and try to obtain a copy of his verbal and slide presentation for future reference purposes.

The Professor was followed by another Proclamation presentation and this time it came from the office of the State Assembly and was presented by Laurie Puzo, (Field Representative/Principal Consultant, Select Committee on Wine) representing Assembly Member, Noreen Evans (7th District - encompassing Napa Valley)

Speaking next was the genius behind the creation of the modern day Sattui wine production empire, Dario Sattui. In only a style that fits Dario very well, he carefully laid out the chronological history of the Sattui Family’s arrival in American 125 years ago and their start up in the wine industry. (Click here: http://vsattui125th.wordpress.com/ ). His great grandfather used grapes from the St. Helena area in the production of his wines.

St. Helena Wine Cellars at 722 Montgomery (now Columbus Avenue),
North Beach, S.F., 1899 (Photo courtesy of V. Sattui)

What I particularly appreciated about Dario’s team preparation for our time with him, was the inclusion of a detailed paper document (12 pages) in the media package. It essentially provided the story in the same detail as he verbalized, but for obvious reasons wasn’t nearly as interesting as to hear his enthusiasm and passion through his voice inflection and intensity as he described his drive to build his dream winery. Click here for the web site: http://www.vsattui.com/

Dario was not afraid to talk about how he recognized that his peers doubted his potential for success. Nor did he shy aware from describing how he made huge personal sacrifices to accomplish his dream, including the toll it took on his family life. In those early years he was a man driven with a goal and the issue of money was just not going to stop him. I could go on and on about this drive but suffice it to say, Dario’s dedication, enthusiasm and sincere effort to please his visitors is obviously carried over to his staff as can been seen when one tours the V. Sattui winery, deli and picnic site. It is no wonder the winery is so popular. As just one example, click here to follow a tour I recently gave on the property: http://jolney.blogspot.com/2010/03/v-sattui-touring-with-john-olney.html

As if the building and nurturing of the V. Sattui Winery complex wasn’t enough to ware down most individuals, he then undertook one heck of an ambitious project: The creation of Castello di Amorosa or as tourists and local alike simply call it, “THE Castle,” and all know exactly what they are talking about. Click here:  http://www.castellodiamorosa.com/index.cfm?method=homepage.showpage

The property that Dario purchased on which to locate his castle has a rich historical background.   It was originally owned by William H. Nash,   His property was commonly known as "Walnut Grove," named for the imported British walnut trees he grew.  Nash constructed the first schoolhouse in Napa County and it was only the second in the entire state in 1847.  He became a substantial member of the community with one of the larger estates of the times with the mansion (Now the Dario and Yana Albert-Sattui home) containing 10.000 sqft, with a wrap-around veranda of 1,800 sqft.

It is on this veranda where I spent just about two hours back in November 2009   interviewing Dario for my forthcoming book, "The Innovators and Pacestters of the Modern NV Wine Industry." (Click here for an overview:  http://jolney.blogspot.com/2009/08/my-new-book-innovators-of-modern-nv.html)

Nash made a small quantity of wine and it is possible that it was produced and cellared in the small brick building on the property as mentioned by Dario.  But it is more likely that the building was constructed under the Shramp Brothers tenure. I'm still researching this information.  Nash sold the property circa 1870 to the Shramp Brothers who greatly expanded the wine production. and the home was renamed "Maplewood."  The history is scant after this exchange.

When I arrived in Napa in 1985, the estate was named "St. Michael's Villa." 

Enough on that  early history!;  Now back to the Sattui media luncheon presentations.

The final speaker was John A. De Luca, Ph.D. Former President and CEO of The Wine Institute, former San Francisco deputy mayor, and currently he serves as Special Advisor to the Gallo Family as well as chairman of the Board of Directors for the Ernest Gallo Clinic and Research Center at UC San Francisco. ( click here for his complete background:  http://www.galloresearch.org/index.php/about/boardofdirectors/5-boardofdirectors/9-johndeluca.) These positions are just a couple of his many hats.




Dr. De Luca provided the attendees with a number of interesting highlights of his association to Dario over the years, the impact of the Italians on the California Wine Industry and perspectives of the future of the industry on the whole. A truly remarkable gentleman with an extensive knowledge of the wine industry particularly from the perspecttive of once heading up the largest and strongest wine advocacy trade association in probaly all of America. If there is anybody who should unanimously be installed in the California Vintners Hall of Fame, located and sponored by the Culinary Institute of America (CIA), it is this gentleman.

The final reward of the media briefing was a walk with Dario up the street from the restaurant to visit the location of the original V. Sattui Winery. Dario, in all his tall, lanky figure, with long strides which I could barely keep up with, mesmerized his entourage of about 25 attendees with quips and comments. People along the sidewalk cafes and shops, and business people and local residents who were walking to from work or shopping watched us with question while we attentatively gathered in the comments of the man. We were with the Pied Piper of Wine.

As we were returning to the restaurant. I got a chance to sneak in next to Dario and ask a question; “So, Dario, now that you are obviously successful with both Napa Valley wineries, where are you going to build your next?”

Dario, looking way down at me while placing his hand on my shoulder, responded, “Well, John, I don’t think another winery is in the future. I’m too old now (he is only 68), but another project I might consider.”

I wanted to delve into that comment further but others came up and were quick to ask him their questions.

You know, with all of his talk about and love for Italy, I would not be surprised that we will hear of Dario restoring something in Italy itself.  Perhaps a castle, perhaps something in his father's village, who knows, but for sure, DARIO IS NOT DONE CREATING!

Incidentally, V. Sattui is definitely fully aware of social media propectives. Here are their sites:

Blog/Blogging:
 http://blognapavalley.com/
http://www.vsattui.com/index.cfm?method=pages.showPage&pageid=4a90bc06-9aa2-8af3-30ae-2a25b9e4a0a8

Facebook:
 http://www.facebook.com/pages/V-Sattui-Winery/106717801030 

Twitter:
 http://twitter.com/Vsattui1885

Sattui Family Wine in San Francisco

St. Helena Wine Cellars at 722 Montgomery (now Columbus Avenue), North Beach, S.F., 1899

)



Cellar at Bryant Ave. Winery (left to right: Romeo Sattui, Vittorio, cellar worker & Mario), 1903



Bryant Avenue Winery (later V. Sattui Winery) at 23rd & Bryant in Mission district, S.F., 1904


Mario, Vittorio's son, delivering wine by horsecart, 1908

V. Sattui touring with John Olney

V. Sattui 125 Year Aniversary Luncheon Menu

The lunch absolutely lived up to the quoted praise of this restaurant by "Open Table" listed previously and the V. Sattui wine pairings were superb.

IL MENU

ANTIPASTO MISTO

Burrata con Pomodoro e Basilico
Burrata (Creamy Mozzarella from Puglia) with Tomatoes, Basil and Olive Oil & Vinegar

Calamari Fritti e Prosciutto
Fried Calamari and Prosciutto

These were served with 2008 Vittorio’s Vineyard Napa Valley SAUVIGNON BLANC. It was a light grassy SB, the kind I particularly enjoy. It was a Gold medal - Winemaker’s Challenge (Robert Whitley-San Diego

PRIMO PIATTO

Linguine alle Vongole e Salsa di Vino Bianco
Linguine with Baby Clams in a White Wine Sauce

Served with 2007 Reserve Stock Napa Valley CHARDONNAY. (Blend from Carsi and Henry Ranch, touch of new oak and mild malolactic fermentation)

Spaghetti alla Carbonara con Prosciutto
Una Specialità del Ristorante North Beach
Spaghetti Carbonara with Prosciutto - A North Beach Restaurant Specialty

Served with 2007 Crow Ridge Russian River ZINFANDEL This was particularly wonderful wine on my palate. It was a Platinum Medal winner at Critic’s Challenge and Gold Medal winner at the California State Fair

SECONDO PIATTO

Osso Buco con Riso e Verdure
Baby Veal Shank braised with Tomato Sauce, served with Rice and Vegetables

Served with 2004 “Steve Lee” Reserve Napa Valley CABERNET SAUVIGNON, a blend from Preston and Morisoli Vineyards

DOLCI

Zabaglione con Fragole Fresche
Cold Zabaglione (Custard with V. Sattui Madeira) with Fresh Strawberries

Served with MADEIRA to which Dario pointed out the following about the blend in this Port: “A small amount of this solera-made Port was originally produced byVittorio Sattui prior to 1900.” It was awarded four Gold Medals and  “Best of Class at the Los Angeles County Fair. I do not frequently order such wine but I must admit, this could make me start ordering Madeira on a routine basis following a meal

The CIA funding of Glomar Explorer salvage attempt of a sunken Soviet Submarine, K-129

Well. it is begunnung, The article below is going to be just the first of many. I'm just glad I was able to play a tiny role in the whole operation as we detected the sub just outside Petropavlvsk harbor as she began her mission   Click below:
http://www.aolnews.com/nation/article/cia-releases-details-on-cold-war-mission-called-project-azorian/19357242?icid=mainhtmlws-main-ndl1link1


Originally posted on Saturday, February 13, 2010
SOSUS AND K-129
I just received my copy of the newly released documentatary film about a Soviet Submarine operation in which I was involved in the first detection of the boat after it started its patrol from the Soviet submarine port of Petropavlask, Kamchatca Pennisula, in late February 1968. At the time, I was the Evaluation Cemter Officer at the headquarters of a system known by the acronym "SOSUS." It stands for SOund SUrvellience System, which back then was a super secret land based Anti Submarine Warfare platform providing frontline early warning to Washington D.C. military leaders of Soviet missile launching capable submarine threats on both coasts.

This Soviet submarine threat is one of the five Soviet submarine transit operations that I use in my novel, “The SOSUS Man.” You can read my synopsis and first couple chapters of my book by clicking here: http://thesosusman.blogspot.com/

This is a system which, at the real time in 1968, we thought it had detected the explosion or implosion of this submarine in March 1968 but as I learned through the discovery and release of information by Michael’s work, which was previously unknown to me and my command senior officers, indicates we were incorrect in our real time post- analysis re-examination and reporting of a possible detection.

The documentary film is described below:

Produced, written and directed by Michael White Films, Vienna Austria;(please scroll down for purchasing information)

“AZORIAN - The raising of the K-129


A mysterious CIA cold war operation.
A secret journey into the oceans depths
A challenge of ingenuity and imagination
A story of man’s unprecedented resolve"

Michael’s work, through his team of consulting experts, information data collection and verification technical advisor and meticulous computer animation and graphics by his production staff, have woven a factual visual presentation and story about one of the most controversial events undertaken by our CIA.

This is a spectacular documentary film which finally appears to have revealed all of the highly classified sensors, intelligence, detection and tracking, sinking, search & localization and ultimate salvage attempt of a Soviet diesel-electric ballistic missile launching capable submarine during the height of the cold war period of 1968-1973 in the middle of the North Pacific Ocean.

Purchasing information follows: (extracted from Web-site of Michael White Films)

"Please help DVD copyright protection. This DVD can only be purchased new via this website [ http://www.projectjennifer.at/ ]. If you purchase this DVD new elsewhere, you are buying an illegal copy that is not authorised by the Producer of this film. Title: Azorian The Raising of the K-129 (Region 0/PAL - DVD)
Language: English
Run Time: 104 minutes
Sound: Dolby 5.1
Rating: NR
Format: 16:9 PAL
Please note: You are buying a PAL/DVD. Please check your DVD Players compatibility.Price: € 33.00 Applicable taxes included. Without shipping.
To see total price please choose your country, quantity and shipping speed."

I Have to Question What We Are Doing With the Celebration of our Heritage!

By John Olney

Web site: www.jolney.blogspot.com E-mail: jolneytwcc1@aol.com

Copyright February 10, 2010 all rights reserved by

WINE COUNTRY MARKETING AND PROMOTIONS (WCM&P)

1370 Trancas St., #409, Napa, CA 94558 Phone: 707-299-9548

Web site: www.twccwcmp.blogspot.com E-mail: winecountrypromo@aol.com

(This article may be copied, reprinted and forwarded to others as long as no fee is

collected specifically for this article and the name of author and copyright holder are cited.)

February is Black History Month. With only about two weeks of time past in the month, I noticed that there are quite a few references to Black History as spot-like ads on many TV channels and radio stations.

I got to thinking about this in terms of my awareness of other nationality groups getting as much, or creating as much, exposure for their respective sub-nationalities.

I say sub-nationality because first of all, if they were born here, they are therefore Americans by birth and the other heritage is derived by parents or /grandparents born in some other country. If they are nationalized citizens, then their birth place nationality takes a back seat to their new adopted citizenship. Thus, this latter category falls into the same definitions as if they were originally born here.

If you think about it for a minute, we are basically dealing with three primary terms here: racial, ethnical and cultural differences. Collectively I merge these three terms into one which I refer to as “heritage groups.”

But, I’m getting off my primary point, so let me get back to nationality heritage months. My curiosity prevailed so I began googling the Internet to see if any other nationalities had such a special designation.

Wow, I was surprised by what my search results which are shown below:

February - Black History Month
We celebrate Martin Luther King Day in January but we marked February as Black History Month
I’m not sure that we are being fair by allowing two months to be dominated by one sub-heritage group.

Black Heritage Month was instituted in 1926 when it was celebrated as “Negro History Week" during the second week of the month. This period incorporated the birthdays of “two Americans who greatly influenced the lives and social condition of African Americans: former President Abraham Lincoln and abolitionist and former slave Frederick Douglass.”

March - Irish-American Heritage
Sure, we all like to wear a bit of the green and hoot and holler and devour corn beef & cabbage on St. Patty’s Day. But celebrate all month? I certainly can’t recall such dedication to the American-Irish citizens of our towns, states and indeed in the nation lasting all month. Certainly, I cannot recall seeing much Irish history spots on TV or hearing the same on radio.

The American Foundation for Irish Heritage wants to have the same national recognition as other ethnic cultural sub -groups; There are “lobby-type” groups who are trying to conduct a grass route campaign to get all the Governs to sign a proclamation marking March as the Irish heritage month. They claim that there are about 44 million Americans having a bit of the Irish in them.

May - Asian Pacific American (APA) Heritage Month
In June 1977, congressional representatives introduced a House resolution to proclaim the first ten days of May as Asian/Pacific Heritage Week. That initiative was quickly followed by Senate action. Then in 1978, President Jimmy Carter signed a Joint Resolution designating the annual celebration. In 1990, President George H. W. Bush designated the entire month as the Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. The selection of May was based on the following rationale (in italics):
- To commemorate the immigration of the first Japanese to the United States on May 7, 1843,
(We probably shouldn’t mention the events of December 7, 1941)

- To mark the anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869  because the majority of the workers who laid the tracks were Chinese immigrants.
(We should also thank them for the dyke system in the California Delta, and caves in mineral mining and California
wine country)

It just might also be wise of us to also recognize some other important contributions by the citizens of Japanese ancestry to our nation such as during WWII when the Army’s 442nd Regimental Combat Team composed of American-Japanese soldiers - the most decorated army unit of its size in the history of America - fought so valiantly while their parents, grandparents and siblings languished in internment camps and had their personal and real property carpet-bagged away from them.

We also need to recognize the Koreans, Vietnamese and many others of Asian ancestry in this celebration.

But what about the Phillipinos who have also accomplished so much in support of the US? They are not Asians but are Islander’s in the Pacific.

Where are we going to put the Aleuts and Eskimo’s? They are not Asians. Aleuts are Pacific Islanders though, just locate way up north. The Eskimo is neither Asian nor an Islander. What do we do with them, as both are the original inhabitants of lands now included in the USA? We might have a serious dilemma here.

September - October - Germans, Hispanic and Italians all claim this timeframe
The September - October timeframe is simply a poor marketing strategy by the three groups that are competing for public service allotments in the media.

Middle of Sept to the middle of Oct - German American Heritage Month.
September 15 to October 15 - National Hispanic Heritage Month
October - National Italian American Heritage Month

German Heritage
Well over 60 million claim German ethnicity. We all know how much they have contributed to our nation. We probably shouldn’t mention WWI or WWII even though we offered many in the military sciences following WWII to come to America to build our early missile and space technology programs.


Hispanic Heritage
Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California were once part of Mexico and they sold it to the USA, albeit under duress. Cinch de Mayo celebrations are big particularly in the western states of the USA. Once again, like the Black Heritage Group, we have multiple months of major celebration for one heritage group.

Our current bountiful agriculture production would be stalled without their participation in harvesting and processing our food. The western and southwestern portion of our country represents the largest concentration of Hispanic descendants distributed between actual citizens and those in our county illegally.


Italian Heritage
This heritage group celebration coincides with festivities associated to Columbus Day. Over 5.4 million Italians immigrated to the United States between 1820 and 1992. Today there are over 26 million Americans of Italian descent in the United States, making them the fifth largest ethnic group.

Do  you recall from your history classes that the USA is named after an Italian? It comes from an explorer and geographer named Amerigo Vespucci.

November - National American Indian Heritage Month,
Started in 1915 with one day in May and finally in 1990 President George W. Bush signed the proclamation marking November as National American Indian Heritage month. About 400 years after the foreigners first arrived, we finally recognized the original inhabitants of the land finally gained through the great Manifest Destiny.

Who’s Missing?
Three groups we have not yet discussed for inclusion in Heritage Months are briefly mentioned below:

The British - They started the original 13 colonies and this whole thing about America rolling!
The French - They sold us the Louisiana Territory and gave us our great symbol of freedom -                        the Statue of Liberty.
The Russians - They sold us Alaska

What About Celebrating Being An American?

We have to put all this heritage thing in proper perspective. Please realize I have no objections what so ever to celebrating any heritage group. But number 1, all that are born on USA soil whether within the lands of the USA and it Territories, or sovereign USA government property within foreign countries, ARE FIRST AND FOREMOST USA CITIZENS until they decide to disclaim such. Number 2, almost none are exclusively of one sub-heritage group so how do they decide to align themselves?

I propose that all government literature, including school history books teaching our USA citizen and legally in-country foreign children about the USA, MUST USE any “HERITAGE “ designation starting with the key word “AMERICAN” to which would be added the sub-heritage category the author and/or individual wishes to discuss, or be known as.

It will takes some years, possibly a generation or two, to get used to saying the word “AMERICAN” first but it will finally happen and when it does, shouting out loud the slogan, “I am proud to be an American,” will truly carry the weight it deserves.

July - American Heritage Month

To further enhance, encourage and enforce the use of the “AMERICAN” designation first in naming heritage groups, I suggest a month long celebration under the umbrella of the theme, “I am proud to be an American,” using the 4th of July, our INDEPENDENCE DAY, as the kick off for celebration.

All month long, we should encourage our schools, and local leaders of our towns and cities to return to community action to celebrate being an American by developing interactive projects focusing on what it is to be an American! Bring back the school play, the local pancake breakfast, park softball, sack race, carnival, picnic day, the local parade, and all the other homey things we have let go by the way in our rush to payday gold only!

“Yes sir, yes, ma’am,

 I am proud to be an American!”

(Oh yeah, I’m about 50% Portuguese, 40% Welch and 10% French)

Martinez, Ca, - Louie Bertola’s Restaurant and the Beaver Dam

       On a very rainy day, in January 2010 I had to go to the Probate department of Superior Court in search of a definition of a probate code. After going to the wrong building first and after removing all my metal items, I discovered I was at the wrong building and was instructed to go next door for the office I wanted. I bundled back up and ventured out into the rain once again. I dashed to the court house building only find I had to take off the jewelry and belt, empty my pockets and get scanned again. I passed the scan and found the elevator to the 2nd floor. As I approached the office door, I saw a big sign indicating that it was not open until 1:30pm daily during the work week. Looking at my watch I found it was only noon. But more importantly, if I left the building I would have to go through a third metal scan. I didn’t have a choice so I left to find a place to have some lunch.

Beaver Dam
     As I walked down Main Street going west, I recognized the creek area when the now famous Beavers built their nest and family. If you haven’t heard of the famous little critters, here are some of their press they’ve gotten since their arrival.

http://articles.sfgate.com/2007-05-21/bay-area/17245241_1_beavers-dam-martinez

http://www.martinezbeavers.org/
Oops, I overlooked this one but after a well desserved slap on the hands here it is.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martinez,_California
Just scroll down in the article and you’ll find these creatures highlighted

http://www.ktvu.com/news/14881366/detail.html

The Restaurant  
      I called my good friend Michel Campbell to find the name of a restaurant he liked in the area near the little creek. He told me it was in an old house and it’s called “Louie Bertola’s.” I finally reached it - located at 611 Escobar Street - and climbed the stairs up to the main floor. Now, this is truly a family-style restaurant. All the non-load bearing walls were gone. To my left (west) was the main dining area which stretched from a bay window facing Escobar Street (south), all the way back to the stair well ( and restroom area) at the north end. These stair led to the third floor which was the banquet room that can accommodate parties up to 50 guests. Hardwood floors everywhere.
     Immediately to the right of the entry door was the stairs down to the kitchen area located on the first floor. Running north of those stairs is your basic plywood rustic bar sanded and stained to be dark. The area between the dining tables and this bar was open and could easily be used for some good dancing room. It was a very large empty area.
     Michael told me to look for one of the two owners and introduce myself as his friend. Well, sometimes that can really be good but sometimes it can backfire if who you are about to meet doesn’t like your friend anymore. Mike (last name “Abel“) was working as bartender, waiter and whatever else needed to be done. Apparently Michael was not in trouble with him as he was most polite to me. Mike Abel has partner named Dan Murphy.
     I don’t know what it was about the place but I felt very comfortable sitting by myself at the bar. I ordered a glass of cheap (oops, I mean inexpensive) red wine and kicked back to kill another hour before I could back to Probate. Mike doesn’t talk to much so I just sat and watched some sports on the only TV at the bar. I looked around and saw that the very northern portion of the floor I was on had a deck area outside, I asked Mike about it and he said is was only used by his real die hard smoking friends.

Lunch     
      I was starting to get a little hungry so I got the lunch menu from the waitress, Pat, working theis main dining and bar floor .   I almost fell of my bar stool! Prime Rib, Steak, or Calamari sandwiches were only $9.45. Their special cheesebuger was $6.45 or you could have Pot Roast for $9 dollars. They came with either salad or pasta. Wow! Did I just step back in time?
     Complete lunches included choice of soup or salad, some pasta, fresh veggies and hot bread. Besides the Prime rib, beef or calamari steak plates for $9.45 Louie’s offered a pot roast for $9 even. One could have chicken or ground beef or grilled egg plant for only $8.45, and they offer fresh fish (when available).
      But if you were a light eater, Louie’s let you have minestrone soup or Italian salad - all you can eat - with tons of bread and butter for only $5.45. Finally, one could just enjoy pasta with plenty of bread and butter. I opted here and it was only $5.45. There was so much I took half home. The food was perfectly fine and filled my needs. Was it gourmet? Heck no! But I didn’t go there for that anyway. I just wanted a glass of red wine and some good home-cooking and that was exactly what I got.
      I asked Mike about the famous Beavers who were his neighbors. He said that they were definitely a boon to his business but the recent heavy rains broke up their Beaver dam home. He thinks they are re-establishing a new dam just down stream from his restaurant going north towards the river.

Dinner Menu
       Well, it was nearing time to go back to the court house to get my information. I asked Mike for a copy of their dinner menu. It is shown below.

As you can see, great prices.

        The style is home-cooking and genuinely good tasting food, very fairly priced, in a comfortable setting. You can go there with friends and just plain enjoy each other in a relaxed atmosphere. I will definitely be going back and taking friends with me.

Innovator

The Essence of the Modern Napa Valley Wine Industry
Book II -  Pacesetter and Innovators - 1970s to 2000

THE INTERVIEW STATUS
(September 12, 2010)

* indicates inducted into Calif. Vintners Hall Of Fame

Primarily Growers/Vineyard management and development
*Andy Beckstoffer -- Interview completed - - - http://www.beckstoffervineyards.com/
Very large vineyard owner in North Bay counties

Volker Eisele -- Interview completed - http://www.volkereiselefamilyestate.com/
Vineyard/winery owner. Activist for greenbelt, AG preserve, hillside ordnances, etc.

Ken Laird - waiting for reply- - - - - - http://www.lairdfamilyestate.com/
Very large vineyard owner in Napa county.

Salvador “Sal” Renteria -- Interview completed www.renteriawines.com/
One of first large managers vineyards and pickers

William “Bill” Hill -- Interview completed, - -- http://www.bighorncellars.com/
Created the establishment of what would become the Hess Collection, William Hill on Atlas Peak Road now owned by Piero Antinori of Italy, and now co-owner in Big Horn. is on my 1989 SERIES “B” Wine Label Poster-map

Primarily Winemakers
Mitch Cosentino -- Interview completed - http://www.cosentinowinery.com/
Created Cosentino winery in Napa and Crystal Valley Cellars in Lodi and contributed to establishing Merlot as great wine by itself. Cosentino is on my 1989 SERIES “B” Wine Label Poster-map

Randy Dunn - -Interview completed - - http://www.dunnvineyards.com/about.htm
Often considered a “cult” winemaker/winery who re-established Howell Mtn name.

Ric Forman -- Interview completed.- - http://www.formanvineyard.net/
Started as partner in Sterling then moved on to Madrone and now has own winery and consults many. is on my 1989 SERIES “B” Wine Label Poster-map

Tony Soter -- Interview accepted, DTBD, Spring 2010. http://www.sotervineyards.com/ .
Soter was a consulting winemaker in the Napa Valley where he guided such wineries as Araujo, Niebaum-Coppola (Now Rubicon), Shafer, Spottswoode, Viader and Dalle Valle. He now owns and operates Soter Vineyards in Williamette Valley, Oregon.

Primarily Small/Mid sized and/or Family owned wineries
Jack Cakebread -- Interview completed - http://www.cakebread.com/
Creator of Cakebread winery, wine photographer, land preservation, tourism guidance and many more wine business related organizations. is on my 1987 SERIES “A” Wine Label Poster-map

Dan Duckhorn -- Interview completed.- http://www.duckhorn.com/
Created Duckhorn and contributed to establishing Merlot as great wine by itself.

Agustin Huneeus -- Interview completed.- http://www.quintessa.com/
Partner and acting President of Franciscan Estates in 1985. Under his leadership, the ailing company was transformed into a successful group of premium wine estates. In 1999, Agustin sold his interest in Franciscan Estates. Today, he devotes his time to Quintessa. He also maintains vineyard holdings in Chile, Alexander Valley and Napa Valley. Franciscan is on my 1987 SERIES “A” Wine Label Poster-map.

Francis Mahoney -- Interview completed  www.mahoneyvineyards.com/
Creator of Carneros Creek winery. A major player in establishing Carneros as a great Pinot Noir district. Is on my 1987 SERIES “A” Wine Label Poster-map

Mary Novak -- Iinterview completed www.spottswoode.com/
Before there were “cult” wineries, she was one by starting Spottswoode

*Warren Winiarski -- Interview completed  No current web site
Founder :Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars. http://www.cask23.com/   Beside the winner of the 1976 taste-off with French, strong advocate of AG Preserve. . Is on my 1989 SERIES “B” Wine Label Poster-map

Primarily Executives in Larger Corporate type winery operations
Michael Mondavi -- Interview completed - - - http://www.foliowine.com/
Heir of a great wine and Napa Valley ambassador. Was once Robert Mondavi winery CEO. Now owns Folio Wine Partners. R. Mondavi is on my 1987 SERIES “A” Wine Label Poster-map.

Michael Moone -- interview accepted DTBD in spring 2010     www.lunavineyards.com/
Top notch large corporate executive who, through Silverado Partners headed a machine that took Beringer Brothers to a major player in the wine industry. As Beringer, is on my 1987 SERIES “A” and LUNA is on my 1989 SERIES “B” Wine Label Poster-map when it was originally St. Andrews

Dr. Richard Peterson -Interview completed - - - http://www.richardgrantwine.com/
Winemaker and business leader at large, medium and small wineries in a multiple number of counties.

Dario (Daryl) Sattui -- Interview completed - http://www.vsattui.com/  and  http://www.castellodiamorosa.com/ Created the highly successful V. Sattui winery, deli and picnic grounds. Most recently completed the Castle de Amorosa, a 15 year building construction project, which is already a major destination for tourists. V. Sattui is on my 1989 SERIES “B” Wine Label Poster-map

Louis “Bob” Trinchero -- interview completed - - - http://www.trincherowinery.com/
Creator of “White Zin and much more.

Ancillary Business (Insurance) development for the Industry
Ed Brovelli -- Interview accepted, DTBD- - No web site .
Developed first models to enable the insuring of winery operations.

Marketing/Advertising/Public Relations/Trade Advocacy
Gary Ramona -- -Interview completed --  no web site
Headed teams at R. Mondavi and most recently at Fred Franzia’s Bronco - creator of “$2 Buck Chuck,” and now consulting with Antigal Winery and Estates of Argentina.

John DeLuca -- Interview accepted DTBD.  Headed up The Wine Institute 1970-2003

Writer/History
Charles L. Sullivan -- Interview completed- - - - - No web site.
Well noted historian, published writer and University Professor

Government Policymaking
Jim Hickey -- Interview accepted DTBD  No web site
Planning Dept. leader of the determination of the definition of what constitues a winery

Harold Moskowite -- Interview accepter DTBD  no web site
Family owned ranch in upper valley area of Lake Berryessa where they were farmers.  Harold first became County Supervivior just as county struggled with land preservation codes, then built a winery and returned to be re-elected supervisor as the American Canyon area underwent huge growth.

Comments about my book concepts

Volker Eisele -  grower/winemaker, land preservation

Date: Sep 6, 2009 phone message

This is Volker Eisele with a message for John Olney. John, I got your thing on Napa interviews you want to do. I think this is very exciting so I shall cooperate with you … I’m looking at questions and it should be an interesting interview and congratulations on good idea.

____________________________________________

Ric Forman - Primarily a winemaker
Sep 12, 2009
John, good morning to you. It’s Ric Forman calling in rwsponse to your offer to interview me….. Sounds very fascinating and I’d be glad to be included.......  Great! I’ll make the time for you. I think it’s a great idea and I’m looking forward to it.

___________________________________

Charles Sullivan - Noted Wine historian, writer and Instructor
Date: 9/15/2009 12:30:32 P.M. PDT
Dear John,
I have your email with all the info on your project. I read it with great interest and will be happy to participate in its development. I have plenty of time open in the coming months, so I don't think we'll have any problem making a date for an interview. I also think I can be of some assistance with the historical aspects of the piece. Feel free to have me take a look at such material as you put it together. I have a lot of experience in such a process, having traded mss regularly with Tom Pinney over the years. Keep in touch and let me know how I can help. Cheers! Chas Sullivan

__________________________________

Bob Trinchero/Sutter Home
Date: 9/11/2009 4:28:39 P.M. PDT
Greetings John,I'm the Public Relations Specialist at Trinchero Family Estates and Barry Wiss forwarded your message on to me that you'd like to interview Bob Trinchero. Barry has spoken with Bob and I believe he has agreed to do theinterview. It sounds like a great book and I think the Trincheros would be a great addition! So, at your convenience, please give me a call and we can get the ball rolling on setting up an interview. Thanks!-Juliana -Juliana French-Arnold Public Relations Specialist, Trinchero Family Estates

------------------------------------------------------

Beckstoffer Vineyard 

Date: 7/27/2009 2:53:43 P.M. PDT
Hi John,
Thanks again for your interview with Andy Beckstoffer - I know he enjoyed it and I hope you did too. Tara - Tara L. Thomas Balzac Communications

-----------------------------------

Mahoney Vineyards
Date7/15/2009 8:49:47 A.M. PDT
John
Thank you so much for inquiry concerning a interview with Francis Mahoney. I would be very happy to help establish a day and time for this to occur. Do you have some dates in mind? Like many of those on your list, has some sales travel planned before we head into harvest. Please provide me with some dates and I will coordinate it with him. Thank you again and we look forward to the book. Sincerely Stacy Manley -

--------------------------------------

Dario Sattui
Date: 7/9/200912:32:29 P.M. PDT
Dear Mr. Olney,
Thank you for reaching out to us. I apologize for the delay in response. I know Dario would be humbled to be considered an “Innovator” of the modern Napa Valley wine industry. I also know he would be interested in participating in your project. He is however out of the country until mid to late August. Do you have any dates available in September we can schedule an interview? Looking forward to working with you.
CHEERS! Claudette Shatto - Vice President of Marketing

Marin Institute, Family Wine Myth and “Big Alcohol.”

By John Olney e-mail jjolneytwcc1@aol.com

December 13, 2009,

Copyright - all rights reserved

Wine Country Marketing & Promotions

1370 Trancas St., #409, Napa, CA 94558   Phone: 707-299-9548

Web site: http://www.twccwcmp.blogspot.com/

E-mail: winecountrypromo@aol.com

When I first read about this organization it was in the piece, “Watchdog group has no cheers for wine industry,” by Andrew S. Ross which was published in Wine Business Daily on Tuesday, December 8, 2009. Then, the next day I accessed the full paper as written by the Marin Institute (MI).   I must say, I was amazed at what I would have to call either the naivety or the outright arrogance of the MI writer(s) who prepared the report they titled, “The Myth of the Family Winery - Global Corporations Behind California Wine.”

The use of the word “Family” in company literature - small or large -is not restricted to the wine industry. It can be found in many business industries as a “friendly, loving nurturing, etc. ” attitude descriptor to the consumer. The term as used in business literature is not necessarily descriptive of the people owning the company but rather the way the company likes to think it operates or at least what it wants its consumer audience to think. MI cites the following:  Trinchero Family Estates and Jackson Family Wines even use the word “family” in their corporate names.” This is not a bad or even a misleading descriptor when you consider who is top management and ownership in these organizations -- because they are family.

The consumer who bought R. Mondavi wines before it went public, then after it became a traded winery stock and still bought it after being gobbled up by Constellation, understood the use of the term “family” throughout all the transitions. The consumer who buys Dunn, Forman, Spottswoode, Caymus, Screaming Eagle, and many more similar small, mid and family owned and produced wines does not necessarily read the ads of Constellation, Foster’s, Gallo, Sutter Home and other such giants. Two entirely different audiences.

Both the Wine Institute and The Family Winemakers of California claim that membership is based on one vote per membership payment and thus their leadership is not based on just the size production of their winery. Like any other organization, this does not preclude the joining together of common interests to vote in a block on matters that pertain to that voting block. This can be seen in our Congress where there are special interest caucuses. It can be seen in the voting stock of all corporations where proxy’s are solicited to be voted for one candidate of the board over another. There has been and always will be such legal solicitations of support for one person or issue over another.

Production, marketing and sales programs for a company with millions of cases of wine to sell are greatly different than what a “cult” winery with under 1,000 cases of wine production has to cope with. And, this is not bad! No large corporation is going to let such a small producer “talk” or negotiate for them because the very little guy does not necessaily really hold a  true understanding of what even a few percent of a  cent tax means on a giant producer with a Board of Directors caring fudiciary duties to its stockholders.

As to lobbyists, I can only say tha MI is either naïve or refuses to consider the truth about what  all trade association advocacy organizations such as the Wine Institute do in Sacramento and Washington D.C. -- THEY LOBBY for the interest of their group members. Does MI think that lobbying against taxing wine is any different than taxing alfalfa? The farmers in the latter group are surely going to protest and fight against being taxed any further than they are already

MI states.” Wine producers’ success in gaining authorization to ship their product directly to consumers sets a precedent for beer and distilled spirits producers to circumvent the three-tier system as well.”  Wow!  Where did this come from? MI offers absolutely no background laying the foundation for making such a scare tactic statement as they have made. MI should do some very important historical background research as to why alcohol after Prohibition, was the only commodity allowed to be controlled independently by each State while all others were allowed free transport across State lines.

MI says that it cannot discover the composition of the membership in the Congressional Wine Caucus. MI says Rep. Radanovich declined to give them a list of the members. Did Senator Thompson also decline? I wonder if MI has tried the Freedom of Information Act to gain access to the list of members?

My Conclusion:

From http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sophism , I quote the following: (bold emphasis by john Olney, or me )

In modern usage, sophism, sophist, and sophistry are derogatory terms, due to the influence of many past philosophers.

A sophism is taken as a specious argument used for deceiving someone.

It might be crafted to seem logical while actually being wrong, or it might use difficult words and complicated sentences to intimidate the audience into agreeing, or it might appeal to the audience's prejudices and emotions rather than logic, i.e. raising doubts towards the one asserting, rather than his assertion.

The goal of a sophism is often to make the audience believe the writer or speaker to be smarter than he or she actually is, e.g., accusing another of sophistry for using persuasion techniques.