In the 38 years we have worked and lived in Sonoma County’s Russian River Valley we have seen a lot – major fires, devastating floods, and the ever present threat of “The Big One.” We were not prepared for this, however; an unseen, often deadly, and quickly spreading threat which is altering the way we live.
At the winery the cellar remains open, as the wine industry is agricultural, land therefore an essential business. The business office and Tasting Rooms are closed, although Kaitlyn continues to coordinate on line sales. Mike Tierney and Susan Martini are working at home; Mike and Jake Martini are at the winery daily.
Our distributors are feeling the pain, as restaurant sales make up about 50% of a distributor’s business. Fortunately, people have not given up their wine, and retain sales remain robust. Our direct to consumer sales remain strong.
Our calendar has been edited. Unfortunately, our 38th anniversary celebration (April 4th) has been put on hold; as has the 116 Club Weekend (April 25 – 26). Wine competition schedules have been delayed as well. We will keep you up to date on any changes in our summer music series. We continue to hope for a Memorial Day start.
This is usually the place where I invite you for a winery visit. Hope we can reinstitute that invite soon. In the meantime may I suggest a way to keep yourself both safe and involved. Place a different glass of Taft Street wine in the main rooms of your house or apartment. Walk from room to room, tasting the wines while noting the unique properties of each’ Voila! Virtual wine tasting!
Cheers,
Mike Tierney
President, Taft Street Winery