W.H. Smith Wines
www.whsmithwines.com

I first met Bill and Joan Smith when I moved to California in the spring of 1999. I was looking to break into the wine business, and was extremely fortunate to spend two wonderful years with them at La Jota Vineyards in Angwin, before they established the W. H. Smith label. They have become cherished friends, and continue to support our efforts; providing both enthusiasm and inspiration at every turn. And oh by the way...they produce some amazing wine ! You should check it out.

Robert Biale Vineyards
www.robertbialevineyards.com

What can I say? I'm now entering my fifth year with the Biale clan, and would like to say THANK YOU! To all those who comprise the "Biale Family", you have extended to us a kindness and a generosity that is rarely found these days. We are all now in the new facility (oh yes, I get to make our wine here also) in Napa, and we would love to show you around. The Biale wines ?...Well, they speak for themselves, outta this world. Give 'em a try !

BIN 36
www.bin36.com

Early in my career, I had a tendency to jump around; from city to city, or job to job. The first place I stuck it out was Chicago, and the reason was Brian Duncan. He is my best friend, as well as Wine Director/Partner at Bin 36. With partner Dan Sachs, Brian has built, to my mind, the most unpretentious and comfortable venue in which to experience great food and wine that I know of. Please stop and say hello if you are ever in the Chicago area, and tell them I sent you. Besides, now there are three !

Sand T. Cellars
www.sandtcellars.com

In the beginning, Tom and Susan Ridley made available to us the fruit from which our first wine was born. A mere 1700 pounds or so of Syrah from Brookside Vineyard. Today we are still in love with the fruit, and the Ridleys, and about to release our 3rd vintage, with two more in barrel. We also make a liitle wine for their SandT label that you really must try, ideally at the vineyard. For in addition to being nicer people than you've ever met, they operate a charming three-room B&B there as well !

FARM Artisan Foods
www.farmartisanfoods.com

We go way back. Literally ten years now. Back in the Spruce days in Chicago, before Bin 36, I was fortunate to meet Roberto Argentina. He was hawking cheese back then, but has since come to embrace everything food and wine. Together with his family and supporters, Roberto now seeks to both educate and nourish his clientele with fresh, wholesome preparations from his restaurant in Redlands, CA. It's worth the trip...you'll be amazed !