NapaAlameda

Too some

As Michael related the story to me, some years ago, when his dad purchased the vineyards, the original owners asked that he make a pledge to them, that he would not tear out the old Zin vines. This was a handshake deal, and no papers were signed to that effect. The bankers, who were financing DeLoach were intent that Cab, Merlot, and Chard were to be planted and produced for the fastest return on investment. Cecil held true to his word and felt obligated to keep the Zin, regardless of pressure to make quick $. As it turned out, the old knarled Zin vines were a gold mine, and produced great wine. It was refreshing to me to hear that a man's word was a bond, and also nice that he, and the Zin community, benefitted from his integrity. I only hope that some of that spirit will continue to exist in the vineyard, where investment bankers seem to be running the show.

I have not spoken to Michael for a while now, so I don't know what might be happening regarding the sale. I just fear that all that effort and those wonderful old vines will cease to exist, all in the name of "return on investment."