Life Is A Circular Motion

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I get ahead of myself sometimes. I’ve got a story to tell you, I say to myself, when what I really should be doing is laying back, quietly, listening to the story unfolding before me. We all get like that sometimes, we all have a story to share, sometimes at the expense of the story being shared with us. A little Monday morning profundity I admit, but what got me here was thinking about this post, and how I was going to talk about Paul Hobbs, the man, the myth, the legend.

I met Paul years ago, when he was still involved with one particular Argentine winery, and we talked as a retailer and winemaker talk in one of those market visits we get quite often in this business. Meeting Paul for wine retailers and restaurateurs is akin to a musician meeting Jimmy Page (of Led Zeppelin/Honeydrippers) or Billy Gibbons (guitarist for ZZ Top)  – kind of a big deal. We lingered in the back room as one does with someone of Paul’s magnitude, and he suggested I come down to Argentina to work a harvest. Having never taking him up on that offer, I regret not mustering the gumption to do so.  I think of a friend who recently embarked on a world tour of sorts, quitting her job and heading out to travel the globe – she’s in the U.K. I think right now – and I marvel at the courage it takes to go chase down those dreams, live your life on your terms, no reservations.

I’m not leaving or anything; I’m pretty happy where I am at job wise, and I’ll travel eventually. But if there is one thing I have learned in life these days, when Opportunity knocks, get up off your behind and open the damn door!

Which brings me back to Paul Hobbs. (I know, what the heck kinda segue was that?!) We got a visit from one of our favorite people, Kerri Breeze from Wine Trends, and she brought a duo of Paul Hobbs’ latest California efforts:

Paul Hobbs Pinot Noir Russian River Valley 2012. A beautiful effort, vibrant and floral in the nose, soft and silky across the palate.  Soothing notes of black cherries, plum, pomegranate, Darjeeling tea leaves, black licorice, black peppers and coffee berry notes, finishing up with warm oak spices.

Paul Hobbs Chardonnay Richard Dinner Vineyard 2014. A beautiful, rich Chardonnay.  Full-bodied with hints of peach cobbler, lemon zest, vanilla custard and notes of allspice, white pepper and a touch of mint.  ​