DIAMOND CREEK VINEYARDS was founded in the Calistoga appellation of Napa Valley in the late 1960s by Boots Brounstein and her late husband Al. Their first vintage in 1972 debuted their superb Cabernet Sauvignons from their very special vineyards created from unique micro-climates on their beautiful property. Our long-time friend Phil Ross, Boots' son, has been a Wine Association guest many times to help the Duke continue our long-standing tradition of offering "near futures" on the upcoming releases from Diamond Creek's famous Gravelly Meadow, Red Rock Terrace and Volcanic Hill vineyards. The word on their 2006 vintage is "extraordinary."

JAFFE ESTATE is an exciting new winery founded by Gary & Pam Jaffe on Zinfandel Lane in the St. Helena appellation of Napa Valley. Their vines grow right alongside the only private research-grade observatory in the Valley. Grapes and stars converge to create inspired wines of impeccable balance. Gary, who is, as you might guess, a part-time astronomer, is "one neat guy." We happily welcome him to help us present two of his creative wines - Transformation and Metamorphosis.

MARGERUM WINE COMPANY is located in the Santa Ynez Valley appellation of Santa Barbara County. Owner/Winemaker Doug Margerum began producing premium, hand-crafted wines while he still owned the Wine Cask wine shop and restaurant in Santa Barbara. Today, he concentrates solely on his winemaking, producing small lots of world-class wines from grapes purchased from a variety of exceptional single vineyards in Santa Barbara County, as well as his own vineyard in Washington State. Doug will guide us through several selections, including the always-in-demand M 5 and two beauties he produces for the stunning Happy Canyon Vineyard.

CARLSON WINERY also is located in the Santa Ynez Valley appellation. Many of you are familiar with the fine wines produced by Chuck Carlson, who is the Winemaker and General Manager of Curtis Winery on Foxen Canyon Road. In addition, he has successfully developed his own brand, producing world-class Pinot Noirs from grapes grown at Le Bon Climat Vineyard, Talley Vineyard and select vineyards in the Sta. Rita Hills appellation. We are delighted that Chuck will be on hand to present a few of these beauties.