Drink the Bottles

  40 Years of Leadership: Kim Stare Wallace Celebrates Four Decades at Dry Creek Vineyard Second-Generation President Reflects on Legacy, Innovation, and Commitment to Place   HEALDSBURG, Calif. (February 11, 2026) – In an industry defined by constant change, longevity has become increasingly rare. Today, Kim Stare Wallace marks 40 years at Dry Creek Vineyard, a milestone that reflects the enduring power of family ownership, thoughtful leadership and an unwavering commitment to Dry Creek Valley.   “In four decades, I’ve seen the wine industry evolve in remarkable ways,” says Wallace. “But our focus has remained the same: to make wines that honestly express where they come from. That kind of clarity only comes from taking the long view.”   Wallace formally joined Dry Creek Vineyard in 1986 as Director of Marketing, though her roots at the winery run much deeper. Raised in Sonoma County’s Dry Creek Valley, she grew up alongside the winery founded by her father, Da...

Dry Creek Vineyard has been a favorite of mine for several years, as they have a great selection of red and white wines and this 2016 Fumé Blanc is one of their staples.  This varietal has become more popular over the years, but still pales in comparison to a Chardonnay or Riesling.  And if you're going to put yourself out there, you better make this wine stand out and make it memorable.   That's exactly what the good people at DCV give you with their latest Fumé Blanc.  Tons of lemon and lime fruits are front and center at swirling.  A little bit of honey and pineapple are faintly familiar.  Oh, I guess this would be a great time for me to tell you that I drink most of my white wines at room temperature or just slightly cooler than that.  I hate going to someone's house where they pull a white wine out of the refrigerator and start pouring.  Refreshing?  Sure.  Flavorful?  Not as much as if the wine is warmer.....at leas...