It's one of the ironies of grape farming that the approach of spring, which sets the stage for bud break, also leads us into frost season, an annual event — or non-event, if we're lucky — that puts winegrowers on high alert.



Now and then, we crack wise about being in business with Mother Nature, whose fickle moods epitomize the term unpredictable. But that reality is no joke.

As we prepare to make our donation (and yours!) to Haitian earthquake relief efforts, we continue to follow news of the massive quake that struck Chile on February 27th. Our hearts go out to all whose lives have been affected by this dreadful event.

As well, we thank everyone who purchased wine online during the month of February for supporting our Haiti fundraising effort. You not only contributed to a very successful campaign, but you made off with all of our 2008 Petite Sirah!

We are delighted that this first ever vintage found such a fervent fan base — the self-proclaimed BE Purple Teeth Club! — and we are pleased to announce that Petite Sirah will remain on the Brown Estate roster in very small production lots going forward.

Up the hill at the winery, we are concocting a little "madness" for the latter part of March. Watch this space and/or your inbox for an upcoming announcement.

In the meantime, we wish you all an upbeat March into spring, and a rewarding Year of the Tiger!