There’s a New Kid on the Block

MOONDANCE CELLARS / ORCHARD STATION
December 2016

There’s a new kid on the block with the first name of Howell. The last name is Mountain. Yes, with a name like Howell Mountain one is bound to be big and bold, even a little spicy, yet pleasantly approachable, with a rich softness that brings to mind dark cherry and blackberry fruit. Like his Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon cousin, Howell finishes with a memory that seems to last forever. Unlike Cousin Cab though, Howell is blended from his Bordeaux roots of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot, and 1% Malbec. As friendly as Howell is, he has his limits. He is only one barrel. We like Howell Mountain so well that we chose Howell to celebrate Moondance Cellars’ 25th Anniversary.

Since the release of a 1990 Howell Mountain Merlot, David and Moondance Cellars have traveled a long road. With it’s beginnings in a garage in Sonoma, Moondance is truly a “Garagiste” winery. As part of the very first collective tasting room in Sonoma (Mayo), Moondance was recognized as an almost cult-like brand. All that changed when David grew the brand to 8,000 cases represented in 15 states. Traveling along that long road, David joined five other small wineries, and founded a second multi-winery tasting room in Sonoma Valley known far and wide as “The Best Damn Tasting Room- The Wine Room.” Then it was on to the historic old winery building in Glen Ellen, called Jack London Village. Too many miles driving to and fro, too much production as a buzz-kill, and the tantalizing prospect of welcoming guests to taste the now highly acclaimed, award winning (and very expensive –LOL), wines of Moondance Cellars and Orchard Station at the home winery, brought us to the present. The winery has grown from 8,000 cases to less than 1500. The smile is back on our faces, and 25 years ago seems just like yesterday.

Do you like the 2015 Sauvignon Blanc? End of Vintage Sale
30% off 6 or more bottles
Wine Club members are enjoying an Anniversary / Holiday discount of 30% off of the 2014 Howell Mountain, and the 2014 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignons on this
December Wine Club selection.
www.moondancecellars.com
707-823-0880