A Commencement Speech to Grape Graduates of 2013

I cannot believe that I am standing here in front of all you young grape graduates about to give you a commencement speech.  As I stand here and look at you, I see wide-eyed yellow, green and red grapes of all sorts.  Hello Albariño on the 50 yard line and cheers to the good ol’ Pinot Noir standing next to the Gamay on the 32 yard line.  I am so proud to see that this year so many more grapes have graduated than in any other year.  Yes, Malvasia, I see a bright future for you.  Hola Tannat, this too is going to be a good year for you!  I know that this is what each and every one of you want to hear.  Unfortunately, I cannot tell a lie.  I cannot stand in front of you and say the same for all of you. (more…)