Steve Matthiasson, I can picture him no other way. In a vineyard, intense, focused, looking somehow upwards, always.

I am so honored and excited that Steve is coming to join us in LA. We began working together at the beginning of both of our careers in Napa, both outsiders: smart, poised, confident, but not knowing shit. We worked so hard together, buttressing each other, and immediately made strides. When I was offered my first winemaking job, I said, "yes, on one condition. Steve Matthiasson must be my guide in the vineyards." That was 2002; we had been working together since the beginning of the growing season of 2000.

When I came to Napa in 1999, almost no one spoke of sustainability. Organic grape growing was practiced by only 2 or 3 or 4 farmers. The biggest organic vineyard was farmed in secret, because the "organic" label was still associated with crunchy granola, and not yet with luxury products. Steve Matthiasson came to Napa from walnut growing and brought two crucial perspectives with him from outside: a commitment to the possibility of farming better, much better; and a complete openness to figuring out adventurously and without preconception how to do it. The opulent conservatism of Napa meant nothing to him.

We also learned how to make wine together, and found some of the same models and instructors through the generous guidance of George Vare. We have so much to discuss; I might begin us with some talk about these musty beginnings. The horizon is open and wide.

10 wines. Some of Steve's and mine from our early days; some of our teachers and models.