Toucan Wines

Holiday Special - Any Six Bottles 20% Off

2011-12-12T10:55:00.000-08:00

Now get 20% off your next Toucan Wines order. Any Six Bottles qualify for a 20% discount - no secret password and no secret handshake.... order today

Toucan Wines October News...

2011-10-17T11:26:00.000-07:00

Our latest newsletter is now available for your reading pleasure. Tomorrow we'll be picking the last of the first crop Estate Zinfandel and Sunday the Estate Petite Sirah - this will be another year of very low production for Toucan Wines.

Shipping Again Now that Fall is Here…

2011-10-04T10:24:00.000-07:00

Every summer I become very selective about where and when we ship our wines due to weather. As you know, the heat of summer can have a negative impact on wine when bottles are stuck in a hot delivery truck. Now that our weather has cooled, all Toucan Wines ordered for delivery in California will again be shipping from our cellar each week – and those shipments headed back east will remain on-hold for just a couple more weeks. Further, we added Golden State Overnight delivery service to help us in California, Nevada and Arizona. Remember, it’s always best to provide a business address for your wine deliveries.

Order from our great line up of award winning wines and save up to 20% on your order. Call or email me if you have any questions about our wines, parings, and current favorites.

When Will The Grapes Be Ready ?

2011-09-18T10:31:00.000-07:00

2011 will clearly be our latest harvest of the 3.5 acre Toucan estate vineyard. We're hoping next week will yield the first grapes, but who knows. The fruit does taste delicious, small berries, concentrated - but just not fully developed and the longer they take - the more likely we'll be impacted by rain. The 2011 Carignane is late too. Again, maybe this coming weekend for the old vine Carignane (our forth Carignane harvest). I have also committed to new events in November, please put one of these on your Southern Cali calendar and join me for a taste.

Winner of the 2011 Where Did You Wear your Toucan Wines Hat Contest...

2011-08-29T15:58:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Alice for being the winner of the 2011 "Where Did You Wear your Toucan Wines Hat" contest. Thanks to all the players for their wonderful submissions, you can see all the entries on the Toucan Wines Facebook page.

As the winner and 2011 champion, Alice will receive a magnum of award winning Toucan Wines estate Zinfandel....

Toucan Wines -- August, 2011 Newsletter

2011-08-22T09:54:00.001-07:00

Our latest newsletter was a little late in coming.... I hope you enjoy and always feel free to contact us directly at the winery with questions about our wines.

Toucan Wines Vineyard Shaping Up...

2011-07-27T09:32:00.000-07:00

After a season of record rain, late frost, and mild temperatures - our vineyard is looking really good. Gophers were a huge problems early in the season and now we're working to get the squirrel outbreak reduced to a bothersome few. Green growth was excessive in those area of the vineyard that usually have more vigor, but the south facing slope, including the Petite Sirah is very well balanced with good fruit set. Fruit exposure in some areas maybe a bit over-exposed, but overall I'm pleased with where we stand. I expect that we're 2-3 weeks behind normal and with that delay we risk early rains and increased mildew pressure as we approach fall.

Gold and Best of Class Awarded...

2011-06-07T16:34:00.000-07:00

I admit it, I'm stoked that Toucan Wines was awarded another Best of Class award, this time for our the 2008 Carignane, and Gold Medals for both our 2008 Estate Zinfandel and our 2008 Carignane.

As a result, we'll be attending the FUN Decanted event on June 25th, at the Los Angeles Fairplex, which showcases the wonderful wines awarded in the competition. Click here for tickets.

Cheers !!

May Newsletter...

2011-05-16T08:13:00.000-07:00

I'm busy in the vineyard finishing up the suckering, but I thought to send you a link to our May Newsletter in case you're not on the list. If you want to join the list - click here

To order Toucan Wines - click here

All About the Vines...

2011-04-27T14:41:00.000-07:00

Late April and I feel so far behind... growth on the vines seem normal, but the weeds and gophers are crazy. All this season's rain will make this an interesting vintage.

First things first, I need to take a first pass at suckering the vines. I usually sucker the Petite Sirah first and then the Zinfandel. (As a side, I'm working with a friend to document the growth cycle of the head-trained vine with the hope that we produce something educational for others.) After a couple of weeks I'll go back through and clean up loose ends (final suckering). Then, we need to weed, hoe the entire vineyard before the weeds become too strong, but not too early that we see another entirely new batch of weeds grow as soon as we finish the first pass. After that, it's on to tying the canes to the wire. Of course now the wire is higher, in over half the vineyard, and should prove to be easier to perform.

In between the above activities I'll need to spray the vineyard every two weeks. We'll use the hot days (hoping for more than last year) to rack and bottle the 09' vintage. OK, that's my to-do list... better get to work!

Wait a minute, I almost forgot - in our spare time we ship wine too! Call (805-474-8514) or email me (doug@toucanwines.com) with your order... or check out our website.

Fun Times, Hard Work...

2011-04-15T12:21:00.000-07:00

I'm on break from working in the vineyard, so I figured I'd write a little update. This weekend is the first of many festivals we've signed up for this spring and summer, I always enjoy the customer response and feedback when pouring our latest releases.

Currently we're raising the one wire that we have in the vineyard to the highest point on each stake (picture). This one wire was installed to carry the drip line, however, its no longer the primary purpose. In fact, we really don't use the watering systems any more, but I do keep it working in the event we have several years of extreme drought. The one wire I referred to - we now use to tie-up the longer vines as the summer growth really kicks in. I know, its a hybrid head-trained style, and forced by the need to drive the rows to spray and mow the vineyard. The vines when tied higher oppose lower, keep the upright shape of the vine as the permanent arms grow.

Ordering wine from Toucan Wines couldn't be easier, I recommend that you simply call us at the winery at 805-474-8514... we can help you with your selection and make sure you're getting the best value! Visit our new Facebook page, and give us your LIKE !!

Spring Events, Tasting, Chores

2011-04-04T09:23:00.000-07:00

It has been the wildest winter, but finally spring arrived and the vines have woken up welcoming the new season. The vineyard has never looked better and I'm excited to make grow and produce another vintage here on the central coast. We recently enjoyed a great tasting event in So. Cal. at the Vintage Shoppe in Manhattan Beach, we also enjoyed a wonderful weekend with family, and we've recently accomplished several chores around the farm. A few of those chores included servicing the tractor, mower, sprayer and other equipment, pulled a few weeds, and helped neighbors with fallen trees. Now that April is upon us, I'm getting excited about bottling the 2009 vintage, suckering the vineyard, and getting back to a couple of projects put off by the rains. Lund's shop (and our tasting location) has now closed, so for the time being tasting Toucan Wines will be limited to our special events and the wine festivals we attend. We've begun looking around for a new location to pour and sell our wines... let us know your thoughts! Another good time in April will be the Taste of Pismo, we'll be there pouring our award-winning wines and sharing stories with friends. To see our full list of events, please visit our events page or like our new Facebook page. Use these links to locate Toucan Wines by the bottle at fine restaurants and fine wine shops, and order directly from the winery and receive a 20% discount on any 12 bottles of Toucan Wines.

$1 Shipping in CA Ending Soon!!

2011-03-06T12:50:00.000-08:00

Between now and March 31st, order any 12 bottles and get 20% off and $1 shipping in California. Standard shipping rates apply on all orders beginning in April, but the 20% discount offer on any 12 bottles will remain - no matter which state we ship to. Order Toucan Wines directly from the winery, visit our website, email me, or call us at 805-474-8514....

In oher news: I just returned from four very fun consumer events/pourings in Los Angeles, and at every event our wines were highly praised and enjoyed. Everyone was very impressed with the current releases and we sold a lot of wine to new customers. We also just finished raking the vineyard of the dead leafs and other material in the rows under the vines (I'm still sore). Our next project is to raise the wire holding the drip line, a project Terrie's been wanting me to do for a couple of years now. This will better position shoots that we tie to the wire during the summer.

We're sad to say that Lund's is closing after nearly 18 years in business, and I've been pouring Toucan Wines there for over three years. Thank you to all those who have been able to stop to take advantage of their going out of business sale. Many have asked where I'll be pouring our wines, and the answer is "we don't know". I'm sure a door will open and the right opportunity will present itself. Finally, I hope you'll take advantage of the $1 shipping in California this month and as always - let me know if I can help you place an order!

Perfect Gift, Samplers, and Events

2011-02-10T08:29:00.000-08:00

Valentine's day is next week and here's my reminder that our Estate Toucanet and chocolate is the perfect gift. We also announced new 3 and 6 bottle sampler packs in our recent newsletter. Here's a picture of Estate Toucanet that arrived in the New York area this week headed for retail stores and restaurants.

Our wine festival event schedule is coming together and we hope we'll see you at the event closest to you!

Here we are in early February and the weather on the central coast has been awesome - spring-like and great outdoor working weather. Terrie and I finished the pruning and all the cuttings are removed from the vineyard. I've started a few of the other small chores in the vineyard and we are gearing up for the job of raising the drip wire in the oldest section of the vineyard. Friend and volunteer Robert has joined us for a week of hard work and we're off to a great start.

Please let me know if I can help you select the perfect gift for you Valentine!

HAPPY NEW YEAR !!

2010-12-29T17:05:00.000-08:00

We all reflect a little this time of year, I prefer looking forward to the coming events and make a few commitments to myself, like: 1) spend more personal time at the beach .. walking and relaxing - in 2010, I didn't get to the beach for the first few months of the year and that was wrong. 2) find more time to travel with my wife - we all need to get away once in a while, and an out-of-town trip to sell wine does not cut it. 3) enjoy more small gathering with friends and family - we do our share of entertaining, but I'd like more meals on the porch with a glass of wine, and a central coast sunset with those good people we know. 4) continue our commitment to volunteer for local programs that help the neighborhood and community grow. 5) and spend even more time visiting and being visited by family... who's not getting older anyway? Happy New Year and may your year be filled with joy and passion!

Holiday Shipping & Gifts of Toucan Wines

2010-12-16T08:01:00.000-08:00

Order your gifts of Toucan Wines this weekend to assure arrival before Christmas and New Year. We currently offer a great selection and our new releases are awesome (Estate Zinfandel, Estate Petite Sirah and Old Vine Carignane). 20% off any mixed case and we are offering $1 shipping in California.

What else? We still have a little of the value priced 2006 Estate Zinfandel (now three years in the bottle - it's drinking perfectly), and we still have a few of the over-sized bottles we made available for the holidays, including one 3 liter of the 07' Estate Zinfandel, one 1.5 liter of 08' Carignane, 1.5 liter bottles of 07' and 08' Estate Zinfandel.

Order by visiting our Order page, or calling me at 805-474-8514 or email us with questions.

2008 Estate Zinfandel and Petite Sirah Released...

2010-11-03T10:25:00.000-07:00

Wines from the 2008 vintage will be very special, this one included - try this wine and you'll be back for more.

The winter season started out as rainy on the central coast with nearly record rainfall, but quickly turned dry. We began pruning in January and cut back the head-trained vines to even fewer spirs (or arms) than usual to curb some of the green growth in wetter years. A dry spring saw first bud break on March 14th and I note still no rain in weeks. In April, the vineyard suffered from a few frosty nights and several vines lost their precious young growth. Generally, growth in the Toucan Vineyard was normal in 2008, more balanced than some vintages, and the dry season yielded our first ripe fruit on September 7th and the last of the ripe fruit was picked on October 26th. The 300 Estate Petite Sirah vines were picked on September 25th.

The 2008 Estate Zinfandel was harvested in seven pickings, plus the Petite Sirah, and in each case cold soaked in small fermentation bins and slowly fermented. Each picking was barreled down separately in a mix of 60% new oak and 40% second and third year barrels. Partially combined once ML was completed in December, we did the final blending determined at racking in September of 2009. That final blend included 14% of Estate Petite Sirah for body, flavor and complexity. One final racking before bottling, and on March 15th, 2010 we hand-bottled 271 cases unfined and unfiltered. A separate bottling of 24 cases of the 2008 Estate Petite Sirah was also bottled from our estate vineyard.

The finished wine

Opulent and balanced best describe the 2008, dark and rich in color with a pop of beautiful complex fruit and a long inviting finish. Big, lush, and inviting sums up the 2008 vintage.

The 2008 Estate Zinfandel is a big, opulent, complex wine that spent 16 months in mostly new French, Hungarian, and American barrels. Dark garnet/purple with a huge nose of ripe wild berry and complex fruits. Lush, ripe berry fruit welcomes your taste-buds with a core of delicious fruit. And the big full mouth-feel and long finish invites your next taste. Best enjoyed 2010 - 2016

Harvest: September 7^th - October 26th

Bottled: March 15, 2010

Acid: .8

Alcohol: 15%

Release: 271 cases (including 375ml and 1500ml bottles)

Order directly from the winery and receive 20% by the case (or and mixed case of 12 bottles). Orders of the 2008 Petite Sirah is limited to 6 bottles - no limit for Club Members.

2006 Estate Zinfandel SPECIAL $20 DIRECT

2010-10-13T16:47:00.000-07:00

I have a short stack of this wine and I'd rather see it in the cellars and on the tables of our customers and friends, than in my cellar. So, here's your chance...

2006 Estate Zinfandel SPECIAL DISCOUNT -- $20/bottle (Regular $34) that's over 41% off (for a limited time) - we ship a minimum of three bottles. And we'll still ship a case of 12 bottles in California for $1.

ORDER NOW

Many of you love this wine and many haven’t yet tried it. This vintage was slow to open up, due in part to my inclusion of 19% Estate Petite Sirah – now it's totally opened up to become a big Zin and all the Petite Sirah showing through. I call this our steak wine that tastes as much like Syrah or our 06’ Petite Sirah as it does Zinfandel. Here’s a very recent wine critic’s review of the wine:

2006 Toucan Estate Zinfandel Arroyo Grande Valley; 14.7% alc., $34 -- "Integrated aromatics suggest very ripe plums with some faint tropical fruit components and a hint of smoke. A gentle, mature Zinfandel with nicely resolved tannins and blended flavors." I’ll add that each bottle has a small bit of sediment in the neck, as all our wines are unfiltered – and an earthiness on the nose and structure that holds up to the biggest foods. Again, only $20/bottle.

Order this wine directly or find it at a few local wine shops, email me for locations.

Old Vine Carignane Harvested...

2010-09-17T10:08:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, with Photo Bob our favorite photographer and transportation director, we fetched and processed a wonderful load of Old Vine Carignane - making this our third vintage from the beautiful Evangelho Vineyard.

Compared to 2008, our journey was relatively smooth - we made good time, the weather was mild, and we arrived safely home to find plenty of help to move the fruit through the crush.

We started this year's journey at 11:30 Friday evening, but we had done some pre-planning in the weeks prior. We made new lids and had lining for the bins, and we were much better prepared for transportation issues. This planning helped keep the fruit cool, arriving at 66 degrees after a long day traveling in the sunshine.

We arrived in Contra Costa at 4:30am in time for a quick bite at Denny's and arrived at the vineyard before the pickers. As the Sun came up over this 120 year old vineyard, our bins were getting full. We worked to find the ideal spots within the vineyard and by 9:30 we had loaded the bins and we were back on the road.

Today, the Old Vine Cariginane is beginning to ferment in small bins inside our cool winery. Everything has gone perfectly for this wine so far, we look forward to another killer wine from this old vineyard.

Just Waiting for the Fruit to Ripen...

2010-09-03T10:55:00.000-07:00

The netting of the vineyard is done and we have at least 2 more weeks before we start to pick any estate fruit. And we await the right day next week to pick our old vine Carignane - we've made the old vine Carignane twice before (2006 and 2008) and now our third vintage is about ready to harvest.

The title above isn't really true, we're taking advantage of this time to get a few things done around the house. But, it has been HOT out and working outside is nowhere near as fun when its hot. Now, we'll clean the winery top to bottom and prepare for our first crush of the season.

The Toucan Wines vineyard looks good, we did suffer a little from the mid-August heat wave. The result of some burned clusters will reduce our crop, but all in all, the vineyard is holding up well. Thank you to all our volunteers who helped with netting day. I look forward to seeing you all again during harvest. Pictured: friend and neighbor Ray during netting, he's waiting for those of us behind the tractor to catch-up.

Will this little-known blending grape become an important single-variety wine in the years ahead?

2010-07-31T15:48:00.000-07:00

Written by Alan Boehmer July 31, 2010

Carignan (Fr)—Carignane (U.S.)—Carignano (It)—Cariñena (Sp). It’s the same grape and it has played an important role in southern France over the past century. In fact, it has been the most widely planted red grape variety in France, but for all the wrong reasons.

Carignan’s Profile

Carignan is noted more by its faults than by its positive characteristics. It’s high in acids, tannins, bitterness, and color, but lacks balance and finesse. UC Davis crossed Carignan with Cabernet Sauvignon to produce Ruby Cabernet, a variety designed for California‘s warmer growing regions. It’s rough in its youth but doesn’t have the necessary components for a graceful development. It’s hugely prolific, typically yielding up to 11 tons per acre on bush-pruned vines that disallow mechanical harvesting. (Typical “noble” varieties are usually held to 1-4 tons yield per acre.) It has historically produced cheap wine for Europe’s vin ordinaire and over the past decades it has been continually replaced by higher quality varieties at the behest of Europe’s Vine Pull Program. Total acreage in southern France has been reduced from 350,000 acres to 250,000, but it’s still the most widely grown variety, outpacing Grenache Noir by a significant margin. It grows mostly on 30+ year old vines and almost nobody introduces new plantings of Carignan.

The Carignan Revolution

So why the uptick in interest in this much maligned variety? Perhaps because there might be more about this variety than we thought. A few growers, particularly in California, grow old-vine Carignan as a serious variety, controlling its natural high yield to focus the variety’s characteristics into fewer clusters. Most notable is the Evangelho Vineyard in California’s Contra Costa County east of San Francisco. Bush-pruned vines here are 120 years old.

A few producers are offering quality California Carignans. And there’s a community of Carignan enthusiasts on Facebook. Carignan is now considered to be the third member of Chile’s 3 Cs: Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenere, Carignan. And a Carignan from Maule Valley’s Ordfjell Vineyards took the top prize in the 7th Annual Wines of Chile competition in the Other Reds category.

In the U.S. the variety has attracted the attention of a handful of California’s top winemakers and at least three old vine Carignan vineyards have been identified: the 120 year-old Evangelho vineyard in Contra Costa County; the 65 year-old Dante Dusi vineyard in San Luis Obispo County; and the 60 year-old Garzini Ranch in Mendocino County. These vineyards are planted in the old-world tradition with bush-pruned vines and yields are carefully controlled to achieve maximum expression.

Reviews

2006 Domaine de Nizas Carignan Vielles Vignes Vin de Pays de Caux; 13.5% alc., $18

Made from 50 year-old vines in France’s Languedoc-Roussillon département, Domaine de Nizas Carignan features a distinctive aroma reminiscent of sweet, dark cherries, hard candy, and tarragon. The sweet aromatics do not inform the flavor, which is quite dry. Carignan’s signature tannins are prominent, but not oppressive. Also in evidence is the variety’s characteristic bitter finish and bright acidity. Very full-bodied and thickly colored. This wine is a model example of French Carignan.

2008 Artezin Carignan Contra Costa County Evangelho Vineyard; 14.2% alc., $26

A product of Napa Valley’s Hess Family, the 08 Artezin Carignan shows bright aromatics with under-ripe blackberries dominating. Thick and rich on the palate, it displays good acid and moderately resolved tannins. The bitter component that characterizes this variety is well controlled and there’s a faint, pleasant sweetness on the finish. All-in-all, a fine example of a carefully crafted California Carignan. Recommended.

2008 J Dusi Carignane Paso Robles Dante Dusi Vineyard; 14.9% alc., $38

Lighter and elegant in style, the J Dusi Carignan has fine, clean aromatics suggestive of unripe cherries and white pepper. Delicious flavors delight the palate with none of the typical high acid and harsh tannins associated with this variety. A perfect wine for those desiring an alternative to the ubiquitous Cabernet/Merlot/Syrah offerings. If there could be a feminine-styled Carignan, this is it. Beautifully balanced, J Dusi Carignan is equally appropriate as a sipping wine or a dinner complement. Highly recommended.

2008 Toucan Wines Carignane Contra Costa County Evangelho Vineyard; 15.9% alc., $32

Dark, with strongly perfumed aromatics of Santa Rosa plums, orange zest, fennel, and white pepper. Assertive mouth-filling flavors follow the aroma. Toucan Carignan has many of the characteristics of Petite Sirah, but with livelier acids and greater complexity. No trace of Carignan’s typical bitterness. Tannins are well-controlled. A superb example of New World Carignane. Highly recommended.

http://newworldwine.suite101.com/article.cfm/the-carignan-revolution

Also, visit the Carignane Revolution on Facebook

The Carignane Revolution @ Granada Bistro

2010-07-26T08:13:00.000-07:00

Join the Revolution and three central coast wineries pouring 3 very special wines produced from old vine Carignane and the 2008 vintage. The winemakers of Ranchero Cellars, J Dusi Wines, and Toucan Wines will all be at the Granada Bistro in San Luis Obispo, Tuesday July 27th 6-8pm

Wine Tasting in the Arroyo Grande Village...

2010-07-02T08:03:00.000-07:00

It's been three weeks since we've poured our wines at Lund's in the Arroyo Grande Village, but the events we've attended have been a blast. Tomorrow, I'm back in the village pouring our wines and looking forward to seeing our friends and fans. I should be at Lund's every Saturday afternoon through the Summer. Stop in a pay a visit.

The vineyard is growing well and this year's fruit-set was as good as I remember. We also have quite a bit of work still to do in the vineyard. Thinning, mowing, spraying all have to accomplished up to the day we elect to net to protect from the bird damage.

Our wines are available directly from our small winery - we ship directly from our cellar, and through a number of fine wine shops and restaurants.

Event Season and Awards for Toucan Wines

2010-06-16T10:00:00.000-07:00

It's Wine Festival season and you'll find Toucan Wines at several events this year. To join us at one of our events, first locate the event on our website and then contact the promoter for tickets. And let us know your coming. Pictured is Terrie, at the Ojai Wine Festival last weekend, waiting for the festival to open. That was a busy day!

We're also pleased to announce that our 2007 Estate Zinfandel and Estate Toucanet have been awarded recognition from a number of wine competitions. Here's the current break down:

2007 Toucan Wines Estate Zinfandel: GOLD and BEST OF CLASS, Los Angeles Int. Wine Competition - GOLD, San Diego Wine Competition - SILVER, California State Wine Competition.

Estate Toucanet: GOLD, Pacific Rim Wine Competition - SILVER, Los Angeles Int. Wine Competition.

And in the vineyard, we just finished tying the vines and I'm ready for another mowing of the grass. The fruit set looks plentiful and beautiful and should yield a very high quality crop this year.

Remember, 12 bottle orders receive 20% off and only $1 shipping in California.

Work in the Vineyard....

2010-06-03T07:30:00.000-07:00

Work in the vineyard seems endless this time of year. The Toucan Wines Vineyard is only 3 1/2 acres but it requires extra attention this year given the 32 inches of rain we experienced this season.

Hoeing is always a big job, but given the rains, our weeds have grown stronger and earlier than usual. Green growth in the vineyard this year is as strong and full as I've seen it, and thinning (or suckering) is the removal of unwanted shoots. Usually, two full passes through the vineyard does the job of shoot thinning. Currently I'm tying the longer than usual shoots to the drip line wire (our only wire) and to the posts to prevent damage to the shoots from the tractor when mowing or spraying the vineyard.

This week we'll experience our first heat surge of the season with temps in the 90's this weekend. This time of year the winds are usually blowing strong - this year has been no exception. Strong winds seems to come up just about every afternoon.

Overall, the set as we finish bloom looks beautiful and I anticipate a crop of normal quantity and hope for exceptional quality. This means a mere 350 cases of estate wine from our small vineyard.

2008 Old Vine Carignane - Now Available

2010-05-27T11:15:00.000-07:00

Harvested from the low-yielding 120 year old vines, grown in the Evangelho vineyard in Contra Costa County. This wine was slowly fermented after a period of cold soaking and pressed to a combination of French, Hungarian and American oak barrels for 17 months. The resulting wine is a classic varietal bottling from this outstanding old vine vineyard. We proudly hand bottled 217 cases unfined and unfiltered.

This wine is big and beautiful offering an elegant nose and lush plump ripe berry on the palate and a beautiful finish. It's great now, but do consider laying down a case of this wine, as I expect it to improve with another year or more in the bottle.

We've been sharing this wine with customers over the past week and getting great feedback. You can find this wine today in four wine shops on the central coast: Lund's in the village of Arroyo Grande, Tastes of the Valleys, Pismo and Solvang locations, and Monterey Street Wines in San Luis Obispo.

Of course you can also order the wine directly from the winery cellar too. This weekend, I'll be pouring the 2008 Carignane at Lund's during this weekend’s Strawberry Festival. To learn more about this wine and one of the craziest days of my life, read the upcoming June Newsletter.

Toucan Wines Hat Photo Contest...

2010-05-17T12:56:00.000-07:00

Where Did You Wear Your Toucan Wines Hat? Official Rules (subject to alteration)

The Photo Contest that encourages fun with a Toucan Wines Hat in one of three categories.

Rules and Legal Jargon: The Grand Champion, as determined by our unscrupulous judges, may exchange his or her valuable right and allow us to exploit the winning photo for a magnum of yummy Toucan Wines.

Photo must depict, in anyway, an official Toucan Wines Hat. You do NOT have to purchase a Toucan Wines Hat to participate..... Submit your photo(s) by posting it on the Toucan Wines group Facebook page by Aug. 31st, 2010 – there is no limit to the number of allowable entries.... Comment on your photo, once posted, telling us which category you're submitting to: People, Provocative or Other..... Please follow Facebook rules of use when posting to the Toucan Wines group..... You may submit previously posted Toucan Wines photos. Examples maybe viewed at: www.toucanwines.com/hat.htm - each category will be judged separately by a team of wine and photography fanatics and others chosen by Toucan Wines at random. Facebook friend’s comments on contestant photos maybe considered by the judges and used to determine a winner.... Winners will be announced for each of the three categories and awarded bragging rights. Only one of the three winning category photos will be awarded the overall contest Grand Champion.

Two New Events and Vineyard Update...

2010-05-17T11:10:00.000-07:00

Our event dance card is becoming more and more interesting. This Thursday I'm at Monterey Street Wines with Mojo Cellars sharing our wines with customers - drop in this Thursday and say hello and try a few wines.

On the 13th of June, Toucan Wines has been added to the winery line-up at the Ojai Wine Festival and I look forward to seeing many of our friends there. In the same neighborhood, find our wines at Paradise Pantry and Mary's Secret Garden, both in downtown Ventura.

Today, we're getting a little rain and this could easily be the last rain of the season. I've started hoeing the vineyard and at the same time making my second pass on suckering. The next chore will be tying the longer shoots to the drip wire to save them from tractor damage and the effort somewhat shapes the vines arm position.

The weather has been strange, we've had a cooler than usual year so far and the vines got off to an early start - hopefully this means a longer hang time. We've also had the latest frost (just last week) that I can remember, but fortunately no obvious damage resulted.

Please take a close look at your calendars for any opportunity to visit us at one of the many upcoming events we plan to attend. And remember our special 12 bottle case discount is 20% on any mix of our wines plus only $1 shipping in California.

20% off 12 bottle orders and $1 shipping in CA - read the May Newsletter...

2010-05-09T13:14:00.000-07:00

Our May newsletter is now available and I'm excited to offer you a new 20% off offer on 12 bottles of Toucan Wines and 12 months in the Toucan Wines Club which gets you 20% any sized wine orders during your membership - no unwanted shipment - you order the wine when you're ready for it. And no pressure when you're in the Club - you can take advantage of the special discount or not. We also ship every wine order of 12 bottles of Toucan Wines, in California, for $1.

We're also excited about the upcoming pouring events that can always be viewed on our events page.

Spring Weather Rocks... Wine Tasting... Vineyard Work

2010-04-27T09:47:00.000-07:00

I had a great time at the Taste of Huntington Beach this past weekend and enjoyed the crowd, met new folks and many returning friends and customers. We previewed samples of the 2008 Carignane which was a big hit with the Huntington folks.

This weekend, being the first weekend of the month, you'll find Toucan Wines on the tasting bar all weekend at Monterey Street Wines in San Luis Obispo. You'll also find me pouring our wines at Lund's in the village of Arroyo Grande on Saturday 1-5pm.

I love this time of year - work in the vineyard has begun with suckering, gopher trapping, hoeing and other spring chores. The weather has been consistent lacking the usual spring heat wave or last year's late frost. The vines seemed to taking off a little earlier this year with the Petite Sirah leading the pack. I've already suckered the Petite vines and will be starting on the Zinfandel before the week is out. I forgot to mention mowing, three passes through the vineyard on the mower so far and another day of mowing is in store for me by next week.

Toucan Vineyard Growing Beautifully,,,

2010-04-14T07:50:00.000-07:00

Our April newsletter is available and focuses on the new annual growth in the vineyard. Today we had a little late-season frost with hopefully no real damage to that new growth. Weeding, mowing, spraying, hoeing, and more weeding are on on the schedule for the coming days. Now that bottling is complete, I can focus on wine sales and the vineyard...

Tomorrow evening I'll be in Paso Robles with friend and winemaker Linda Stinson from Sunset Ridge Vineyards, we'll both be sharing our wines at the Pony Club at Hotel Cheval. I'm also excited that soon I'll share with you our new label currently in design, it should be ready for the printer next month.

Finally, I look forward to seeing all our friends in Huntington Beach next Sunday at the Taste of Huntington Beach - join us for a great day of food, wine and music.

Toast the Sunset at Morro Bay Wine Sellers...

2010-04-06T09:19:00.000-07:00

This Saturday around 4:00 till closing, I'll be hanging out at Morro Bay Wine Seller - join me and the great staff and taste our new releases while watching the sunset from their amazing bay side view.

I love this place and now it's updated and remodeled... the perfect place to begin your evening in Morro Bay. After the event, we're off to dinner and the options are endless.

Hope to see you Saturday and if you plan to attend, drop Chris at Morro Bay Wine Seller a note and tell him to expect you. info@morrobaywineseller.com

http://www.morrobaywineseller.com/

Special Events for the Next Three Saturdays...

2010-03-26T09:05:00.000-07:00

In addition to our daytime tasting at Lund's in Arroyo Grande, I hope each of our friends will join us at one of the next three special Saturday evening events featuring Toucan Wines.

Starting tomorrow (3/27) in San Luis Obispo @ Monterey Street Wines a vertical tasting of TW Estate Zinfandel (5:30 to close). Next Saturday (4/3) in Solvang at Taste of the Valleys from 5pm - 8:30 the staff will be pouring several of our estate wines at this happening venue. Then, on Saturday (4/10) I'll be hanging out at with our friends at Morro Bay Wine Seller's and the wine will be flowing from 4pm - close.

So, join me at one of more event and let's enjoy some great wine together.

2007 Estate Petite Sirah Released... and New TW Events

2010-03-10T08:33:00.001-08:00

After sixteen months in new oak and thirteen months in the bottle, our 2007 Estate Petite Sirah has finally been released and is available on the TW website. The 35 cases we separately produced from the great 2007 vintage is definitely worth a try. Find it at Lund's in the village of Arroyo Grande and soon at local wine shops and wine bars.

As promised, I'm getting lots of time with new and existing customers this year, here's a sampling of the Toucan Wines featured events coming up: Mach 27th: vertical TW Estate Zinfandel tasting at Monterey St. Wines - April 3rd: TW featured at Tastes of the Valleys in Solvang - April 10th: TW featured at Morro Bay Wine Sellers - April 25th: TW pouring (not featured) at A Taste of Huntington Beach. Of course, every Saturday afternoon you can taste our latest at Lund's in Arroyo Grande. Please visit our events page and please join us soon at one or more of the upcoming events.

Toucan's Vineyard Ready for Spring...

2010-03-10T08:09:00.000-08:00

Our Toucan Wines estate vineyard is ready for spring and within the next few of weeks we should see the first buds break into leaf. The fall rains in October helped grow a blanket of cover crop which worked to hold back erosion during the heavy winter rains. In fact we've had above normal rain fall exceeding 26 inches for the season.

I've mowed this blanket or carpet of cover growth twice so far this year. It's so thick that unwanted weeds are struggling to find sunlight and our gophers are enjoying the cover from red tail hawks and owls searching for a meal. We performed our pruning and other care in step with breaks in the rain and now I can say we're ready for the new year's growth. One more large project we hope to accomplish is the raising of the drip wire. We use the wire to tie longer shoots in early summer, this helps me avoid damaging vines during mowing or spraying with the tractor.

I hope to see you soon at one of our many upcoming events - CLICK HERE

2007 Estate Zinfandel Released

2010-03-01T18:39:00.001-08:00

We're very pleased to release our 2007 Toucan Wines Estate Zinfandel, 245 cases produced and maybe our best Estate wine to date. Available by ordering from the winery, local retail and restaurant locations, and of course being poured at Lund's on Saturday afternoons. Learn more by visiting us at www.ToucanWines.com

76 Degrees, Bottles and Air Conditioning...

2010-02-15T14:35:00.000-08:00

I'm writing this quick note while waiting for our bottles to arrive via truck for the 2008 vintage. Over the last couple of weeks I've been sampling the 08' wines and they are stellar. Last night we tasted the 08' Estate Petite Sirah from the single barrel and it's clearly our best PS to date.

Today it's 76 degrees in the shade at the winery and 57 degrees inside the winery barrel room. The weather has been beautiful the past few days and we're enjoying it.

We finished pruning the vineyard a few days ago and I've already applied to the vines a product used to help burn away mildew spores that weather over the winter season. Soon we're hoping to find time to raise the single drip wire a few inches on every vine.

Also coming up is the release of the 2007 Estate Zinfandel (as mentioned in previous notes), we're getting ready for this release by updating order forms and preparing for the usual orders that come with a new release.

We've had a few people ask about more pictures of the winery and vineyard. I know the winery slide show is a little buried on the website and I'll have to fix that. But, we also have lots of pictures on Facebook which you can see with or without joining.

In addition to the bottle delivery, today we placed the new 3 ton AC system in place in the winery. I'm looking forward to having this production space cooled in addition to the barrel room which has it's own AC unit.

February Newletter... New Release

2010-02-09T08:30:00.000-08:00

Our 2007 Estate Zinfandel releases at the end of this month, plan to taste this terrific wine at Lund's on the 27th and on the 28th at the Orange County Wine Society Extraordinaire. Further information in our newsletter and on our events page. This Friday I'll be at Monterey Street Wines toasting Valentines Day with Sparkling Wine, Chocolate, and Estate Toucanet. Join us at one of our events soon!

Vineyard, Rain, New Release Dates and Specials...

2010-02-01T19:29:00.000-08:00

We're several days into pruning the vineyard and it's going really well. The mild weather is a pleasure and we've had good timing between rainstorms. We have already reached the average rainfall for the season and the usual big rain comes in February.

We just cleaned out the winery, moving stuff that was being stored and making room for a new 3 ton air conditioner. We will also be bottling soon, so the space made will help with that process. I just tasted through all the wines in barrel and the 08' and 09' vintages will be wines to look forward to. But wait, we haven't released all the 2007 wines yet!

The release date for the 2007 Estate Zinfandel is Feb. 27th at Lund's in the Village of Arroyo Grande and the 28th at the OCWS Extraordinaire at the Anaheim Hilton.

Stop into Lund's for a no charge tasting of our new release and join us in Anaheim for a fun event full of food and wines.

Finally, I ask that you check out our website specials page beginning next week, these specials will be available to all customers.

What to Expect from Toucan Wines in 2010...

2010-01-13T09:57:00.000-08:00

Our latest newsletter talks to our commitment to customers in 2010, plus what we're making in the winery, new release plans for our Estate Zinfandel, a listing of the events we are scheduled to attend, and other Toucan news.

Also, newly scheduled - I'll be at Monterey Street Wines on February 12th - 6pm till close - to celebrate Valentine's Day, Monterey Steet Wines will be featuring our Estate Toucanet, Sparkling Wines, and maybe a few surprises. Join me!

Welcome 2010 - Toucan Wines Ship in CA. for $1

2010-01-02T15:02:00.000-08:00

We're starting out the new year with $1 Shipping in California on orders of 6 bottles or more. We ended the year working on a new project on the property.

The new retaining walls will support walkways and a party patio by the house. As with many projects, this has been in the planning stage for years.

We wish all our friends, Club members, and all other supporters a Happy and Rewarding 2010.

Wet Weather has us Working in the Winery

2009-12-14T08:47:00.000-08:00

We've reached about 11 inches of rain for the season, a great start for a region that usually doesn't see much of the wet stuff until January. The cold weather and rain forced us into the winery to look for projects, of which we have no shortage.

So, we're currently labeling the recently released Estate Toucanet. I had some time after harvest to label and packaged enough of the wine to support the release, allowing me to begin shipping - but we blew through that batch quickly.

The Estate Toucanet is perfect holiday gift and wonderful toasting wine for the season. Enjoy this dessert wine with friends and family.

Estate Toucanet Gets Thumbs Up from The Bernards Inn's Terri Baldwin

2009-12-11T09:05:00.000-08:00

The Bernards Inn is a world-class hotel and fine dining destination in Bernardsville, New Jersey. The fine wine collection is the work of Wine Director/Sommelier Terri Baldwin, and has been awarded the "Best of Award of Excellence" from the Wine Spectator Magazine for the past eight years.

Terri has put together an amazing International list, including French first growth wines dating back to the 50's and California premier Cabernets dating into the 60's.

We're proud that Terri has selected Toucan Wines for her fine wine list, including both our 2005 Estate Zinfandel and our Estate Toucanet. Here's what Terri has to say:

Estate Toucanet: the beauty of this unique sweet dessert wine is the flavor and texture. When I tasted this wine, I was extremely pleased with all that it offered. Dark sweet fruits, raspberry, wild cherry, vanilla, mocha. Great for gift giving with its uniqueness, this wine will be sure to satisfy the sweet tooth after dinner or as a holiday toast. Not cloyingly sweet, the texture is elegant and smooth that will have you thirsting for more. This wine will also age incredibly well for 15+ years. The packaging of this wine is also elegant in a 500 ML bottle (16 oz) and boasts 5 Toucan birds on the label…. Terrie Baldwin

Winter Arrives with Rain and Cold... Last Event of 2009

2009-12-09T08:48:00.000-08:00

On Monday, the second rain of the season brought another 1.5 inches adding to the 5.5 inches gifted at the end of our harvest. More rain is expected this weekend making this a great start for the season. Our first frosty nights arrived in October, but yesterday the temps dipped into the mid-20's leaving a blanket of frost that covered our entire valley.

Our very last special tasting event will be at Monterey Street Wine Co. in San Luis Obispo on the 18th (Friday) from 5 till close. Frankly, this will be more of a party, the venue is great and improving everyday, and the tasting will be a selection sparkling wines and Toucan Wines. They'll feature gourmet foods, wines to taste and wines by the glass. This will be the perfect chance to enjoy some great wine and select a few last minute holidays gifts.

Plus, I'll be pouring our wines at Lund's in the village of Arroyo Grande every Saturday from 1-5pm through the end of the year.

Vineyard and Home Projects, plus New Events...

2009-12-02T13:35:00.000-08:00

Our December newsletter is now available, amazing how quickly this year flew by. Now that winter has arrived, were starting work on a new patio in back of our home with a fire pit and a retaining wall. We're also doing some changes in the vineyard. This winter we'll raise the drip line and wire, used for tying vines in summer, and shorten the drip line to water between the vines instead of on top of the vine.

The vineyard looks beautiful this time of year, as seen in this photograph taken this week. We've had one terrific rain storm that offered over 5 inches and our next rainfall is expected next week.

We also have a number of new events coming up - this Friday I'll be in Atascadero for the evening pouring outside of Endless Summer Jewelry as a part of the Wine and Art Walk in that town. On Friday the 18th, I'll be again at Monterey Street Wines in San Luis Obispo from 5-8pm - this is a great event and I encourage all locals to come and enjoy a good time and evening out. And of course every Saturday through the rest of the year I'll be pouring at Lund's in the village of Arroyo Grande.

Finally, we ask that you order your gifts of wine from Toucan Wines via the website or simply by called us directly.

Happy Holidays!

Wines for the Holidays...

2009-11-29T07:49:00.000-08:00

Don't worry - I'll be pouring our latest releases as well and some library wines at Lund's in the village of Arroyo Grande every Saturday through the holidays. Currently available from the winery are the 05' and 06' Estate Zinfandel and our dessert wine Estate Toucanet.

Holiday gifts will be shipped from the winery to your friends and family and we even have a couple of magnums of Estate Zinfandel for special gifts.

Petite Sirah - Too Shy to Show at It's Own Party...

2009-11-22T09:20:00.000-08:00

That's right - I've withdrawn the 2007 Estate Petite Sirah release and locked it back in the winery bottle cellar until it screams for release!

Yesterday, our release party at Lund's was a lot of fun and thanks to everyone who came to visit and try the wines - our 2004 and 2006 Estate Petite Sirah showed very well, as did the dessert wine Estate Toucanet and the Sunset Ridge Vineyards 07' Petite Sirah - but the Toucan Wines 07's Estate Petite Sirah was still very tightly wound and shy to unfold into the beautiful wine hiding behind the label. Frankly, it just didn't show up for the party!

As with all of our wines, I've tried to release them at a point that they can be enjoyed relatively immediately. But our Petite Sirah has a history of being a slow starter, beginning with our 2004. This first release of Petite Sirah, the 2004 vintage, is now in full bloom and drinking beautifully (as enjoyed yesterday). The 2006 was also released too early and was very closed upon release, and now just beginning to show it's inner beauty. Both of these wines are sold out at the winery, but our 2006 in available locally at a few fine wine shops and restaurants. Email me if you're looking for this wine in SLO county and take a look at our location guide on the website. You'll find our 06' Estate Petite Sirah in several fine restaurants in the NY/NJ areas as well.

So, the Toucan Wines 2007 Estate Petite Sirah will remain tucked away in the winery bottle cellar until sometime next year. If you enjoyed the wine yesterday and want to reserve your own supply - please email me directly and I'll hold your order until released (again). In the mean time, enjoy the other offerings from Toucan Wines including our 2006 Estate Zinfandel (a blend that includes 19% Estate Petite Sirah), our new sweet dessert wine - Estate Toucanet, and still available for the holidays is a limited amount of library wines - our 04' and 05' Estate Zinfandel.

Thank you for your continued support. I promise that eventually our 07' Estate Petite Sirah will reward each of us with it's inner beauty - but obviously on it's terms, in it's own time and only when it's ready.

Terrific Event and Another this Saturday...

2009-11-16T07:52:00.000-08:00

We enjoyed a great wine pouring event at Monterey Street Wine Co. this past Friday evening. A terrific crowd showed up and the party was on. Five of our wines on the bar and every one was showing well, also joining me was Sunset Ridge Vineyards showing their 2007 Petite Sirah produced from estate fruit grown on their small family vineyard. Pictured is Patrick, owner of Monterey Street Wines and a picture of Darrel and me sitting at the MSW bar. Darrel is the vineyard manager of Sunset Ridge as well as other premium vineyards in the region.

Our next big event is this Saturday at Lund's in the village of Arroyo Grande. This is our 2007 Estate Petite Sirah release party - we'll be pouring new and older vintages of Toucan Wines Petite Sirah, we'll have some snacks, chocolate, a jewelry show of Margareta Lund's hand crafted artisan jewelry, and once again Sunset Ridge Vineyards will be joining me and pouring their Petite Sirah. Come see us from 1-6pm this Saturday!!

Estate Petite Sirah Release Party

2009-11-10T07:38:00.000-08:00

On the 21st of this month we release our latest limited production estate wine, our 2007 Estate Petite Sirah. Only 35 case produced, you won't find this wine (or any of our wines for that matter) at Costco or Trader Joe's.

You will find his wine and me on Saturday the 21st at Lund's in the village of Arroyo Grande, I'll be pouring samples of this new release and older releases as well. Read all about our 2007 Estate Petite Sirah and after the 21st order online or find it at your local fine wine shop.

Also, take a look at our online slideshow featuring photos of our life on the farm and the wine making of Toucan Wines.

Events and Beautiful Weather...

2009-11-06T08:32:00.000-08:00

This past weekend we poured our wines along side some great food at Woodstone Marketplace. We met new friends and shared a glass with several vineyard volunteers and friends who attended.

And we have some other exciting events coming up over the the next week and over the holidays, please take a look at our events page to see if you can join us in the coming weeks.

The weather has been mild and it truly is a beautiful fall here on the central coast of California. If vacationing in the area, please consider attending one of our tasting events and better get to know us.

Finally, if you have the need to send gifts this holiday season - consider a gift of Toucan Wines! We can ship to your friends and clients to your specifications even using your own holiday cards or notes. Contact us at the winery if we can help this holiday season.

Ten Questions with Lynn Diehl - asked of Doug Timewell of Toucan Wines

2009-10-30T13:23:00.000-07:00

Lynn Diehl recently did a casual interview with me at the winery and the result published in a regional paper. See Lynn's other work supporting the local food and wine industry at The Tolosa Press and Wine Region News.

2009 Toucan Wines tucked away in barrels...

2009-10-20T16:49:00.000-07:00

It's been a weird growing year - first the continuing draught and then just when we thought everything might be lost to heat, the weather and the fruit cooperated and turned out a lovely crop. Further, the weather then turned cold at night slowing down harvest (just a little) and definitely helping by cooling down the winery at night. As our harvest was coming to a natural end, the gift of 5.5 inches of rain put any hope for a second crop harvest to bed.

Overall our estate vineyard yield was down but the quality was there and that's what really counts. We sincerely thank all our friends, volunteers, family and supporters for all the help this year - another year where your help really counted!!

As you can see in this picture, the recent rain has already turned the vineyard green (at least for now).

First Rain of the Season...

2009-10-13T09:49:00.000-07:00

On the central coast we are receiving our first real rain of the season, this storm will deliver as much as 6 inches of rain fall.

Fortunately, we spent yesterday morning pulling in the last of the ripe fruit from the our small estate vineyard. Overall quantity from our 3 1/2 in going to be down from previous vintages, but the quality is terrific.

Thank you to those who attended our Estate Toucanet release party at Lund's in Arroyo Grande. If you'd like to taste our latest releases, including our new Dessert Wine, see our Event schedule for an opportunity to taste our wine and say hello. Our next event is this Thursday in Pismo Beach...

Harvest has come all at once...

2009-10-05T15:06:00.000-07:00

After our initial harvest of estate Petite Sirah, we held off thinking that harvest would be spread out over weeks and weeks. But, we're finding the fruit is perfectly ripe and the flavors are perfect. The only problem is... it's all ready (well just about). We've picked the majority (with the help of many friends) of the crop and tonight and tomorrow we're going in for more.

Toucanet Releases...

2009-09-30T20:41:00.000-07:00

Our Estate Toucanet is the premier release of a wine produced from the desire to make an entirely estate based Porto styled dessert wine. This premier release is represented as a blend of three barrels from our 2007 vintage and one from our 2008 late harvested vintage - all of which have been fortified or Mutage with brandy spirits distilled from our 2006 Estate Zinfandel. As you can see, our premier release of Toucanet is the product of three great vintages from our estate vineyard and a wine made in the style of the finest age-worthy Porto dessert wines.

Select estate Zinfandel and Petite Sirah, harvested from our small vineyard, once crushed, was cold soaked pre-fermentation for several days. A slow fermentation with special yeast ended with the fortification of fine brandy - Mutage d' esprit. Aged in fine oak barrels for up to 22 months, Toucanet is an incredible and lovely sweet dessert styled wine that tastes of dark sweet fruits, deep raspberry liquor, wild cherry-vanilla, and hints of mocha. Presented in 500ml traditional Porto bottles and sporting our new image of five Toucans, this wine is ready to enjoy now and will hold for up to ten years with proper storage.

Order from the winery direct or one of our fine wine shops and restaurants.

Shipping Wine Again and Harvest Begins...

2009-09-14T10:02:00.000-07:00

We’re back to shipping wine this week – the weather is cool and that means we’re shipping any outstanding orders and new orders received today and tomorrow morning – feel free to call me at the winery for available wines and visit the website http://www.toucanwines.com/order.htm

Yesterday we harvested the Estate Petite Sirah, our first crush of the season. The Estate Zinfandel is still a couple of weeks away from harvest - and were looking forward to a warming trend starting later this week. Thanks to all our volunteers who helped out this weekend!

Early September in the Vineyard and Winery...

2009-09-07T14:07:00.000-07:00

Having survived the heat wave of late August, we're waiting for the Estate Zinfandel and Petite Sirah to come into full ripeness. We might be able to harvest a small quantity this weekend and then wait and see.

Last Friday, Terrie helped me rack the 08' wines and I must say they are very special - a vintage worth waiting for.

The first of the 08' wines to release will be 150 cases of the "Old Vine" Evangelho Vineyard Carignane - which I hope make available during the upcoming winter holidays. We'll be able to offer, from the 08' vintage, a typical sized offering of Estate Zinfandel - blending with 11% Estate Petite Sirah and currently resting in 80% new French and Hungarian oak barrels. I expect this wine to release in early 2011; And for our Petite Sirah lovers, a mere 24 cases of 08' Petite Sirah will be available, very similar in style to our 2006, the 08' Estate Petite Sirah will sure to please. Also from the 08' vintage, we'll bring back the Toucan Cuvee, up to 50 cases of the Toucan Cuvee will find it's way to our customers in 2010.

Toucanet Release Party in Arroyo Grande

2009-09-07T13:58:00.000-07:00

On October 10th, from 1-7pm, we'll be celebrating the release of our Estate Toucanet. This wine was produced from the desire to make an entirely estate based Porto styled dessert wine.

Lund's in the Village of Arroyo Grande - Oct. 10th 1-7pm

Select estate Zinfandel and Petite Sirah, harvested from our small vineyard, once crushed, was cold soaked pre-fermentation for several days. A slow fermentation with special yeast ended with the fortification of fine brandy - Mutage d' esprit. Aged in fine oak barrels for up to 22 months, Toucanet is an incredible and lovely sweet dessert styled wine that tastes of dark sweet fruits, deep raspberry liquor, wild cherry-vanilla, and hints of mocha. Presented in 500ml traditional Porto bottles and sporting our new image of five Toucans, this wine is ready to enjoy now and will hold for up to ten years with proper storage.

A few magnums and a few standard sized 750ml bottles will be available to members of the Toucan Wines Club.

Produced:
302 (6 pack) cases of 500ml traditional bottles
24 bottles of 750ml traditional bottles
6 magnums 1500ml

August Newsletter

2009-08-25T11:21:00.000-07:00

Here is our August newsletter for those not on our email list. We are announcing the Toucanet Release Party October 10th at Lund's in the Village of Arroyo Grande, specials, and other news. Find us on Facebook and of course please check in on our website to view special deals or new releases.

The weather has been colder than I'd hope for this summer, but a heat wave is coming later this week. I'm thinking late September for the first grapes from our state vineyard. We've been focused on getting ready for harvest, but we still have some work to do in the winery racking our 08' wines. I'm feeling good after knee surgery and getting stronger every day.

Hot Day on the Central Coast...

2009-08-13T16:25:00.000-07:00

Today the heat arrived in force and the grapes are soaking it up. The LaBrea fire is growing out of control about forty miles south-east of us and the wind is kicked-up. Were all hoping CDF gets control soon! I'm enjoying a little time spent inside recovering from a little knee surgery and getting strong for harvest.

Last week we ran up to the bay area to fetch the grape-brandy (shown here in stainless steel storage) for this year's Toucanet. Our first release of Toucanet which spent up to 22 months in fine oak barrels will be available next month. Our brandy, distilled from our 2006 estate wine, in the initial release - is prepared by St. George Spirits, well known for their Hanger-One Vodka and more importantly the many fine products crafted at this artisan distillery.

The vineyard is netted and we await the ripening of our 2009 vintage.

Vineyard Netted and Ready for the Birds....

2009-08-07T14:40:00.000-07:00

Well, we're not hoping for birds but we get our share. And yellowjackets too. It's that time of year and this time the netting was done with the help of the crew from the Huasna Valley Farm. These folks chipped in and made it all look simple - I drove the tractor and they did the rest!

Today, I worked with Terrie to fine tune the ends of the rows by adding bricks to pull back the nets from the fruit. Birds will team-up and weigh down the nets to get access to the ripe fruit. Those birds know every trick in the book - and were working to keep one step ahead. Yellowjacket traps are set, Terrie has about 12 traps that she keeps filled with cat or dog food. Seems to be working great right now.

A dry year and now very windy. Not hot, but mild and dry. Should be an outstanding year for our estate wines.

We also have a bunch of new pictures for the series "Where Did You Wear Your Toucan Wines Hat". This is a picture of Dave Smith, of St. George Spirits - this is the high-end distillery we use to produce brandy from our estate wines and for our Toucanet.

To view additional pictures, join us on Facebook - click here. To get your own Toucan Wines Hat, visit our website.

Nearly four weeks into July,,,

2009-07-23T15:59:00.000-07:00

Here at Toucan Wines we've had some warm days and cool nights, typical for this time of year. It's been a dry growing season and the vines have produced an average sized crop of what I believe will prove to be outstanding quality. The vineyard is just about ready to net from bird damage, a final step which I hope to get done with a lot of help on August 2nd

This week we bottled our premier release of Toucanet, 300 six-pack cases of 500ml traditional Porto bottles will be released in early fall. Learn more about Toucanet by clicking here. This wine spent up to 22 months in 4 great barrels and the result is very special... you need to taste it for yourself!

Preparation for harvest has started with the ordering of fermentation materials and cleaning. Lots of details at this stage and we still have a few bigger projects to complete before harvest begins. Soon, I plan to rack all the 08' wines and settle on our barrel regiment for the 09' vintage.

Vineyard and Winery Update

2009-07-09T09:15:00.000-07:00

With the vineyard tying done, the vineyard freshly mowed (hopefully for the last time this season) and having just sprayed -- I can turn my energy to the winery. Oh yea, I have some hoeing still to do :=(

Our vineyard is looking good and the crop appears to be normal or slightly larger than normal. Once the fruit turns, we'll walk through and crop-thin where needed. The mild, but dry, weather may extend the growing season unless we see warmer days in July. I worry this time of year about cluster burn from the sometimes 105 degree days we get during a heat wave.

In the winery, I have everything ready for bottling the Toucanet. The wine's been racked, samples went to the lab, Nitrogen tanks are filled, corks arrived, additional bottles and boxes arrived. Now it's just a matter getting the wine into bottles. The 08' wines are resting in barrels and developing nicely.

Tying and Thinning the Vineyard...

2009-06-19T15:43:00.000-07:00

We're nearly down to the last acre of tying and thinning, it's been very warm the last two days and we're both dragging. The fruit looks great and I'm hopeful for a full crop of the highest quality. After several weeks of cooler weather, these couple of days take some getting used to.

Toucan Wines June 09' Newsletter

2009-06-11T12:31:00.000-07:00

Here's our latest newsletter for your reading pleasure. Note in the newsletter the LAST CALL for Toucan Cuvee and Estate Petite Sirah.

The Wine List of Summit, NJ

2009-06-09T11:55:00.000-07:00

In Summit, New Jersey, The Wine List of Summit is a fine wine shop where we met Neil and enjoyed sharing our story and wines. Here’s you’ll find both our estate Zinfandel and estate Petite Sirah.

Scalini Fedeli Ristorante, NJ

2009-06-09T11:53:00.000-07:00

In north New Jersey several fine restaurants have discovered Toucan Wines. We shared a special visit with Mark of Scalini Fedeli Ristorante offering our estate Zinfandel, Petite Sirah and our 2006 Carignane, Arguably the finest Italian dining in New Jersey, you can imagine how excited I am to be so well represented.

Porter House New York, NYC

2009-06-09T11:51:00.000-07:00

Also in NYC and new to us is Porter House New York on Columbus Circle, where the wine list is crafted by Sommelier, Brad Nugent who totally enjoyed and selected our estate Petite Sirah for this fine dining restaurant.

Club Metropolitan, NYC

2009-06-09T11:48:00.000-07:00

Back from a quick visit to the east coast, meeting those in the restaurants and fine wine shops who carry our wines in both Manhattan and northern New Jersey – working with my distributor, David Vincent Selection, we made some great new placements – we found the wines very well received everywhere we poured. And, I was exciting to have the opportunity to share our wines with a number of fine establishments in northern Virginia. For those of you who know me well, you’ll know this gave me the chance to spend some special time with my daughters and grandson.

Of these new placements, one is the fabulous Club Metropolitan located in the Metropolitan Tower on 57th Street in NYC, a private fine dining club offering both our estate Zinfandel and estate Petite Sirah.

Wine Grotto in Montecito

2009-06-02T18:25:00.000-07:00

A great wine shop, the Liquor and Wine Grotto, owned by Jess and Ingila (these are two of my favorite people) located in the Montecito Village and clearly the best selection of fine wines around. Both love the Toucan Wines 2005 Estate Zinfandel (Jess says it's his fav wine) and always keeps it in stock.

Lucky's Steakhouse

2009-06-02T18:17:00.000-07:00

This fine steakhouse called Lucky's is located in Montecito, CA and now serves our 2006 Estate Zinfandel. A beautiful menu and great stop off hwy 101 when you're looking for fine dining.

Where did you wear your Toucan Wines Hat?

2009-05-25T14:38:00.000-07:00

Amber Phillips, manager of Tastes of the Valleys, Solvang with her dogs and wearing her Toucan Wines Hat - Thanks Amber. Please send us your picture - WHERE DID YOU WEAR YOUR TOUCAN WINES HAT?

Visit Tastes of the Valleys in Solvang the #1 Wine Bar in town!

Toucan Wines Newsletter - May 2009

2009-05-25T14:33:00.000-07:00

Here's our latest newsletter link - enjoy! Also, here's our latest picture of "Where did you wear your Toucan Wines Hat?" This is our friend and volunteer Robert at Piedmont Grocery in Oakland, CA. -- Thank you!

Where did you wear your Toucan Wines hat?

2009-05-11T13:43:00.001-07:00

Where did you wear your Toucan Wines Hat? Send us your picture with you wearing your Toucan Wines hat and tell us where and when it was taken. This is a picture of Jim, a Toucan Wines customer, last week in Colle di Val d'Elsa, Italia--about 40 miles south of Florence. He bought a bottle of Colombaia---Chianti Colli Senesi D.O.C.G.

Wine Shop of the Month -- Morro Bay Wine Seller

2009-05-11T12:18:00.000-07:00

Morro Bay Wine Seller is, as you might expect, located in Morro Bay on the Embarcadero. Proprietors John (shown here) and Chris offer a great selection of Central Coast and International wines, a great tasting bar, wine club, free parking, great people, and a terrific view of the bay.

A good selection of Toucan Wines is always in stock, you can find them on the web at: http://www.morrobaywineseller.com (the site is being updated right now) and call them at 805-772-8388

Benito Dusi Visit

2009-05-11T12:11:00.000-07:00

Last week I was in Paso Robles and enjoyed a wonderful visit with Benito Dusi. His famous vineyard grows some of the best old vine Zinfandel in North County and the State.

The original planting of this vineyard was in 1923, those exact vines are the source for the budwood taken to grow the Toucan Wines Vineyard in the Arroyo Grande Valley (50 miles south of the Benito Dusi Vineyard).

Benito's fruit has for many years been sold to Ridge to produce the Ridge Paso Robles Zinfandel, and smaller amounts to a couple of smaller local producers. Back in the 80's and 90's Ridge produced a late harvest named Essence from the Benito Dusi Vineyard.

Good weather and lots to do...

2009-05-07T15:32:00.000-07:00

We've enjoyed a few days of warm weather and still expect a few more. A little hot for this time of the year, but its good for the vines and the garden too.

We've been working on hoeing the vineyard and next I'll begin suckering the unwanted growth on each vine. I made two passes through the vineyard spraying catfish emulsion and I've now mowed the vineyard twice.

We had a very good time at the Taste of Huntington Beach event and met many new folks and now new customers -- I'm looking forward to our next event later this month in Newport Beach.

Remember we still offer $1 shipping and we still have a little 06' Estate Petite Sirah and the award winning 05' Estate Zinfandel ready to ship to customers.

Toucan Wines Slideshow and More

2009-05-01T13:56:00.000-07:00

New on the Toucan Wines web site is a slide show page which I continuously update with our winery and vineyard pics.

Welcome to May, I'm working in the winery and staring out the winery window as the clouds move-in to present a slight chance of real rain. I just mowed the vineyard and weedwacked the frontage on Huasna Road. Sunday, I'll hand spray all the new shoots with Catfish emulsion to add needed micro-nutrients and help early development.

Frost and Heat - a Damaging Mix

2009-04-20T11:41:00.001-07:00

Frost from the past two weeks has taken a toll on early leafing vines - mostly our estate Petite Sirah. A little damage on early Zinfandel too. This week we face the extreme heat that arrived Sunday and will last three days. This heat may burn young leafs and damage further the vines struggling to recover from frost damage. This is the first real frost damage to the vineyard in several years, last time we had only a few vines burned near the road - this year especially damaged were young re-plants of Petite Sirah that replaced the hard freeze of three years ago.

Warm Days Ahead...

2009-04-18T11:39:00.000-07:00

Where did spring go, I'm enjoying the green? Maybe this will just be a heat wave, but were expecting some very warm weather. The vines will love it, 90's over the next few days will also give me a chance to catch-up on winery work, paper work and anything inside. We just finished siding the shed and once it cools down a bit, we'll get a fresh coat of paint on it.

Toucan Wines Club

2009-04-17T08:59:00.000-07:00

Our Toucan Wines Club is a buyers program that rewards our customers who purchase three or more cases of Toucan Wines in any year (12 month period) directly from the winery. Enrollment is easy and the benefits include:

20% off all wine orders, and first access to:
Limited production wines
Over-sized bottles (magnums)
Under-sized bottles (splits)
Library wines which become available
Shipping at current rates - right now it's $1
Local delivery is included

Here's how it works: Complete the enrollment form and get it to us, you select the three times a year you want a case of wine shipped or delivered - we coordinate with you the exact wines you want in each case. It's pretty simple. Further, you may order additional wines throughout the year at the same 20% discount, just place those orders directly with us via email or phone.

Spring Activities

2009-04-11T09:55:00.000-07:00

We've recently enjoyed a little rain and now very mild weather. The spring flowers are out and the valley is beautiful. We've been busy with landscaping projects and work on our tractor shed. Next in the vineyard is a hoeing project and then we'll be suckering the unwanted shoots.

Bud break at the Toucan Wines Vineyard

2009-03-25T12:47:00.000-07:00

The first leaf of the vintage has popped our swelling buds. As always, it's the 86 east facing Zinfandel vines sloped toward our water tanks that break bud first. This section is quickly followed by vines on top of the hill where thinner soils make growing a challenge, and next by the Petite Sirah.

Happy Spring

2009-03-20T10:10:00.001-07:00

Warm weather, still hoping for rain

2009-03-18T15:31:00.000-07:00

We've had a warm couple of days, and I'm still hoping for rain this weekend - but the chance has been reduced to 40%. It's really a beautiful time of year with the green grassy hills and the tree leafing out. When you come to the central coast, please stop into Lund's on Saturday to taste our wines.

If you enjoy Facebook, please join us - our group is Toucan Wines and here you'll find updates, events and even special offers.

In the Vineyard...

2009-03-11T16:57:00.001-07:00

Waiting for bud-break, but we're in no hurry! The vineyard is pruned, cuttings removed, we mowed and weed-whacked, now it's time to focus on other projects. In 2008 bud-break was on 3/14 and in 2007 bud-break was on 3/25, I'd prefer later to avoid frost damage -- just last night we suffered from a heavy frost and that's not good for young growth.

Kathy's Pick

2009-03-05T09:33:00.001-08:00

KATHY'S PICK - March 5, 2009

Toucan Wines 2006 Zinfandel Arroyo Grande Valley

This darkly-hued wine offers intense notes of blackberries, boysenberries, and black cherries that are rich and ripe, almost jammy notes but kept in balance by its natural acidity. Although it’s drinkable now, you’ll be rewarded by cellaring it three to six years. A good choice for barbecued ribs or steaks, meat, and cheese pizza, or penne pasta with sausage and mushrooms. Only $34 at Lund’s in Arroyo Grande or online at toucanwines.com. Read the New Times San Luis Obispo - http://www.newtimesslo.com/food-wine/

Pruning complete and great weather!

2009-02-26T17:03:00.000-08:00

We've had wonderful weather and the days I spent pruning were very rewarding. Hard work but the time gave me a chance to think, listen to some good music and get some much needed exercise. Now, I'm getting ready for the first tasting event of our season and looking forward to getting back into projects around the property.

Remember our $1 shipping for orders of six bottles or more, and our new release , the 2006 Estate Zinfandel, is at the tasting bar in two more local places: SLO Down Pub offering live music and a cool vib and Gather in the village of Arroyo Grande opening later in March.

Started pruning, finally!

2009-02-15T13:06:00.001-08:00

We've started pruning having completed bottling the 07' wines. The pruning is going well, but rain will be slowing progress this coming week.

Thanks to all those who've stop in to taste our 2006 Estate Zinfandel. Check out our new tasting sign used at Lund's on Saturdays - painted by Margareta.

Bottling and a little rain is nice!

2009-02-06T18:09:00.000-08:00

We've been working at hand-bottling our 2007 vintage wines. We completed the small amount of 07 Estate Petite Sirah and we're still working on the 07 Estate Zinfandel. By the end of next week, you'll find us in the vineyard pruning.

Several days of rain is contributing to our rain-totals but we are still way under average.

New Release!

2009-02-04T09:05:00.000-08:00

Toucan Wines 2006 Estate Zinfandel is now released on the web site and available at a few resellers. Stop in at Lund's (in Arroyo Grande) this Saturday and try the new release - and visit us at the Orange County Wine Society event March 1st to sample all our current releases.

$1 Shipping is Back !

2009-01-14T15:49:00.000-08:00

$1 Shipping is Back - Order six or more bottles directly from the winery and your shipping will be $1 in those states we ship to. Order 12 bottles and you get $1 shipping plus a 10% case discount. Just order online from the web site or use the Toucan Wines order form. Here's Jake following me around on this warm day.

Amazing Weather...

2009-01-10T14:02:00.000-08:00

I'm at Lund's today, in the Village of Arroyo Grande, and it's 75 degrees and beautiful outside. If only I was at the beach. Tomorrow we'll be racking our 08' Carignane and topping wine in the barrel room. Now Sunday, it again is a beautiful day - we started work in the winery and after brunch will begin racking.

Khevin Barnes and Socrates sing Toucan Wines!

2009-01-03T11:32:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Khevin Barnes and Socrates for their creative video. Learn more about these International entertainers, visit http://www.drwilderness.com

To have your video about Toucan Wines considered for posting on our blog and our Facebook page, send it to me at the winery!

Happy Holidays from Toucan Wines

2008-12-24T09:19:00.000-08:00

Sunday Morning Frost

2008-12-14T11:05:00.000-08:00

We woke to a cold morning with frost everywhere - our third or forth good freeze this season.

A Little Rain is Nice!

2008-11-26T08:55:00.000-08:00

Finally a real rain has arrived to soften the soil and to help bring out the ground cover - let's hope fall is here to stay for a while. The first seasonal rain was immediately followed by hot sunny weather and any ground cover that sprouted dried right out.

We've been tending the new wines, but now it's time to rack last year's vintage and do the final blend. We'll rack and position the barrels in the barrel room for bottling starting early next year.

Reminder: our $1/shipping offer is good through 12/15/08 - please don't miss out!

Happy Thanksgiving

Special $1 Shipping NOW Expanded for the Holidays

2008-11-19T15:50:00.000-08:00

Now you can order any 6 or 12 bottles of our wine (or mixed case order) and get $1 shipping to the states we ship to through 12/15/08. Those states include: CA, FL, IA, IL, MN, MO, NC, NM, and WI.

Order using the Buy Now buttons on the web site or use our order form, or call us directly. This great deal ends after December 15th, so order your wines now!

Terrie's Barrel Stave Candle Holders

2008-11-14T17:37:00.000-08:00

Terrie's barrel stave candle holders are now available to order from our web site and shipped in the 48 contiguous states. Terrie selects the perfect sized stave, sands, drills, stains and waxes each one. Includes five glass candle holders with candles.

Netting a Big Job

2008-11-07T16:49:00.000-08:00

This afternoon we finally got all the netting back into bags and stowed away until next year. This is always a big job for Terrie and me. This year we really stuck with it and after four part days got it done. And it's a good feeling to have this behind us, it means that we have little to do in the vineyard until pruning in late winter.