Wow, what a month!

Hard to believe that summer is winding down. Boy, was August a busy month!

We began the month with the birth of another little Grand (#11)! Ms. Valentina Rose Warmerdam was welcomed by brothers Leonardo and Lorenzo into son Brett’s and DIL Lauren’s family. She is perfect in every way!

Days after her birth Marc and I headed to Texas to celebrate granddaughter Reese’s baptism. Texas is not fun in August, but seeing our daughter and family is always a blast! While we were gone, our new assistant Joyelle ran the winery, and I heard from many that she did a stellar job! Little did we know, however, that within days of our return, Joyelle would have a brush with tragedy.

Just two weeks ago, the apartment Joyelle and her husband were living in was involved in a devastating fire that engulfed their complex. You may have seen pictures and the story in the Lodi paper. Joyelle was taken to the hospital with painful burns but is on the mend. While this is just a horrific ordeal for Joyelle and her husband, we are so very thankful she is okay. She’ll be back at the winery when she’s ready. She may need a hug or two!

Now for some brighter news. My sweet little pug, Poppy, has given birth to six adorable pug puppies. So yes, Wilson is a father! Poppy is doing great – Wilson is exhausted and you will find him in his normal resting spot at the winery. Oh brother!

September will be another busy month at Twisted Barrel. We begin the month with Firepit Friday on September 6 from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm. We have a special guest planning to perform that evening wearing his blue suede shoes!

(Mr. Michael Murphy)

We will enjoy some homemade apple pie, Cornhole competitions, wine by the glass or bottle and an awesome show. Don’t miss the fun! We will also be serving at the Lodi Grape Festival both Friday, Sept.13 and Saturday, Sept. 14. Please stop by and say hello!

As we approach the height of harvest, the winery may be a bit disheveled with the crushing and fermenting process. While it’s hard for me to see the back tasting room area torn apart, the boys remind me that we are a working winery – fruit flies and all! We hope you will find the time to come enjoy the harvest with us and share a glass of wine. And as always, we appreciate your support of Twisted Barrel Winery.

Cheers,
Denise Warmerdam
(Mom and Oma)