Fond memories of our friend and legend Steven Spurrier who left us today. While he will be deeply missed, Mr. Spurrier's momentous impact on the wine world will continue to be felt for decades to come.

The history books will of course remember Mr. Spurrier for the legendary 1976 Judgment of Paris tasting that sent shockwaves across the globe and shed a light on the great wines of California. But anyone who was lucky enough to share a glass of wine or a conversation with him as we did will remark on his witty sense of humor and penchant for conversation. His contribution to the wine world neither began nor ended with the famous blind wine tasting. As the founder of the Academie du Vin - France's first private wine school - many knew Stephen as a wine enthusiast and teacher committed to spreading the good wine gospel. Over the years he never wavered in the pursuit to champion his favorite beverage, and we were privileged to have the opportunity to showcase one of his last endeavors: as a vintner making his Bride Valley English Sparkling Wine.

We hope you'll join us in raising a glass to this celebrated individual as we thank him for all he has done for the world of wine. May you rest in peace Mr. Spurrier and know that we'll be thinking of you always.