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Thank you for today’s FR & D, Jacqui. Roy thank you for our maps! It is a bit cooler this morning - a brisk 41. But the sky was so clear. Venus looked lovely in the early dawn light. Looks like another lovely day in paradise. Vanessa, thank you for keeping up with our happenings. Praying that soon you will enjoy days & nights free of pain and numbness. Bindi walks, Zumba, more grout work, need to hose the pollen & salt off the car - if it is not windy. I am hosting dinner for friends. With wine, of course. Prayers for all who need our support. Those suffering from pain, debilitating conditions, grieving the loss of a loved one, or in a funk. The caregivers. Terry, thinking of Tana, you and your entire family. Cheers to all who are celebrating! Good to read that our Hawaii bound Dailyites are doing better. May we each find a reason to smile today. ************ Ruffino-Riserva-Ducale-Oro-Chianti-Classico Occasionally I hit the “mother lode” of information about our daily wine. Today is one of those days. If you just like the tasting profile info - I bolded that section’s title near the end. Lots of consumer fans, widely available with online prices starting at $30.99. Winemaker notes VINTAGE: 2014 VARIETAL COMPOSITION: 85% Sangiovese, 10% Merlot, 5% Colorino VINEYARDS: Grape sourcing: Selected from Ruffino’s Gretole, Santedame, and Casavecchia di Cagnano estates located in the heart of Castellina in Chianti. Soils: Hilly land with poor, rocky, galestro soils of mixed clay and sand Microclimate: Characterized by hot, dry summers with high diurnal temperature swings which allow for optimal grape maturation. Altitude: 82–1,300 feet above sea level Sun exposure: Predominantly south, southwest, and southeast Growing system: Cordon trained Vine density: 10,000 per acre Age of vineyards: 15–25 years Vine yield: 12 tons per acre VINIFICATION AND AGING: Harvest: Riserva Ducale Oro Chianti Classico Gran Selezione is produced with grapes meticulously selected during harvest. The picking started at the third week of September and ended the first week of October. The vintage 2014 shows a vivid fruity note, with spicy hints and great elegance. Fermentation: Aided by racking and punch-downs, fermentation took place in thermo-controlled stainless-steel vats at an average temperature of 82°F for 10 days. Post-fermentation maceration on the skins continued for an additional 10 days. The wine was transferred to concrete vats for malolactic fermentation. Aging: A total of 36 months: the first 12 months in concrete vats, followed by 12 months in Slavonian oak barrels (about 925–2,000 gallons), and finally 12 months in barriques and tonneax. Alcohol content: 14.5% by volume SENSORY PROPERTIES: Color: Ruby red with garnet hues Aroma: Powerfully aromatic with cherry, plum, and tobacco with notes of eucalyptus, chocolate, and spicy white pepper. Complexity of expression authentic to Sangiovese and Chianti Classico. Tasting profile: Full-bodied and powerfully fruity with elegant tannins perfectly supported by a good acidity. The finish is characterized by pleasantly sweet tobacco, plums, and balsamic herbs. FIRST YEAR OF PRODUCTION: 1947

@ger_77 It is stressful enough dealing with Maurice’s medical issue without having to deal with the attitude of the receptionist/scheduler. The one thing I will say about the medical network in my area, I always get a survey after each interaction. If nothing else, I get to vent. And in most cases things have improved. Praying that Maurice gets the help he needs soon.

Sharon, this belongs on a canvas, too! Stunning!

Carolyn - gorgeous pictures! Thank you for sharing.

Debbie, I am so sorry to read this. Hope conditions improve fast.

Roy, if a BHB sees its shadow, does that mean six more weeks of cruising? 😎

Thank you for today’s FR & D, Jacqui. Roy thank you for showing us where the fleet is. It was 47 when Bindi and I headed out this morning & no wind. It felt quite comfortable. And the sun has already burned off the marine layer! Vanessa thank you for keeping up with all of us. I really do suspect that you are psychic sometimes. 😎 Praying that you soon get permanent relief for your pain. Is it possible to hire a mover to help you pack up the small things in the four rooms? Gym, Bindi walks, more grout cleaning - I am starting to see the results of my labor, and other fun chores will keep me busy. Prayers for all who need our support. Those suffering from pain, debilitating conditions, grieving the loss of a loved one, or in a funk. The caregivers. Thinking of you & Tana, Terry. Hope Tana’s cold symptoms go away - fast. Cheers to all who are celebrating! @Pushka welcome to the Daily! May we each find a reason to smile today. *********** La-Marca-Luminore-Prosecco-Superiore-D.O.C.G. This Prosecco sounds lovely and perfect for a celebration or just sipping. The wine maker suggests using it to make cocktails, but I would use less expensive Proseccos as mixers. Widely available, loved by consumers, and online prices start at a reasonable $21.95. Winemaker Notes Luminore sparkles with a pale, golden straw hue and lively bubbles, bursting in the glass. Delicate aromas of white flowers and stone fruits complement the soft, creamy texture. Subtle hints of fresh citrus, pear and nectarine round out the exquisite palate. Clean, crisp acidity balances a touch of sweetness and offers a light, refreshing style. Elegant and versatile, Luminore Prosecco sparkles by itself or pairs beautifully with foods and brings light to special occasions. Enjoy a glass as an aperitif before dinner with friends. Sip alongside main entrées such as grilled seasoned chicken or pork as a pleasant palate cleanser or as you end the evening with a pana cotta with lemon zest. 90 Wine.com The La Marca Luminore Conegliano Valdobbiadene is a cut above the many in the Prosecco world. TASTING NOTES: This wine is fresh and enticing with its aroma and flavors of fresh and alluring ripe fruit. It is smooth and delightful. Serve this with appetizers or as a greeting beverage for guests.

Thank you Sharon! Love this!

Thank you for today’s FR& D, Jacqui! Roy thank you for mapping our BHB. It was 42 this morning and the sky was already getting light - but the wind! Brrr. It came in like a lion yesterday afternoon, and hasn’t left. But it is sunny and will warm up to the high 60s, so I will take it. Vanessa, thank you for keeping up with us - in spite of all you are dealing with. I was sorry to read that your lessening of the pain was all too brief. Praying that three weeks from today - your relief from pain will be permanent. Mammogram, Bindi walks, my painting guru comes and paints the garage and all my exterior doors, chores, more grout cleaning and wrapping up the day at the local wine bar to pick up the wine I ordered at last week’s tasting. Prayers for all who need our support. Those suffering from pain, debilitating conditions, grieving the loss of a loved one, or in a funk. The caregivers. Thinking of you & Tana, Terry. Praying that the cold symptoms don’t last. Cheers to all who are celebrating! May we each find a reason to smile today. ********* Nino Negri 2018 Vigna Fracia Nebbiolo Love a “contemplative” wine. I suspect I would enjoy this wine, but it is outside of my budget. A few online distributors with prices starting at $54.95. 95 Wine Enthusiast This wine opens with aromas of warmed strawberries, violet, rosemary and forest floor. The palate achieves a near-perfect balance between fruit and savory notes, each in harmony. Elegant tannins and lifted acidity saunter to the finish, where the wine lingers in a contemplative manner. Supple and so pretty. Drink now–2035.

Brenda, I am sorry to read this. An important reminder to savor each moment. ❤️ Ann

RNB @erewhon is our New Zealand Dailyite. The first of us to greet the new year, month , or day.

Thank you for today’s FR & D, Jacqui! Roy thank you for telling us which ship is where! It is 45, sunny and if I am lucky - today will turn out as gorgeous as yesterday. High 60s, sunny and no wind. Just perfect. Vanessa, thank you for helping us keep track of what is happening with everyone. Praying that the upcoming procedure gives you relief. Mani-pedi, Bindi walks, chores, more grout cleaning and HIIT should keep me busy. Prayers for all who need our support. Those suffering from pain, debilitating conditions, grieving the loss of a loved one or in a funk. And the caregivers. Thinking of you & Tana, Terry. Praying that Tana feels better. Cheers to all who are celebrating. Paul glad your surgery was a success. May we each find a reason to smile today. ********* Pyros 2021 Appellation Chardonnay (Pedernal Valley) Consumers and critics agree that this light Chardonnay from Argentina is excellent. A bit elusive, but there are a few online distributors with prices starting at $26.95. 91 Wine Enthusiast 91 Decanter From vineyards at 1,400m in San Juan's Pedernal Valley, this well-made cool climate Chardonnay balances elegant, creamy freshness with clean citrus and tropical fruit, all underpinned by brisk acidity, with stony, gunflint hints.

Bon Voyage. Enjoy!

Great news, Paul!

Jacqui, it isn’t a typo. It is a systemic glitch. AND if you fix them, my decoder ring will get rusty. 🤬 So get busy wrapping yourself in bubble wrap before you step foot out the door.

Thank you for today’s FR & D, Jacqui! Roy, thank you for our map! It is a nippy 41 here this morning, but no wind - yet. But we are being warned that this is the calm before the “gusts”. At least it will be sunny! Vanessa thank you for everything you do to keep up with us. You truly are amazing. Praying that the procedure will bring you relief from the pain and numbness and you get to sleep - a long, restful, rejuvenating sleep. Gym, Bindi walks, more grout cleaning and other fun chores will fill my day. Prayers for all who need our support. Those suffering from pain, debilitating conditions, the loss of a loved one, or just in a funk. The caregivers. Cheers to all who are celebrating! So many Dailyites heading to Hawaii! Bon Voyage! Would love a group pic, if you are willing. May we each find a reason to smile today. *********** Schnaitmann 2019 Lämmler GG Dry Riesling (Württenberg) My trusty decider ring is certainly getting a workout this year! Good thing mine is rechargeable. If you live outside of Germany, or aren’t visiting anytime soon - this wine may not be an option for you. There were a few USA distributors, but they are all sold out and the starting price was $68.79. Too bad, it sounds lovely. If you are in Germany, you can get it shipped to you. Online prices start at $34.97 + shipping. Winemaker Notes Deep golden yellow. An overwhelming variety of aromas can be seen in the glass. Elderflower, lovage, woodruff, hazelnut and salted caramel, as well as fine spices such as thyme and cloves, with delicate notes of Amalfi lemon, apricot, pineapple and peach. Demanding wine with powerful tension. The juicy, ripe acidity picks you up directly on the palate and leads elegantly over the densely woven middle section of polished tannin structure and charming enamel. Great length. 92 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate The 2019 Riesling Lämmler GG is elegant, pure and refined on the discreet nose that opens slowly to ripe and dense fruit aromas intermingled with notes of crushed stones and herbs. Round and juicy on the palate, this is an elegant, refined and balanced Lämmler that reveals its power and elegant richness only on the finish that is not bone-dry but charming. Not very long but stimulating. 13% stated alcohol. Natural cork. 97 Wine Enthusiast

Sandi First, my sympathies. Second - What roll does your left arm play in your cross stitching? Do you rest on it a great deal? Is it positioned one way for a great length of time?

Melisa @JazzyV Vanessa is psychic. ❤️

@Sharon in AZ Look at that sky! Have an amazing cruise! @kazu Jacqui we want to wrap you up to avoid the injuries - such as how you originally hurt your ribs. Or your elbow. Or your ankle/leg, etc. Bubble wrap is not know to prevent aggravating healing boo boos.

@HAL Sailer Melisa May your new year bring you laughter, love, and time to take care of yourself. ❤️ Ann

Thank you for today’s FR & D, Jacqui. Speaking of Bubble Wrap… I will be shipping some to Jacqui, so she can wrap herself up to prevent further injuries. Roy thank you for today’s maps. Vanessa, thank you for keeping up with all of us. Praying that you get the relief you need from your upcoming procedure. It is 45 here this morning. Yesterday it was 70 at the same time. And it was already windy before it started getting light. Someone stole Florida again during the night. But at least it is sunny. Today I have errands, chores and Bindi walks to keep me busy. Prayers for all who need our support. Thinking of you & Tana, Terry. Cheers to all who are celebrating. I know the 49ers & Chiefs fans are celebrating. May we each find a reason to smile today. ********** Raats Family 2019 Dolomite Cabernet Franc (Stellenbosch) This South African vintner released two Cab Francs in 2019. The more reasonably priced one does not have “family” in its name, has very good - excellent ratings and online prices start at $23.40. The wine that has “family” in its names has excellent - superb ratings, but the only online price I found in dollars was $125.00. I included the info on both. You choose. Distributor notes The 2019 Raats Dolomite Cabernet Franc is a stunning release! ‘This is a brilliant Cabernet Franc,’ enthuses Neal Martin, while Tim Atkin MW says, ‘it’s a Cape version of a Saint Nicolas de Bourgueil.’ The Raats team come together as the undisputed Kings of Cabernet Franc in SA, and their high standards and focus on quality trickle down to this ‘second’ wine, leading to extraordinary value! The Dolomite Cabernet Franc has built a solid reputation on its quality; with previous vintages having received a Platter’s 5-star rating as well as having placed in the Top 5 of Winemag’s Alternative Varieties Report. The quality of the 2019’s elegant tannins together with its perfume and finesse, are typical of the finest examples of Cabernet Franc. As pioneers and champions of the variety, Raats has raised the bar yet again. The Raats Family Cabernet Franc is SA’s most lauded Cabernet Franc. The latest 2019 release is called a ‘Cape benchmark‘ in the Platter’s Guide (96/100), and has ‘beguiling purity’ according to Neal Martin. Sumptuous, yet elegant and svelte, it is long and detailed with refined tannins that linger on and on. This has decades of evolution ahead. Tasting notes: Raats, Dolomite Cabernet Franc 2019 ‘The 2019 Cabernet Franc Dolomite has an energetic, tensile nose of wonderfully defined red and black fruit, sage, bell pepper and clove aromas; hints of dried blood emerge with time. The palate is very well balanced, taut and fresh, with supple tannins, a fine bead of acidity, a harmonious, sophisticated finish, and suggestions of black pepper on the aftertaste. This is a brilliant Cabernet Franc from Raats that will age gloriously. Drink 2022-2042.’ – Neal Martin, Vinous, 95/100 (Nov 2021) ‘Dolomite has been doing its thing since 2010, expressing the charm, perfume and balance of Stellenbosch Cabernet Franc for more than a decade. Lightly wooded, with 40% whole bunches and notes of green herbs and red berries, it’s a Cape version of a Saint Nicolas de Bourgueil. Drink 2022-26.’ – Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2021, 91/100 ”Entry level’ in this range but one of the best around, 2019 stays true to form. Lithe & fresh, with earthy blackcurrants, forest-floor leafiness, velvet ripe tannins, hints of iodine & salt. 14 months older French oak.’ – Platter’s Guide, 4.5* (90/100) Raats, Family Cabernet Franc 2019 ‘Cape benchmark, always shows sublime varietal expression, classic-inclined styling. 2019 tense & mineral, with ink & iodine woven with lean blackcurrant fruit, leafy-earthy core, all in fine harmony after 18 months in mostly seasoned oak.’ – Platter’s Guide, 5* (96/100) ‘Dominated by fruit from Bruwer Raats’ beloved Polkadraai Hills, this is a Chinon-style Cabernet Franc with lots of perfume, black cherry, capsicum and red pepper flavours, floral top notes, fine 25% new oak and a balanced, granitic finish. Drink 2023-28.’ – Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2021, 94/100 ‘The 2019 Cabernet Franc Family has a very engaging nose, more savory than other Cabernet Francs, featuring dried blood, meat juices, white pepper and fennel. Wonderful. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and finely judged acidity. Sour cherry and black truffle develop toward the harmonious finish. There is a beguiling purity to this Cabernet Franc, and it will age supremely well in bottle. Drink 2023-2040.’ – Neal Martin, Vinous, 93/100 (Nov 2021)

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts. It is so timely, I will be sailing on the Escape in a few weeks. My “traveling Sister”’s volunteer group is using it as a fundraiser, and we are both nervous/excited about the size of the ship and the number of passengers. But it will be a very easy drive to a port Canaveral for us. And the idea of a ropes course & zip line on a ship sounds great. We jokingly tell everyone that we can walk from the bow to the stern and get our daily steps in. We figure we can handle anything for 7 days - right? Did you do any excursions at your ports? Did you visit their private island?

@aliaschief Bruce, my song choice would be a Led Zeppelin song. 😎