In both life and work, stay flexible. Whether in a country, a company, or a family, the same holds true: Dictatorship and rigidity rarely work. Freedom and elasticity do.

I know of no one who has been more helpful to the industry. His teachings and consultations internationally, without doubt, improved the quality of winemaking in our country. He was a friend to everyone interested in fine wine.

I say to consumers: instead of relying totally on critics, drink what you like and like what you drink.

Critics have done the wine industry a lot of good overall.

Wine has been with us since the beginning of civilization. It is the temperate, civilized, sacred, romantic mealtime beverage recommended in the Bible. Wine has been praised for centuries by statesmen, philosophers, poets, and scholars. Wine in moderation is an integral part of our culture, heritage and gracious way of life.

America was built on the can-do spirit and will continue to thrive on the can-do spirit.

Making good wine is a skill; making fine wine is an art.