In my last note, I shared an early memory about winning a costume contest (I had no business winning) when I was a kid. Looking back on stories like that one, I can see habits forming from these impressions and experiences of youth. Namely, that over time my default in most situations, no matter how strange or absurd, was to try to entertain in some way. To draw out laughter. To go for the joke. To connect, in some silly way, I suppose.

And I guess that's still my default in many ways, as evidenced by the ridiculous stories I'll share here now and again. It's a place I'll sometimes go, even when the world is frightening, violent, or full of anger and grief. Please know that the heart of these letters is always the hope to connect. We don't always write about current events and (bizarre for a wine shop maybe) we only rarely write about wine, but I'm happy that some folks still read these, still write back on occasion, still let us know that words and stories and shared experiences and shared bottles can bring connection.

And if you just scroll down each week to the events or to see what we're pouring, that's ok too. But if you come here for levity, or for absurd stories... the lack of a story today saved you at least one paragraph. So now you've got a free minute or two. So send a quick text to a friend letting them know you are thinking of them. Tell someone you miss them. Give your partner a hug with no explanation. Squeeze your dog. Call your sister. Spread some love. Somewhere. Anywhere.

(No need to mention a wine shop suggested it. They would think that was just plain silly.)

TONIGHT... THURSDAY NIGHT FLIGHTS: Special Guest Winemaker Tasting
OAKLAND YARD welcomes Kristie Tacey of Tessier Winery pouring flights and spinning records all evening.
2022 Tessier Electric Ladyland White
2022 Tessier Femme Fatale Rosé
2022 Tessier Soul Love (Co-ferment)
2022 Tessier Day Dreaming Red Blend
Tasting flights $20 from 5-9pm and wines by the glass until 9pm

SATURDAY 11/4: WINES OF SICILY
2020 I Custodi Ante Etna Bianco
2021 Al Cantara Occhi di Ciummi Etna Bianco
2021 Funaro Nero d’Avola
2021 Occhipinti Frappato
Tasting flights $20 from 2-6 and wines by the glass until 9pm.

NEXT SATURDAY 11/11... OAKLAND YARD turns 7! Mark your calendars and come be a part of the celebration! Saturday NOVEMBER 11th from 12-5pm. There will be music and food and oysters and bubbles, raffles and prizes, and early holiday vibes. There will also be another fantastic collection of artists, curators, builders, and culinary delights... And lots and lots of wine! The 7 Year Anniversary Celebration and Artisan Market event is FREE! So spread the good word! Tasty treats from @okayxulo & @okkonpopup @shuck.buddy @sosbakeshop! Vendors and artists include @theofficialplantqueen @_ladha_ @pablo.cristi.studio @pleinware.ceramics @hataguchi_collective @likefamily___ @trussandore @thematerialsoul  @homebodybyentela @riseaboveprinting  @sosbakeshop There will be an outdoor beer and wine garden in the backlot too! See you there!!! 

Cheers,
Daniel