Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/41419
s an archaeologist who has canvassed Italy to oversee excavation projects, Dr. Michael Thomas has a deep respect for the soil and what it might hold. As founder, co-owner and vintner of Wrath Wines in Salinas, California, this same philosophy serves the Texas native well, as his award- winning Pinot Noirs, Chardonnays and Syrahs have routinely proved. Not surprisingly, the inspired correlation between Thomas's dual professions was forged from over a decade of roaming the Italian countryside, where he developed into an enophile with a budding desire to create wines his way. "My experiences in Italy shaped a critical palate and produced a unique perspective on the culture of food and wine," he says. "Inevitably, this shaped my vision on the kind of wine I wanted to produce." And as Thomas will tell you, the vision that drives Wrath Wines stems from his love of the earth that hosts his vines—a reverence so strong, he feels that any attempt to obstruct its pure voice is ultimately detrimental to the process. "From my perspective, wine starts in the vineyard with soil," he says, "and I think winemakers should never allow the winemaking process to mask the characteristics of the vineyard." —Rich Manning Digging His Wine A Bonding at Bernardus HE TASTING PANEL had a wonder- ful time in Monterey County in July, thanks to Southern Wine & Spirits Branch Manager Daniel Bamberger, who showed us all the sights and the top wineries and made sure we were well fed. At our stop at the gorgeous Bernardus Lodge in the Carmel Valley, we were treated to a fi ve course lunch paired with a bevy of their superstar wines. Read more on page 74. —Meridith May T Wrath vintner Dr. Michael Thomas. At Bernardus Lodge in the Carmel Valley is Daniel Bamberger of SWS/Monterey with Bernardus Director of Sales & Marketing Robert Baker and Estate Vineyard Manager Matt Shea. september 201 1 / the tasting panel / 19 PHOTO: DIANNE PORCHIA