Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/430172
92 / the tasting panel / december 2014 SEASON'S GREETINGS Josh Cellars: Gift of Gratitude "I grew up in a very small town, and taking care of your neighbors is a big part of the fabric of that culture. Instead of charity, we think of it more as a responsibility, a commitment to take care of those who have taken care of you," explains Joseph Carr, founder of Josh Cellars, whose line of wines are named in honor of his father. Like other members of his family his dad served as a volunteer fireman and in the United Stated Army. Striving to pay homage to everyday heroes who spend their days taking care of others, Josh Cellars has partnered with the Gary Sinise Foundation, whose mission is to support and honor first responders and their families. The Foundation serves our nation by creating and supporting unique programs designed to entertain, educate, strengthen and build communities, while encouraging people to show gratitude to our nation's defenders. Josh Cellars' partnership with the foundation began in June 2013, and since then, the brand has donated roughly $250,000 to the cause. With Thanksgiving and Christmas being the biggest wine occasions of the year, Josh Cellars is focused on celebrating family and giving back to the men and women who serve our nation. The brand also donates to Operation Homefront— an organization that provides services to military families across the nation—and this holiday season will donate one dollar for every bottle sold up to $75,000. "I never imagined that we could support the community in such big ways like this. It's very important to share our success," concludes Carr. Josh Cellars offers bold, complex and approachable wines perfect for enjoying during this special season with family and friends. With five California varietals as well as its newest red blend, Legacy, you can't go wrong with sug- gesting this wine to friends or delivering one as a gift. L et's face it: The holidays can be stressful—so many obligations, so little time. And while it's easy to lose sight of what's important among all the last minute gift shopping and the over-crowded malls, try to keep in mind what really makes this season special: celebrating time with loved ones, show- ing gratitude and helping others who need it most. This year, we're inspired by brands that capture the true spirit of the season by giving back to the community. 'Tis the Season of Giving JOSH CELLARS, [ yellow tail ] AND EPPA SANGRIA DELIVER EVERLASTING GIFTS FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON by Brian Kustera Josh Cellars and The Gary Sinise Foundation work together to support first responders and their families. IMAGE COURTESY OF DEUTSCH FAMILY WINE & SPIRITS