Hello Newcomers!  

Happy May, and Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms in the Club.

Family is certainly the most important part of my life!  Earlier this month at a wine tasting of all things, I witnessed a great example of family, a mother’s love, and unconditional support. We were lucky enough to attend a Wine Adventures group tasting at J Dusi Wine earlier in April and met some of the Dusi family.  

Although J Dusi winery is owned by Janell Dusi (she’s also the winemaker) it’s truly a collaboration of her entire family.  Janell talked about her family’s involvement in the farming and wine industry, and their heritage and history here in Paso. They’ve been farming in Paso for 100 years!  But the person who stole the show was Janell’s mom, Joni. 

Janell asked her to say a few words, and Joni (actually looking a bit shy as she took over the mic) was a hoot!  She relayed hilarious stories of Janell as a kid. Janell, the eleven-year-old winemaker. Janell the kid who joined a downtown wine club for home wine makers and home brewers in the 90’s (long before it was known as Wines and Steins).  Funny that when their 40-year-old friend came to pick up 12-year-old Janell for the meeting, they thought nothing of it… times have changed.   

What a dynamic to work with your family like this. Part of me is envious, and the other part of me says no way would I work that closely with my family. 

It’s been more than five years since I lost my mom. I think about her often, and how she shaped me to be the person I am.  If you are lucky enough to still have your mom around, take some time to really thank her.  Share a glass of Paso Robles Zinfandel!

Happy Mother’s Day!  

¡I’ll see you at Su Casa for our belated Cinco de Mayo celebration!

Su Casa is one of Steve and my favs. The food is great, and you can’t beat their margaritas (reasonably priced I might add). 

Debbie Gazay

NCNC President 2024-2025