Then a bad, bad thing happened. During the famous hit “Baby Did a Bad Thing,” a would-be soccer mom and committed oenophile put his creed into action, joining the crooner and band on-stage for some unexpected grope-a-dope.

Perhaps one of my favorite aspects of this story is Steve’s tattoo which you’ll get a glimpse of here in this video. Now that’s seizing the day!

Recently, I dropped by his relatively new (2008) Napa restaurant, La Toque, to get the latest scoop.

Shrem’s wife and partner of fifty years, Mitsuko, had passed away just a few months before our visit. I was not sure he’d accept our request for an interview. When he did I was thrilled.

What would a wine event be without a splash of stiletto?

“So not only are we completely bi-partisan, but we’re also ecumenical.”

…plus learn if Loni is the next Robert Parker. Isn’t it about time a woman assumed the mantle? I can answer that: Yes and no.

“Cabernet Franc! I’ve had a few varietal Cabernet Francs. Please make more! I just think Walla Walla can really carve out a niche there,” Andrea tells Loni.