The news has recently reported that a Chardonnay from California will be served at the White House tonight in honor of Pope Benedict XVI’ 81st birthday. The chosen wine is from Sebastiani Vineyards and Winery. It is Sebastiani’s 2005 Dutton Ranch Chardonnay, aged in oak. Unfortunately, the Pope will not be able to attend the dinner but others will have the privilege of enjoying this wine. New World wines can definitely compete with Old World wines. This benefits the wine consumer as the quality of wines worldwide continue to increase in quality.

Happy Birthday Pope Benedict! I hope your trip to the United States is successful.