The last, darkest grapes still hang heavy in the vineyards of Glen Ellen, rising sugars anxiously monitored, soon to be clipped. Like us, all that bef

         
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The last, darkest grapes still hang heavy in the vineyards of Glen Ellen, rising sugars anxiously monitored, soon to be clipped. Like us, all that befell them this past year will someday be manifest, the trials and triumphs, vigor and stress, in a glass of wine--or in how we might perceive it. Every vintage has its charms, in people or in spirits. I wasn’t the first to keep a fruitcake for years, but perhaps the first to understand its value and offer it to customers.

Greetings from Glen Ellen

Greetings from Glen Ellen

Not with any scientific claims do I assert that an aged fruitcake tastes better than a fresh one, but I have theories. Over time flavors radiate out on the moisture of the fruits and peels, intersect and form new flavor compounds. This intensifies complexity. As you can see in these photographs, in the 2-year-old cake that process is nearly complete. For the first time I offer both 1 and 2 year old cakes in both Dark and White flavors. Sold several already, from Sweden to Canada to West Java, Indonesia. Order now, they won’t last!

Dark Fruitcakes - First Season

Dark Fruitcake, New Season

 
Dark Fruitcakes - 1 Year

Dark Fruitcake, Aged 1 Year

 
Dark Fruitcakes - 2 Year

Dark Fruitcake, Aged 2 Years

Not to be outdone, this season’s cakes all contain candied shekwasha peel, a rare Japanese citrus from the Gene Lester Collection. Tangy and voluptuous, a fruity, floral, tropical flavor with notes of lemon and pineapple, as unique as jasmine or magnolia--an unforgettable addition to the symphony of flavors these cakes embrace, and available only in Vintage 2018. The popularity of all my fruitcakes increases every year, but I’ve reached the limit of how many I can make. Since I’m also allocating more cakes for future aging, they may sell out early, so don’t be disappointed!

Candied Shekwasha Peels

Candied Shekwasha Peels

After a long hiatus the Finger Lime Marmalade is on its way back. A shipment arrived this week and will be cut and cooked soon. Look for its return! The Calamondin Marmalade is, sadly, gone, but still a few jars of Marrakesh Limetta Marmalade remain; don’t miss out! The afore mentioned shekwasha citrus is also available as Shekwasha Syrup, a must for absolutely unique cocktails and other holiday beverages. Come December, slip a bottle into the stocking of even the most inveterate foodie, and watch them smile…

Autumn Sunrise - Glen Ellen CA

Autumn Sunrise, Glen Ellen CA

My Very Best To You All,
Robert Lambert
Glen Ellen, California
October 2018

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