Greetings Readers of Our Wine Story. This is the final post in a series dedicated to an interview held with Captûre’s Vineyard Manager, Dave Komar. We hope this series allowed you an eye-opening view into Dave’s origin, opinions, and passion for wine.
What was your first impression of Tin Cross Vineyards and its new estate?
Dave Komar: I think my first impression was similar to everyone’s who visits the estate- astonishment of such a beautiful place. I actually knew a little bit about the property before I set foot there for the first time, but I was still so amazed. There’s just something special about the property that you can’t really explain until you’re there. And then it just becomes obvious that on top of that mountain is about as awesome a place as you could ever grow grapes.
How do you feel about the members of the Captûre team? Was there an instant connection or has the relationship grown over time?
Dave Komar: It’s interesting you use the word “team” because that’s really what we are. Each of us has our own little niche that we are really good at, and I think when someone opens a bottle of Captûre, the culmination of all our efforts will be in the glass. There was certainly an instant connection, but our relationship has definitely evolved over the last two years as we’ve all learned more about each other and about Tin Cross.
In what ways do your philosophies of vineyard management and growing match with the rest of the Captûre team? Were there any ways in which they differ?
Dave Komar: I think we are very much the same in that my philosophies include organic production and “sense of place” farming. I want the grapes from Tin Cross to taste unlike any other fruit in the world. I think this melds perfectly with what Captûre is trying to do with their wines…that is produce an estate wine that is a true expression of the vineyard. I can’t say that we differ strongly in any areas, but I will add that it has been very cool to get Denis and May-Britt’s input on the farming, as they bring with them all the tradition of Bordeaux.
What’s your position on sustainability? Why does it matter to you?
Dave Komar: Sustainability is very important to me. I feel like it is a word that gets thrown around pretty often, but to me it means that the way we take care of the land today needs to insure that it will be here for all future generations to come. All of us farmers today are responsible for the future of the vineyard and wine industry tomorrow.
