Submitted by Clark Smith, Jun 6, 2007 03:18

Dear Matt:

As you well know, I am the guy who developed the techniques you continue to scorn, but which however thousands of sincere and thoughtful winemakers, many of which you praise highly, make use of on a regular basis. I find it odd, as should your readers, that for a decade you have refused to meet with me or taste the wines I make. Many believe WineSmith wines vindicate these techniques as positive allies of the aesthetic we share: distinctive terroir expression, balance and longevity. Because I am honest about employing ntools like alcohol adjustment and tannin oxygenation to the refined presentation of distinctive teroir, it is, I guess, dangerous for you to examine serious winemaking's strange bedfellows. Yet I have much esteem for your passion and your journalistic honesty. Come on, Matt. Taste some WineSmith Faux Chablis, Roman Syrah and Crucible and tell me these are glossy and insincere. Many of your readers know these wines, so I urge you yourself to be sincere and avoid glossing over inconvenient truths.

Sincerely,

Clark Smith, www.grapecraft.com

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