Finally, things are returning to some semblance of normalcy, and I was able to fly to the US. Primarily this was to visit my parents and my siblings, nieces and nephews, whom I had not seen in over a year. As we say on Pesach – if that is all I had gotten to do, dayenu – it really would have been enough. But, while I was there, I also got to meet up with some friends. Sitting, eating, and of course drinking with people whose company I enjoy is something I no longer take for granted.  The trip was short and, as coordinating with people is still a little difficult in the US (vaccinated, outdoors, etc.) I was able to catch up with only a few people – but as always, quality over quantity – and I was able to indeed spend some quality time with some excellent friends. This first post will deal with a few miscellaneous wines that were standouts over the course of the visit, while the next two posts will deal with overviews of Royal’s current beautiful French and Spanish releases (with a little Cali thrown in for good measure), as well as an overview of M & M’s wines which I have to say, are truly excellent – but more on that later.