Best use of 151 words

Lead Associate Winemaker Anne Dempsey reads Marilyn LaRoque

The Power of the Press
By Marilyn LaRocque

Writers extol the great glories of wine,
Its bouquet, its romance, its role when you dine.
They wax esoteric, they praise and define.
They tell you, flat out, what they think most divine.

From deep in the caves, with a thief in my hand,
I dip, then I sip, and I search for what’s grand,
Each taste, each sensation, what’s best for the brand,
Does it sing, does it thrill, is it right for the blend.

I remember the vineyards aglow in the sun.
I wonder if rains will rot grapes by the ton.
I cringe at the problems to face when day’s done.
Will Parker, will Laube name me Number One?

I ask friendly Bacchus to give me a break,
To bless all my grapes and the wines that I make.
A bottle of Cab from the cellar I take’
To hell with the writers, just bring me a steak!