Publisher's Synopsis
Set in Northern California at a large commercial jug winery, the new owner, eighty-three-year-old Del, wants to make a quality champagne as well as the cheap wine that is the bedrock of their business. Her grand-nephew, Spritzer, is the manager. He is a down to earth, no nonsense guy and resists Del's fantastic idea. However, she insists and hires Michel, a female French champagne master, to direct the setup of the new venture for four years until Spritzer can take over the running the winery by himself. Spritzer and Michel must work closely together and right from the beginning it is clear there will be fireworks. Michel tends towards arrogance and control. Spritzer resents Michel's authority and demands, and is a bit of a stubborn hot-head. Keeping the two in check is Del, a world renowned ceramicist-steady, caring, and wise-she directs the two toward the accomplishment of her dream. Storms, accidents, and money problems plague the progress of the new winery, but eventually Michel and Spritzer work their way towards a successful conclusion to their efforts. But fate seems to have another destination for them as well, as they begin to fall in love with each other. Spritzer must deal with his girlfriend, Kan, and the fact that Michel will be returning to France at the end of his contract. Michel must deal with the fear of loving and committing to another. It is Del who finally provides the solution to their conundrum.
