XL

I think somewhere we wrote that punks and wines both age gracefully. I think Aaron wrote it. I am not sure I would use the word “graceful” to describe him (or myself); maybe semi-gauche or brambly are better wine words for him. The following are some random things you should know about him.

Aaron wants to be a comedian. He sees humor in just about everything and can always make a crowd laugh. He is still working on his set for open mic night at Farley’s. Can’t wait for that!

Aaron isn’t dogmatic about the wines he makes or buys or drinks from my cellar. He’s got a pride for Washington wine that is authentic. He’s no zealot, but don’t trash talk the SayWA! state wines in his presence. In 2007 he said f-it and went full bore to make a barrel of Wahluke Syrah from the Doc Stewart vineyard at this family home in Olympia. Using borrowed and homemade equipment along with family labor he turned out a great wine that is just now coming of age. Sure he f-ed up along the way but he also learned A LOT. The 2008 and 2009 barrels are tasting first-rate thanks to lessons learned in 2007.

Aaron bleeds punkness and has paid his dues to the punk rock toll takers. He spent time helping DC bands sound good at the Black Cat, helped get the Oly scene going, experiencing the heyday of SF music (not the Summer of Love), took on Seattle, LA and rolled back to SF. His drums may be getting dusty in his office but they are ready at a moments notice. Maybe he’ll start a new band with wife Jenne. Those long (12+ hour) drives to vineyards are always filled with great mixes of new and old music that keep our eyes open.

Besides punk rock and wine, baseball is a third of our conversations. I try to overlook the fact that Aaron has a dark dark history as a Dodgers fan and always associate him with the Mariners. His favorite player of all time is Edgar Martinez and he’s about a fond of the Yankees as I am. His Bringers of Doom had a great rookie season in our fantasy baseball league and Aaron learned way too much about useless baseball stats.

Every time I feel a bit nervous about our venture into the wine business Aaron talks me deeper into the merde. There is a crazy synergy between us. Neither of us would have gone this far without the other. I have no idea where Deux Punx is headed but I am sure it will be a fun ride.

So…

Today Aaron Olson is 40 (XL). Happy Birthday Punk!