I ‘m not one for long goodbyes, so I’m going to keep this pretty short. As of this Friday, I will be ending my nearly three year association with the Wine Library to begin a new phase in my oenological life. I ‘m joining with a lcoal importer/distributor to form “Tom Ciocco Selections” (or whatever I eventually decide to call it). Really getting on the “road” to source exciting wines has always been a dream of mine, and when the proverbial opportunity knocks, sometimes one is compelled to answer the door…

But before I “sign off”, let me take this opportunity to thank Gary and Sasha Vaynerchuk for their vision, leadership, trust, flexibility, as well as the fantastic work environment that they continue to provide for all of their employees. When one does as many things right as they do, it’s no wonder that they have been able to build the best wine shop in the country. They gave me nearly carte blanche to purchase some pretty obscure wines (Pelaverga anyone? ), as well as the opportunity to write straight from my heart and my head free of dictates and any sort of censorship or oversight. I’d also like to send my highest esteem and best wishes to all of my colleagues (who shall remain nameless for fear of leaving someone out) - folks with which I have worked side by side, and from whom I have certainly learned a great deal and hopefully in turn, I have been able to teach a bit as well…

After speaking to Gary this morning, it seems that “Terroir” will continue in some form or another, though clearly with another brain and ten fingers behind the keyboard. Who this person or persons will be is still “under construction”, but I’m sure that whatever the new format will be it will not disappoint - not if I know Gary…

And so to all of you good folks - Thank you sincerely for reading my ramblings and obsessions. Thanks for your compliments, criticisms, corrections, and correspondence. I have thoroughly enjoyed the lively exchanges, and what goes for my colleagues, goes for all of you as well -thanks for giving me the opportunity to teach and more importantly, LEARN about one of the most exciting , challenging, and culturally rich pursuits in the world - WINE!

So keep drinking great wine - experiment, challenge your pre-conceptions, and don’t ever forget to SHARE (and keep at least one eye out for a bottle or two that might have been selected by a certain someone whose initials are “TC” ! )

Best wishes to one and all-

TOM CIOCCO