Dave Dobson left a position where he turned around a merlot producer once better known for its architecture, artwork and site than its wine.

For the 21st annual April in Carneros, Friday and Saturday, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. more than 20 wineries will open its doors and invite visitors to join a variety of activities including food and wine pairings, live music, art or craft shows, special tastings (barrel, reserve, library, new release) and discounts or special pricing.

Saturday night at sundown is the start of Passover or Pesach, the festival commemorating the Jewish exodus from Egypt and their liberation from slavery there.

“Quickly, bring me a beaker of wine so that I may wet my mind and say something clever.”

A few months back, I saw a particularly attractive book that originally sold for $50. It was on a closeout rack at a chain bookstore for $4.99.

Austria’s most popular export at the moment is a wine that’s cropping up on more and more restaurant wine lists around the country — gruner veltliner.