An original handwritten letter by author Richard Harding Davis.

Loyalty, Resilience, and Integrity

In The Bar Sinister, our protagonist is an English Bull Terrier puppy with a distinctive mark on its coat—the canine equivalent of a 'bar sinister,' a device that, in the field of heraldry, signifies illegitimacy and that, here, suggests a flaw or imperfection in the thoroughbred bloodline. The story follows the young dog's adventures and traces how the perceived defect makes him an outcast among his kind. Yet, his bravery, loyalty, and determination prove to be greater badges of nobility than a faultless family tree.

"The master will stumble out and follow me."

Embracing Strength

The spot on the protagonist's otherwise spotless coat becomes a symbol of strength in the story. It reminds us that sometimes the particulars for which we are judged are also the very quirks and traits that distinguish us as individuals—and that furnish us with the resolve to push forward in accomplishing our life’s purpose.

Much like Davis’ fictional Bull Terrier, Kid, we have learned to trust in who we are and to be guided by this knowledge. While the innate beauty and pedigree of the land with which we work constitute a privilege, the result of our endeavors will be only as good as our respect for these places and our commitment to faithfully translating and expressing, in our wine, the charms inherent in these special Napa Valley hillside sites.

Kid is believed to have taken a bite from this original edition of The Bar Sinister.

Why a Dog?

So why a dog, you might wonder? Well, dogs are symbols of loyalty, honesty, and companionship. They are beloved for their steadfast and straightforward nature. Dogs are without pretense. The dog in The Bar Sinister serves as a reminder of the strength that comes from remaining true to oneself, even in the face of adversity. The story reminds us that finding beauty and worth in the things others overlook or dismiss is always possible.