I wanted a Lab for many years prior to Roux becoming a family member. When a friend bred her male and female Champion Labs for the last time before their retirement, she called to tell me that she had "the perfect dog" for me. She knew my dream was to always have a yellow female - somewhat lighter in color.
When I went to check it out, it was love at first sight. At 8 weeks old she was this puffy ball of golden-blonde fuzzy fur - the exact color of a French roux that every cook knows is the foundation for those yummy sauces we enjoy when tasting delicious French cuisine. As the daughter of a Frenchman, I felt that name was perfect for my new puppy based on her color and appearance...and the rest is history as they say!
Roux is your typical Lab; a lover of the great outdoors (swimming, duck hunting, hiking, retrieving the bumper, etc.) - except when it comes to bedtime of course! She considers everyone she meets her "new best friend"! For such a large breed she is very affectionate - when given the chance, she will snuggle her way upon your lap (all 70 lbs) and snore (yes, and very loud I might add) herself into a deep sleep.
At the winery Roux is relentless in her pursuit of our every move. Whether it's during the chaos of crush or racking and topping barrels Roux is happy just being a part of the scene. When she's lounging in the tasting room she welcomes every visitor as a long lost friend! She has acquired many nicknames names along the way from those who have fallen in love with her; Rooster, Rudy, Ruu-dog...you name it, and she responds to all of them! She's just thrilled you "call" her.
At the end of the day when we pause to enjoy a glass of "the fruit of our labor", Roux lies gently by our feet as if to endorse the fact we've had a wonderfully productive day together. None of us could ever imagine going through one day without Roux hanging by our side along the way. She is truly the best 4 legged companion you could ever hope for, and has turned into the consummate winery dog!
As for her future, she will most certainly have an appearance on one of our future labels; however we plan to wait for just the perfect "pairing" with color and varietals before presenting her with the opportunity to get her 15 minutes of fame!
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