I started writing this column eight years ago. I just didn't know it until now. My inspiration for much of my work in print and my PBS TV series passed on to another life two weeks ago. His brother and I want to thank the good doctors and staff at Broad Ripple Animal Clinic (Especially Dr. Lee and Dr. Ealing) and everyone at Circle City Emergency Clinic for their great talent and compassion. The last five days of Guinness' life were spent with very good people. Part of one of those days he spent with his brother Harp who misses him terribly. Harp says he will find another writer so the "Better than a Biscuit" column will continue in upcoming Gazettes.

The review below debuted Guinness and Harp in print as it's from my days as wine columnist for the Indianapolis Star. It's from October of 2002. I've updated the recommended wine, but nothing else. That column spoke of enjoying each smell, sound, taste, sight and moment as it happened - not dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.

Guinness lived a life of mindfulness. We should all be so lucky.

The other night while strolling along the canal with my dogs Guinness and Harp, I noticed some raindrops on roses. The dogs eyed whiskers on a nearby kitten. The crisp fall air suggested we'd soon need our warm woolen mittens. I asked the doggy boyz about their favorite things:

"Chasing squirrels," barked Guinness spying a plump chocolate brown one poised in a nearby branch. "Extra Large Milk Bones," barked Harp with a dreamy look in his eye. "Chasing the neighbor's cat," barked Guinness happily. "Peanut butter biscuits" barked Harp hungrily.

"Chasing bunnies in our yard," barked Guinness. "Slow bunnies," barked Harp.

"How about you?" yipped Guinness. "Sauvignon Blanc," I replied.

This zingy dry white wine comes in many forms depending on where in the world it's grown and how it's handled. New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc can either be prickly crisp and tangy or grassy and herbaceous. Either way it's best enjoyed within two years of bottling and is terrific with virtually any food.

The 2006 Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc fits the bill on all accounts offering a well balanced bottle that should be a favorite thing for anyone who wants a refreshing, tangy experience alone or with food - even rabbit.

TRY: 2006 Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand-$15

TASTE: Intense nose of white grapefruit, lime zest. Balanced acidity and lingering flavors of quince and passion fruit.

ENJOY: Tasty with grilled pork, sushi, Chilean sea bass, goat cheese and baguette.