DAN BERGER Neither Jim Clendenen nor Dr. David Bruce chose the easiest path when they got into the merry-go-round we call winemaking. I knew both of these skilled men for more than 40 years and was truly saddened by their passings in the last month, leaving the world of wine far poorer. But both achieved greatness despite opting to climb a greased pole by opting to make pinot Noir in Californiaâs occasionally disparaged Central Coast wine region. Support local news coverage and the people who report it by subscribing to the Napa Valley Register. Special offer: $5 for your first 5 months!