It is with a heavy heart that I inform our readers that our beloved Barbara Ritchie passed away on April 5, 2013 after a short illness.

We met Barbara over twenty years ago, along with her twin sister Ann, at various wine tastings and functions. When we decided to launch a wine and food magazine (Enoteca Wine & Food), both sisters eagerly agreed to be contributing writers. They were our first contributing writers, and were staunch supporters of our magazine. For that we are eternally grateful. Sadly Ann passed away on April 11, 1996 and Barbara carried on writing (even Ann’s columns) in honour of her twin’s memory.

Barbara was truly a professional in everything she undertook. She was passionate about wine and food in all its forms -- be it writing, conducting seminars, acting as consultant for restaurants and/or participation in national and international wine competitions.

More importantly, to me Barbara was the epitome of a lovely person with a large heart and caring soul. Even when she was feeling poorly, or dealing with her own challenges, she always had time for others. Often she would call and ask how I was, and tell me that she was thinking of me. I cherish those conversations, and think how fortunate I am to have had a friend like Barbara. I will miss her greatly not only as a colleague but as a treasured friend.

My thoughts and prayers are with her family, particularly with her sister Margot, and I hope that through their faith and each other’s comfort they will find the strength to face the future. God bless.

Anna Cavaliere
Editor/Writer, Elite Wine, Food & Travel