Modern living often implies a hectic and fast-paced lifestyle, but I feel that there is something we are missing which is quite critical to our personal pursuit of happiness. Most of us forget to acknowledge simple details that make the elements of our routine quite special. Recently, as I shared a nice bottle of wine with my husband, I felt a sudden tinge of nostalgia. One sniff, one sip, triggered my memory and took me back to my native land and family in southern France. As our discussion progressed, I identified some interesting aspects about wine that I had not fully contemplated before. It turns out, something as simple as a glass of wine holds a lot of power.
Wine is “Time Sealed in a Bottle”
In a wine collector's world, it is not infrequent to come across a bottle of wine produced 50 years ago that still tastes scrumptious. There are not many other commodities or food items that can age this well and actually improve with time. Of course this is specific to a selection of high-end wines, but I must acknowledge the beauty and magic of the outcome.
We can make a parallel with the wines we buy “in the real world.” Winemaking is a time-consuming affair that requires skill and patience. The whole process starts a long time before grapes are even harvested. A newly planted vine needs several years before it is ready to yield grapes good enough to produce decent wine. Consequently, the average age of many vineyards is 40 years. So no matter how old a bottle of wine is, we still get to taste the result of a process that started decades ago. And think about it: Each vintage can take you back to a different year in the past… Just uncork the time machine!
Wine Brings the World to Your Taste Buds
From the producer to our glass, wine takes a long journey. Wine-producing countries are scattered all around the world and offer incredible choices to wine drinkers. While many elements influence the taste and style of a wine, “terroir” plays an undeniable role. “Terroir” (pardon my French!) is the combination of conditions such as soil, climate, terrain and even traditions that are specific to a winemaking region. In conjunction with the winemaker's expertise, all these details allow to craft wines with distinctive traits. When I open a bottle of Brunello, I uncork the quintessence of Tuscany. I can grab a glass of Tempranillo from sunny Spain or Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand and let my palate travel. No passport. No jet lag.
Wine Takes Food to the Next Level
There are some obvious and perfect pairings in life. When it comes to food, one does not have to be an expert to realize that chocolate with milk is a match made in heaven. Wine follows the same logic. I love cheese. I love international cuisine. I love wine. (OK, I am a foodie!) But give me a glass of Pouilly Fumé with goat cheese or a glass of Rioja with braised lamb shanks and I will be the happiest woman alive! These pairings work with the simplest ingredients but also with sophisticated dishes. Best of all, they work with every type of food. Chefs go a long way to incorporate subtle elements in their creations to pair perfectly with certain wines. The result is exceptional! You will never look at your plate the same way again.
Wine can be Part of a Healthy and Happy Lifestyle
Since the 1980s, many studies have emphasized the health benefits of moderate wine consumption. Wine (red in particular) contains natural compounds that could help prevent several diseases. I strive to be a healthy person by exercising and eating the “good stuff,” and I love the idea that one of my favorite pleasures in life can actually contribute to my health. I was upset (and a bit dubious) when I saw recent reports that questioned the whole concept of healthy moderate wine drinking. While the scientific debate rages on, I am completely convinced that wine has additional beneficial effects. Wine brings people together and encourages sharing and learning. Taking the time to sip and savor a nice glass of wine is definitely worth the effort. It helps us take a step back, relax and realize that we are doing pretty well when it comes to our own pursuit of happiness. I can't say that I discovered much official research, but I am sure that on this subject we can all agree. Cheers!
About the Author
Celine Riquelme is an International wine specialist, wine consultant and wine blogger.
A native of France, Celine has worked and lived throughout Europe and the USA and holds the Diploma of the WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust). Celine founded “Three Cheers Wine Solutions” based in Center Valley to share her knowledge and passion for wine. Celine helps clients select the best wines to serve during their special events and hosts tailor-made wine tasting experiences as well as wine educational classes. Occasions range from small parties (private dinners, bridal showers) to large gatherings (weddings, networking and charity events, corporate team-building…)
Celine also provides consulting to restaurants to optimize their wine list, train their staff and enhance the restaurants' profile through wine related events.
To learn more about hosting a private wine tasting or get advice regarding wine selection for a future event www.threecheerswine.com
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