Wine has been around for thousands of years, but it can be often misunderstood both in the making and consumption aspects.
My earliest experiences were with some of the cheapest wines on the planet. Sweet, strong and not very good, often consumed and remembered with less than stellar visions.
Wine does not have to be expensive to be good, because good is defined based on what you like. The opinion of others is only a guide to your enjoyment and consideration, but the taste is always based on your palette. Wine is also enjoyed in moderation where you are in control of it, not the other way around.
Grapes (vitis vinifera) are the main ingredient in wine. Many times, wines are named after the variety of the grape or region. While there are other fruit wines available, those wines are named specifically after the fruit from which they are produced. When it comes to grapes and other organic products, there are many things that affect the final product.
Grapes vary not only in variety, but from year to year, and from the specific area where they are grown. The grapes grown on a western facing slope can show major differences from the ones grown on an eastern facing slope. The climate and soil can make distinctive differences in the grapes and the final product. A unique growing area is referred to as an appellation and is often identified as such, but my interests are not quite that noble.
I enjoy visiting local wineries and sampling the products. Most often they have gorgeous grounds and allow you to sample the product free of charge. Some do charge a modest fee, some only for select samplings, but it is a great way to find products that you enjoy. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, after these people generally know what they are talking about. Like something sweeter or in my case drier and be steered in that direction. Like white wine and not red or vice versa and don’t feel that you are required to drink any and everything placed in front of you. They generally have a way to dispose of the small quantities you are given.
My interests run deeper than the mere sampling and consumption of wine. I frequently go long periods without any and make it a practice never to over consume.
My passion goes into the making of wines as well. There are many guides to give you step by step directions. Cleanliness is essential since you can contaminate the product and therefore the taste and quality of the product in significant ways. I have used products from wine grapes to rhubarb to peaches and nectarines among other fruits to come up with some outstanding products.
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