“For centuries, Bordeaux has assumed a mythical status in the world of fine wine as a leitmotif of wealth, power and influence.”
Definitive words by actor and narrator Russell Crowe in the opening scene of “Red Obsession,” a documentary on Bordeaux valley and the
capricious nature of the markets and shifting fortunes of global economies that
link it’s grand influence of the wine making world. The film predominantly
focuses on the recent shift as China’s new elite bolster prices for the wine to
stratospheric levels.
Getting to watch the film at the
annual Washington West Film Festival last fall, I can certainly attest that
it’s a fascinating, personal glimpse into the worlds of the winemakers and connoisseurs
involved in this centuries old process. It also got me reminiscing about my own
“red obsession.”
As is with “my love of books,” I’d
like to take a moment to share why I’m so obsessed with “the nectar of the
gods.” From the decadent taste of a freshly uncorked bottle to the splendor of
cooking with wine, I can thank wine columnist John Hailman for introducing me
to its graces five years ago.
During my college internship with the
Overby Center for Southern Journalism, I had the pleasure of working with
Hailman, a fellow at the time, on the second edition of his book, “Thomas Jefferson on Wine” as well as other law and wine related book projects. Like
the “Red Obsession documentary, his works allowed me the perception and
appreciation of a world that is, in fact, mythical and historical.
When I finished my internship with
the Center, Hailman was gracious in giving me a signed copy of his Jefferson
book as well as my very first bottle of wine anyone had ever given me. A late 2007
harvest of Hogue White Riesling, I still have the bottle to this day. The wine was
a luscious palate of honeyed peach and apricot flavors.
Since then, I’ve had the pleasure of
tasting some exceptional (and some not so exceptional) wines. Along the way, I enjoyed
the opportunity to visit some entertaining wineries in Indiana and Virginia. My
favorite wine, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (50%), Shiraz
(30%) and Merlot (20%), has become a ritualistic souvenir from Disney’s Animal
Kingdom park. As a wedding gift, my company’s
president even gave my wife and me a 2003
bottle of Dom Perignon which we're saving for our 10 year anniversary.
As my vino adventures continue, I hope to
one day visit a few wine valleys, including Shenandoah, Napa, and of course, Bordeaux.
Until I can share those adventures, enjoy this fun collection of wine quotes and Happy National Drink Wine Day!
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment