It’s only the second day of 2020 and I’ve already broken five of the six resolutions I made for the new year.
(If you must know, yes, four of them had to do with food.)
So, when it comes to wine, I’m resolving to skip the resolutions and, instead, set a few goals. You may wish to adopt a couple of these as well…
- Embrace the details.
As we get more and more “into” wine, we realize how many choices we really have. If you’re looking to expand your knowledge base and discover new gems, embrace the “if you like… you might like…” method.
First, pay attention to the variety of wine (Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, etc.), and then try another bottle of that type. Second, look at the wine’s place of origin on the bottle. If you like a Cabernet Sauvignon from Alexander Valley, try another Cab from that same appellation.
- Keep a journal.
Every time you uncork or unscrew a bottle of wine, take a little time to jot down some notes about it — the aromas, the flavors, the mouthfeel, what you liked about it and what you didn’t like about it.
Over time, you’ll develop your own personal shopping guide.
- Experiment with food and wine pairings.
Some of the best pairings are discovered by accident, when you’re down to that last bottle of wine and you decide to open it with whatever you’re eating.
Remember, when it comes to food and wine pairing, there are no wrong answers; if you like the pairing… it’s good!
- Open that special bottle.
Many of us have a bottle or two that we’ve been saving for a special occasion. Well, many of us also have come to the conclusion that every day is a special occasion, and that tomorrow is not guaranteed.
So, even if it’s not a birthday or anniversary or holiday, treat yourself to a special bottle every so often. Don’t you deserve it?
Broken resolutions cause frustration. Achieved goals are worthy of celebration. Me? I’d rather celebrate.
