Why Is Wine Important?

Wine, in itself, is not important.  What it contributes and what it allows for are more relevant.  Wine is meant for sharing; it allows for and encourages being together to make memories.  Every bottle represents the caring and love we have for friends and relatives.  Each occasion calls for a type of wine and helps create a setting for mutual experiences and expression of emotions.  Wine is an entrée to moments and pleasure to be with one another, and the beauty of wine is an integral part.

What it takes to create that bottle of wine is vastly important.  The caring and effort to bring to fruition the magic inside are immense.  The people who dedicate their time and energy to each step of the process are very important.  The fields that need to be furrowed, the vines that need to be planted, the grafting of each one, and the tender care it takes to have it all flourish are remarkable.  The care each plant is given throughout the season requires diligence and competence.  The leaf management to ensure that each cluster receives just the right amount of sun and warmth is amazing.  What it takes to bring those luscious berries to their fullest expression is a work of art. Then, there is harvest!  This is where the challenge takes on a greater relevance as the winemaker begins the journey from grape to bottle. 

Winemaking itself is a masterful intersection of science and art. It, by itself, requires mindful, educated intervention and passion. It all begins with the berry selection.  Who makes the “cut” begins the process of turning the grapes into the best possible juice.  The management of the must and how long and what is the best temperature are all considerations.  One degree matters in the process.  There’s the choice of fermentation vessel, be it concrete, stainless steel or oak.  The attention to each aspect of the process alone is a journey. The blend, for example, is a masterful creation that includes tasting as many as 50 samples to bring the “symphony” together for the best possible expression of the vine. Included in that are the choice of barrels, the aging process, and, all along the way, the oversight it requires to bring out the best of each variety.  These are the challenges that require diligence, dedication and passion all backed by great science and experience.

Wine itself is not important; what it contributes and the miraculous work of bringing it to bottle are!  This is why I love wine – for the journey and exploration.

 Enjoy!

Napa Valley Vineyard Rainbow