Enobytes Wine Blog

Jan 17

On the Enjoyment of The Great Wines

I think it’s safe to say that most of us collect and covet special wines for various reasons, whether for their pedigree, or our loyalty to a favorite vineyard, or that elusive, sensual, ‘je ne se qua’ of a great wine at its prime.

But when do we decide ‘This is a good time to open "That" ‘ ?! (With respect to Victor Borge - We’d have fun listening to him vocalize THOSE punctuation marks!) Well let me tell you a story….

Whereas, Jesus was reportedly born on Christmas Day, sadly, a different man, no less noble and honorable, left us the day after Christmas, just this last year. A man whose respect inspired respect. My father.

Sooo……….All the kinfolk came into town! It was the first time the Grandchildren had ALL been around - Ever. Not everyone was hip to the subtle delights of fine wine (or so they thought). So my brother and I schemed up a bake-off; U.S. vs. France: Burgundy style. The wines were:

Oregon Chardonnay (Gordon Bros.) vs. a 1998 Puligny Montrachet (Louis Latour) California Pinot Noir (Fess Parker) vs. a 1999 Corton Clos du Roi (Remoissenet)

NOW, the setting was a family gathering and beef-stew feast after a heartbreaking loss (truly - I’ve already mentioned that Dad was a truly Noble man).

The folks arrived, from all four points (with no delays at Logan!) Embraces were shared, coats were taken, and the choice was offered: Same Grape - American or French?

The findings were mixed. The wines were great (certainly young - guilty-as-charged!) Some asked for refills of the French. Some asked for refills of the American. All enjoyed the elixirs (and recognized their wonderful flavors and aromas - I know, ‘cuz I watched ‘em!)

All shared a truly rich moment with Family. The moment will be remembered, the wines might too. It doesn’t matter. They were the right communal beverages for that time.

I had hoped to share those wines with Dad. Oh Well….. I know he would’ve loved ‘em, in his quiet way….’Not Bad’, he might say.

The time to share the Great ones can simply be those times when we share the great personal riches that come with family, warts and all :-)

Thank You, Dad, for endowing us with them.

Our Best Wishes To All of You for a Truly Rich Twenty-Oh-Eight!’

~ John McReynolds