Photo by Doriana Popa on Unsplash
A few years ago, as I began to develop an interest in wines, I embarked on a quest to find a truly exceptional wine that I could consistently return to and savor. Although the search for a remarkable wine was an enjoyable journey, it never seemed to lead me to a wine that I could always revisit and relish as much as the initial experience. As it turns out, that was merely the beginning of an unending pursuit of the perfect wine.
Part of the reason it’s challenging, if not impossible, to consistently find a great wine year after year is the very nature of winemaking. Each year’s harvest is unique, heavily influenced by weather conditions. Spring weather determines the number of grapevine buds that develop into grape bunches, while fall sun or rain affects the grapes’ ripening process. Beyond the grape harvest variability, numerous factors contribute to the fermentation and aging of wines, resulting in ever-changing nuances.
Then, you realize there’s another factor at play. As you embark on your wine journey, you encounter an increasing variety of wines. This exposure gradually alters your palate. What once seemed like a delightful wine may now appear ordinary. Consequently, you continue your search, driven by the desire to find that exceptional wine.
And to this day, I continue my quest for exceptional wines, determined to find them. However, I’ve come to realize that this search is an endless journey. Nevertheless, I’m grateful for the experience and the joy it brings. Here’s to great wine and the endless pursuit of it. Cheers!