My first reaction is, why not? However, I am quite sure my genetic DNA makeup is part “get up and go.” I understand that some of you may ask why you should go. If you enjoy wine, then let me give you a few different perspectives as to why you need to go!
There is something romantic about the vineyard. It could be the gorgeous settings or the peacefulness that these places have, they just draw you in.
We all need to take time, slow down, and enjoy the beauty in life in these places. Add a fabulous glass of wine and that destination becomes even memorable and relaxing.
Technology, ok this is interesting but it in not my personal reason for going. But I recently took my engineer-husband, Charlie, to Napa and as soon as we got to the machines and technology, he lit up like a kid in a candy store. I loved it for him, and because he enjoyed it, I became more interested in it myself. He asked questions I would have never thought of, and it brought another wonderful experience to the visit to the winery. For all my “A” type personalities, trust me, you will love the innovations and technology that go into winemaking!
Winemaking techniques are not all the same! Recently on our travels in Napa I learned that one of my favorite wineries uses a technique that changes the tannin structure and helps to develop the wine to be smoother in structure. This also means that their wines do not age the same as most Napa reds. They need to be drunk earlier as without that tannin structure it diminishes the time in the bottle for ageing. I had no idea and when I got home, I opened a few of the bottles I had purchased previously, and we drank them in the next few weeks because they were getting past their prime. We would not have known this if we had not taken the winery tour.
Of course, I could not wrap this up without saying how fun the experience is. Spending time with friends or just your favorite person, or dog, no judgement here. But the experience is better when you are sharing it with
others! You get the chance to try wines and expand your palette with something you may have never tried before. You may love one wine and your best friend may not. Learning together, trying new wines, seeing new areas, and hearing the stories behind their wines and business make for a terrific day. Beats any day at the office in my book!
Leigh Ann Arnholt CTIE, MCC, WSET III
