Wednesday, January 18, 2017

First Blog Assignment

     My experiences with wine so far in my life are pretty unique and very interesting. Having a family that is 1/2 French and a dad who works as one of the vice presidents of the wine distribution company, Vineyard Brands, has given me many opportunities to try some top class wines from around the world. Since my extended family lives in France near Caen and my dad's work requires him to travel to many different wine producing regions of the world, I've had the opportunities to explore beautiful vineyards from Burgundy, Rhone, South Africa, and even some in the United States.
     Knowing so many people who my dad works with has also given me the chance to have 1 on 1 lessons with people in positions ranging from sales reps to wine makers or marketers on many different topics, such as taste evaluation, production, sales, and retail. I've also been able to take my first few steps into the wine industry by doing an internship with Château de Beaucastel in Châteauneuf du pâpe. The experience was really cool but not necessarily lively since I lived in the middle of the vines. It really made me appreciate the art that goes behind wine making and guiding nature to run its beautiful course, but it also made me realize how much more I would prefer the business side of the industry which is more exciting and surrounded by city life.
     From the wines I've tasted thus far, I can't really pick a favorite because I'm starting to understand the uniqueness that comes with the styles from around the world. I really took a huge liking to chenin blanc from the Loire Valley specifically from Vouvray and Saumur, but I also like the modern and more fruit forward style found in South Africa. I also really appreciate pinot noir and how delicate it's flavors end up if it finds a perfect place to flourish and I'm also a huge fan of a classic Châteauneuf du pâpe or Bordeaux, but I can't stand California Chardonnay.

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