It’s complicated, but it’s simple. The former is a product of the modern era. The latter is the true story and explains why you shouldn’t fear wine. It’s been a part of our culture and evolution for over 7,000 years. We’ve been companions since that time. Wine consoled us, brought us together, and kept us safe when water wasn’t potable. As Napoleon Bonaparte famously said,
In victory, you deserve Champagne. In defeat you need it.
That begs the question: what happened?
The World at Train Speed
It’s hard for us to grasp that there was once a time when your world was only a 10 or 20-mile sphere. It’s a time before cars. Your mode of transportation was a horse. Fast forward to the 1830s and beyond, when the steam locomotive came on the scene. A whole new world opened up to those able to afford it.
Consider the cultural impact. We can equate it to the Internet and the smartphone. Think of how different everything is because of that device. Maybe you remember when the Internet didn’t exist, and landlines were a must-have. Perhaps you can’t even imagine what it would be like without these innovations.
People’s lives were profoundly impacted by the train. They grasped for stability when everything changed in a relatively short time. That’s the time when many French châteaus were constructed. They became a link to the past in a rapidly changing world. It wasn’t a time to fear wine but embrace it as part of history.
Remember that many cultures have made wine for centuries. It was a part of their identity. Immigrants to America brought these traditions with them, with their links to their heritage. Contrast that with our modern-day perception of wine. It’s another drink to enjoy and one with lots of competition.
When Did People Begin to Fear Wine
Perhaps one can make a case for ratings being the traitor to wine. Before, we followed our tastes. If we liked it, it was good. Then, this notion of quantifying that quality became a thing. Instead, we were left questioning our judgment. Is this wine really okay? Am I missing something? Somehow, I don’t think Napolean was doubting his enjoyment of Champagne.
Wines with faults are another matter. It’s pretty obvious when it has a musky, dank odor that something isn’t right. It’s a fair assumption that we can all agree on that score.
An interesting study grouped wine buyers into six categories. The overwhelmed made up the largest percentage. They are the people who might not buy wine often. They have the deer-in-the-headlights look when they walk into a shop. These individuals are open to advice but are easily frustrated by the magnitude of choices. They may, indeed, fear wine.
The next highest percentage included image seekers. They want to impress with their choices. That includes the guy who buys the most expensive bottle and doesn’t hesitate to share that fact. Then, there are the traditionalists who know what they like. They enjoy wine for what it is.
The savvy shoppers are more adventurous with their sipping, particularly if it includes a deal. The satisfied sippers are, well, satisfied. They don’t deviate much from what feels comfortable. Finally, there are the wine enthusiasts. Interestingly, people in this group often have a story to tell about falling in love. The veil on its history has fallen. They see something different in wine. They also buy the most.
Why You Should Embrace Wine
Wine has been a steadfast companion for humans throughout history. It’s not like it hasn’t been a commodity. However, wine has also been something more that transcends the marketing, hype, and snobbery. We speak of sharing a bottle more so than we do with any other beverage. That says a lot.
Wine brings us together, whether in victory or defeat, in stability or change. It’s about relaxing and savoring the elixir. You don’t have to identify the aromas. There are no rules. It’s worth noting that sommeliers have different brain structures because they train their sense of smell. Your brain is different, too, if you work in a certain job or have a particular hobby.
The point is you decide your level of involvement. If you don’t want to delve into writing tasting notes or reading tech sheets, it’s okay. Wine is ready to meet you at any level. You needn’t fear wine. It’ll be there on your terms whenever you want to drink it. If you want, learn more about it. You’ll find some fascinating stories that will make you enjoy what’s in your glass even more.
Discover Your Favorite WinePhoto by Klaus Kreuer on Unsplash
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