A common sentence I have heard when delivering wine tasting experiences -
'I don't like Chardonnay, but I like Champagne and Chablis'
Did you know the largest proportion of Champagne is Chardonnay? Chablis is the name of a region on in France that is only allowed to grow and produce Chardonnay?
I have seen wine listed quite simply as Red, White, Rose. But what information is this giving us about the wine apart from the colour? None. And this is when we end up with a glass of wine we don't actually want or like. The name matters.
But it’s not just the name of the grape that matters, it’s also where it comes from. For example, if you order a Chardonnay, you could get a very different drink depending on whether it’s from a cool or warm climate, and whether it’s aged in oak barrels or not. A cool climate, unoaked Chardonnay is crisp and refreshing, with citrus and apple flavours. A warm climate, oaked Chardonnay is rich and buttery, with peach and pineapple flavours and hints of vanilla and clove. that's a big difference, So next time you’re ordering wine, don’t just go by the colour. Ask for the name and the origin of the wine, and you’ll be more likely to get something you’ll enjoy.
This is the same for so many grape varieties they will change their flavour profile depending on where they are grown and the wine is made. If you have ever had a wine and thought I didn't really enjoy that, don't be put off the grape style completely, try it from a different part of the world and see what you think.
What’s in a Vintage?
When you hear the word “vintage”, you might think of old-fashioned clothes, furniture, or cars. But in the world of wine, vintage has a different meaning. It’s not about how old the wine is, but how unique it is.
A vintage wine is made from grapes that were harvested in a single year. This means that each vintage wine reflects the conditions of that year; the weather, the soil, the harvest time, and the winemaker’s choices. Each vintage wine is like a snapshot of a moment in time, capturing the essence of that year in a bottle.
A non-vintage wine, on the other hand, is made from grapes that were harvested in different years. The winemaker blends them together to create a consistent style that doesn’t vary much from year to year. A non-vintage wine is like a collage of different pictures, creating a harmonious image that doesn’t change.
So which one is better? That depends on your taste and preference. Some people enjoy the diversity and unpredictability of vintage wines, while others prefer the reliability and familiarity of non-vintage wines. There is no right or wrong answer, only different experiences and perspectives. The best way to find out what you like is to try them both and see for yourself. Cheers! 🍷
Language is not only a tool for communication, but also a way of shaping our perception and attitude towards the world. The words and names we choose can have a significant impact on how we view ourselves and others, especially when it comes to accessibility.
Instead of using the term disabled, which implies a lack of ability or potential, we should use the term enabled, which emphasises the positive and empowering aspects of inclusion. For example, when we talk about toilets, we should not call them disabled toilets, which suggest that they are only for people with disabilities. We should call them accessible toilets, which indicate that they are designed to accommodate everyone’s needs and preferences.
By using the language of enabling, we can create a more inclusive and respectful environment for all people, regardless of their abilities or challenges. We can also inspire ourselves and others to think creatively and innovatively about how to make our world more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Thank you for taking the time to read and if you would like any further information please reach out.
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