My Journey Through Wines: From Strawberry Wine to Mature Palates
Every sip of wine carries a story, and mine is no exception. From the sweet, strawberry-colored nectar served at a young age to the complex flavors I savored as an adult, my relationship with wine has been a journey of exploration and discovery.
The First Sips: Strawberry and Strong Drink
Age 16 brought my first sip of Boone’s strawberry wine, a sweet concoction that was too much for my palate. However, it was my introduction to the world of adult beverages. The next wine I enjoyed was Blue Nun, a piquant blend that made it onto my radar because of its popularity in my youth.
Mother's Influence and Household Wine
Looking back, my childhood was a bit unconventional when it came to wine. My father believed in introducing me to small glasses of red wine during meals as a way to normalize its consumption. Growing up, I never developed a penchant for wine. As an adult, I’ve largely abstained, only seeking advice from my children when buying wine as a gift, due to my lack of knowledge about "good" wines.
Title: Vintage 1986 – The Strawberry Hill Experiment and Beyond
The idea of drinking wine from a vintage jug brings a chuckle. The note, "Lol, Boone's Strawberry Hill if that's considered wine!" suggests a playful approach to unconventional wine choices.
Unforgettable Tastes: Strawberry Wine and Beyond
Bringing back memories, Mad Dog 20/20, now seen as grape-flavored alcohol rather than actual wine, and Manischewitz blackberry wine, a staple in my mother's house during religious celebrations. The latter held special significance since our family blended cultural traditions, raising us Catholic with my mother's Jewish heritage.
From Childhood to College: A Progression of Flavors
As a child, my encounters with wine were limited to the sweet, tiny serving size of a thimble or shot glass, which gradually increased in size as I got older. By high school, we moved to fruit wines, such as Japanese plum wine, cherry Kijafa, and hard apple cider, arriving as gifts. My parents weren't opposed to us enjoying these beverages, a pragmatic approach they believed would keep us grounded and in check.
In college, we graduated to more substantial varieties like May wines and Liebfraumilch, with Blue Nun being a standout choice due to its popularity. Mateus Rose was another favorite for its versatile use as a candle holder.
A Growing Palate and Changing Tastes
By the time we reached our mid-20s, our taste buds evolved, becoming more discerning. The shift from sweet to dry wines marked a maturation in our relationship with wine. Reflecting on my journey, the book The House of Mondavi came to mind, highlighting how brands and varieties have changed over time. A prime example is Mondavi Sauvignon Blanc Stag's Leap Estate, now a thing of the past, with current variations under different labels.
Conclusion: A Personal Reflection on Wine
From childhood sweet strawberry wines to mature palates, my journey with wine is a reflection of life's evolving tastes and experiences. While I may no longer indulge in the fruity concoctions of my youth, the memories and stories they brought remain etched in my mind.
Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or just beginning your journey, every sip has a tale to tell. Embrace the experience, for each moment spent with a glass of wine is a story waiting to be told.