Hardscrabble Journal

Tasting in Isolation

My tasting ability has improved over the last few months. Quiet time spent with a glass, allows the wine to better speak. While a wine’s job is to refresh and pair with food, usually in a social setting, I find appreciation is enhanced in isolation. Environment and knowledge can change one’s perceptions.

I got thinking about past experiences. Below is an excerpt of an article I wrote many years ago.

Mona Lisa

The Louvre is a massive museum where the uninitiated can be swallowed alive. I found myself wandering contently, quietly and aimlessly through rooms of Renaissance paintings. Eventually I heard a muffled but distinct cacophony coming down a hall leading to Mona Lisa. I often wonder if I would have paid her any attention had she been in a typical line up on a wall in some obscure room. 

But she was famous. I managed to sneak a peek or two, as I was taller than the crowds of camera wielding Japanese businessmen and school kids with matching tee shirts. Tour guides were droning on in several languages, one of which I understood. I’m not a fan of crowds, so I left Mona Lisa to her admirers.

Later in the day the as the closing warning bell sounded, I ventured back to Mona Lisa. We were alone. I recalled some tour guide facts and started pacing in front of the painting. Her eyes were following me. Her smile became a frown. Was she ready to cry? Now she was smiling again.

Great art and great wine are individual and very personal experiences that can be best appreciated with time and knowledge.

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Linden Vineyards / Learn More / Latest at Linden | Journal: April 30, 2020