It’s the simple things in life that matter. How many times have you heard that statement? I of course had to go down the rabbit hole of where the statement began and apparently Its origins are not tied to a any specific person or event. However, it is a longstanding theme in literature, philosophy, and culture. Variations of this idea have appeared throughout history, from ancient proverbs to modern self-help books. It apparently has been a popular theme in history that we as a species do not value of life’s simple pleasures, rather we get bogged down in the complications. (I can vouch for that)
Although I don’t believe in creating resolutions for the new year, I do believe that as Father Time turns the page to a new year, it is a symbolic new beginning for anything we want. Whether it’s reflecting on the past to see what could have been done differently, or looking ahead to see how we can benefit from what we learned in the past, the New Year offers the perfect opportunity to reset and refocus. (and a great opportunity to enjoy some new wines or revisit some favorites)
2018 Lugana Selva
Produced from the oldest and highest vineyard on their estate, Selva is recognized as one of the very first single-vineyard Lugana (see my Lugana post here) wines ever crafted. This vineyard is defined by three key elements: its altitude which ranges between 110 and 125 meters above sea level; its hillside incline; and its soil’s stony composition, which enhances the water retention of the clay-rich soil.
Selva Capuzza is a family run estate producing wines across three distinct DOC appellations: Lugana, San Martino della Battaglia, and Garda Classico. Since the three DOCs overlap in this area, they are the only winery which produces wine from all three of them.
The wine is 100% Turbiana, which is a close relative to Verdicchio. The berries of Turbiana are typically small to medium-sized, with thick skins that contribute to the grape’s resistance to disease and its suitability for late harvesting. However, it is mostly seen as a still wine. It’s high acidity gives the wines freshness as well as being age-worthy. Thanks to the clay-rich, mineral-laden soils of the Lugana region, Turbiana wines have a distinct minerality, that becomes even more pronounced with age.
Alma de Vino Tempranillo
This wine has special meaning to me. It was gifted to me by April Cullom, fellow “lover of all things Spain.” April has been specializing in Spanish wine, gastronomy and tourism for over 15 years.
Tempranillo is often considered Spain’s signature red grape variety. Tempranillo thrives in diverse regions across Spain, each imparting its own unique character to the wines produced. In fact there are numerous synonyms for the grape depending on what region it is grown in.
Tempranillo forms the backbone of many of the country’s most famous wines. Its name is derived from “temprano” (meaning “early” in Spanish), which reflects the grape’s early ripening nature. Known for its red and black fruits, dried fig, tobacco, leather, and spice along with its medium to full-bodied, moderate acidity, and firm tannins, Tempranillo is deeply tied to the country’s winemaking heritage.
Alma de Vino wines are hand-crafted to celebrate their origins. Made from native Spanish varieties, they come from sustainably farmed vineyards owned by families who have been working the vineyards for generations. Each bottle reflects its terroir allowing the land and the grape to shine.
Peju Cabernet Franc
What woulda new year be without reflecting on how far Cab Franc Day has come since we created it in 2015. Every December 4th, wine lovers from around the world come together to celebrate Cabernet Franc Day, We created the day to encourage enthusiasts and producers, alike, to honor the grape’s unique character, history, and potential to be more than a blending grape.
Cabernet Franc is often known as the “insurance” grape thanks to its ability to thrive in diverse climates and soils. Ripening about 3 weeks earlier than its progeny, Cabernet Sauvignon, it is capable of producing wines with incredible range and complexity.
Peju has been a family run winery in Napa for over 40 years. Although their first ever released wine was Cabernet Sauvignon in 1983, they have thankfully found their way to Cabernet Franc. In 1985, the Pejus what is one of the most recognizable structures (IMHO); a French Provincial style tower. Check images on Google and you will see many visitors love to pose in front of it.
Today, the second generation of the Peju family, daughters Lisa and Ariana, are leading the way of the winery. They continue to build on their parents’ legacy by introducing innovative practices while honoring the winery’s core values of sustainability and family-driven winemaking.
With the symbolic new beginning, let’s savor the moments that make life worth living—whether it’s a quiet evening with a favorite glass of wine, an evening out with loved ones, or simply taking time to appreciate the beauty around us. Life is a collection of moments, let’s stop and enjoy those moments and recognize how lucky we are to be experiencing them. Share your favorite moments with us wine related or not.
~Slàinte!
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