Real journalism isn’t created in newsrooms, but in the places where news actually happens. That’s why from time to time your intrepid correspondent dons trench coat and fedora and leaves the confines of his cozy garret to get the story.
And so, when, earlier this week, the rare opportunity arose to cop an interview with (HELLO!!) the god of wine himself, he tucked his trusty IBM Selectric under his arm and raced to the place of rendezvous, where he found the deity astride a panther and in a chatty mood. What follows are excerpts from that conversation
THE WINE IDEA: You’re looking fabulous for age 8000 or so, WG. What’s your secret?
WINE GOD: A lot of working out, of course, and a really good night cream is essential. But, hey, when Zeus is your pops you’ve lucked into some seriously good genes.
TWI: It’s a great look. Who does your vine leaves?
WG: I have this amazing guy in a little salon in Thrace. Genius, but neurotic as hell. Want to pat my cat Spots? She’s a rescue.
TWI: Let’s get down to business, shall we? You’ve said that the modern world has wine all wrong. Care to elaborate?
WG: Look, the whole thing has become too complicated even for yours truly — a divinity, for god’s sake! All those appellations and varietals to keep track of. Back in the day, shelf talkers and the 100 point rating scale were on nobody’s radar. No ‘zines, no “wine appreciation” classes. Celebrity sommeliers — what’s the deal with that? Wine wasn’t yet in the intimidation business, you see. We weren’t the kind of people to be pushed around by a skin-macerated Vermentino. It was fun. There was joy in it.
TWI: I admit, wine can seem more like work than play today. What advice can you give us that might resurrect the primordial, vinous bliss you speak of?
WG: I’ll share with your readers the same words of wisdom I gave Nebuchadnezzar, Nero and Julia Child: (1) Drink wine that comes from a farm, not a factory; (2) Eschew trends and brands; (3) Trust your own taste, but give it room to grow; (4) Find yourself a local shop where the staff is passionate and knowledgeable about wine and be loyal to it.
TWI: That’s it? Sounds a little simplistic, I have to say.
WG: Who’s the god here, you or me? This theophany is over. Up, Spots, and away!
Taste, talk, and learn about wine this week in the FKC wine corner . . .
THURSDAY, MAY 30 3-6 PM – SELECTRICITY
2017 Domaine de la Pépière, Muscadet Sèvre-et-Maine Sur Lie “La Pépié,” $16.95
2018 Mas de Cynanque Saint-Chinian “Fleur de Cynanque” Rose, Languedoc-Roussillon, $16.95
2017 Domaine Maestracci, Vin de Corse-Calvi Clos Reginu, $17.95
FRIDAY, MAY 31 3-6 PM – UP, SPOTS!
2016 Sikelè, Terre Siciliane Grecanico, $21.95
2018 Domaine Pique-Basse “L’Ambigu” Côtes-du-Rhône-Villages Rosé, $18.95
2017 Guillaume Clusel, Coteaux du Lyonnais “Traboules,” $23.95