European Wines

In the states I never drank wine, unless it came from a box and was hidden in Heather Rose's purse as we walked around the AG parties. Now, being in Europe I have become an aficionado of wines, at first, against my will. It started out with Lambrusco. This is a sparkling wine,quite inexpensive and at one point was very successful in the U.S.

The next was Marenco Scrapona Moscato D'Asti Marenco Scrapona Moscato D' Asti. This is a very aromatic white wine with fruit flovers, including melonand honeyed overtones. This is best served with dessert, in my opinion.

The love affair with wine continued and while I cannot remember all the names of the wines I've tasted, I do know that I will never go back to boxed wine. Joan has really opened me up to the world of wine which is quite easy here. Across from my home is a wine bar, down the street is a winery with a cellar, stone walls and a very informative genteman who is willing to tell you anything from the history of the wine to how to pour it and in which glass.

On Sundays, we often have a glass of wine with lunch, during the week, Joan may pick up a bottle after work and we enjoy a glass with dinner. When a friend comes over to visit-they are rarely without a bottle of wine. It's the way of life here and I've grown accustomed to reading the wine menu before deciding what to have for dinner. I'm learning which cheeses go with which wines and which ones definetly don't. I'm far from being knowledgeable about the subject but I have learned that a glass a day will keep the doctor away. Wine is heart healthy and I promote it highly.

Another beverage that I've grown fond of is Moet & Chandon, a Champagne, a delicious champagne that I will continue to drink the rest of my life. It's a pity it's so darn expensive! But, as I say, you get what you pay for in these circumstances.

Europe is indeed a class apart in these categories, Italy is known for the Chianti, the Marsala, the Soave and the Valpolicella. The Marsala for example, is quite popular and is normally served after dinner with postres because of it's sweet taste. Asti Spumante is a sparkling wine and the world's choice after champagne of course.

When living here, even for as short a time as I have, wine becomes entwined in daily life and even in special circumstances. People cook with wine,drink wine, bathe in wine and even have wine massages. There are wine academies and schools in which one can learn about European wines. Joan and I plan to have a wine cellar in our future home because he loves it so much.

So tonight, if you are able, have a glass of wine tonight with dinner or dessert. Kick back and relax and enjoy a bit of the European way of life!

By the way HRF, we are going to hit up Better Cheddar and pick up a bottle ;) for old times.