This month’s wine writing challenge is SOLITUDE, as selected by last month’s winner Beth of Traveling Wine Chick. Honestly, I’ve been feeling a bit at a loss with this topic, as I’ve spent quite a few previous MWWCs talking about how wine is best paired with great friends. But even the most extroverted extrovert needs to reset sometimes, so with George Thorogood playing in my head–click on his name if you need background music!–here goes:
I think one of the best things about summer is sitting outside and drinking wine. Sure it’s a lot of fun with others, but it is equally enjoyable by oneself–sitting on the porch reading a book or lounging on the beach listening to the breaking of the waves. It gives you time to relax, to enjoy, and to appreciate everything around you, like the delightful syrah-viognier blend you randomly picked out a few weeks back.
The thing I enjoy most about drinking in solitude is that it is very decadent. Opening a bottle of wine simply because you love it–not having to think about catering to anyone else’s palette or worrying that the food pairing is not quite right. Taking your time to really get to know the wine. Trying new styles and tastes you might not dream of trying in front of others (I mean, I know very well that my friends drink merlot when I’m not around!).
Plus you get the whole bottle to yourself. Not that I’m telling you to drink the whole bottle (for legal disclaimer purposes). I’m sure you can look up on Pinterest 846 things to do with leftover wine. Personally, I always thought “leftover wine” was a myth or a horror story told to oenophiles…but if it is really a thing feel free to share your “friend’s” leftover wine horror stories suggestions.
If the thought of a bottle is too daunting, find a great little restaurant with a spectacular view and start with a glass. Take your time to enjoy all the sensations of tasting the wine without expectations or boundaries and just allow yourself to enjoy. Order food. Enjoy it more.
Several years ago, I found myself with a free afternoon in Sydney. In need of a bit of respite, I happened across a little cafe near the Opera House with a fantastic view of the Harbour Bridge. Fresh oysters were the special and I just couldn’t resist (I never can!). The waiter recommended a New Zealand sauvignon blanc and while I’m not a big fan of the ol’ sauv blanc, I decided to give it a go. BEST. DECISION. EVER. (or at least at that moment in time). The crisp apple finish of the wine enhanced the creaminess of the oysters; the lapping of the waves and the cool breeze coming off of the water provided the perfect setting for allowing myself to just relax and indulge. While I don’t remember the name of the aforementioned New Zealand sauvignon blanc (I know, epic fail!), I vividly remember wishing I could bend time and make that moment last forever.
That is the beauty of drinking in solitude: making an experience and enjoying the moment…of you. I think in this day and age of technology we expect–no, we demand–to be entertained 24/7, when in reality what we need is more unplugging and appreciating not only what is around you, but what is you.
Do yourself a favor and try it–you might like it. I’m not asking you to make it nightly habit (for legal disclaimer purposes), but as a treat for yourself. If you want to be even more decadent and celebratory, pop the bubbly (trust me you won’t be disappointed!)!
Still not convinced that drinking in solitude is for you? Before I go open that blanc de blancs chilling in the fridge for a special occasion (you know, like Monday night), I leave you with this final thought:
Cheers!
The Epicurious Texan 
I chose this topic because it hit home for me personally. I had no idea how it would hit home for many, but it different ways. I have been amazed so far at the quality of the writing that the word solitude has evoked. It has been emotionally moving for me to read everyone’s take on the topic. I live on my own, in the Napa Valley, away from family almost 3000 miles away on the East Coast. I have many meals alone and I usually taste wines for review alone as well. I attend wine industry events and have a small group of friends here with whom I go out occasionally, but most days after work, I drive home after work and spend evenings in solitude. Last night we had a wine dinner party Ehlers Estate, and I can guarantee you that wine, and free time, is better shared with others. I enjoy those moments the best. 🙂
Thank you for sharing! Wine dinner parties shared with others do bring the best moments! Having been bit by the travel bug when I was a teenager, I have spent the majority of my life traveling and moving around and being far from home. I enjoyed exploring this subject, as I think it is something which we can all identify. Some, like you and I, because we have too much and others because they do not have any.
Beth, I’m curious if you’ve tried the Sutter Home wines? I just thought of them again a day ago. We toured some Napa Valley winieries and really liked that one.
They are widely distributed, so yes, I had tried them before I moved to Napa Valley.
I loved them, but the Sterling Winery was beautiful. Most interesting were the champagne wineries.
Reblogged this on Dream Big, Dream Often and commented:
This is Epicurious Texan!!
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