I’ve Come a Long Way (With Wine, Anyway)
Some days it seems like there are more downs than ups. Other days, something will happen that makes you think, “Hey, I am doing the right thing!”
Yesterday, I had one of those moments. Mr. Martella was down in the production area, peering into one of the smaller tanks, and I asked him if he was tinkering with his Sauvignon Blanc. He was, in fact, and called for me to come on down there. I did and we both tasted the wine, commenting on its acidity and residual sugar. Then he asked if I wanted to try his Viognier, which, of course, I did. We stood there spitting and talking, discussing production and price points. And the Martella Viognier? Let’s just say I can’t wait until it’s peachy, flowery contents are in the bottle, so I can buy some.
When I went back upstairs to the tasting room, it struck me how easily unscary that was. And I remembered the girl I was when I first got out here and then when I started writing this blog… ashamed of my palate, terrified of tasting notes, fearful to say the wrong thing in front of people who knew/know more than I. There are still times when tasting wine that I hesitate to spout out what I think. But practice helps, and as you, readers and drinkers, probably know–I’ve had plenty since I moved to California. Whether it’s at the winery working on the tasting menu (and loving it when customers voice their agreement with my notes), scribbling in my book when out to dinner, or with my tasting group, each time builds confidence. Heck, I’m not even scared to argue with my winemaking friends about the flavors I get in the glass.
Michael Martella, palate fears, wine tasting
….Farley Walker
May 7th, 2007 at 7:25 am
You might even say that Michael Martella respects your palate too, Farley. Keep up the good work!
May 7th, 2007 at 10:56 am
You really have! Isn’t it wonderful to find your self in places you never even imagined? Keep looking forward Farley, and renew your confidence in your knowledge and skills.
May 9th, 2007 at 8:01 am
Your journey has only begun, Grasshopper!