Like almost everyone in the United States, I am “sheltered in place” (SIP) here in Saratoga Springs, New York due to the Coronavirus. The “shelter in place” order by Governor Cuomo is being supported by residents and it seems to be having the desired effect. Having been particularly hard hit and early in the pandemic, New York will provide insights/learnings that should benefit other states.
As I talk to friends in Saratoga and around the country, Shelter In Place (SIP) has taken on another meaning as it pertains to wine! Everyone seems to be SIPping more than normal. Whether it’s with the dinners we are preparing more of or having video chats with family, wine has been prominently featured.
Over the last 3-4 weeks I have had more time than ever to think and read about wine. I have also been contacted by dozens of wineries with various offers, ideas, suggestions. If you have a favorite wine you have been unable to obtain directly from a winery, now may be the time. As part of the closures announced in California, wineries are no longer able to offer tastings and tours. Most wineries reserve hard to obtain or allocated wines for tastings. Rather than sit on the wine, many of the wineries are selling the wine that had been set aside. Yesterday I was able to purchase a wine I was previously unable to get. It’s worth a try.
Rather than reaching for just any bottle of wine for dinner, why not adopt the New York Times recommendation to “travel the world, glass first”! It’s an interesting way to explore Italy, Argentina, France, Spain, Australia, Germany, Chile and many other countries currently producing great wines at various price points.
Four wines I have enjoyed recently are:
Arcanum, an Italian red blend (Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon Petit Verdot) from Tuscany
Clos Apalta, a Chilean red blend (Carmenere, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon) produced by Casa Lapostolle
Far Niente Chardonnay from Napa Valley, California
Chateau de Beaucastel, a French red blend (Grenache, Mourvedre, Syrah and Counoise)
Regardless of the approach you are taking to enjoy a glass of wine while “sheltered in place”, be safe and stay healthy.