20 July 2013 i-1-Wine Journey: An "afternoon delight"

Sanctuary@7 welcomes our new batch of Wine Journey participants. Press the doorbell and you're instantly transported to a secret world that has mesmerised humankind for 10,000 years...

First stop on our i-1-Wine Journey (yes, that stands for I WANT WINE!) is the wine cellar tour - a secret hole dug out in the ground (deeper than what you would dig for a swimming pool!) right underneath where we have our classes! Participants marvel at the treasures that the cellar holds, and stand at awe under the intimidating gaze of the cellar guardian - none other than Bacchus, Roman god of wine.

Next stop on our Wine Journey: the essential theory. This forms the basis of wine knowledge and tasting. As a wise person once said, "The more you love about wine, the more wines you love." Even before the first cork is popped, this group isn't shy about asking questions, such as:

• Which is better - cork, synthetic cork, or screwcap?
• What are the ideal conditions and temperature to store wines? What to do if one doesn't have a wine cellar or even a wine fridge?
• How long can one keep a bottle of wine, if unopened? And if opened?
• When's the best time to visit a wine region (like Margaret River, South Africa, Italy)?
• The merits of English wine (yes, there is such a thing)
• I smell cat pee in my wine! Which varietal could it be?

The "afternoon delights" tantalised on, with wine tickling the developing palates of our new wine adventurers and the Balinese ambiance at Sanctuary@7 forming the perfect backdrop. 

A total of 8 wines are tasted today, giving participants a preview of the possibilities of more advanced tastings, and giving them a taste of sparkling wine vs still, single varietal vs blends, Old World vs New World, different varietals from the same producer:

1. Australian sparkling Chardonnay Pinot Noir, Andrew Peace (2011)
2. New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, Wither Hills Malborough (2012)
3. Australian Chardonnay, Capel Vale Margaret River (2012)
4. South African Sauvignon Blanc/Chenin Blanc/Chardonnay blend, Nederburg (2012)
5. French Syrah, La Forge Estate Pays d'Oc (2009)
6. Australian Shiraz, Brown Brothers Victoria (2010)
7. Australia Merlot, Brown Brothers Victoria (2010)
8. Australian Cabernet Sauvignon, Brown Brothers Victoria (2010)

And sadly, the afternoon comes to an end. But not for long, we hope. Next stop on the Wine Daddy Express: A Tutored Tasting, and a Trip... Watch this space and the Wine Daddy Facebook page (www.facebook.com/WineDaddy) for details!