I developed my interest in wine several years before turning 21, as I’m sure many others have. The high-school food and beverage job, that exposed so many of us to the wonders of the world, was my first real introduction into the world of wine. Initially because the most expensive items sold were the wines, which meant I made more money on the tip, but then because I noticed a pattern. The people who were drinking wines seemed happier. They seemed to be better enjoying the company of those around them, and were very laid back, seemingly there just to have a good time. Granted there was always a percentage that were snobby, but most were really cool people.

My first glass of wine came from one of the really cool people. This guy was in town golfing with a couple friends, and they had polished off quite a few bottles of wine. They capped the evening dinner with a bottle of ’97 Silver Oak Cabernet, asking me if I had ever tried it. After explaining that the Silver Oak had never made it onto the tasting table, (keep in mind I was 17/18, and had actually never enjoyed a glass of wine) they graciously offered me the last half-a-glass. I swirled it around in the glass, very amateurishly I’m sure, and then slowly took a sip. This guy starts drilling me on the flavors… can you taste the tobacco.. thats all I remember, but I swear he must have said it 5 times. The wine was good… didn’t taste like I would imagine $30 should taste like, but it was definitely good. I remember thinking that it seemed a little strong for me at the time, and now I personally feel that it was much overrated. Needless to say, it was the beginning of a new adventure.

I have since had many different wines, most of which I have enjoyed. I find it amusing however, that the three I have enjoyed most are: 2004 Estancia Pinot Grigio ($12), 2005 Cloudline Pinot Noir ($17), and Dr. Loosen Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Kabinett 2005 ($11). So why is it that I enjoy these better than the $120 wine? Is it because my pallet isn’t $120 sophisticated, or is it because I appreciate wine mostly for chilling out with my friends, relaxing, and talking about the funny movie last night, world issues, and our dreams/goals? I’m definitely not a wine expert in any sense of the word. I’m just a 23 year-old aspiring entrepreneur who enjoys trying new wines. Look out for my coming review on the Estancia Pinot Grigio.