Let Your Wine Take You Away

Originally uploaded by byrdiegyrl

Now that summer is in full swing, we are all thinking about taking a break from our daily routine. Given some of the changes in the world in the last year, ‘taking a break’ may mean planning day trips and local getaways as opposed to more elaborate sorts of vacations. But staying closer to home doesn’t mean that you can’t make you next trip an exotic one. This summer, that getaway can be found in your wine glass.

We are experiencing a wine boom in the U.S. (wine consumption has been on the rise in the States for years), and to quench our thirst we can find incredible wines, many of which have never before been seen on this side of the Atlantic. More vineyards are exporting to the States and we get to reap the benefits. So, instead of watching the Travel Channel, look to your favorite wine purveyor for your next cultural experience.

For less than $20, you can purchase a ticket to anywhere in the world of wine. Each bottle is a lens into a culture, a group of people, and their pride and practices concerning wine.

Let your bottle be your guide:

• Experience some of the wine of Greece at Cava and imagine yourself looking out onto the picturesque Greek coast, with the white buildings contrasting the clear blue water.
• Open a bottle of Bordeaux and envision the rich history of French winemaking, fabulous cuisine, and amazing 18th century architecture.
• As you sip on a California favorite, picture yourself driving along a winding road surrounded by the gently flowing, carefully tended rows of vines of the region’s vineyards (try the Ridge at Belga Café).

I understand that actually visiting many of these places would be far superior to daydreaming about them while sipping on their wine. But, what better way to spice up a picnic in the park than with a bottle of wine that you have never tried before? Have a themed dinner with friends that highlights a different place in the world—complete with the region’s wine. Get that global experience for a fraction of the price! When your travel can be more elaborate, remember the wines you liked and go find them; experience them on their home turf. Use wine as a stepping stone to understand the cultures that interest you most. So have fun, dream on, your journey around the world this summer is only a wine glass away.