Romance in a bottle

Animals feed, men eat and gentlemen dine." And what is dining without the pleasure of a bottle of exquisite wine? To me, dining is a sensory experience, a meditative act – and wine its nirvana. The health benefits are an added advantage.

My obsessive liaisons with soft rieslings, sensuous pinot noirs and opulent merlots brought me to one of the "new world" wine producers, Australia. Because of its reputation for consistent quality, innovativeness and excellent value, Australian wines have virtually dominated the world market in recent years.

So there I was, traversing the rolling hills and the quaint landscapes of Hunter Valley, the country’s premier wine region. It is my belief that wineries are places of beauty and charm because they reflect the passing of the seasons, the rhythm of the vineyards. A glimpse of the vintner’s lifestyle enhances one’s ability to enjoy a bottle of wine, for each bottle tells a story.

Now, I can share my memories of Hunter Valley’s aromatic cabernets fermenting in the vats, the strolls through cellars and rows upon rows of grape vines. I can enjoy them in the privacy of my own home with those I hold dear, all because I am a member of the Hunter Valley Wine Society-Philippines.

Being a member of this elite club entitles wine lovers to new, specially selected wines every quarter, which are not readily available on the local market. The wines undergo a rigid selection process from Australia’s most respected and experienced wine critics. Tasting and education notes with food matching and cellaring guides are carefully packaged with the wines before being delivered to your doorstep.

Special perks also include access to rare boutique wines and wine tasting sessions conducted by experts. Most of all, excellent value for money is achieved from substantial discounts. The club has already achieved a cult following in Australia with 150,000 members! Those interested can call 687-9295 or e-mail huntervalleyws@mail.com for inquiries.

I can go on and on about the magnificent qualities of these wines but what you should remember is that wine is not just a drink. It is an event, a memory, a community. Wine is a lively conversation captured in a bottle. The Hunter Valley Wine Society will undoubtedly open your world to the nuances of smell and flavor, to the experience of the good earth’s miracles.

Enjoy and drink your way to good health!