Worldwide wine

Due to increased demand for a better selection, today we enjoy access to wines from around the world, This explosion in interest for wine began in the late 1960s, as Europe finally recovered from the devastation of World War II. In the UK for example, wine was consumed only in restaurants, clubs, and hotels— rarely was it found at home. But then holidaymakers to Spain, France, Italy and the former Yugoslavia brought back a taste for the grape. Wine became fashionable.

In 1971, Hugh Johnson and Janice Robinson published their first edition of the World Atlas of Wine. The Atlas has become a mustread for all those with a passion for wine, offering a comprehensive overview of wines and their regions around the world. By the late 1980s, wine was sexy. Wine knowledge was a key to the success of many establishments.

Today, the professional sommelier—and his or her knowledge of the nuances of varietals depending on region and hemisphere—is critical to assist management in developing a wine cellar. The LCBO employs a large number of highly qualified sommeliers to not only assist in their purchasing program, but also in developing vintage sections in retail stores. An ongoing program requires their staff to taste the new releases each month. Other wine agencies employ sommeliers for similar reasons: their knowledge allows portfolios to be critically examined and updated.

Colleges now offer sommelier classes that are attended by industry professionals and anyone with a passion for wine. Welcome to the new, wide world of wine.

THIS WEEK’S PICK
Lots of new vintages are about to be released. The 2010 Diane Block Pinot Noir recently released by the Grange of Prince Edward will rock you. All the steps in crafting this wine adhered to principles of careful selection and execution—which meant allowing this wine to mature until now.

The result is liquid silk with a sublime finish. It is a wonderful example of pinot noir. From the brick colour to the spices and fruit that caress the palate, this wine is in a category of its own. Kudos to Caroline Granger.

Available for $35 at the Grange tasting room on Closson Road, it is well worth waiting for their weekend opening hours.

Still some space left for our Annual Firefighters’ dinner. Come on out and show your support.