Of many threads

The evolution of humanity is a result of whole tribes and civilizations migrating to avoid famine or war, to live in more favourable lands.

These travellers usually brought new technology that allowed them to either conquer or coexist within their newly adopted lands. When the Hyksos migrated into the Upper Nile delta around 2,000 BC, they brought with them the composite bow, the chariot and improvements in bronze metallurgy and animal husbandry. The Goths and Visigoths, who established permanent residence after conquering the Roman legions in AD 378 at the battle of Adrianople, were in turn forced west by migrating pressure from the Lombards and the Huns, and so forth.

Do you have a special place in your heart for the unctuous richness of the wines of Burgundy? The region derives its name from a tribe that migrated from northern Europe and for a time occupied territories that include parts of Switzerland, Piedmont, Provence and (needless to say) what is now Burgundy. Great Britain and Ireland are an amalgam of tribes: Norse, Celts, Angles, Saxons and Normans—all of which arrived at different times.

Our neighbour to the south became the nation it is today by encouraging immigrants to be a part of a new, thriving and industrious nation. It is only recently that politics cloud and muddy the dream that was America.

After being settled by First Nations, Canada then received migrants from France and the British Isles. Today, Canada is noted for its mosaic of cultures created by immigrants from all points of the globe. Despite some hiccups of intolerance and fear-mongering, we still have room in our hearts to embrace those less fortunate.

Our diversity is a strength to be cherished. Let us welcome the Syrians who, through unspeakable horror, had to flee their homes. Let us help them weave a new start in the fabric that is Canada.

THIS WEEK’S PICK
First and foremost, a huge shout-out to Caroline and her daughter Maggie of the Grange for their spectacular sparkling wine that took gold at this year’s Royal Winter Fair. This truly festive wine is well-suited for the upcoming Christmas season.

This week also saw the release of the 2012 Pinot Noir Reserve from Hillier Creek Estates. Part of an “artist’s series”, the label depicts a pastoral scene from the talented brush of Hew Elcock. This wine shows sun-washed brick to the eye, with aromas of allspice, licorice, dried dates and molasses. The palate is a blend of candy apples and pomegranate— with a hint of leather on the end.

All in all, it is a very pretty wine, and is available at the Hillier Creek tasting room located just west of Hillier on the Loyalist Parkway.