Glass work

The glass decanter has an interesting back-story.

First discovered at least 3,500 years ago in Mesopotamia, glass was probably a byproduct of metallurgy—most likely showing up in the form of glass beads. The Greeks later perfected the art of working this new material. There are excellent examples in museums throughout the world of Greek glass-working. Most pertinent to our subject are fine examples of glass Amphorae which stored wine. The Romans assimilated the finer parts of the Greek culture, and so glass production centres developed throughout Italy—particularly in Campania and in Venice. (The latter would lead the revival of the glass industry in the 10th century, after the fall of the Roman Empire.) Since it was far too cumbersome to draw off wine from an amphora, the Romans used a decanter. (Imagine trying to draw down a manageable amount from a barrel or stainless steel tank, and you can see why.) I suggest that this Roman decanter inspired the concept of a bottle. Unfortunately, the fall of the western Roman Empire halted any further Italian glass production. Until the Venetians established the glass industry in the 11th century (and became renowned for their skill) decanters tended to be made from bronze, silver, gold or pottery.

By the mid 17th century, the decanter as we know it had been developed with the final enhancement of a glass stopper to allow spirits and ports to be presented in finely crafted, airtight works of art.

The modern day use of the decanter allows wine to open, and reveal the complete range of sensations that one can find buried in a bottle. The esteemed wine writer Janis Robinson advocates use of decanters, if only for aesthetic reasons. I recommend it as a form of respect to the efforts of the winemaker.

THIS WEEK’S PICK
I have been eagerly anticipating the opening of TerraCello Winery, and was not disappointed. I was charmed by the welcoming ambiance of the tasting room, which led to an art gallery. I was especially impressed to learn construction materials were recycled. Better still, reclaimed bricks from that criminal demolition of the church in Picton were used in the construction of the fireplace and tasting room facade.

Owned and operated by Anthony and Daniela Auciello, this family-owned winery offers three wines for your enjoyment. Their 2011 Vidal, is a superb summer sipper, and their Riesling is very food-friendly. The Pinot Noir is a County expression of fruit and acidity. Their wines are generous and fairly priced.

TerraCello Winery is located at 2436 County Road 1, just west of Hwy 62. It is well worth a visit. On weekends, stay for an authentic Italian-style pizza made in their wood-fired oven.