Sometimes there is a direct correlation between the pleasure I receive from a wine and the obscurity of its grape or origin.  Sommeliers have a bad name for being too finicky and snobbish about what they drink, but most of my colleagues in this industry are really pretty straight-forward. If it’s new and something you haven’t tasted before, it’s exciting.

I always say that when I am working I love to explore the world of wine, but when I am off I drink beer, and most of my fellow professionals follow that mantra: Champagne, then Miller Lite or Bust.  Even professional golfers don’t play golf on their day off. 

I do get really excited, however, when I get to taste a grape that I have never heard of before, or drink a wine from a region that I was previously unaware existed.  Recent new discoveries abound.

• The Jaquéres grape made by Aprèmont from Savoie, France – My “perfect new summer white” wine.

• St-Hilaire Blanquette de Limoux made from Mauzac in Southwest France – My “you have start off every party with these bubbles” wine. 

• Gekkeikan Junmai Sake – My “smooth sake with a really cool cap that you can use for a cup, too” sushi picnic wine.

Yes, we are all like the character, Toad, in Wind in the Willows.  A new fad grabs your attention and leaves the old one in the dust.  Just like the motor car Toad lusts for and cries after it wistfully, 

“Pooop, Pooop!” 

It’s also comforting to know that once you are done with your expedition, the great classic wines of the world – the burgundies, bordeauxs, and barolos – will always be waiting for you once the fad moves on.

Cheers!