You may have heard the phrase, “Great wine begins in the vineyard.” This is a common message touted by winemakers and wine aficionados that boils down to the fact that high quality wine most often begins with very high quality grapes. But what leads to high quality grapes? The vision that comes to mind might be a perfect combination of pristine conditions, fertile soil, plenty of water, mild terrain – maybe even a few songbirds whistling wistfully in the sunshine – all the creature comforts a growing vine could ever hope for.

But, (as I was having a not too common, but rather serious case of the down-and-outs) a very wise person reminded me of what it actually takes to make great grapes.
It takes STRUGGLE!

You don’t get great grapes when the grapes are too comfortable. They need to fight. The most sought after grapes grow in conditions that would seem unacceptable – not much water, impossible terrain, wide temperature swings, extremely small yields, etc…

I took it as a beautiful reminder that during this very bizarre and unprecedented time – with all of its unexpected challenges and through feelings of doubt and anxiety – there is a very real possibility we will come out on the other side better for it.

Stay safe, be well, and open the good stuff. You deserve it!

Cheers,
Lisa

Julio Covarrubias, Casa de Vinas ~ Photo credit: Jim Stevens