More Life Ahead

As we face our challenges, we must approach them knowing there is more life ahead. As part of facing a particular tough time ahead, there came the chance to open two bottles, one new, one old, with the Planning Man and The Boss.

First up was the 2006 Cloudy Bay 'Te Koko' Sauvignon, just released. Subtle, wonderfully harmonious and integrated, yet with layers of flavours that gave the barest hint of its Sauvignon heritage, but more of what the smart team of winemakers that shaped it did. The news that Head Man at Cloudy, Kevin Judd, is to leave, and that his right hand winemaking WOman has left is sign of trouble at mill. These big corporates have no feeling for people. That's for true. The big machine behind Cloudy Bay will make sure they get plenty more life ahead out of the brand, and no doubt make very good wine. The exiting humans will find freedom and their lives ahead become more meaningful, as they do, overcoming any challenge.

Then a Deinhard 1983 Kaseler Nie'schen Riesling Auslese. Deinhard was a big name over a quarter of a century ago. Landowners as well as brand-owners - Deinhard 'Green Label' Mosel Riesling. This introductory wine seemingly died, but has seen more life again in the likes of Loosen's 'Dr L'. You can't keep a good thing down. The oldie was good golden, and refined with subtle custard and toast aromas and flavours. The barest lean crispness and a hint of drying out. Drink up, but if you pushed it, there was more life ahead. These old Ruwer wines had plenty of sulphur and tart acidity, even in 1983, to ensure it would see it through to times of old. But their true nature and glory come out to be admired eventually.