“Winemakers who wax poetic about wines from a new vineyard hope the qualities they see early on will continue throughout that vineyard’s life. Others believe that the truest expression of a vineyard comes when it has endured the test of time. I believe both viewpoints may be correct.”

-Kirk Grace, Vineyard Manager at Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars

Two weeks ago, we compared and shared three wines from Ribera del Duero with dear friends from down the street.  A virtual interview was taking place that night, three bottles were to be opened.  As with many things, the pleasures derived from a glass of wine are increased exponentially when shared. And like many things, the complexity and value of these wines increased with age.

The tasting coincided with one of my oldest and dearest friends’ birthday. Toasting with new dear friends, I began thinking of the layers or friendship, the value of those old and new, and how they correlated with the wine.  I found the above quote while reading about how the age of the vine impacts complexities in wine and as I read, I found myself replacing the subject, friendship for wine.

Like a new love, a new connection with a friend injects a vivacity into your life; every story is new, each perspective refreshing. And we find ourselves hoping to maintain the connection.  In turn, one that has remained, one that has not been shaken by the elements, but persisted and weathered life provides each person a haven to be their truest selves.

Emilio Moro Wines are not given the classic distinctions of Tempranillo based on the time in the barrel, Rioja to Gran Reserva.  They are given unique names based on the age of the vines from which they came.

The Blossoming Connection-Finca Resalso 2014 ($15)

It presents itself as mature and bright, a little spicy.  Intriguing.  When you finally connect, you realize that there is more than meets the eye.  Fresh and inviting, but with layers. Cedar and spice, black plums, bright violet hues, easy to drink.

 

Tried and True-Emilio Moro 2012 ($25)

Depth of color, classic notes; I know what to expect.  No matter the mood or pairings, this wine will show up.  Classic Cherry-cola, menthol, plum.  No need for big surprises, this wine can slide effortlessly into any dinner party. Complex and comforting, sturdy and supple. Each aspect integrates to create an elegant experience.

 

The Rare and Wonderful Lifetime Connection-Malleolus 2011  ($45)

One taste and you are transported. Scents of home. Burned sugar and anise. A baked plum tart. Like curling up in a favorite blanket, it conjures a coziness and deep appreciation.  Layer upon layer, richness and wonder. No matter where you are, literally or figuratively, a lifetime friend can make you feel at home. Each subtle nuance or quiet glance conjures a story.  Each story contains sub-plot and references that can’t be fully explained.  It is a deeply rooted story, years in the making, told without a single word.

 

José Moro shared his thoughts of what makes the wines from his region shine. Their approach combines “tradition, innovation, and social responsibility.” Moro believes “the fruit is the essential protagonist of the wine… Aging is a secondary protagonist. The root going down, taking minerality—that’s what we like to express…Minerality is the expression of the soul of the wine.”

As the fruit grows, it gleans its unique qualities from the soil.  The struggles, the elements affect the yield. The growers prune and support. The winemaker helps the fruit shine. Each step in the process impacts the outcome.

Each person comes to the friendship with their unique gifts, products of nature and nurture.  Our struggles and successes create and close opportunities. Each person chooses to feed and support or allow for uninfluenced growth.  Sometimes our choices yield more fruit, others cause the vine to wither. Each step influences growth.

I asked Moro if he had a favorite style of Tinto Fino or if, like me, it was a matter or mood, season, and pairing.  He emphatically agreed with the latter.  Each wine has its own personality. He later added, “I never drink wine alone – I am always with my wines every night, talking to them!”

I would imagine that the conversation with the Finca sounds different than that with the Malleolus.  There is a time and place for each, and even both. And times when only one will do.

A quick browse of the wines I’ve saved and you’ll find an older magnum of a Sonoma blend and a small bottle of Barolo.  I have a high-end Napa Cab and a recent Texas Rosé. But nothing mass-produced.  My friends, as varied as my wines, run the gamut of beliefs and backgrounds, current situations and previous dreams.  Each brings such value to my life, each a source of support and laughter. And I am hopeful that each will endure the test of time.

{These wines were provided by Gregory White PR to participate with a virtual tasting and interview.  No other compensation was provided. Thoughts and opinions are my own.}