Hello friends and wine lovers!
Roman checking in here after an exciting few weeks overseas. I was asked by the great folks at Expanding Horizons and AmaWaterways to host a very special river cruise in July 2018, which I happily agreed to. As we traveled through France and visited historic French wineries and iconic landmarks, I lead the group through tastings and dinners, talking about the European influence on my own winemaking practices.
The cruise was a success, with so many of our very own Wine Club members joining me on this unique excursion, and I'm happy to be back to share the tales! The trip, which I shared with my wife, Dushy, was one for the books and jam-packed with different activities. I'm sharing my highlights below.
- It all started in Chantilly and Chateau (with lots of cream - Dushy told me maybe a little too much for me!), a great drive through the Champagne region with plenty of tastings through Epernay. After one wild night in Paris, we boarded the ship for tranquility as we coasted down the Seine.
- Rouen, Hon Fleur, and the extraordinary gardens of Monet, with its Lilypond in Giverny, were spectacular and accompanied by some amazing wines.
- The Landing beaches of Normandy (Omaha and Utah) left a deep impression on how many lives were lost and as to how lucky we are to live today in a free world.
- The food, wine, and service on and off the ship were outstanding. The three Wölffer wine seminars and one wine dinner were full of laughter and good food and converted many that had never experienced great Long Island wine before.
- Calvados! After all these tastings, I may even start making an apple brandy - who knows! It was delicious and I was able to bring a few bottles home to enjoy.
Overall, it was a fantastic experience for all with great memories and a source for great new winemaking/distilling ideas. It truly was the wonderful company, fabulous sights, and great food and wine that made this a beautiful trip. Maybe The Rhone next?!
But, I'm glad to be back and see that the vineyard is looking it's best right before Harvest and ready for the 2018 vintage! Stay tuned for Harvest updates soon.
à votre santé
Roman
