Wine and the forbidden fruit

For centuries wine has been one of the most popular beverages among people and cultures, its bountiful pleasure known far and wide. However, there have often been times throughout history when wine has, excuse the pun, left a bad taste in people's mouths. It’s what I call the forbidden fruit syndrome. For instance, during the early Roman era, wine was something that only males drank. In fact, if a husband found his wife drinking wine he was then at liberty to kill her. That seems a bit harsh, don’t you think?

Romulus, purported to be the first king of Rome, stated that only free men over the age of 35 were allowed to drink wine. Sexist, perhaps, yet women and slaves were prohibited from doing so. To add insult to injury, a husband upon his return home would greet his wife with a kiss to ensure she had not been drinking. What a waste, seems to me that good wine and a good woman go hand in hand.

Some even attributed the drinking of wine to madness and bad behavior which often times resulted in severe punishment. Eventually, though, many of these prohibitions were rescinded and wine became more widely available, even to the lowest classes of Roman society.

Today the use of alcohol including wine is still shunned by many cultures. For example, Muslim nations view alcohol as a deviant substance that corrupts the mind and soul. Countries such as Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Sudan and Kuwait forbid or strictly enforce its use.

Imagine, if you will, not being allowed to purchase or drink a wonderful bottle of wine such as the 2015 Arnaldo Caprai, Montefalco Rosso Riserva, from Italy. This delicious red blend is quite aromatic, with flavors reminiscent of ripe cherries, chocolate, toasty vanilla and exotic spices. Full bodied and perfectly balanced with vibrant, velvety tannins. The legal right to uncork a bottle such as this should never be taken for granted.

Before I go any further, let me say that I strongly believe in responsible drinking. Abuse of alcohol can be extremely harmful, not only to the user but to those around them, including family and friends. Using good judgement as it relates to alcohol can have far-reaching benefits.

Now that I’ve gotten that off my chest, are we going to continue bashing wine or shall we enjoy drinking it? I don’t know about you but I opt for drinking. That’s why I’ve just uncorked a bottle of the Beringer, 2017 Private Reserve Chardonnay from California. This classic white offers fresh, vibrant tropical fruit flavors such as pineapple, mango and tangerine. A touch of oak is noticeable on the sharp, clean finish.

Apart from all the negative talk there are certainly many benefits to drinking wine, the most common and easiest to understand is the taste. Proof of that can be found in the 2016 Cono Sur, Ocio Pinot Noir from Chile. Ruby red in color with dark cherry and plum fruit flavors along with hints of spice that are complemented by crisp acidity.

Let’s not forget the health benefits associated with wine, such as antioxidants that help protect the heart. Studies have indicated that wine, especially red wine, can boost one's immune system including reducing the risk of stroke. Others point to the fact that a glass of wine can ease stress and help with relaxation, that alone gets my vote.

As for the forbidden fruit thing, “hasta la vista” and have a nice day. Cheers.

Wine of the week: Francis Ford Coppola, 2017 Directors Cut, Cabernet Sauvignon, California. Lush with complex flavors that include black cherry, raspberry and currants interwoven with notes of anise, dark chocolate and espresso bean. $26