The National Wine
UnClub
Newsletter
September/October 2007
The Simple Pleasures
Some people in other nations around the globe think that Americans are soft or lazy; not concerned with anything more than spectator sports, reality TV shows, Oprah, and other more questionable celebrities like Paris Hilton and Britney Spears. In parts of Europe (land of the short work week and 6-week vacation periods) others think we're too much driven or workaholic in our behavior, never stopping to truly enjoy life.
It's true that Americans always seem to be in a hurry; we have many options on how to spend our time (and money) and we usually try to fit too many activities and interests into a typical day. Therefore, on the weekends it seems we're in a hurry to relax (if we're not still working!). With so many choices before us for recreation it all has become somewhat bewildering.
There is a school of thought focused on slowing the pace of life down so that our quality of life experience may increase. I've mentioned the Slow Food organization here before which is a worldwide association of folks determined to dine rather than eat. Seems like a good idea doesn't it? I must admit it is still a bit beyond my current ability to practice this idea consistently. Engrossed in a TV show or surfing the internet gulping down a quick sandwich or TV dinner is what happens all too often.
Visiting a fine dining establishment is a good way to force oneself to slow down and savor the moment, particularly if you're spending a hefty sum to feed yourself and your loved ones for the evening. My wife and I have made a commitment to try new restaurants or old favorites of the refined class at least once a month. To make the evening even more satisfying when dining at downtown hotel restaurants we book ourselves into the hotel for the night if possible.
Fine wine (and perhaps Cognac) is the one drink that seems to force a slow-down of the frenetic American, if my experience is any indication. In particular a well-structured, complex red wine will require patience to comprehend and fully appreciate. Quaffing a Grand Cru Classé Bordeaux, or a Barolo Cannubi, or a massive Napa Cabernet will almost certainly inspire one to pause for reflection on the wonders of the glorious bouquet and luxurious taste unfolding on one's palate.
So, it appears that another way to intentionally slow oneself down would be to occasionally purchase a wine of distinction, plan an evening meal around it perhaps, and settle down for a moment of life lived to the max. This I do also (not often enough!) and when combined with a few good friends or family the results are most satisfying.
The concerns we all have in life are almost always blown out of proportion and need to be placed in proper perspective at times when it all seems too much. That's why some bars advertise their Happy Hour as Attitude Adjustment Hour. Remember Bill Murray's comment from Lost In Translation: "For good times, make it Suntory times!"
So perhaps we Americans are not unfairly accused of being spoiled lazykins or Type A. I just believe we haven't found the middle-ground/balance as yet in our emerging cultural state. Maybe we can learn from many of our European and Asian brethren who have elevated the enjoyment of fine cuisine and fine wine to an art form. One good meal of this sort is worth ten hurried McDonald's visits!
Cheers!
Donald W. White