Wine Riot

The world of wine can be intimidating. We try to share what we learn as we expand our knowledge in a casual way, without placing wine on a pedestal. It’s nice to see that we aren’t alone in this endeavor. The folks over at Second Glass are working hard to educate the next generation of wine drinkers in an approachable way. I had the opportunity to attend one of their Wine Riots in my neighborhood, so I jumped on the chance.

Second Glass is working to create a series of wine events for the next generation, removed from the formal, stuffy tastings of the past. Seeing no need to mystify wine, they have created events where they try to make sure that as long as you have a glass in your hand, you have a smile on your face. With dozens of wine vendors to taste from, snacks to nibble on, and music to groove to, its hard not to enjoy yourself. And with their Crash Course Seminars with industry professionals, you might learn something in the process. Despite the volume of wine consumed, I think I managed to learn a few things.

• Blended wines are a way for a winemaker to emphasize the best qualities of several grape varieties, while make up for their individual weaknesses, courtesy of the folks at Mondavi Family Vineyards.
• German wine labels can be confusing, but there is a logic behind it all! Courtesy of the folks at Dr. Loosen.
• Making hard cider is more than just picking a few apples off the tree and hoping the juice ferments.
• Shiraz can make a sweet wine (hint: it's usually considered a peppery/spicy wine).
• Wolffer Estate Vineyards offers a wine club exclusively for Millenials.
• Wine bottles have a significant carbon footprint, and some winemakers are
looking for alternatives to heavy glass bottles, though its probably not recommended for wines you want to age.
• Two floors of wine tastings is probably a bit too much drinking for one afternoon, but it makes for a fun day.

I don’t know if there is anyone else out there running events like this, but keep an eye out for Second Glass to see if they pass through your town. It is nice to try a bunch of wine in an exciting atmosphere, without the pressures to act like you know what you are doing. Everyone has to start learning somewhere, and its good to do it surrounded by people who are just as excited about the idea as you are.