Addiction to the Grape

It had to happen! In 2008 the U.S. passed France as the world's largest wine consuming nation - but that was because of our larger population. On a per capita basis we can't touch them. They consume fourteen gallons per annum per person - man, woman and child - while we abstemious Americans put away 2.6 gallons. They start early and often and young. They are drinking while we are sipping. From a marketing standpoint they do an excellent job of promotion - and protecting their brands. They beat the drum for the Nouveau Beaujolais in November to see who can be first on the shelf. One year there was talk of parachuting a case in to an eager dealer.

The U.S.Lines European V.P. stationed in London traditionally was an American. They called him their "guv'nor" Each year he would be invited down to the Burgundy region of France for the annual wine tasting. Before he left he would be an expert. After some perfunctory sips and twirling in the glass they would certify him as a "Chevalier du Tastevin", place a chain around his neck with a certificate/diploma to attest. So if he ever needed to moonlight in a second career he could don the red jacket and chain and you might meet this sommelier in your favorite restaurant. As they say in sipping circles "Good nose - nice legs - great finish."
tjs
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