Every day, we’re presented with a barrage of choices that shape our lives. Some choices we’ll make are significant, while others are trivial at best. Some are purely personal, while others are undoubtedly universal. Many choices have widespread effects on our communities and even our country, like the ones we’ll all make at the polls tomorrow.
Most of our daily choices are personal, influencing and affecting only our own happiness and well-being. Over the years, Hammond and I have forged and embraced lifestyle choices that contribute to our happiness and well-being. These four top the list:
- We love to cook and prepare wholesome meals at home
- We steer clear of all processed foods
- We exercise regularly
- We enjoy wine in moderation — and we’re not planning to give that up anytime soon.
Recently, I’ve noticed an uptick in social media promoting a reduced or alcohol-free lifestyle. From Dry January to Sober October, the idea of eliminating or reducing alcohol consumption seems to be the flavor du jour for the current crop of influencers and media pundits. I respect (mostly) all lifestyle choices and admire those who find clarity and happiness walking their chosen and desired path.
When it comes to the higher octane beverages, I’ve had personal periods of passing on the likes of gin, whiskey, and rum. However, if we’re talking about wine, I won’t be giving it up anytime soon. To quote Boris Fishman’s recent op-ed piece in the New York Times: “You’ll Have to Take My Glass From My Cold, Wine-Stained Hand.”
As you can probably guess, wine plays a complex and significant part in my life, extending well beyond just business. It’s about a lifelong appreciation of the beverage and its direct connections to the land, the people who craft it, and the family and friends Hammond and I share it with. Wine, made with integrity by independent vignerons, is arguably the most natural of all alcoholic beverages. It’s a liquid expression of a place’s culture, climate, and traditions.
As with most folks, I’m well aware of the general health concerns regarding alcohol. Moderation, of course, is the essential element, and it’s important to be mindful of our consumption. That being said, before we consider giving up wine, perhaps we should look at other aspects of our diet that might be far more detrimental. The supermarket shelves are packed with processed and ultra-processed products masquerading as food. These items are packed with chemicals and additives, lack nutritional value, and top the list of true culprits affecting our health.
Over the years, many wholesome foods have been alternately vilified and praised. Eggs were once the enemy of the people, shunned for their cholesterol content, only to be redeemed as nutrient powerhouses, rich in protein and essential vitamins. Similarly berated, butter was temporarily usurped by margarine until we later learned that natural fats are often healthier than artificial trans fats.
Coffee has pivoted between being labeled a health risk and a source of beneficial antioxidants. Dark chocolate was considered an indulgence to avoid, yet now we appreciate its flavonoids and heart-healthy properties. Even red meat and dairy products have been caught in the cursed crossfire of dietary debates. Much like these foods, wine has repeatedly danced between enthusiastic acclaim and harsh scrutiny over the years.
Eliminating whole, natural foods based on fickle, fluctuating opinions may not be the best answer. Instead of demonizing real food, perhaps we should focus on reducing our intake of highly processed foods that offer little or no nutritional value. Returning to whole, natural foods—and yes, that includes a thoughtfully and naturally crafted wine, can lead to a more balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. After all, wine has been a part of human culture for millennia, deeply woven into the fabric of societies worldwide.
In an increasingly fast-paced and disconnected world, wine offers us a moment to slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures around us. As we endure the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and slowly rebuild our lives, taking the time to savor a glass of wine feels more important than ever. It’s a soul-satisfying experience that helps us traverse the slow road to recovery. Pausing to enjoy the simple pleasure of wine allows us to reconnect with ourselves and each other, providing comfort and a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos.
So, Hammond and I will continue to enjoy wine in moderation, paired with real food and great company. Especially now, as we rebuild and heal from Helene’s impact, embracing life’s simple pleasures brings us comfort and hope. Wine is one of life’s joys that fosters connection and adds a touch of magic to ordinary moments. And in my book, that’s something worth holding onto.