There is something about wine, about the craft of people making beautiful wines, that changes a culture. I don't know why. Maybe it's as simple as economics--people who love wine typically have financial resources, and those resources attract artists, chefs, musicians and other crafts people. But I think it is more. When people concentrate on beauty that concentration causes more people to pay attention, and to value that beauty.
Yesterday we had two opportunities to experience that cultural concentration first hand. To start the evening we headed up to
Youngberg Hill to hear some jazz. Robin's colleague, Dana Libonati, is playing music out on the deck of the wonderful inn that sits majestically atop the vineyard. He is joined by an ensemble made up of his son on drums, his brother on bass and a former student on sax. Jordan, whose parents are our hosts for the evening, also shares a couple of songs. It is a perfect night to sit outside, enjoy some wonderful music and relax.
The view is spectacular. I love the Muddy Valley which rolls out to the west of the vineyard. There just isn't a bad angle in any direction. We end up sitting behind the ensemble which was really fun because we could heckle Dana without anyone seeing us. I bring my typical picnic fare served on china plates with real silverware and clothe napkins. I'm strange, I just can't see drinking beautiful wine while eating food off of paper plates. It's just not right.
As the concert continues I stroll around the inn looking for photo opportunities. I notice that a small bird has arrived to enjoy the show. It is nestled on a shrub of rosemary. Is she enjoying the music? I think so, as she joins in singing the final refrains of "Paper Doll."
As the sun begins to set we head off to our second event of the evening. Our friend, Like Zimmerman, is hosting an art show at
Remy Wines. Luke is organizing a personal crowd sourcing project so that he can concentrate on creating art for the next year. We will be enthusiastic investors. I feel privileged to know a number of artists, and always wonder what I can to do support them in their work. Luke has set up his program so that the money you invest will be applied to a piece of art he will produce this year.
Remy, who makes wonderful wines, is also a terrific host for the event. Their is a nice crowd filling the tasting room, talking with Luke and enjoying his initial works. I wish Luke success in his year of painting. May he create many beautiful works of art, and may that art find a place to live where it is enjoyed and appreciated.
