Ho-lis-tic :relating to or concerned with wholes or with complete systems rather than with the analysis of, treatment of, or dissection into parts.

For many, wine collecting is something that has happened naturally, without too much thought or planning. Our collection tends to be strong in some areas, weak others. We may have great cases of wine but inferior storage conditions. Or we might have a fabulous new wine cellar without the knowledge to fill it successfully.

In our newsletter this month we are encouraging the holistic approach to wine collecting. Just as a holistic approach to the ecology means viewing man and his environment as one system, wine also has a complementary and co-dependant relationship with its environment - the wine cellar.

Practically speaking, we can do a little self analysis to see how we rate on the following points:

WINE CELLAR
Temperature - Have you taken a regular reading at different times throughout the year to check for major fluctuations? Since extreme swings in temperature can ruin wine, we need to ensure the temperature is consistent year round. (If you live in Florida we do not mean a consistent 85 degrees!)

Humidity - Take note of the dryness in winter and humidity in summer. If the conditions are too dry over a period of time the corks can dry out exposing the wine to oxidation and ullage. If the air is too moist it can lead to a build up of mold.

Cooling unit - How is your unit rated? Is it appropriate for the size of the cellar? Does it take into consideration external conditions such as climate and hot zones within the home?

Location - If your cellar is in the basement is there a contingency plan if there is flooding problems or water damage within the home?

Construction -First we need to be blunt and state that a room with wine racks does not make a wine cellar. Is your cellar a completely insular and independent environment? Has there been enough insulation and vapor barrier to prevent moisture build up and cooling system overload? This problem could not only send your energy bill through the roof but could literally bring down the roof.

Design - Do you or the company building the cellar understand racking for different formats? Has the space been designed to give maximum bottle storage  without neglecting aesthetics or giving a crowded look?

COLLECTION
Diversity- Without diversity our collection loses excitement. Is our collection top heavy in one particular region, vintage, or style?

Acquisition - Have you considered the value of provenance verses the price? Does the acquisition come with history and storage conditions? Does it fit within your plan for the collection?

Drinkability - Are you left with wine past its drinking peak? Do you have a system to keep track of your wines as they reach their peak and mature?

Management - How are is your collection managed and maintained, such as records, bottle location, values, tasting notes, drinkability, etc.? 

Investment - Do you collect with investment potential in mind, to drink and enjoy now, or a combination of both? Does your collecting have a purpose, with a specific goal?

Appreciation - Does our knowledge and appreciation grow with our collection? This is certainly one of the most important aspects of collecting.

There are certainly a lot of questions to analyze here and we realize perfection is not always possible, or even preferable! But perhaps it can help us identify areas where improvements can be made, new  goals we can strive for, and even a new approach - a holistic approach  - to wine collecting.

The Wine Village of Montreal??

Here is a great way to see and experience and little know wine district in south-west France. Stay in a 200 year old cottage which is in the village of Montreal and offers a great way to walk, cycle or drive in this upcoming wine district, (soon to be re-classified from VDQS to AC). The area is one of which has been producing wines for hundreds of years. The quality is now showing itself through its closeness to the ‘Terrior, small yields, and a handful of new wine makers. What that means is you get excellent quality wines at great value. This wonderful cottage is available for rent and along with being in the middle of this scenic wine producing area it is also close to Costieres de Nimes, Limoux (the magical Blanquette), Minervois, La Clape, Corbieres, and the Mediterranean beaches. The area is truly historical and in the midst of an untouched part of France with ancient sites and castles. As the owner of the cottage says, “try the anti-Provance of France and revel in the difference”. You can learn more about this area and the cottage by clicking here.

Charitable Donations?

We want to update you on the fund raiser that many of you made donations to benefit the spouses and children of  deceased New York City police detectives. The Winter event will be held over the week-end of February 7, 8 and 9. There will be 700-800 detectives, their families and delegates supporting this event. If you were not able to donate for this event but a are interested in donating for the Spring fund raiser please click here to send us an email. We thank the NYC police detectives for their hard work.

Decanting - How and Why

Next month we will have excerpts from a recent interview with Robin Blackburne, Master of Wine regarding decanting wines. How and why to decant and common mistakes to avoid.

Have a great month and please send us your comments questions or  suggestions.