SI
SI
discoversearch

We've detected that you're using an ad content blocking browser plug-in or feature. Ads provide a critical source of revenue to the continued operation of Silicon Investor.  We ask that you disable ad blocking while on Silicon Investor in the best interests of our community.  If you are not using an ad blocker but are still receiving this message, make sure your browser's tracking protection is set to the 'standard' level.
Politics : Support the French! Viva Democracy!
 Public ReplyPrvt ReplyMark as Last ReadFilePrevious 10Next 10PreviousNext  
To: zonder who wrote (2539)8/19/2003 9:19:22 PM
From: Raymond Duray   of 7834
 
zonder,

Re: Also, I have always wondered why wines are named after the grapes.

Unlike with the grand appellations in France, the U.S. wine industry has a tawdry past. Adulteration of quality varietals was all the rage when free markets were the norm in U.S. vineyards decades ago. Unlike the successful and skillful blending of varietals that goes into making a world class Burgundy or Cote d'Rhone, in America blending was generally a means to adulterate good grapes with mediocre filler.

Thus, several states, following the lead of California decided on instituting regulations that precluded the blending of wines except at the lowest end of the market where "white/red table wine" became the appellation for wines containing anything but the kitchen sink.

The subtleties of fine blended wines were lost on a couple of generations of American domestic wine consumers. Though, of course, the connoisseurs fully understood the value of oenological artistry at the highest levels.

****
Re: Another point - Quite nice and enjoyable wines in France cost about USD 10 or so. For USD 20, you get excellent wine, not just "wines you can enjoy"...

There is a propensity in America for markets to be driven not by cost of production/distribution, but rather by what the market will bear. During our recent prosperity, throwing away good money at over-priced wine was considered très chic. It's a snob thing, not a practical thing. Practical people drink beer or hard liquor in the U.S. <g>
Report TOU ViolationShare This Post
 Public ReplyPrvt ReplyMark as Last ReadFilePrevious 10Next 10PreviousNext  

HomeMailHotSubjectMarksPeopleMarksKeepersSettings
Terms Of UseContact UsCopyright/IP PolicyPrivacy PolicyAbout UsFAQAdvertise on SI
© 2025 Knight Sac Media.  Data provided by Twelve Data, Alpha Vantage, and CityFALCON News