2023, and so it has begun
A New Year! A New Me! Well, not really but can you believe we’re living in the year 2023? It sounds quite futuristic, doesn’t it?
We had some amazing adventures in 2022; our first trip to ProWein in Dusseldörf, Germany. The city is clean and beautiful, nestled alongside the Rhine river. It is very pedestrian friendly where one can get around by foot or by scooter. Also let’s not forget that the world’s longest bar, located in the nearby oldtown of Altstadt.
ProWein was an impressive worldly wine show, a great opportunity to meet some of our global partners. There were those that were fortunate enough to get a visa and make the trip, whereas many from Asian countries were still dealing with restrictions due to the dreaded covid. I do wish that Messe provided better networking options for importers and exporters to discover one another at the trade show. This would be especially helpful for those new to the wine business or seeking new trade relationships. The ‘booths’ showcasing wines from around the world were more like small elaborate retail shops. Some so meticulously detailed with specific lighting, construction, and center displays, these shops would be valued by every wine enthusiast.
Now comes the challenging harvest of 2022. Changes to the initial mild weather pattern created complicated situations for winemakers to decide when and what to pick. An extreme heatwave essentially created two stages of harvest, first grape picks have intense aromas and a firmer grape, the second picks after the Labor Day heatwave (where temperatures in Sonoma were around 110 degrees Fahrenheit), resulted in riper, more concentrated flavor and soft tannins. Most wineries were done with the 2022 crush before the Thanksgiving holiday.
As we wrapped up the year, we are grateful for being in this business. Among the wonderful people we met worldwide, the wonderful wineries with sideways stories to share, we continue collaborating and doing what we do best, bringing people together worldwide, one sip at a time.
Cheers,
Nicole Djobadze
Collaboration Wine Exports LLC