My first experience with wine was many years ago when my parents first let me take a sip some from theirs. Myself, thinking I was going to be trying something "grown up;" my parents, entirely amused as they waited for the disgusted face I made immediately after. Though this was an isolated event, and I definitely do not condone underage drinking, when I later became of age I too became a fan of wine. I think I mimicked my mother in my instant preference for red wine. Still, wine is not something I routinely drink. Until recently, my selections usually revolved around the cheapest bottle I could find at Kroger, rather than something I would have previously imagined to pair nicely with a meal. However, when I took the course Winery Tourism last semester, and began actually studying and properly tasting wine, my appreciation for the drink grew.

Through Winery Tourism, I was able to learn the basic in's and out's of the massive industry that is wine-making. I was also able to learn the different types of grapes that go into the corresponding white, red, and even sparkling wines. I studied the geographical impact of wine and how the cultural approach to making and presenting wines varies around the world. After taking this class I was able to reinforce my appreciation for red wine. I learned I preferred more robust wines with more tannins. I will also enjoy a good white wine if it is on the drier side. Through arranged tastings, I was able to explore even more wines. Some of which I enjoyed much more than others, yet was able to understand the pairing behind wine and food and how specific qualities in wine compliment the flavors and textures of foods.

Through this Geography of Wine course, I hope to gain even more knowledge on wine. I took World Regions a couple of years ago and really enjoyed the style of teaching provided. I believe this course will help me dive deeper into my wine pairing and tasting ability as this class requires much more tastings than my previous class. Though I became relatively capable of identifying wines through blind tastings, I really hope this class helps me do a better job as it would take a while for me to recognize aromas and flavors. I am looking forward to this course and growing out of the "for sale" selection of Kroger wines.