How much do you know about aging?

It would be interesting to have a glass of wine or a cup of coffee with you, and have a chat about the subject of aging. I wonder how many preconceived notions/opinions we would discuss and share. Is again good, bad or ugly?

Well folks, life happens, and if we are fortunate, I think we’d all agree the big question is how does one deal with aging?

I’m going to begin these thoughts by stating human aging is similar to wine aging. But first a few words about the aging process for wine, and follow those remarks with a perspective on human aging.

Placing newly made wine in an oak cask allows for a slow integration of oxygen into the liquid. This mixing slowly softens the wine and absorbs flavors which patiently develop within the wine. The aging process improves the beverage’s flavor and adds complexity to the wine. That’s when the goodness begins.

However, if the wine is aged in a cask that previously held rum, there’s a whole other story to be added to the wine’s taste spectrum. More on that later…

All that wine aging information is nice, but how does it equate to human aging?

Before moving on, let’s have a glass of Chateau Ste. Michelle Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s aged 14 months in oak barrels which imparts some wonderful vanilla finishing flavors. However, before that finish, you are treated to amazing strawberry and red cherry flavors. The medium body reminds me of having a piece strawberry or cherry pie with good vanilla bean ice cream. Without that aging, the wine would be an entirely different element of life.

Recently, we’ve been hearing and reading a lot about aging. Once again, let’s seek the answer to the question if aging is good, bad or ugly?

As humans, we are undeniably flavored by our experiences. Some of those experiences are good — like a nicely oak aged wine. They add perspectives, knowledge, and hopefully, goodness to us.

You know before continuing to the bad and ugly question, let’s fortify ourselves with a bit of Robert Mondavi Private Selection Merlot. It’s aged in old rum barrels, and is blessed with opening flavors of cocoa and plum jam. Soon the finishing act arrives and reveals the aging its gone through — a marvelously long and spicy vanilla taste. Thank you rum! One can’t go wrong using rum aged barrels.

OK, the bad and ugly moments of life. Everyone will have them, and that aging process will provide the strengths and flavors we need to forge ahead. Where do these “human flavors” come from? They come to us from the people who surround us with understanding, fullness and patience.

Yes, aging brings on issues such as a decreased ability to move quickly, but, what the heck! We’ve earned the right to stroll slower, talk slower and to savor all of our moments. As a younger member of the human race, you may not be aware of that long aging process. That’s why we should all hope to age gracefully and with dignity. And that’s why we should all listen to our elders. They might have a bit of experiential wisdom to pass on to you. In return, offer patience.

Ufda! How about a sip or two of Trefethen Family Vineyards Chardonnay? It’s aged nine months in oak casks, and the subtle oaky taste mellows the lemon/lime peachy flavors. It’s extremely easy to drink — thanks to the patience it shows as it ages in the cask.

If there’s wisdom in aging, what would you say it is? Where and from whom did you gain knowledge for your endeavors? It’s from those lived experiences and surrounding people that you gained the necessary “flavors” to be a better person.

As aging helps enrich a wine, the human aging process enriches our lives. So, let’s always treat others with respect, and remember, aging occurs quickly and for everyone. Take time and grab life! Aging is good!

Enjoy all the flavoring influences along your pathway. May you age gracefully and may you give the flavors of understanding, love, patience and respect all along your way.