As I write this column, I’m reminded to have patience. Why? Well…

Looking out the window, I can see about a block — maybe. Why? Because Old Man Winter sneezed and sent a blizzard to us. The snow is piling up. Visibility is minimal. The temperature is falling. Yes, it’s still winter, but … oh, wait a moment! We hardy Northerners know patience is required at this time of the year, right? So, let Old Man Winter sneeze all he wants to. The Sirens of Spring will soon grace us.

You know, we all have had to foster that sense of patience over the years. In good times and bad times, the virtue of patience grows. Besides, even in the midst of a blizzard, one can see joy. There’s a little boy playing in the snow right outside our window. He climbs the piles of snow, slides down them, scoops up a handful of snow, makes a snowball and throws it at anything. He has waited patiently for this pile of snow, and now his laughter fills the air. Good for you, kiddo!

A few days ago, I bought a bottle of Chateau Ste Michelle Dry Riesling. I calmly consumed my open bottle of McMannis Merlot, and then opened the Riesling. I thoroughly enjoy the luscious soft cherry flavor of the McMannis wine, but I happily welcomed the exciting minerality and citrus tastes of the Riesling.

It takes a bit of time and just a few tastings to develop the patience to actually taste the flavors of a wine. Some of the flavors are slightly hidden behind the dominant flavor of the wine, and it takes a little patience to wait and allow all of the flavors to come through. I’ve learned you must have patience while tasting various whiskeys, too. Every liquid is unique – just like every human is unique. We are all special.

Looking at my calendar, I see the first day of spring will soon be upon us. Then, I expect the Old Man to go to sleep and allow the sirens to sing their sweet melodies and grant us the greening of spring.

May you find the patience to foster old friends and seek new ones.

As always, eat and drink in moderation, but laugh with reckless abandon!

Cheers!