How much of a blend are you?

I expect you are well aware of your blended history. That familial heritage is within us, and always will be. And, of course, we pass it on during life and, maybe, do some more blending, correct? We are perfect examples of a blended wine — more on that in a bit.

Our nation is often noted as a melting pot, but, perhaps, a better descriptive word for us would be our nation is a mosaic. Lots of cultures from around the world coming together to form families, neighborhoods, states and one country. Each patch of the mosaic adds interest, strength and enlightenment to our country.

Our family is a blend of Norwegian, Scottish, Irish and Welsh folks. Like today, people moved around back in the day, coupled and they became mosaics, too. Not too much has changed.

We are also products of the blending of our experiences. As the years flow through us, we encounter many happenings that shape us into our current person. Not all of those happenings are always the best, but we all hope the good ones far exceed the bad ones. Then naturally, it’s our duty to pass on the good blending to those around us.

A little while ago my family gifted me an experience that just thrills me. The gift includes four bottles of red wines — cabernet sauvignon, merlot, Sirah and Grenache. I am to experiment with blending these wines by using different ratios of them to produce an interesting wine. I am in the midst of the trials, and can’t wait to have my favorite self made blended wine made for me. I will share it with as many of the family as I can.

Therefore, to honor that gift, I will pour myself a glass of Vinha Da Coutada Velha Red Blend. This Portuguese wine is made from four different grapes including Syrah, cabernet sauvignon, Aragonês and Trincadeiva. It has an excellent dark cherry and chocolate taste with a bit of late developing spice. Delicious! My blended wine will, of course, be much better tasting! Right? Hmmm……

Let us never forget we are all blended individuals. It’s who we are and always will be.

May you always respect your blend and the blend of others.

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

Cheers!