Every wine club member in good standing knows the five basic guides to wine tasting: appearance, aroma, body, taste and finish. This is a standard ritual among the numerous wine clubs at Robson, and most participants can hold lengthy discussions on each of these five characteristics. Yet how many residents can correctly answer these questions: How old are the trees used for the best French barrels? How many grapes are needed to make a bottle of wine? What does the date on a wine bottle signify?
David and Susan Parker challenged the Wine Stewards to a “Wine Jeopardy” evening at their home. Rules were explained as the Wine Stewards sampled appetizers of smoked salmon. Tables competed against tables while members munched on seasoned toasted Hawaiian sandwiches filled with ham, turkey, provolone and Swiss cheeses. Competition was fierce, and the bottles of red and white wine swiftly disappeared. Miniature cupcakes helped ease the tension as the game progressed to the final jeopardy question. An electrifying evening produced more wine information than any article could possibly offer. This is advanced learning Robson style, and it is a most enjoyable format.