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Education
Date My Grape
Looking for that perfect companion for walks on the beach, spontaneous sushi nights and popcorn-fueled movie marathons? You just might meet your match here.
In a time when we're all leaving some distance to keep each other safe, we're also discovering new ways to feel a sense of connection. And just because we can’t be together to get geeky about bubbles, it doesn’t mean we can’t get better acquainted with the fruit that started it all. We hope that these dating profiles will give you a taste of the real deal. We think they’re pretty grape ;-)
You should pick me if:
- You’re looking for your Netflix and chill.
About me:
- My vines have been around since Roman times. My family and I make up 38 percent of all the grapes grown in Champagne, making us the most widely planted and popular grape in the region.
- I am easily recognizable by my small size, deep purple coat and tightly packed pine cone-shaped bunches. I love the sun but hate the heat, and I don’t do well in the rain. I’m partial to cooler climates and have been known to be difficult (to grow). I’ve even been called “thin-skinned.” What can I say? I’m sensitive.
- A perfect date for me would be a fresh crisp morning, then a long, warm afternoon followed by a cool, foggy night. I enjoy parties but really only go for the food, and I'm not much of a rager. I prefer a calmer setting where we can dig deep. Let’s meet up for a moonlit stroll, and don’t forget your jacket!
Five things I can’t live without:
- Tender, loving care
- Good drainage
- Chalk and limestone soil
- Cool weather
- Dry feet
The thing I wish more people knew about me:
- I'm early to bud and easily susceptible to frost.
How my friends would describe me:
- “Always smells so elegant!”
- “Has a great body.”
- “Finicky.”
- “Difficult but worth it.”
You should pick me if:
- You like cheese and want to discuss it further.
About me:
- Not to brag or anything, but I'm one of the world’s truly great grapes. More than just a pretty face, I’m green-skinned, but my juice flows clear. My tightly compacted clusters are medium-sized, and my perfectly round berries and noticeable acidity are getting lots of attention lately. Depending on how I'm treated, I can be anything from traditional (bold, yeasty and complex) to modern (zippy, dry and fresh). Elegance runs in my gene pool, and age and maturity look good on me. It has taken me time and practice to become my best self.
- My family and I make up 30 percent of the noble grapes grown in Champagne, France, which make us the second most planted grape in the region. I'm currently living the life on the chalky slopes and rolling hills of the Côte des Blancs, but I also have homes in Montagne de Reims, the Vallée de la Marne and the Aube. I spend most of my time hanging out in neat, low rows of densely planted vines, and I enjoy the steady rain and even temperatures of Champagne's dual oceanic and continental climate.
- You can often find me juiced up with my best friends Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Our threesome makes quite the blend, but really I get along with almost anyone. I'm great at parties and pretty good company for Sunday brunch. Let’s meet up for shrimp cocktail and raw oysters!
Five things I can’t live without:
- Chalky soil
- Resting on my lees
- Disgorgement
- Good drainage
- South and east-facing sunshine
The thing I wish more people knew about me:
- While I’m typically pretty neutral, I do enjoy the occasional presence of oak.
How my friends would describe me:
- “White gold!”
- “A true chameleon — goes from light and vibrant to yeasty and powerful.”
- “Brings acidity, minerality and freshness to the blend.”
- “A real 'life of the party'!”
You should pick me if:
- You’re down to earth and like digging in your roots.
About me:
- The Vallée de la Marne is where I hang my hat ... er, clusters. I just love growing up in these deep, loamy, humus-rich soils. I perform best with a steady support system, training and regular pruning.
- I’m a bit more rustic than most, and it takes a while for people to really get to know me. You’ll most likely find me hanging with my more popular pals Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. We get into all kinds of vats, but I’m always the one to bring structure, balance and support. I’d say that I’m definitely the most fruity and jammy of the bunch. Though it doesn't happen often, if you catch me bottled up on my own, I promise it'll be a delightful encounter.
- People love me for my light, bright nature and slightly orange citrus disposition. I have a tendency to bud later in the season but am quick to ripen, making me a cool, laid back kind of grape. I pretty much keep to myself, so you don’t need to worry about me being center of attention.
- In my spare time, I love to bake, so my leaves are often dusted with a coating of “meunier” or baker’s flour. Let’s meet up in the sunshine for flaky pastries and engaging conversation!
Five things I can’t live without:
- Well-drained soils
- Full-on sunshine
- Wind shelter
- Scenic views
- Second fermentation
The thing I wish more people knew about me:
- DNA proves that I'm a close relative to Pinot Noir. Yes, I’m 100 percent that grape.
How my friends would describe me:
- “Rather obscure.”
- “Fun and rich in fruit.”
- “Supple, round and structured.”
Cheers!
Team fatcork