Is anyone at the 2024 Paris Olympics right now? On Friday, July 26,the opening ceremony took place and for the first time in summer games history, the athletes traveled in boats along the River Seine instead of parading in an arena. I will say, that it was astounding and thought-provoking (to say the least) as I watched it on the telly from the comfort of my home.
With 329 medal events across 35 venues and 10,500 athletes from 206 countries competing in events ranging from basketball and fencing to… breakdancing, you can find the full schedule HERE. Of course, the Paris Olympics promises to be rife with victories and defeats and hopefully, devoid of scandals and drama. We shall see.
Last night, I was with a friend who traveled to Paris a couple of weeks ago. Her report included comments such as “crazy with all the Olympics preparation,” “so many people,” and “I’ve decided that I don’t like big cities.” I understand, but with full disclosure, Paris is truly one of my favorite places in the world and my many trips there have always been special with new discoveries. That said, going to Paris during the Olympics has never been on my bucket list. If you’re there now, have a fabulous time and embrace the joie de vivre or headaches always associated with masses of people in a city, especially with a global event that everyone is watching. But no worries! There’s a wine (all sent as samples) for that, so enjoy the satire that just may be reality!
Did You Drink Water From the River Seine? Mon Dieu!
It can happen. Those guys selling bottled water near the Louvre may have filled that plastic bottle with water from the Seine. Walk away! But if you did happen to take a few sips, find the closest wine shop or bistro and pick up a bottle of Côté Mas Crémant de Limoux Brut NV ($20.99) for a brilliant palate cleanser. Whew!
This blend of Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Pinot Noir and Mauzac from France’s Languedoc region has zesty bubbles, aromas of white flowers, dollop of honey and lemon peel and a palate boasting citrus and bright acidity. You may want to have a traditional gougere with it, too.
The $$$$ Hotel Room You Booked Is Actually a Small Closet! Just No.
Yep, you paid big bucks for the room that is about as big as your closet at home. Pigeons are holding court on the windowsill with a bird’s-eye view of the busy street below and you have to walk sideways to fit into the water closet (WC). There’s a rickety chair in the corner and at least you look younger with the dim lighting. But hey! You’re at the Olympics!! And you need a glass of wine sipped anywhere but that room. How about a Trimbach Gewurztraminer 2019 ($35.99) from the Alsace region?
One of my favorites from this iconic winemaking family, plenty of aromas and flavors of citrus, roses, lychee and spice will help you forget (temporarily) the room to which you’ll return. And the Gewurtztraminer paired with sushi? You’ll not see your room for awhile!
You’re the 1500th Person In Line For The Event!
And you paid good money for that event, too. Ha! At least you’re making new friends and practicing your foreign langague skills, aren’t you? Aren’t you?? Well, just think of the gorgeous white wine you’ll have when the event is finished, Château Greysac Bordeaux Blanc 2022 ($26.99).
This Bordeaux blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon was crafted in the Médoc, in Begadan, north of St. Estephe, France. Serve chilled, refreshing aromas of chalk, citrus and green apple led to the same profile on the palate. Balanced with just-right acidity and a long finish (that may be longer than the line), the energy in this wine will replace all that you lost during the experience.
UGH, The Heat! Enough Already!
Although I checked the temperatures for the upcoming week and it’s not to be over 90 degrees, it may be too hot for anyone in the UK, Midwest, Norway or [fill in the name of your cold climate country]. And if you’re in a huge crowd with all that body heat and sweat, UGH. You need to cool off with a glass of Mathilde Chapoutier Côtés de Provence 2023 Orsuro ($20).
Incredibly refreshing, you’ll chill quickly with this bright blend of Cinsault, Syrah and Rolle (Vermentino). Aromas of juicy peaches and citrus, then snappy acidity and notes of stone fruit, fresh red berries moves to a delightful finish. While you’re waiting for the temperature to drop, enjoy another glass with an assortment of French cheeses.
My Credit Card Is Stolen!
Call the bank, etc., etc., and don’t even think that the Embassy will help during the Olympics. At least you didn’t lose your passport, right? If “they” took that, too, then the only thing that will help (before you go back to your closet of a room) is a shot of whiskey and a soothing glass of Saget La Perrière La Petite Perrière Pinot Noir 2022 ($15.99).
The Saget La Perrière family have produced their signature Pinot Noir from the Loire Valley for generations and I’ve sipped plenty. While you’re on hold and waiting for the bank’s customer service agent to help on the phone, give this wine a slight chill and enjoy aromas of flavors of bing cherries, ripe strawberries and raspberries, vanilla and spice. Sip with a classic Croque Monsieur and stay calm. Everything will be ok.
Oh Fun! It’s a Scheduled Transportation Strike!
Of course there is – it’s Europe!! It’s a good thing you brought solid walking shoes because you’ll be wearing them for the rest of the trip. But here’s a tip: as you weave through the arrondissements, consider taking a break for a glass of Les Lègendes Medoc 2018 ($27.99) produced by the Rothschild family.
Les Lègendes brand is part of the Domaines Barons de Rothschild Lafite range of wines, “to ensure that all wine lovers can immerse themselves in Bordeaux and taste the unique characteristics of each appellation.” Got it! A luscious and affordable blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot is from the Médoc appellation located on the left bank of the Gironde Estuary in Bordeaux. Bold and powerful, this full-bodied wine boasts an array of dark fruit, oak, moderate acidity and tannic structure. It’s now time to sip with steak-frites to take the edge off! You’ve got this – the taxi is waiting.
Cheers! ~ Cindy
For more Grape Experiences, your free infographic “4 Keys to a Stellar Wine Pick” and a coupon code towards your purchase of my online course “Discover the Essentials of Wine (and choose it like a pro!)” click here.
