Wines of the Zodiac
Wine X Vol 3.1
by Chris Fehlinger
Wines of the Zodiac is a fun guide to pairing wines with your astrological or “sun” sign. The guide is based on two premises: 1) That each sign can be described as having certain characteristics, such as you’d find written in any astrology book. For example, Leos are generous and like to show off. Thus, they want wines that boast these qualities, like vintage Champagne; 2) That each sign is traditionally associated with several cities, countries or regions. Therefore, members of a sign should presumably enjoy wines produced in a corresponding area. See what you think, and try something new!
Virgo
Virgo is a frequently misunderstood sign. Often their practicality and thrift is overemphasized and focus not given to the pleasure-loving side of their personality. An Earth sign, Virgos enjoy many, although simple, comforts. To them wine is a pleasant staple at a meal or party.
Young Virgos who enjoy wine must watch out for the sign’s tendency to get stuck — they try something, like it and stay with it. These are wine lovers who don’t balk at spending $30 for a wine they know they love, yet resent the $7 they shelled out for something new they didn’t like. This can be a trap for them — good, cheap wines exist, but they don’t abound. It’s essential that Virgos with a liking for wine keep an open mind. When selecting wines for others or for a group, they must never doubt their tastes.
Virgos are the gardeners of the Zodiac. Perhaps a few vines planted now could yield a pleasurable diversion later in life. As an Earth sign, Virgos should concentrate on wines where the agriculture and terroir are the focus. I’ve never met a Virgo who didn’t love syrah, zinfandel or petite sirah.
Most importantly, they should never forget the Champagne! Good Champagne! It’s the secret luxury of the sign.
Libra
Libra is symbolized by the scales, and this metaphor perfectly represents their concern for harmony and balance. So Libras should enjoy wines that exhibit these same qualities. Libra also governs beauty, so wines that are pretty and elegant should appeal to them also.
With its combination of lush fruit, flowers and full body, viognier, from producers such as Sobon Estate or Alban Vineyards, is a quintessential Libra wine. Whites of Alsace, especially muscat, which are slightly lighter in texture but nonetheless elegant, might also be enjoyed. For reds, look to the big, fruity California and Oregon pinot noirs. These are always favorites of this sign.
Interestingly, grapes are a food traditionally associated with Libra. Because of this, wines that have rich fruit and distinct berry characteristics often appeal to this sign. Try sauvignon blanc, with its citrus and herb association, as a new area of exploration.
Several up-and-coming wine regions are associated with Libra, and the wines produced in them exhibit key qualities of the sign. Austria, with its crisp, fresh and pretty whites, will provide some new options for Libras. Big, fruity and lush reds from Argentina offer a more economical, but nonetheless enjoyable, experiment. Even Canada, which produces some delicious dessert wines, holds surprises for Libras and their drinking companions.
The stars are always in motion, and as they move they influence our lives in many ways. Certain planetary passages may inspire changes in individual tastes. Suggestions based on these “transits” follow:Aries
With the restrictive influence of Saturn beginning to weaken, things feel lighter. Try some delicate wines — sauvignon blanc from Buena Vista, viognier from Jepson, or supple Oregon pinot noirs.
Taurus
This is a time for the young Taurus to sample a vast array of wines and come to discover personal tastes. Spend less money and more time exploring, and discover the values of wines from Spain and Australia.
Gemini
It’s time for sparkling wine, which always, but especially now, reflects the Gemini character. Hone in on California and try the finest it has to offer — Schramsberg, Domaine Carneros, Jordan “J.”
Cancer
It’s time to take that wine class or join that tasting group you’ve always dreamed of. Now is a great time for Cancers to experiment, as their minds and palates are wide open. Sample the luscious, elegant wines of Alsace.
Leo
An eclipse on August 21st began a time of change. Look at what you’ve been drinking. Same old stuff? Go wild. Try wines from out-of-the-way places like Switzerland, Austria, Chile.
Virgo
Now would be a good time to read books on wine. Use them to understand the complex world of wine, then rely on your own taste and judgment. Try the wild wines of the Languedoc, especially Domaine Peyre Rose, a syrah that I think is the quintessential Virgo wine.
Libra
It’s time for you to explore simpler tastes. Libra’s innate love of beauty and harmony usually grants them an exceptional palate, but there are simple wines for simple dinners and evenings. I’ve seen several Libras enjoying Moroccan wine of late, and Southwestern France has a lot to offer.
Scorpio
Things are less intense for Scorpio right now, and it’s time for the consummate connoisseur to throw caution to the wind. Splurge on Burgundy! Have a Bordeaux with your Big Mac! You can only enjoy the fruits of your folly.
Sagittarius
Re-examine wines that you’ve dismissed. Rediscover rose with a Tavel. Make peace with merlot with interesting offerings from Kunde and Blackstone. Consider having a glass with lunch every day for a week.
Capricorn
You may be in the beginning of a gradual re-thinking of your tastes. It would be a good time to join a wine-of-the month-club, such as Secret Cellars, where you can affordably try new things. Also buy yourself some Champagne, should a promotion come along.
Aquarius
During these months you might want to be more conventional in your tastes — just a little bit. Spend some time discovering what makes cabernet and chardonnay such hits beyond the all the hype.
Pisces
Try new wines! Just don’t try too many of them. With Jupiter warming up this winter sign, overindulgence can bloom. Concentrate on whites and on lighter reds. Things are brighter for you now, so let your tastes reflect it.
