2017 - what a year. I'm a fan of history, especially if we learn from our lessons. 2017 enabled us to be stalwart students of politics, nature, and social activism, if we chose to be. When we graduate and how we use our "degree" is up to us. When it comes to wine, it was also a year of learning from the past to accept the present and prepare for the future. More family wineries being sold. Drought, rain, fire, compromising crops. Stricter export and import regulations.

In Indiana, we may finally be able to quench our thirst on a Sunday, if we want to purchase alcohol. (But if you need a cold beer, you'll have to plan your shopping trip.)

I'm not big on "best of" or "bucket" lists as I think every day is a chance to find something that satisfies that desire. But there were a few from the many wines sampled this past year that moved to the top of my satisfaction list. Gerard Bertrand Cote des Roses Languedoc - crisp dry pink wine with notes of red fruit and a smooth clean mineral finish. Cavicchioli Prosecco 1928 - gorgeous bottle outside, elegant, smooth off dry bubbly inside.

Prophecy Pinot Noir - is this wine really less than $10? Smooth, juicy, dry red with notes of cranberry, cardamom, cherry. Easy drinking, California style of this grape makes it a great "starter" red for those wanting to ease their way into more complex red wines. Hmmm.... maybe the label and taste profile can set the tone for 2018.