Saturday, January 12, 2008

New Year, New Challenges



Last year I attempted a different 30 day challenge each month with mixed results...at least through March, which was the last month that I actually defined a 30 day challenge.

This year my brother Ted joined Kirk and I in a new kind of challenge...and one I think will be much easier to accomplish. We're going to attempt to drink 100 different varieties of grape in wine form. It isn't a new idea, Kirk got the idea from a group called "The Wine Century Club".

The only rules we've come up with so far are:
1. All varieties in a blend count, although if you'd like to follow the spirit of the challenge you should attempt to try as many varieties as possible in their "pure" form.
2. There is no credit given for previous experience. You start the challenge TODAY.
3. There is no time line.

Benefits:
1. The challenge WILL open your eyes to new wines. It has already helped get me out of my California rut (a great rut to be in, but a rut nonetheless).
2. There is a checklist (click on the link), so you can feel some accomplishment as you check things off (Carly).
3. As a friend of mine attempting to accomplish this great feat you are also privy to the address of my brother's blog documenting his travels toward membership in the Wine Century Club. Anyone who knows me knows that I talk A LOT (especially during 20 mile runs)...my brother talks even more than I do *sorry Ted, but it's true*. This lends well to the idea behind his blog...Testing the Infinite Monkey Theorem. My travels are also documented, but not on my own blog...Kirk is documenting the wines we try on HIS blog, All Four Seasons. Currently we are at 9 varietals while Ted is at 8 (yes, this has brought out a competitive side of me, even though Ted wouldn't put any money on it). However, at this point it would be easy for any (or all) of you to catch up...