Everyone Has a Type

Without being controversial... I would like to classify all the delights that I have encountered throughout my life into three broad categories. Now before anyone gets upset let me please precede my analysis with a small disclaimer that I learnt along the way somewhere.
When you begin with a stereotype then you have nothing of substance; but when you begin with a person you can identify cultural elements that enable you to categorise and thereby make a stereotype.

It is between the 30th and 50th parallel on both the northern and southern hemispheres that generally suitors are known to come from. Further north than the northern most parts of France is simply far too cold to nurture development; below Tasmania there is nothing other then Eskimos and Polar Bears, and near the equator is simply far to hot. During a period known as the growing season the little buds blossom into full grown version we love. It is the stark difference in the growing season that sets the end result apart.


The Mediterraneans

These sun kissed sweeties are the type that any woman would fall head over heels for. During the rite of passage known as the growing season they are known to lay for days on end in the moderate to warm temperatures. In summer time they frolic in the sun with little change in the temperature during the winter. Perhaps a light cardigan is required but only when enforced by their nagging mothers. Seldom do they worry about taking an umbrella as there is little chance of rain. The rainfall is often less than required and mothers ensure their boys water intake is supplemented. These types are generally found in Tuscany and most other regions in Italy, Southern France, Catalonia in Spain, California and South & Western Australia.


The Continentals
It is possible to tell a continental simply by looking in their wardrobe. There will be light cotton tops for the hot summer and then by extreme contrast thick coats and gloves for very cold winters. They are not particularly good swimmers as they generally come from places that are inland and far from the ocean. If visiting during the growing season it is important to remember to take light clothing for the day and something very warm for the evening as the temperature differs quite drastically. The vast difference in temperatures means that even four brothers from the same family will actually turn our quite differently due to the rain, hail or sun through their sensitive development time. It has often even been noted that the graduating class from one year is very different from the next. From experience, you have most likely picked up a continental if he is from Northern France (a particular favourite), a Spaniard from Rioja, an Austrian or Argentinean.


The Maritimes

Kissing the war goodbye

As the name suggests these fellows are water loving lads. Often perceived as the perfect combination of the sun loving mediterraneans and the turtleneck wearing continentals. Like their continental cousins the Maritimes have short sleeved summers and winters by the fire, however the seasons are not as drastically different therefore you won't have to pack everything you own for a visit. These sailor types are known to come from Bordeaux in France, Rias Baixas in Spain, Oregon in the USA and all throughout the land of the All Blacks, New Zealand.


And for those who like it plain and simple. There are three common climates that wine is produced Mediterranean, Continental and Maritime. The changes in the weather during the grape growing season determines the types of grapes that can be produced and the flavours that develop within them. Just a little something to drop at your next dinner party. 


Until next time, have a glass for me Alex Mac.