Such wines have depth and organization, expressing the distinctiveness and individuality of a particular region. Wine is more than just a beverage; it’s the expression of a place. Land, soil and climate are the ingredients the grower uses to create a wine’s uniqueness.

In recent times, however, wine has been transformed from a regional to an international product - sometimes to the detriment of its complexity. Globalization, the internet revolution and the buying power of supermarkets have resulted in a veritable sea of wines which flatter the pallet, yet have no soul or potential for aging. What remains is a bland sameness, caused mainly by the overuse of new oak, resulting in a uniformity of taste.

On the other side of the spectrum, "cult wines" have turned wine from a beverage into a commodity. Wines in this category are neither consumed nor celebrated, but are simply trophies in a collection.

What then is the definition of a good wine? What is the definition of a great wine? The wines that one remembers are not necessarily the most expensive, but those enjoyed with good food and good friends in "gemuetliche" surroundings.