Looking forward to 'A New Vintage'

I think I should explain my lack of activity in the bloggersphere, if that is how it is spelled.

My most recent-but-one post was at the start of October since when a great deal of building work has been done at O'File Towers. This has been a major drain on mental capacity and I have unfortunately allowed this to constrain my output. Mdme O'File has borne the brunt of decision making, for which I am grateful, but it is she who has the most exacting requirements. My aesthetic judgement isn't up to the task of designing the thing that will make her happy, so I am probably viewed as being less than useful in one more capacity. Caveat emptor, Love.

The other focus has been on Unit 2 of the WSET Diploma. This is the first unit in which candidates are examined, by means of a 100 question multiple choice paper, and I was keen to pass. Truthfully, I was keen to maintain my record of gaining 'pass with distinction' in all exams but did not feel I would manage to do so. I left the exam thinking I had probably picked the second best answer on too many occasions and so I was delighted to get a letter just before Christmas advising me that my record is still intact. This gives me the encouragement to learn about fortified wines well in advance of the next paper, which is a combination of theory and tasting, to be sat in March.

I have also applied to the International Wine and Spirit Competition in the hope that I may be allowed to take the part of an 'Associate Judge'. As I understand it this could be a great learning opportunity for me and I hope I can take part. My votes will not be counted towards the allocation of awards and so I can cause no damage,  but it would both help my education and also, I admit a little too honestly, give me a bit of kudos amongst my more easily impressed acquaintances.

I hope you are all well, and I look forward to sharing my tasting notes alongside thoughts on my educational development.

If I do win the lottery, keep your eyes open for a new wine / chocolate / coffee / jewellery and art shop-cum-gallery-cum-tasting centre near the High Street soon.

pip pip.