Romanticism.
This era, with its focus on emotion and passion, depicted in various forms the strength and weaknesses of the human psyche. The focus on internal feelings and characteristics vs. material or stagnant objects reminds me of the intense pleasure and frustration one encounters when referring to the wines of Burgundy, France. Many wine enthusiasts will tell you that there are no other wines in the world that offer as much pleasure and/or disappointment as the wines of Burgundy. This is due to the extremely fragile growing conditions of the region and their associated grapes. The majority of white wine production is from Chardonnay, while the reds are predominantly from Pinot Noir. Both varietals present challenges in achieving ideal ripeness and balance with the varied growing conditions presented each consecutive year. Unlike the wines of its famed neighbor Bordeaux, these wines are never blended with other varietals, which allows no room for varying percentages or favoring the grapes that grows best that given year. If Chardonnay and Pinot Noir do not perform well, then Burgundy does not either. However, when they are good, they are great. Chardonnay showing rich golden apple and pear with a spine of searing minerality, while the Pinot shows ripe cherries, savory but subtle herbs, with perfectly integrated acid and tannins over time.