Synergy

I have been thinking a lot about synergy.  Synergy, in general, may be defined as two or more things functioning together to produce a result not independently obtainable.  I’ve just wrapped up bottling our 2008 Sierra Bella, a blend of Sangiovese, Teroldego, Cabernet Sauvignon and Primitivo.  I like to describe wine blending as an attempt to create something that is greater than the sum of its parts; what is that if not synergy incarnate?  Synergy came to mind yesterday morning as I was driving out to the Grass Valley Farmers Market to pick up my weekly produce box from Willow Creek Farm.  I belong to their CSA.  As it happens, the farmer’s father also belongs to our winery wine club, the Chicago Park Wine Society.  As it also so happens, Willow Creek Farm represents Montoliva wines at the Saturday market.  There’s synergy busting out all over the place in this relationship!
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As I sit here at my computer I am able to gaze out the window at the beautiful garden that Julianne has developed over the years.  The depth of synergy between Julianne and I becomes all too apparent when she is not here.  There is an inspiration… a spark, that is missing.  We have a beautiful estate home, vineyard and winery.  We have cats. A dog.  Lots of wine waiting to be enjoyed, and a magnificent vista as a backdrop for that enjoyment.  Without my wine muse, they are all pieces waiting to be blended together to create something that is greater than the sum of its parts.  Waiting for Synergy.