An Expert in Conversation

Hello Washington!  Please allow me to introduce myself...Mr. Christopher Chan, at your service.  It is my distinct honor and a pleasure to have this opportunity to share some thoughts and perspective on Washington Wine through Wine Country Washington.  First, I ask that you forgive me for the title of this blog as I am truly your humble resource and an "expert" only at starting conversation on wine.  As far as "titles" go... I have the pleasure of serving as both the Director of Wine at the venerable Rainier Club in Seattle and as the Executive Director of the Seattle Wine Awards.

So let's get started.  I am often asked...'so Chris, what's your favorite wine?'  Hmmm... perhaps the trickiest question in my profession because it supposes a measure of opinion, preference, ego and credentials as to what may be the best wine of either the moment or the world.  I am tempted to respond rather quickly with an off the cuff Chateau "Something Great" or a Screaming "Something Expensive " but rather than put-off my query - I go into thoughtful repose. 

First - I say there is a favorite wine for every moment of every day - so although I may not be able to give you one favorite, I can tell you what wines I truly favor...."My favorite wine is one that takes me to the place it was made...the hillside, the vines, the summer sun, the cool breeze and cool nights.  The gentle tending of the vines and the caring hands at the press.  A wine that makes me pause..that sends me back in time or across the sea or state.  A wine that makes me think and search for words to describe its' bouquet, structure and finish.  A wine that shares the soul of the soil it was grown in.  This wine is one made by both a winemaker and a vigneron as an expression of the earth and the vine at that moment in time.  This wine is a one-way ticket to terroir - surely well crafted, and either alive and full of personality or sleepy, sublime, elusive and shy.  My favorite wine? I live in the moment!

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