What do the legendary Elton John, Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Richard Ford and prominent wine critic Antonio Galloni all have in common? Well, for one thing, they were all wandering the streets of Barolo at the same time last week.
Collisioni is an annual festival hosted in the Langhe hills of Piedmont offering a collision of music, literature and wine. This five-day event is jam packed with concerts, symposiums with literary figures and tastings, all in the town which gives its name to the region producing the most profound expression of the great Nebbiolo grape. With a population of just 750, Barolo swells to over 100,000 for these few days. Called a cultural marathon, Collisioni’s objective is to bring together these various art forms which are capable of provoking thought, pleasure and interaction.
This is the second year I participated in Collisioni’s Progetto Vino. I like to think of it as summer camp for adult oenophiles. While the wine seminars didn't draw the same crowds as Mika, the initiative does attract top sommeliers, buyers, Masters of Wine and other esteemed professionals from around the globe. We attend to connect over the magnificent wines of Barolo and there were outstanding examples from Elvio Cogno, Rocche Costamagna, Ceretto, Ciabot Berton and Marchesi di Barolo to name a few. However, just as enticing are the sessions on unheralded wines like the newly rediscovered Nascetta grape and sadly out-of-favour Grignolino variety. Not all the wines were great, but the conversations they evoked were stimulating – and our glasses were always half full. This is where the seeds are planted for what will eventually find its way to your palate.
I love the meeting of the arts that Collisioni provides. The gigs, recitals and wine tastings take place simultaneously. Next year I propose not just a collision but a complete mash-up. I'd be curious to hear singer-songwriter Tom Waits and author David Sedaris weigh in on wine for example.
There are many parallels that can be drawn between wine and music. Wine offers a similar diversity of genres that matches every mood and satisfies different cravings. For example, the frothy red Lambrusco is like the unexpected syncopated rhythm of early swing. Both are guaranteed to put a smile on your face. As for Elton John, this year’s headliner at Collisioni, I make the comparison with good, solid and delicious Chianti. The two are widely popular, crowd-pleasing and have stood the test of time.
In terms of literature, a good book is like a good bottle. One of my favourite authors, David Lodge describes it as “the inevitable compression of pages.” Just as you don't want the story to end but can't stop turning the pages, with wine you regret the diminishing levels of liquid yet are compelled to take another sip. While the story on the pages of a book may be more obvious, both music and wine have a tale to tell. Wine in particular has the ability to express place, time and people. If you listen closely, you can hear it.
Rather than making specific recommendations this week, I am simply giving general encouragement to drink. Turn on the music, pour yourself a glass of wine, settle in with that book you’ve been meaning to read and enjoy a collision of sound, taste and words.
