
DISCOVER ALL THAT HERONS GLEN HAS TO OFFER!
Date: Sunday, January 26
Time: 12 to 2 p.m.
Location: Herons Glen Ballroom
Join us for the Herons Glen Activities Fair –a fantastic opportunity to:
• Meet members from activities, sports, clubs, and committees!
• Explore new hobbies, make connections, and learn how to get involved!
• Discover what makes Herons Glen such a vibrant and welcoming community!
For more information, contact Susan Gregor at [email protected].
This event is proudly sponsored by the HOA Activities Committee. Don’t miss it – we can’t wait to see you there!
ADAMS BASIN, HOME TOWN, U.S.A.
JACK NELSON, HERONS GLEN
Adams Basin is a small community in upstate New York about ten miles west of Rochester and ninety miles east of Buffalo. The population was, and still is, about 350 residents. The Basin, as we teenagers used to call it, consisted of just four corners with four stop signs and one streetlight. The Erie Canal sliced through the Basin in an east/west direction and was only a football field’s length south of the four corners.
Adams Basin School, a two-room brick building with grades one through six, was situated on the southeast corner of town. It was my school for learning from grades two through six. I lived just two houses from the school, and it took me just 45 seconds to walk from my front porch to the front steps of the school. Miss DiLauro was my mentor for grades two and three in the east room. In the west room Miss Flynn put up with me in grades four through six. She was also my next-door neighbor; that’s just how small our community was.
In front of our school, we were fortunate to have a full-sized basketball court. To the east side we had a softball field, not more than a hundred feet wide and a mere two hundred feet from home plate to center field. Canal Road was the boundary for the outfield though many balls were hit across the road onto the lawn of Reverend Davis. First base consisted of a sprawling root of a Dutch elm tree, second base was merely a flat stone about a foot square, and third base was the corner of the sidewalk that led from the southeast part of the school to the basement. Home plate was a genuine home plate. Miss DiLauro’s classroom windows faced the diamond, so wire mesh was added to them for protection.
No small community would be complete without a general store and that’s what adorned the southwest corner of the Basin. In front of the store were two22 The Heron, Herons Glen | January 2025 gasoline pumps and the price of gas was an unbelievable five cents a gallon! Inside the store, a customer could buy anything from coveralls to candy bars to ground beef. And if you were too lazy to shop at the store, you could call in your order and have it delivered to your front door by a 1938 Ford panel wagon with Clayton Lont, the friendly driver, at your service.
John Ginther owned and operated the store and was also the superintendent of schools, which included Brockport Central School, grades seven to twelve. Mr. Ginther was a very busy person. Any time Miss Flynn or Miss DiLauro had a problem, especially with unruly students, they called upon him to resolve the situation. In effect, he was our building principal and a good one at that.
Across the street from the general store, the northwest corner was the site of a large mansion, adorned with four pillars so tall they seemed to reach the clouds. The mansion was built in the 1750s and it was rumored that George Washington’s drummer boy once slept there. The mansion was in a state of complete disrepair, so much so that the property was condemned. The site had historical significance, but it was too late and it was demolished in the late 1940s.
The final corner, to the northeast, was my favorite location: the Adams Basin United Methodist Church, with the Reverend Alton C. Davis acting as the spiritual leader of the community. He was very popular; flamboyant and charismatic, driving a new Buick Super convertible and smoking cigars. The church was the Basin’s cultural center, with seasonal festivals, weddings, and Bible School as featured events.
There have been significant changes to the Basin over the years. The schoolhouse is now a substation for visiting nurses, Ginther’s general store is now the local post office, and the historical mansion has been replaced by a modern home. But the fond memories and delightful times will never vanish, thanks to a tiny four corners next to a canal in upstate New York.
ALPHA DELTA ALPHA SORORITY
DENISE JOHNSON, HERONS GLEN
Eleven members of Alpha Delta Alpha attended a fresh flower arranging class at the Berne Davis Botanical Garden in Fort Myers on November 22. We toured the gardens before the class started. There are some amazing plants and trees in the gardens. Well worth the visit.
In class, we were provided a tray containing watered floral blocks and fresh fall flowers were distributed. The Garden Club members encouraged us to use our imaginations to create a lovely centerpiece. We made oblong, low profile pave centerpieces using orange carnations, rust daisies, and rust mums. Each person’s creation was unique to her own imagination and personality. We had a great time.
Afterward, the group went to Cristof’s for a great lunch and socializing. We look forward to our next adventure.




BUTTERFLY SOCIETY FUN TIMES
DUANE PARKINSON, HERONS GLEN
The Butterfly Society’s activities are in “full speed ahead” mode now that the high season has officially arrived. We invite everyoneto visit the Butterfly Garden. The garden is now five years old, and we are proud of what it has become. If you haven’t been in the garden for a while, then you will notice that there have been improvements in the garden – some new plantings, some new areas. We have a beautiful area of trees, bushes and flowering plants to attract butterflies and other kinds of nature’s creatures such as other insects, birds, field mice, etc.
Our garden area and the society are not financially supported by the HGRD, so we rely on the donations of Herons Glen residents and member dues of $25 per year. If you haven’t paid your annual dues yet, then please do so. And of course, we welcome any donations for the garden. Just see Kim Basile, our society president. Finances are needed to keep the garden looking great by purchasing mulch and replacing plants that have reached the end of their lifespan. We also need volunteers to actually work in the garden to replace plants, do weeding, laying down mulch, etc. We broadcast workdays for the volunteers to gather and spruce up the garden’s appearance. We need your help. Thank you.
Since we are not financially supported by the HGRD, we have a few activities during the year where much- needed funds are collected. We recently had our annual plant sale in the clubhouse parking lot. Our members grow plants prior to the plant sale and donate them to be purchased by anyone in the Glen. And we recently had our annual bake sale in the foyer outside of the restaurant. Bake sale items included homemade pies, cookies, muffins, brownies, fruitcakes, rum balls, bourbon balls, and even treats for your fur baby pets.

There will not be a Butterfly Society Meeting in January, but we have a significant event in February: our annual garden party on Thursday, February 13 at 2 p.m. Come and join us to mingle, chat, see your friends, and see the improvements and changes we’ve made in the past few months to the garden. Beverages and snacks will be provided. We’d love to have you at our party. Attached is a photo of a Gulf fritillary butterfly I took recently. This little guy was “fritting” around. collecting nectar from lantana flowers. Even though it’s “winter,” these little guys still need nourishment!
We are very grateful that so many people use the garden to relax, meditate, pray, or just enjoy the quiet times of life. We have many benches in the garden to use, or just bring your favorite lawn chair. If you’re not a frequent visitor, come and utilize the garden for your mental peace of mind. It’s a wonderful area.
WELCOME, EAGLETS
LINDA LYNCH, HERONS GLEN
Our North Fort Myers celebrity eagles, mated pair M15 (Male Eagle 15) and F23 (Female Eagle 23), now have two adorable eaglets (Eaglet 24 and Eaglet 25) in their nest. The eggs arrived on November 8 and 11, and hatched on December 14 and 17, both about 36 days in incubation.
E24 and E25 are the second set of chicks to hatch from F23 and M15. Both adults partnered by taking turns on the nest during the incubation period, and both will continue to take active roles as the eaglets mature.
The day before the first hatching, F23 successfully defended the nest from a great horned owl that landed in the nest tree. A male and female owl had previously been spotted in the area, possibly looking for a nest they might use. As of this writing, the owls no longer appeared to be a threat to the nest or the eaglets.
When eaglets first hatch, their bodies are covered with a soft grayish-white down covering which provides some insulation. A hatchling is approximately 3 inches long and weighs about 2 ounces.

They get a heavier, gray woolly second down at around 2 weeks. They are then able to thermoregulate (control their own body temperature) and will not need the adults to brood them as much. In another 2 weeks, at around 30 days, their dark juvenile feathers begin to grow in.
It is so interesting to observe the interaction between eaglets as each learns how to survive in the nest. There might be some sibling rivalry which is very normal and happens in most nests. They usually outgrow it, particularly if there is sufficient food brought to the nest. Learning to survive in the nest enhances their likelihood of surviving after they leave on their own.
We look forward to following E24 and E25 and their parents through infancy and adolescence to early adulthood until the fledgling time arrives later in 2025 when this eagle season will end.
FALLEN TREE ART, CHANGING FACES DENISE JOHNSON, HERONS GLEN
In case you missed the very first article about our Fallen Tree Art, it is located across the street from the Fitness Center. It is a tree that fell out of the preserve during Hurricane Ian that the firemen cut back out of the avenue, but it cannot be removed. Those new to the Glen, we are not allowed in the preserves without special permission as they are considered a natural habitat.
We have watched the many “faces” of the fallen tree since August. Each changing face was quite fun and noticeable. In August, the fallen tree got its first face and antlers. In October, the antlers disappeared and were replaced with a tuft of hair (grass) and a patriotic ribbon. In November, the best antlers so far were back. Now, in December, by far the best change, the antlers have Christmas lights! Drive, bike, or walk by and take a look, especially after dark, so you can see it lit up.
We continue to thank our anonymous tree art resident(s) for the fun changing faces that make us smile.





HOLIDAY DECORATIONS
DENISE FELL, HERONS GLEN
This holiday season the front entrance of Herons Glen was once again transformed into a dazzling winter wonderland. Many thanks to the tireless efforts of the HOA Activities Committee and several volunteer residents, who are the true champions of our community. This year I would like to do a special call out to Walt Westfall who goes above and beyond every year, spending hours on a 20-foot ladder to wrap the tall palm trees with lights. Thank you, Walt!





SAFETY TIP
CRAIG WOOLLEY, HERONS GLEN

Remember the garbage men aren’t the only people who see your trash this Christmas season. Burglars do too! Protect yourself from being a victim of a crime, dispose of boxes and containers in a safe manner.
JINGLE TOUR 2024 ANOTHER SUCCESS
MARY ANN SIMPSON, HERONS GLEN
Five beautifully decorated homes were featured on this year’s Jingle Tour, sponsored by Alpha Gamma Nu, on December 7. “Oh Christmas Trees” (home of Joann and Gary Brosnan) so aptly named for the gorgeous trees in every room of the house. “I’ll Be Gnome for Christmas” (home of Susan and Bob McCoy) was cleverly decorated throughout with beautiful gnomes. “A Karaoke Christmas” (home of Katie Tolstyka) had the Karaoke Machine playing and a singer to entertain the crowd. “Christmas Under the Stars” (home of Pat Crytser) was just magical with all that glitters and shines. “FaLaLaLaLaLaLaLaLa” (home of Liz and Dave Vierregger) was beautifully decorated complete with a Chevy in the dining room.
This tour would not be possible without the hard work of the homeowners who decorate and open their homes to the community. Decorating begins early in the fall and continues until the doors are opened for the 265 people that toured this year. Many thanks to all who purchased tickets as your purchase helps support the many charities that Alpha Gamma Nu has chosen. Special thanks to Laura Steil and Donna Barber-Dunn of the Steil Team for their contribution of the ticket printing.





HOA GROUNDS COMMITTEE, 2024 FALL BEAUTIFICATION AWARD
SHARON PETERSEN AND DENNIS RATHBURN, HERONS GLEN SHARON PETERSEN AND STEVE SIMPSON, HERONS GLEN
Steve and MaryAnn Simpson moved to Herons Glen in 2015 after visiting friends and renting in the Glen. They first lived on Dennisport Lane but decided after two years to become full-time residents. That meant a decision for a larger home (and larger garage) so they moved into their present home at 1940 Corona Del Sire Drive.
Their landscape beds are a showcase of beautiful native plants and gorgeous pink bougainvillea. The front two landscape beds were designed and installed by Steve and are unique in their tiered feature. Along the side of the home, in addition to beautiful plants, is a flourishing herb garden. Probably the most recognized feature of the back yard, at least to golfers, is Bernie. Bernie (a memorial to their last standard poodle) is a sphagnum moss statue, often decorated for the season. Although the Simpsons are true Kansas City Chiefs fans, Bernie was wearing a Buffalo Bills hat the day I visited!
The home is beautiful by day and night, due to the spectacular lighting. All lighting, landscaping and maintenance is done by Steve.
We thank Steve and MaryAnn for maintaining their beautiful home and gardens and congratulate them for this recognition.



WHAT A GRAND PARADE IT WAS!
LINDA LYNCH, HERONS GLEN ROSIE SWISHER AND SUSAN WASSEROTT, HERONS GLEN
It was another highly successful year for the Herons Glen Annual Christmas Cart Parade sponsored by the HOA Activities Committee. This year’s event took place on the evening of December 8 along a route that meandered through the Outback, starting from the Fitness Center.
Huge crowds of enthusiastic residents lined the parade route, filling driveways, cart paths and empty spaces with eager anticipation and then hearty and spirited cheers as the parade participants arrived. Residents in The Fairways and Solana were particularly ambitious in decorating their homes and driveways to be part of the holiday sentiment.
This year Lee County demonstrated their commitment to our community by their participation. The Lee County Fire Department sent an engine from North Fort Myers to lead the parade, followed by the classic and nostalgic Barney Fife car from the Sheriff’s Department.
For the third year, the Island Coast High School Marching Band under the leadership of Stephen Johnson provided a marching beat and many familiar Christmas tunes which enhanced the holiday merriment. In a most admirable display of generosity, residents donated $1,625 to the band that will go towards buying additional instruments, uniforms, and music for these young musicians. At the end of the evening, each band member received a snack box filled with goodies donated by Vinnie and Trish McDarby.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Christmas Cart Parade without Mr. and Mrs. Claus. They appeared in their decorated sleigh cart, invoking the spirit of the season with their waving and calling “Merry Christmas” to the crowds.




Residents who participated in the parade showed their usual creativity and imagination in decorating their carts. Each was greeted with jovial exuberance and appreciation by the viewers. When the parade was over, judges had selected three winners. The #1 cart was driven by Kathy and Don Lynch with their Nutcracker- theme. Second place winners were Donna and Dave Moffat and other family members as Santa and his elves. Jodi and Steve Wooldridge won third place for their portrayal of the Grinch from Dr. Seuss.
Numerous volunteers helped with the smooth running of this parade. Members of the SSEP Team kept our streets clear and safe. This year Joann Gross donated several large holiday blow-ups to the HOA Activities Committee. These were used at the Fitness Center to align the carts before the parade began. Many members of the HOA Activities Committee played multiple roles in planning and organizing this year’s event.




PINK IS ON ITS WAY
JANET SLATER, HERONS GLEN
A riddle: What’s festive, caring, fun, and PINK all over? Answer: Herons Glen’s annual Pretty In Pink fundraiser. Over the next couple of months, you’ll be hearing about a variety of events sponsored by the Herons Glen Ladies’ Golf Associations, all focused on a single purpose: helping uninsured, low-income residents of Lee and surrounding counties obtain diagnostic screening and treatment for breast cancer.
Background And Mission Based on the firm foundation of community service that has always characterized Herons Glen, fundraisers to fight breast cancer began here back in 1997 when a golf tournament and luncheon supporting the Susan G. Komen Foundation was called Rally for the Cure.
Ten years ago, the name was changed to Pretty In Pink (PIP), benefiting Partners for Breast Cancer Care, Inc (PFBCC). The nonprofit organization’s mission is to save lives and reduce suffering from breast cancer through improved early detection, education, and access to health care including mammogram, ultrasound, biopsy, and surgery. Clients must meet specific financial guidelines, be uninsured, and be full-time residents with a photo ID from Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry or Glades County.

PFBCC receives no federal, state, county, or city funding, and all its funds are raised in the local communities. PFBCC works with dedicated medical professionals, known as its Partners in Health, to provide breast health screening and treatment at no cost to its eligible clients. Last year alone, Herons Glen PIP Event raised over $40,000 for Partners for Breast Cancer Care, making it one of PFBCC’s greatest supporters.
How You Can Help There are fun ways for everyone in Herons Glen to help this worthy cause. You can sponsor a hole for the golf tournament as an individual or group; buy tickets for the huge basket raffle; request a flocking of flamingos for a friend or neighbor; play in the golf tournament or attend the luncheon on March 19; bake goodies for the bake sale (or buy some); or purchase some beautiful jewelry. Details for all these opportunities are publicized in this news magazine, the weekly HGRD e-newsletter, and on the Community TV channels. Please join us in helping others.
LADIES’ GOLF ASSOCIATIONS PRESENT – PRETTY IN PINK 2025!
JANET SLATER, HERONS GLEN
Pretty In Pink (PIP) consists of multiple fundraising events that culminate with a Ladies’ 18-hole golf tournament and luncheon honoring all cancer survivors. Golfer or not, here’s how you can join us in supporting a great cause.

Sponsor A Hole Remember a loved one or honor a survivor with a sign on a tee box. Cost: $100 sponsor forms are available in the Pro Shop. Contact: Cindy Matheny at (501) 318-5925 or [email protected].
Tournament Luncheon Raffle Table Donate a basket or item. Contact: Nancy Thompson at (315) 466-9091 or [email protected].
Jewelry Open House Party January 28, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. 20724 Kaidon Lane Contact: Mary Koenig at (239) 989-3052 or [email protected].
Flamingo Flocking Month of February Cost: $20 Pick up flocking request forms in the Pro Shop in January. Contact: Trudy Flanery at (860) 625-5448 or [email protected] or Kim Morea at (203) 994-4789 or [email protected].
Bake Sale March 9 during Art Show Contact: Maryann Peckham at (860) 559-2528 or [email protected] or Katie Schwemlein at (239) 217-6181 or [email protected].
18-Hole Golf Tournament And Luncheon March 19 Golf and Lunch or Golf only; or Lunch only for non-golfers. Survivors of all types of cancer will be honored. Sign-up dates and cost to be publicized soon.
Pretty In Pink Chairs Contact us with ideas, suggestions, or questions. Join us in supporting this great cause. Contact: Stacey Dahlstrom at (612) 290-8495 or [email protected] or Ana Ellis @ (508) 566-1095 or [email protected]
All PIP events support Partners for Breast Cancer Care, Inc., a local nonprofit providing funding for breast screening, diagnostic testing, surgery and treatment for uninsured, low-income women and men in southwest Florida.
IT’S A BLING FLING! JANET SLATER, HERONS GLEN
For seven (or is it eight?) years, Mary Koenig has brought class and beauty to Herons Glen with a jewelry party benefiting Pretty in Pink. And this year the fun continues. Mary enthusiastically welcomes you, your friends, family, and neighbors to drop in to her Open House Party featuring exquisite Silpada Jewelry on Tuesday, January 28. Stop by for finger foods and drinks while trying on pieces guaranteed to put new sparkle in your life. And with Valentine’s Day on the horizon, you just might be able to provide a hint to a special someone.
You’re Invited Ladies’ Jewelry Open House Party Tuesday, January 28 between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Home of Mary Koenig, 20724 Kaidon Lane Purchases support Pretty in Pink’s campaign benefiting Partners for Breast Cancer Care, Inc
PLAYERS OF THE GLEN
JANICE RADCLIFF, HERONS GLEN
The Players of the Glen are excited to announce the 2025 production of A Little Murder Never Hurt Anybody by Ron Bernas to be presented March 14,15, 16. This sharp, witty, and hilarious comedy is full of intrigue, twists, and unexpected surprises that will have you laughing and guessing all the way to the end. Directed by Trish Perry, this production promises to entertain until the final curtain. Join us as we step into the world of New Year’s resolutions gone wrong and laugh-out-loud chaos. Starring Patrick Callaghan as Matthew Perry, Shirley Evans as Julia Perry, Jenni Stone as Bunny, Jim Fitzgerald as Donal Baxter, Art Lippens as Buttram, and Dennis DeLuca as Detective Plotnik.
We can’t wait to bring this comedic mystery to life on stage. As you can imagine, reading scripts, choosing a play, applying and waiting for the license to produce, as well as reserving the dates, means the decision takes place almost a year in advance. Adding to the excitement, this past summer the ballroom theatre received new curtains, lights, and sound technology.
Friday night theatregoers will have the opportunity to attend the annual gala for an evening of mingling and celebrating our wonderful theatre community. Mark your calendars and join us for an evening of laughter, mystery, and unforgettable moments.
Performance Dates:
March 14 @ 7 p.m. (Gala 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.),
Ticket $20 each – includes Gala
March 15 @ 7 p.m., Ticket $15 each
March 16 @ 4 p.m., Ticket $15 each
Ticket Sales
Feb. 18 Main Lobby 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Feb .18 Bingo Lobby 5 to 7 p.m.
Feb. 19 Main Lobby 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Feb. 20 Main Lobby 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Feb. 25 Main Lobby 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Feb. 25 Bingo Lobby 5 to 7 p.m.
Feb. 26 Main Lobby 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Feb. 27 Main Lobby 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Mar. 4 Main Lobby 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Mar. 4 Bingo Lobby 5 to 7 p.m.
Mar. 5 Main Lobby 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Mar. 6 Main Lobby 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Mar. 11 Main Lobby 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Mar. 11 Bingo Lobby 5 to 7 p.m.
Mar. 12 Main Lobby 11 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Mar. 13 Main Lobby 11 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Please consider becoming a member of The Players of the Glen. A $15 one-time joining fee will show your support for the arts and contribute to the success of our community theatre. Your membership will also save you $5 for one ticket every year.
Whether you have theatre experience or are a newcomer excited to get involved, you are invited to sign up as a volunteer during the Herons Glen Activity Fair, Sunday, January 26, from noon to 2 p.m.
VOG LEARNS OF ANOTHER PROGRAM FOR VETERANS
PAM SCHEID, HERONS GLEN
Kelly Kowall was the guest speaker at the December meeting of the Veterans of the Glen (VOG). Ms. Kowall described to the group the retreat she founded called My Warrior’s Place … After the Battlefield. The purpose of the nonprofit retreat is to provide former combat veterans, first responders, and families of fallen heroes a place of “healing and hope.” The retreat offers one-day experiences or short vacation times. Visitors participate in a variety of activities including FAVA boating excursions. Being with others who share similar experiences and meeting with counsellors in a recreational setting has proved to be beneficial for those who have lost a hero or have experienced the horrors of war.

BRUCE JOHNSON
Another service Kowall started is My Service Dog’s Place when she learned there was no place for a service dog if its handler was, even temporarily, unable to care for the dog. Before her program to care for these dogs there was no plan for them but euthanasia.
Kowall’s son was killed in a combat mission in Afghanistan in 2009. Later, after what she refers to as mysterious signs and messages from him, she was inspired to establish the retreat in Ruskin, Florida. The response to this venture and its success has made it possible for her to open a second retreat in Punta Gorda.
Following her program, President Bruce Johnson presented a donation for the retreats from the VOG.
During the short business meeting, Johnson reported that he had attended as a volunteer the VA’s annual veterans’ children’s Christmas party. He also introduced new member Ret. Lt. Col. Dan Hamilton, announced that two board members had resigned, and that Randy Swanson and David Flaherty have been selected to serve in their places.
STOP THE BLEED
KAREN WILLS, HERONS GLEN
The Herons Glen CERT sub-committee, under the direction of the SSEP committee, sponsored a Stop the Bleed, Save a Life course on November 18, 2024.
North Fort Myers Department EMT/Paramedic Cody Smallwood and Christi Fulton, Public Education Officer instructed the 20 residents on the proper way to treat different types of bleeding scenarios. Bleeding is the No. 1 cause of preventable death after an injury. The goals of the course were to recognize a life-threatening situation and to take steps to stop the bleeding using pressure, packing, and tourniquets.
Participants were instructed on how to keep themselves safe while administering these lifesaving techniques. Various objects were provided to the participants to practice the Stop the Bleed techniques.





IT’S 5 O’CLOCK SOMEWHERE
CANDACE HUETTEMAN, HERONS GLEN
On any given day, the golf course is busy, the tennis and pickleball courts are full, the gym has Glenners working the machines and lifting weights, and the streets and the cart path are busy with walkers and bikers. So, when it’s 5 o’clock, how do these active “players” unwind? Some “guys” just want a beer, some “gals” might want a martini, and then there are those “Glenners” who prefer a mixed drink or a glass of wine. Whatever your 5 o’clock ritual might be, I think it’s safe to say that wine is the preferred choice here in Herons Glen.
While some in the Glen may consider themselves “wine connoisseurs,” others admit that they are “wine snobs.” And then there are those who simply like wine, and they don’t care what it costs or where it’s grown. They contend that even cheap can be good if you enjoy it.
In my new series of articles about wine, I hope that you will enjoy the trivia. By the way, this reporter enjoys wine but is neither a “wine connoisseur nor a wine snob.”
WINE TRIVIA 101
When And Why Were Wines First Produced? Thanks to carbon dating, evidence of winemaking and wine consumption can be found as early as the Neolithic era (8,500 to 4,000 B.C.) This was at a time when prehistoric humans were still reliant on stone and bone tools. The hunter-gatherers of this time (the late Stone Age) most likely just happened upon the natural phenomenon of fermented grapes and enjoyed its taste and intoxicating properties. Although the exact time and reason wine was “created” is not known for sure, winemaking quickly spread across Europe and Central Asia. Some of the oldest signs of viticulture, (the cultivation of grape vines), can be found in modern day countries such as Georgia, Iran, Greece, and Turkey. In fact, in an 8,000-year-old village in the nation of Georgia, archaeologists have found clay pots with grape decorations and residues of some of the world’s oldest wine. The people living here were perhaps some of earliest vintners, producing wines as early as 6,000 B.C.
What Is The Most Popular White Wine In The World? Chardonnay: This wine is known for its versatility and its ability to be made into a variety of styles, from light and refreshing, to rich and buttery, to full-bodied and oaky. It is the most planted varietal in the entire world.
What Is The Most Popular Red Wine In The World? Cabernet Sauvignon: This red wine is a full-bodied wine that has fruity overtones of blackberry, black cherry and plum.
What Does Full-Bodied Mean? Full-bodied is a term that refers to the heaviness of a wine that feels viscous in your mouth.
What Are The Most Popular Brands Of Chardonnay And Cabernet Sauvignon Sold In This Area? While continuing my research for this article, I asked the wine consultant at ABC Liquors this very question. He said that Kendall Jackson was the most popular chardonnay and Josh was the most popular cabernet sauvignon.
Until the next edition of The Heron, Cheers!