This is the year of the Wood Snake. In the Chinese Zodiac there are 12 signs and 5 elemental powers. This combination is what is represented this year and is supposed to bring a year of wisdom, new beginnings, and hope. I had always thought of the holiday as Chinese New Year the Lunar New Year is celebrated in many Asian countries including Vietnam, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Macau, Singapore, and Korea. The holiday lasts for 15 days, people visit with family, and give each other red envelopes usually with even amounts of crispy bills. The holiday started 3500 years ago and marks the end of Winter, traditionally taking place sometime between January 21 and February 20. This year it started on January 29th.

This year of the Snake is said to symbolize growth, and encourages us to seek renewal, and adaptability, while we reflect on our paths, and remember to embrace change. All of this resonates with me this year as I navigate a new normal after the massive loss of my father last May. I also think it resonates with all the changes happening in the world and in the wine industry. So much discussion has been had these past weeks about the danger of alcohol. I have a lot to say about that and posted something on Instagram a couple of weeks ago about it.

In addition to personal mindfulness goals this year, another goal I have is to seek out wines from unexpected places such as the countries celebrating the New Year today. Thinking about a wine that I could write about, I realized I only have experience with one winery from China that I wrote about here. There is so much more to learn about wineries and trends in beverages in these countries.

As I navigate the New Year, I am going to do this in my Dad’s honor. He loved everything about Asian food and considered himself part Asian when it came to his diet. As I look to further my knowledge in this direction, I will feel his presence with me I hope.