Obviously, the bar counter is fun.
Huh? Isn't that obvious?
I see, some people feel nervous, some feel like they're trying to be pretentious, and some people don't think it matters.
In my case, when I was a university student, there was a bar across from the rundown apartment I lived in, and I had a lot of fun talking to the bartender and regulars there, so ever since then, the bar counter has been imprinted on me as a fun place.
Back then, I was being a bit over the top and drinking things like Bombay Sapphire gin and lime.
Back then I never imagined I'd end up behind a counter, but after I turned 30 I started working in restaurants, and now I'm behind the counter (almost) every day. Even now, a quarter century after that original experience, I still think that the counter is a fun place.
Talking to the people at the counter about their hobbies, their work, their families and their relationships... For someone like me who lives in a small world, talking to them is a constant source of surprising discoveries.
Also, on Saturdays, there are more couples at Bokumo, and it's nice to see them sitting at the counter drinking wine together. What fun. What a perk.
However, this is only from the perspective of the store staff. It would be no good if only Iwasu was enjoying himself and the customers weren't. I need to become a customer once in a while and see what it's like to be a customer.
So, for the first time in a while, I went to the counter of my favorite restaurant.
The place is " Non " in Nishiki 3-chome . It is a popular store in the Nagoya wine world that needs no introduction.
The wine I tried was from China, which was recommended to me. I had heard that China was starting to make some pretty good wines, and after drinking it I was convinced. It was rich yet very elegant.
I specialize in New Zealand wine, but I always think that if I don't know the differences between New Zealand wine and wines from other countries, I won't understand New Zealand's position in the wine world. So, this opportunity to learn about wines from other countries is valuable. I learned a lot.
There was a chef from a Japanese restaurant at the counter, as well as a wine tasting fanatic who keeps detailed records of all the wines he drinks at the bar.
It was really fun talking to people I would never meet in my everyday life.
And the owner has the words to connect all the unique counter staff. He was wonderful. There are many things we can learn from him. I think it's important to go to a counter that's not your own. It was very inspiring.
Now, here are two pieces of news related to the counter.
1. Announcement of New Zealand wine tasting and sale event
Starting at 3:30pm on Saturday, March 25th, the second event for the online shop "Bokumo Wine" will be held at the Bokumo counter.
▶【TASTE NZ】VOL.2 New Zealand wine tasting and sale event
People who participated last time said things like, "I had no idea there was so much variety," and "I usually drink European beers, but I've learned that New Zealand beers are really good, too," which made me realize once again how important it is to let people experience the deliciousness of beer directly.
We also felt that in order to achieve our goal of letting more people know about the appeal of New Zealand wine , we needed to hold tasting events on a regular basis.
Okay.
If you do this regularly, it would be better to decide on a theme each time rather than just randomly collecting them.
So, this time the theme will be "Fruity New Zealand wines from 2,000 to 4,000 yen, perfect for spring through Golden Week! "
We have over 15 varieties to offer. This event is limited to 15 people. There are still a few spots left.
2. Announcement of "SAKURA WINE FESTIVAL"
Iwasu will be pouring wine at the counter at the wine event " SAKURA WINE FESTIVAL " to be held at the Sogakudo Hall in Tsuruma Park on April 1st (Sat) and 2nd (Sun).
This is a wine event by my old host ZIP-FM, and more than 60 kinds of wine will be on offer, mainly rosé wines that are perfect for the cherry blossom viewing season. Unfortunately, there are no New Zealand wines.
Why!
...I see, it's because I wasn't pushing hard enough!
Hmm, I need to keep saying "NZ is great!" so that NZ will be included in these events.
Ah, maybe I'll secretly bring some good New Zealand wine with me (laughs).
I 'll be in charge on the afternoon of 4/2 (Sun) . I'll be pouring wine at the counter of the special booth. Please come and join us if you'd like. Advance tickets are also available at Bokumo.
At both events, I'm sure I'll be able to meet people I wouldn't normally meet. I'd be happy if I could meet people I haven't seen in a long time.
If you'd like, please come and have a good encounter at the counter. Oh, I ended this with a pun...
