Heard Through the Grapevine

Bob Dylan, Tell Tale Signs: The Bootleg Series Vol. 8

Le Clos Jordanne Village Reserve Pinot Noir 2006, Niagara

The newest addition to the Dylan canon, this CD is a compilation of unreleased works from 1989 to 2006, offering an intimate account of human suffering. Le Clos Jordannes’s Village Reserve Pinot Noir is an assemblage of four organically farmed vineyards in Niagara. Known as “the heartbreak grape,” Pinot Noir is difficult to grow, and the wine has a long, mineral finish, complex, with a firm acid structure. Pinot Noir’s struggle is paralleled by Dylan’s, adding depth to the wine and the music. Grab a box of tissues, indulge in their vulnerable beauty, and wallow in your sadness. 

Okkervil River, The Stand Ins

Goats Do Roam Goat-Roti 2005, South Africa

The fifth album from this Texan indie band, The Stand Ins features catchy, melodic tunes bemoaning the corruption of indie rock ’n’ roll; this calls for a wine sharing the same irony. South African Goat-Roti proves to have a remarkable complexity despite its funny name (which refers to the classic blend of Syrah and Viognier in France’s Côte Rôtie in the Rhône Valley). Both are instant crowd pleasers, so bring this combo to a party — but save some for the discerning palate (and ear) to enjoy once things slow down.

Miles Davis, Kind of Blue
Christian Moueix Pomerol 2006, Bordeaux, France

The quintessential jazz album, every household should have a copy of Davis’ masterpiece. With such celebrated music, one must drink an equally celebrated wine, such as a Bordeaux. The smoothness of Davis’ jazz begs for the velvety smooth companionship of Merlot, the predominant grape in Pomerol.  Both could take a lifetime to understand, but can be appreciated immediately. Sink into the depths of the Bordeaux — sexy, smooth, and full-bodied with a long finish — curl up in front of the fire, and let Miles take you away. •