Loved Letters
Reaching Through Letters
Among the illustrious love letters that have withstood the test of time is the Rubaiyat, a poetic creation penned by the esteemed 11th century Persian poet, Omar Khayyam. The Rubaiyat is emblematic of the profound expressions of love throughout history, its verses, rich in insight and emotion, transport us to a realm where passion seamlessly intertwines with elegance, leaving an enduring imprint on the collective memory of romantics across generations. A masterpiece that reflects on themes of life, love, and the transient nature of human existence. Khayyam’s verses are infused with a profound philosophical outlook, often contemplating the impermanence of life and the inevitability of death. His poetic expressions delve into the enjoyment of the present moment, embracing life’s pleasures, and appreciating the beauty of nature. The Rubaiyat is renowned for its rich imagery, eloquent language, and timeless wisdom, making it a classic work that continues to captivate readers with its contemplative reflections on the human experience.
The Queen and Nun who Dared to Love
Diving further into the annals of history, we encounter additional exemplary love letters that have contributed to the timeless narrative of love. The impassioned correspondences between Abelard and Heloise, as well as the letters exchanged between Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, stand as testaments to the power of written expressions of love. These missives, penned with eloquence and sincerity, offer glimpses into the complex tapestry of human emotions, transcending the boundaries of time. In the heartfelt letters exchanged between Abelard and Heloise, their profound and forbidden love is noted in eloquence and emotional depth. Abelard’s expressive words convey a love that exists beyond the norms of his time, creating an enduring connection that defies convention. Their correspondence becomes a testament to the power of love to transcend boundaries and challenges. On the other hand, the letters exchanged between Queen Victoria and Prince Albert provide a window into a royal love affair that seamlessly blends regality with profound intimacy. Their written expressions uncover a sincere fondness and mutual esteem, illuminating a love that not only withstands the weight of royal duties but thrives amidst them. The letters exchanged by this historical couple serve as timeless exemplars, demonstrating love’s capacity to blossom even in challenging circumstances. Through their correspondence, readers are encouraged to believe in the enduring strength of authentic and transcendent connections.
In Love We Drink Wine
Wine, with its symbolic richness, emerges as a recurring motif in the exploration of love letters. It becomes the elixir that enhances the flavours of love, allowing emotions to develop, mature, set alight. The careful selection of wine becomes not just a sensory experience but a ritual, a means of elevating the shared moments of love into a sophisticated expression of refined pleasure. The bold aromas emanating from our glasses harmonise with the subtle scents of wild flowers, old paper and new ink. Let us collectively delve into the profound expressions of love embedded within these historic letters. The Rubaiyat, Abelard and Heloise, and Queen Victoria and Prince Albert each contribute unique chapters to the timeless narrative of love. Through these eloquent expressions, we gain a deeper understanding of the intricate complexities that define the very essence of love, a sentiment that has endured through the ages.
De Grendel’s Rubaiyat 2018
The 2018 vintage in the Western Cape faced severe drought conditions, leading to meticulous irrigation management. The Cabernet vineyards near False Bay prioritised specific sites for grape selection based on lower yields, vine age, and soil types, resulting in small and concentrated berries. Merlot, Cab Franc, and Petit Verdot from De Grendel flourished in local terroir. The resulting wine boasts a deep ruby red colour with floral fynbos nuances, offering luscious aromas of blackcurrant, black plum, cedarwood, mocha, black pepper, and dried herbs. The palate reveals a wine stately texture built on opulent tannins and a timely finish.
