4 minute read
Say hAI
BY: NINA HØJGAARD JENSEN IMAGE BY RAWPIXEL.COM
prior, the text for your website or maybe even full articles such as the case of Jane Ansons article on the impact of ChatGPT ChatGPT and wine: extinction-level event for wine writers and sommeliers? - Jane Anson - Inside Bordeaux which also touches on the subject on how the role of a sommelier might change as well. With smartphones the role of a sommelier has already changed: I believe we have all tried recommending a wine to a guest, and them not accepting the recommendation until they have verified its quality on ViVino. Apps and Social-media have catalyzed a rapid rise of unicorn-wines as well as new producers receiving well-deserved recognition earlier on. While strengthening of the cult-following that exists around certain producers ends up limiting the consumers drinking habits, I believe in general, social media, in this context, is used for the better as a source of inspiration and a way to share information and passion. And AI takes the accumulated knowledge from that and combines it with all the other information available on the internet - and projects it back to us as a complex reflection.
While the pitfalls are many when it comes to the use of
AI, it offers an interesting insight: It is a mirror of universal perceptions. It tells us about ourselves. Holding the power of numbers, it provides a globalized view of our preferences, ideas, and opinions. As an omnipresent witness to our developments, it provides answers to our needs from a ground that enforces the most present and emphasizes the significance of the digital world. It is tempting to explore this united human mind, and after chatting for a while with ChatGPT about how you should sell a Brunello, what the differences between Clos de Béze and Le Chambertin are, what a good sommelier is, asking it to describe a perfect pinot noir and having it make a back-label for a Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, I must confess: I am impressed. Sure there are some generalizations and misinformation here and there, but the overall picture is cohesive and a good sparring partner to express and communicate wine.
Timeless themes such as ‘what are we drawn to’, ‘how much does the romantic idea of wine matter’, ‘what role does creativity play in wine’, ‘what is the value of authenticity’ have gained new relevance and dimension by being put in a different light through the recent development. It is only a matter of time until AI can replicate any wine by recipe, but several winemakers already believe that the small imperfections of the past where the grapes were not as accurately sorted and the harvest not as uniform made better, more interesting wines. The gut feel - ing leading sometimes seemingly illogical decisions makes a difference and with wine we don’t seek the uniform: We seek the unique, the memorable. Something that sparks curiosity and intrigues us. As with music the grand masterpieces survive the test of time, yet only time will tell if we will be capable to tell the difference between the manmade and the AI generated wines.
The technological advances have improved both winemaking and communication, begs the question: When does perfection become dull?
CHATGPTS DESCRIPTION OF THE PERFECT PINOT NOIR FROM BOURGOGNE:
A perfect Pinot Noir from Bourgogne (Burgundy) embodies the essence of this renowned wine region, showcasing the unique characteristics that have made it world-famous. Here is a description of a hypothetical perfect Bourgogne Pinot Noir:
Appearance: The wine exhibits a translucent garnet hue, displaying an enchanting depth and clarity in the glass. Its elegant color hints at the complexity to come.
Aroma: On the nose, the wine entices with a captivating bouquet of red fruits, led by ripe cherries and wild strawberries. Delicate floral notes of violets and roses intertwine with subtle hints of forest floor and damp earth, revealing the wine's Burgundian origin. There may also be a touch of spice, such as a whisper of clove or a hint of black pepper, adding an extra layer of intrigue.
Taste: Upon tasting, the wine reveals its impeccable balance and finesse. Medium-bodied, it caresses the palate with a velvety texture, delivering an exquisite combination of red fruit flavors. Ripe cherries and raspberries take center stage, accompanied by nuances of cranberries and blackberries. The wine's elegance is accentuated by refined tannins that provide structure without overpowering, allowing the fruit to shine.
Complexity: This perfect Bourgogne Pinot Noir showcases the intricacies and nuances for which the region is revered. It displays a remarkable integration of flavors and aromas, seamlessly blending the fruit with subtle earthiness and a touch of minerality. Underlying notes of sweet spices, like cinnamon and nutmeg, add depth and complexity, reflecting the wine's time in oak barrels.
Acidity and Finish: Vibrant acidity provides freshness and energy, enlivening the palate and balancing the wine's richness. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a lasting impression of red fruit purity, a hint of dried herbs, and a tantalizing mineral streak. It invites contemplation and beckons for another sip.
Food Pairing: This perfect Bourgogne Pinot Noir is a versatile companion to a range of dishes. Its elegance and delicate flavors make it a natural pairing with roasted poultry, grilled salmon, or seared duck breast. It also harmonizes beautifully with earthy dishes like truffle risotto or mushroom-based recipes, complementing their flavors and adding depth to the overall dining experience.
Overall, a perfect Bourgogne Pinot Noir captures the essence of this esteemed wine region. It combines finesse, complexity, and the distinctive terroir characteristics of Burgundy, creating a wine that is both captivating and memorable. It exemplifies the mastery of winemaking, showcasing the unique expression of the Pinot Noir grape in this celebrated corner of the wine world.