To pick a film to discuss with this Cabernet was way too easy, but obviously fun. The wine itself is also fun in that it should not be taken too seriously. I don’t mean that it’s not very good, on the contrary. But you won’t confuse this with a $100.00 cabernet. wine is full bodied, rich in black berry, blueberry, and cherry fruit with plenty of dark licorice and clove. In the finish there are notes of espresso and dark chocolate. This is a Cabernet for those who enjoy red blends or even a Shiraz. Pair with Elk burgers with cheddar cheese and sweet potato fries. Finish up with mocha gelato.
On Christmas day in 1955, a film by Douglass Sirk, one of the great directors of Technicolor melodramas, opened across the country. The film was All that Heaven Allows starring Rock Hudson and Jane Wyman. The story is a simple one of a May –December romance with Socio-economic implications as well. Rock is a young, independent minded gardener who falls for Jane who is a well to do widow of the country club set living in a prosperous small town in New England. Mild stuff today, but for many this was considered scandalous in 1955. Pay particular attention to the beautiful use of scenery and color that make Fall and Winter in New England look, well ‘heavenly’.
If any of this sounds a vaguely familiar, it might be that you’re familiar with a film called Far from Heaven (2002) that aside from the title, had several similarities with the Sirk film. This was no accident. Todd Haynes who directed Far from Heaven made his movie as a homage to Sirk. He intentionally borrowed story lines from two Sirk pictures, All that Heaven Allows and Imitation of Life which dealt with racial issues. Haynes latest film Carol, also a 50’s period piece was just released and is getting great reviews.
Do yourself a favor and check out information on the IMBD about these films and then watch them.