Rejoice! Wine tasting isn’t just fun to do, it’s also good for you, according to research from Yale neuroscientist Gordon Shepherd.
In his recently published book, Neuroenology: How the Brain Creates the Taste of Wine, he argues that wine tasting actually “engages more of our brain than any other human behavior.”
Whereas studying differential equations or listening to classical music might highly engage part of your brain, the combination of how wine tastes, smells and feels creates a dynamic experience.
“You don’t just put wine in your mouth and leave it there,” Shepherd told NPR in an interview. “You move it about and then swallow it, which is a very complex motor act.”
So why not give yourself that experience here in Loudoun County, which is home to more than 40 wineries? For an added bonus, here are 15 things you can do while engaging your brain at various Loudoun wineries and vineyards:
· Take in the ambiance of Napa at Stone Tower;
· Go back in time and learn about a family’s history at Zephaniah;
· Enjoy chocolate pairings at 8 Chains;
· Savor salsa with your wines at Cardamon Family Vineyards;
· Pair wine with music at Notaviva Vineyards;
· Have a green experience at Northgate Vineyards;
· See beautiful Amish artwork at Sunset Hills;
· Learn about the Leesburg bandits at Terra Nebulo;
· Drink in a cave at Maggie Malick Wine Caves;
· Chat with a parrot at Two Twisted Posts;
· Tantalize your taste buds with mini food-tastings at Fabbioli Cellars;
· Marvel at the breathtaking views at Hillsborough Vineyards and Bluemont Vineyards;
· Climb the breathtaking silo at Creek’s Edge Winery;
· Stomp grapes during Doukenie Winery’s fest days;
· Experience Irish hospitality at Hunter’s Run Wine Barn.
To pick the winery that’s right for you, see our full list of Loudoun County vineyards and wineries.
