Therein lies the problem, an especially big problem when it comes to white wines. The last two bottles of very nice white wine that I decided to uncork were just terrible. Why? Because I waited way too long. I am thoroughly convinced that if I had uncorked the bottle of Grgich Hills Fume Blanc in 2003 or 2004, it would have been an aromatic treat, a lovely sip of Napa greatness. I, however, waited until 2006. The result: A wine so over the hill that it was nearly vinegar. It was undrinkable.

The sad reality is that I've done this before and, as we speak, I am doing it again. Tucked in a really safe place is a lovely bottle of Champagne from Julia Child's 90th birthday party. The Champagne was a special release, sold as a benefit for the price of $90. Not once since I was gifted the bottle did I decide to uncork the Champagne. And with each passing year, I know that the Champagne inside, once a delicate beauty, is becoming increasingly more horrid.

Today, I resolve to uncork a bottle of white in its prime. Today, I resolve to be vigilant about my whites, to drink them in good time, whether the perfect occasion presents itself or not. That may well mean that I will be sharing my beautiful wine with the Fed Ex delivery man, or the meter reader who comes to the house, but at least it will be enjoyed instead of dumped down the drain with regret. I wonder, how old are your whites?
-- Jolene Thym