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Exploring “Vodka Cola” by Matteo Gatti: A Unique Blend at Giampaolo Abbondio
The exhibition “Vodka Cola” by Matteo Gatti at Giampaolo Abbondio Gallery serves as a profound reflection on the intricate relationships between work, place, and exploitation. Gatti employs a signature irony to explore the transition from traditional industrial practices to modern-day realities where personal and professional lives have become indistinguishable. Central to his work is an inquiry into the concept of relentless productivity, contrasted with the notion of “heroic unproductivity.” This latter idea represents a space of personal freedom, a form of resistance against the corporate drive for constant output.
The exhibition’s title references a song from the album "Gli dei se ne vanno, gli arrabbiati restano!" by the band Area, released in 1978—a period marked by political tensions in Italy as the communist party and Christian Democracy sought common ground. The juxtaposition of Vodka, emblematic of the USSR, and Coca-Cola, synonymous with the USA, serves as a metaphor for the Cold War, highlighting how both capitalism and socialism exerted control over the populace.
Through a combination of installations, photographs, and site-specific interventions accompanied by texts from Alessio Barettini, Gatti interlaces history and contemporary issues, prompting viewers to consider the spaces of resistance they can create in present and future contexts.
Exhibition Details:
- Title: Vodka Cola, Matteo Gatti
- Dates: February 26 – April 24, 2025
- Location: Giampaolo Abbondio Gallery, Via Carlo Poma, 18, 20129 Milano (entrance via Via Archimede)
- Visiting Hours: Monday 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM / 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM (by appointment)
From Denial to Recovery: My Journey Through Alcoholism After Drinking 7 Vodka Bottles and 30 Glasses of Wine Weekly
WAKING with a jolt, my head and heart thumping, I had no idea where I was or any recollection of the night before. This feeling had become my new ‘normal,’ a terrifying reality brought on by the vodka and wine I consumed the day prior.
Drinking seven bottles of vodka a week had become routine for me at the height of my addiction, but I remained oblivious. What started as enjoyable nights with friends morphed into a chaotic lifestyle marked by blackouts, unexplained bruises, and apologies to friends for drunken behavior. I thought this was merely the cost of a good night out, especially as a sociable 25-year-old living in London. Yet, I failed to see how abnormal and spiraling my drinking had become.
Looking back, it was evident that the signs of my alcoholism were always present. My relationship with alcohol began with my first sip of Hooch at 15; I had always drunk to achieve a good buzz. During university, I thought I was mastering the art of partying, and once I entered the workforce, heavy drinking became commonplace.
British women are among the world’s highest female binge drinkers, according to a 2023 OECD report, revealing that 26% consume six or more drinks in a single sitting at least once a month. By my early twenties, I often drank far beyond that benchmark.
Dating life suffered due to my drinking; I would indulge to ease my nerves, leading many partners to describe my drunken episodes as “a nightmare.” I didn’t realize I was using alcohol to cope with any emotion—joy, sadness, or anxiety. After a severe assault while abroad at 28, I leaned on drinking to cope, marking a gradual decline in my relationship with alcohol.
As my drinking escalated, I opted to stay in with boxes of wine rather than risk embarrassment on nights out. My hangovers spiraled into anxiety and panic attacks, and I often resorted to sneaking off to pubs during work hours to "normalize" the day.
Despite recognizing my problems, I still considered alcohol the solution to my disarray. The tipping point came when I began to wake up with the shakes. Hopelessly addicted, I resorted to carrying vodka in water bottles to stave off withdrawal symptoms. My situation worsened, and I lost my job due to being drunk at work.
Things climaxed when my mother found me unresponsive at home, leading to a hospital stay where I received treatment for withdrawal. Acknowledging my addiction, I sought help from a local support group and attended AA meetings. However, my struggle persisted; I would momentarily quit drinking, only to relapse again.
Gradually, chaos unfolded further into my life. I would drink alone for days, often ending up in massive arguments with my family. I knew I needed to change. One day, I broke down—though still under the influence—and decided to seek help.
In three days, I began my stay at a rehab facility in Bournemouth, supported by my family. The first week was agonizing with withdrawal symptoms, but as time passed, I felt clarity. Through therapy, I confronted the unhealthy relationship I had with alcohol.
After six months in rehab, I emerged sober and grateful for the chance at a new life. I realized that if I had continued my path, I could have become another statistic in the rising number of women dying from alcohol-related liver disease.
Ten years have since passed, and while recovery hasn’t always been easy, it has been profoundly rewarding. I navigated ‘sober firsts’ and used the tools I gained to maintain my sobriety. Remembering the fear stemming from blackouts has reinforced my resolve; the relief of waking up without that dread feels like a victory.
Life has dramatically improved since I embraced sobriety. Relationships that once dissolved due to my alcoholism have been repaired, and I now enjoy sober dating—something drunk me wouldn’t have imagined. I’ve learned that confronting my emotions without alcohol is challenging, but it’s a far healthier existence. I can confidently say now that I don’t miss alcohol at all—escaping that toxic relationship only proved how much better off I am without it.
If you’re concerned about your drinking or someone else’s, a good first step is to see a GP. They can discuss services and treatments available. For help, you can contact:
Steins Beer Garden to Close Its Doors After 12 Years in Mountain View on March 30
Steins Beer Garden in Mountain View, which has been a staple of the area for the past 12 years, will officially close its doors on March 30. Founder Ted Kim announced the decision, citing rising costs and a decrease in patronage, particularly during lunch and corporate hours, as significant factors contributing to the closure of the 12,000-square-foot venue.
Despite having a dedicated customer base, Kim noted that the business never fully recovered from the challenges posed by the pandemic. "With the decrease in traffic, coupled with increasing wages and surging expenses, the challenges have slowly made business unsustainable," he shared on the establishment’s website.
In his announcement, Kim expressed gratitude to the loyal patrons and promised a lively farewell filled with good times and promotions until the last tap runs dry. He emphasized the restaurant’s commitment to quality food, highlighting their in-house preparations, including cured meats and freshly baked pretzels. The menu featured a variety of offerings, from hearty brunch options to elegant dinner dishes, including House-smoked Salmon Benedicts and Pork Schnitzel.
The upcoming closure raises concerns regarding the future of Mountain View’s Oktoberfest, an event that Steins has been pivotal in hosting for nearly a decade. As Kim stated, the festival’s fate now rests in the hands of the city and other potential organizers.
In his closing remarks, Kim reflected on the establishment’s role in the community, celebrating the memories made within its walls and expressing pride in being a gathering spot for local celebrations.
For those wishing to visit before the closing, Steins Beer Garden operates daily from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., with extended hours on weekends.
For more details, you can visit Steins Beer Garden’s official website.
Wine Collector Joins Forces with Nickolls & Perks: What This Acquisition Means for Enthusiasts
February 20, 2025 – The Wine Collector has been acquired by Nickolls & Perks, a notable fine wine and spirit merchant based in the UK. This acquisition marks the transition of Wine Collector, a comprehensive wine management platform first launched in 2013, which has become a key tool for thousands of wine collectors and enthusiasts to manage their collections and navigate the secondary market.
Over the years, Wine Owners has developed innovative software solutions tailored for the wine industry, effectively serving merchants, traders, retailers, and storage providers. The leadership recognized that the specific needs of collectors would best be met by a company like Nickolls & Perks, which is aligned with their focus and expertise.
Nickolls & Perks, established in 1797, is a progressive business committed to new technologies while maintaining rich heritage and customer understanding. The company’s managing director, Will Gardener, expressed excitement about the acquisition, having transitioned to Wine Owners’ software, enjoying its user-friendly design.
The integration will revamp the Wine Collector’s interface and enhance service levels for fine wine collectors, with the official switch to Nickolls & Perks scheduled for April 3rd. Both companies plan to ensure a smooth transition, emphasizing the importance of preserving Wine Collector’s legacy as a service that empowers self-managing wine enthusiasts.
Nick Martin, CEO of Wine Owners, also highlighted the shared commitment both companies have to upholding the quality service expected by Wine Collector’s users.
Important Links
Kari Mahe Takes the Helm as CEO of Wine by Joe/Dobbes Family Winery
Oregon, February 20, 2025 – Wine by Joe/Dobbes Family Winery has appointed Kari Mahe as its new Chief Executive Officer. This decision illustrates the company’s commitment to internal talent development while maintaining its legacy of excellence. Alongside Mahe, four key team members have been promoted to director positions: Derek Einberger as Director of Winemaking, Michelle Bolliger as Director of Sales, Juli Eagle as Director of DTC & Marketing, and Erin Gray as Director of Operations.
Since its establishment in 2002, Wine by Joe/Dobbes Family Winery has focused on crafting authentic Oregon varietals and fostering a collaborative environment. This approach has transformed the small family winery into a respected leader known for both its exceptional wines and its commitment to its people.
Kari Mahe has been with the winery since 2015 and became General Manager in 2021. Throughout her tenure, she has emphasized the importance of team synergy and growth. With a background in accounting and construction, she has successfully created a harmonious workplace where skills merge with creativity, ensuring that every department operates smoothly while adhering to the winery’s core values.
“Kari is the perfect candidate to lead us into the next chapter," said Sam Bronfman, Managing Partner of Bacchus Capital, which co-owns the winery. “She has been integral to the winery’s growth and has demonstrated exceptional leadership.”
As CEO, Mahe aims to foster the spirit of teamwork while expanding both the Wine by Joe and Dobbes Family Winery portfolios. Her vision includes enhancing private label and custom crush opportunities, all while preserving the quality and craftsmanship synonymous with the winery. She also intends to be actively involved with industry trade organizations and state-level wine groups, contributing to the future of Oregon’s wine industry.
“Under my leadership, we will continue to grow our community and attract a new generation of wine enthusiasts,” said Mahe. “Our goal is to evolve while maintaining the vibrant culture that makes Wine by Joe/Dobbes Family Winery so special.”
Rob Rupe, Managing Partner at Bacchus Capital, noted that Mahe’s promotion exemplifies the winery’s commitment to nurturing internal talent. “Having worked closely with Kari, I am confident she is exceptionally well-prepared for this role. Her ability to balance tradition and innovation, while fostering strong team relationships, makes her the ideal leader for our next chapter.”
Mahe will lead the winery with the support of an expert leadership team and continued partnership with Bacchus Capital, ensuring the winery’s legacy of excellence and innovation thrives.
About Dobbes Family Winery, Wine By Joe and Dundee Vintners
Based in Dundee, Oregon, Dobbes Family Winery and Wine By Joe focus on producing standout wines while embracing innovation. They source grapes from trusted and emerging terroirs, respecting nature and exploring new varietals and tastes. The team’s dedication shines through every aspect of their business, producing new world wines that honor tradition without being limited by convention.
For more information, visit Dobbes Family Winery’s website and Wine By Joe’s website.
About Bacchus Capital Management
Bacchus Capital Management invests strategic capital in wineries and wine businesses, supporting growth and innovation in the industry.
Experience Exquisite Flavors: M Cellars to Host Special Wine-Barrel Tasting Event
M Cellars in Geneva is set to host special barrel tastings that will provide attendees with a unique opportunity to experience the winemaking process firsthand. The tastings will feature wines directly from the barrel, specifically the upcoming 2024 vintages.
For more information, visit M Cellars.
When to Decant Wine: A Practical Guide for Every Occasion
Decanting wine can seem like a daunting task, often associated with opulent dinner parties or upscale restaurants. However, this simple process can enrich the flavors and aromas of certain wines, making it a valuable skill. The key questions are: when should you decant, and is it worth the effort?
Why Decanting Matters
Decanting wine primarily serves two purposes: aeration and sediment removal. When exposed to air, wine begins to "open up" as oxygen interacts with its compounds, revealing nuanced aromas and softening flavors, particularly in young, bold reds. Additionally, older bottles may contain sediment that has settled over time, and decanting ensures that this sediment is left behind, providing a clearer pour for an enhanced drinking experience.
The act of decanting also has an enjoyable ritual aspect. It allows one to appreciate the journey of the wine from vineyard to bottle, creating anticipation before tasting. While not every wine requires decanting, knowing when it’s beneficial enhances your wine enjoyment.
Which Wines Benefit From Decanting?
- Bold Red Wines: Young cabernet sauvignon, syrah, or malbec can taste tight or harsh. Decanting for 30 minutes to an hour can drastically improve their flavor profile.
- Older Red Wines: Aged Bordeaux or Barolo may have sediment. Decanting gently just before serving helps separate this sediment but be cautious as some older wines can fade quickly after exposure to air.
- Full-Bodied Whites: Certain full-bodied whites, like oak-aged chardonnay, can also benefit from a short decant, allowing their complex aromas to flourish, especially if they’ve been stored chilled.
How Long Should You Decant?
Decanting times depend on the wine’s age and type:
- Young Reds: 30 minutes to 2 hours typically.
- Older Reds: 20 to 30 minutes may suffice, as over-decanting can reduce flavor.
- Whites and Rosés: If decanting, aim for 15 to 30 minutes.
Rather than adhering to strict guidelines, it’s beneficial to taste the wine at intervals. This allows you to discover the optimal decanting time for each bottle.
Practical Tips For Decanting
- Keep It Steady: Avoid disturbing sediment when moving the bottle.
- Use A Light: Pour wine into the decanter with a candle or light underneath the bottle neck, allowing you to see when sediment approaches.
- Choose The Right Decanter: Wide-bottom decanters expose more surface area to air, ideal for young reds, while narrower ones are better for older wines that need minimal aeration.
- Taste As You Go: Sampling small amounts every 20 minutes helps determine the right decanting duration.
When Not To Decant
Some wines may not benefit from decanting. Delicate reds, like light Pinot Noir, often don’t require extensive aeration. Very old wines may lose their subtle nuances if overexposed. For casual occasions, such as a weeknight dinner, decanting might not be necessary if the wine is assumedly approachable.
In summary, decanting can significantly enhance certain wines, whether it involves a young, tannic red or an older bottle with sediment. With an understanding of when, why, and how to decant, you can elevate your wine experience without the need for a special occasion.
Bryan Advocates for Visa Waiver Program, Permanent Rum Cover-Over, and Refinery Reopening at IGIA Meeting
Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has been actively promoting crucial economic initiatives for the U.S. Virgin Islands, primarily during the recent 2025 Interagency Group on Insular Areas (IGIA) meeting. His proposed measures aim to secure a permanent extension of the rum cover-over tax rate, facilitate the reopening of the St. Croix refinery, and establish a visa waiver program in order to bolster the territory’s economy and workforce.
During the meeting, the governor expressed gratitude to U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum for his leadership and emphasized the need for collaboration between the federal government and U.S. territories. Bryan highlighted the rum cover-over program, which channels federal excise taxes from rum produced in the Virgin Islands back to the territory’s treasury, as vital for the local economy. This funding has historically constituted roughly 33% of the USVI’s general revenue, essential for supporting public services and infrastructure projects. However, since the expiration of the $13.25 per proof gallon rate in 2021, revenues from this program have dropped by 20%, straining the territory’s budget. Bryan urged Congress to consider a permanent restoration of this tax rate to ensure financial stability and provide retroactive relief.
In addition to the rum tax, Bryan focused on the St. Croix refinery, which has been closed since 2022 due to regulatory hurdles, despite private efforts to revitalize its operations. Reopening the refinery could restore approximately $25 million in annual tax revenue and create numerous job opportunities in the region. Bryan asserted that doing so would not only revive local employment but also enhance energy security for the surrounding area.
Another significant component of Bryan’s strategy is the implementation of a visa waiver program designed to stimulate tourism and mitigate labor shortages. Modeled after existing programs in Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, this initiative would facilitate short-term, visa-free visits from neighboring Caribbean countries and select international markets, thereby boosting tourism and providing essential labor for the territory’s recovery and construction initiatives.
Governor Bryan assures that appropriate security measures would be implemented to screen travelers as the Virgin Islands fall outside the U.S. customs zone.
Throughout his presentation, Bryan underscored the necessity of strong federal partnerships and commended Secretary Burgum’s insights based on his governance experience. He stated his commitment to advocating for the Virgin Islands in Washington, emphasizing that the rum cover-over, refinery reopening, and visa waiver program are key elements crucial to the territory’s economic resilience and long-term recovery. He expressed optimism about collaborating with federal partners to turn these initiatives into reality.
For the latest updates, you can check the VI Consortium app on Google Play or the Apple Store.
Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars Acquires Vineyard of Late Founder in Napa Valley
Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars has announced the purchase of Arcadia Vineyard, a 135-acre property in the Coombsville appellation northeast of Napa, on February 14, 2025. This acquisition returns a vital source of grapes to the winery, as the vineyard was originally bought by Warren Winiarski, a co-founder of Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, nearly 30 years ago.
The specific purchase price was not disclosed, but the acquisition marks a significant moment for the winery. Winiarski retained ownership of Arcadia Vineyard when he sold the winery in 2007 to Ste. Michelle Wine Estates and the Italian wine company Marchesi Antinori. Unfortunately, Winiarski passed away in June 2023 at the age of 95.
Arcadia Vineyard includes 84 planted vineyard acres, comprising 59 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon, 22 acres of Chardonnay, and 3 acres of Merlot. Piero Antinori, a 25th-generation vintner, expressed delight in reuniting the vineyard with Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, recognizing Coombsville as a promising area for wine production.
For more information on the vineyard’s history and ownership changes, you can refer to the related articles on its sale and Winiarski’s legacy.
Brenae Royal: Trailblazing Vineyard Manager Launches Her Own Exquisite Wine Collection
Brenae Royal’s journey in the world of winemaking has taken a remarkable turn following a transformative year in 2024. After leaving her position as director of the historic Monte Rosso Vineyard in Sonoma Valley and briefly managing St. Supéry Vineyards in Rutherford, she faced personal challenges, including the loss of her beloved dog, Violet Mae.
Determined to honor Violet Mae, Royal decided to create her own wine label, Violet’s Paradise. This month marks the presale of her first wine, a sparkling wine made in collaboration with J Vineyards in Healdsburg, priced at $65. Notably, 50% of the proceeds will benefit The Veraison Project, a nonprofit dedicated to fostering diversity within the wine industry, while the other half will support the Violet’s Paradise Agriculture Scholarship, an initiative Royal has launched.
With an ambition to raise approximately $50,000 for her scholarship program, Royal aims to grant funds in $1,000 increments to support college students in agriculture. “A big piece of my own inspiration is just being able to give back,” she explains. Her involvement with The Veraison Project and The Roots Fund reflects her commitment to empowering underrepresented communities in the wine world.
Royal’s passion for agriculture began in her childhood and became more pronounced through her experiences in programs like 4-H and Future Farmers of America. Initially hesitant about entering winemaking, Royal found her path when a former colleague offered her a barrel of 2023 Monte Rosso Cabernet Franc. This opportunity reignited her drive and creativity, paving the way for her new venture.
The upcoming release will feature not only the sparkling wine but also five additional wines throughout the year, all sourced from Monte Rosso Vineyard. These include Cabernet Franc, Semillon, Grenache, Zinfandel, and Cabernet Sauvignon, showcasing her commitment to her roots.
Despite expanding into winemaking, Royal emphasizes that farming remains her true passion. She is currently exploring vineyard ownership opportunities in Napa or Sonoma counties. “Farming is really my calling and what I enjoy most,” she states.
To find out more about her inaugural wine and to partake in the presale, visit brenaeroyal.com or follow her on Instagram @_cabrenae.