The hotel room was a balmy 80 degrees and people waited patiently without complaint because of the reason for the elevated temperature. Motown legend Smokey Robinson needed the warmth for his voice because the following day, it was on full, exquisite display at Jazz in the Gardens. The 78-year old crooner performed a set that was classic, elegant, at times sensual and often playful; making the room\u2019s toastiness a minor inconvenience.<\/p>\n
But Friday\u2019s gathering was all about the wine \u2013 Smokey Robinson Wines to be exact. They feature a 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon that lived up to its description: \u201cRich red fruit; nutty vanilla oak, and well integrated dry tannins; medium to full bodied.\u201d The 2015 Riesling also did not disappoint, with its \u201ccrisp apple and citrus nose; bright and clean, lightly floral with notes of pear and honey.\u201d<\/p>\n
Robinson got into the wine business at the encouragement of two friends who, while golfing, suggested he consider putting his name on a collection.<\/p>\n
Although he rarely drinks, Robinson said when he does, \u201cI want it to be something I like.\u201d So, he joined them for a visit to EngineHouse 25, a Pittsburg winery, to learn more about the process.<\/p>\n
\u201cI started to do tastings, grapes, different wines, and it took us about a year and a half to come up with this,\u201d he shared. \u201cI\u2019m very proud of them.\u201d Besides, he was not going to put his name on just anything.<\/p>\n
After chatting about his wines, our conversation went back to his first love, music. He has no plans to give it up anytime soon. He tried, but \u201cafter about 3 and a half years, I went ape sh*t. I can\u2019t find a replacement for performing for me. It\u2019s a need.\u201d<\/p>\n
His spirituality is critical to the longevity of his music career, as well as the new venture he\u2019s now embraced.<\/p>\n
\u201cI am connected to the Father, totally committed, that\u2019s how I live my life. There\u2019s not a day that goes by that I\u2019m not talking to God. I know where my blessings come from. I know I wouldn\u2019t be doing any of this without His say-so.<\/p>\n
Performing for audiences that include children and their parents, seniors and all races is \u201cvery fulfilling experience for me.\u201d<\/p>\n
That fulfillment was very evident during his Jazz in the Gardens performance. Robinson exuded an appreciation for what he does and a genuine connection to his audience as he sang beautifully in a voice that, like fine wine, gets better with time.<\/p>\n
To learn more, visit smokeyrobinsonwines.com.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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