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 Singing with fellow members is an integral feature of wine
societies. Great wine seems to bring out song as an expression of the
friendship and good spirits engendered by crafted beverages enjoyed at
table. Societe Mondiale du Vin has adopted a traditional English tune, "The Boar's
Head Carol," as its song. The Latin motto Gustato optimorum means
"those who seek the best;" the phrase Quot estis in convivio means
"so many as are in the feast." The song is performed by a leader and the
assembled members. The set solo, "Gustato Optimorum . . ." starts the
singing, with the company responding, "Vintners, cooks . . ." The chorus is
punctuated by gestures that are more easily demonstrated than described.
Roughly, they are: "vintners" (tilting back the head with the motion of
bringing a bottle up to the mouth); "cooks" (hands clasped together at chest
level with a stirring motion); "and company" (arms extended forward with
palms up in a welcoming gesture) "in joy" (hands raised above head and fingers
moving as arms descend to imitate the rain of joy); "at table" (arms forward
at waist level, palms down, with a sweeping gesture sideways from center);
and "in harmony" (hands clasped together a chest level with a shaking
motion).
After the first fun-through, impromptu verses are offered by anyone in
the company who wishes to stand and perform, with each verse followed by the
company singing the standard chorus. Verses fit the occasion and can express
any thought of good will. Members are loved and roasted, thanked and
inspired, congratulated and adulated.
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