“Wine

is one of the most civilized things in the world" - Ernest Hemingway

It makes people less tedious, food more tasty, and provides the slight buzz of inspiration you need when reading or writing.

(I just had some).

Made of rich aromas and flavors, wine is the perfect complement to food. For example, a Sauvignon is great with beef. Its flavor depends on the year, the crops that grew near the vineyard, and the size of the clusters...

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"YOU'RE PUTTING ICE IN YOUR WINE???!"

Pete was incredulous. His eyes bulged wide and his hands had balled into fists, almost shattering his wine glass. I saw a vein pop on his forehead, and watched it throb, like it was about to burst and spray the table with blood.

Pete was teaching me about red wine, and the different ways to appreciate its flavors. Apparently, ice is not one of them.

I swatted at a fly. It was a hot evening in Koh Lanta, an island in South West Thailand, yet unspoiled by the ravages of tourism. "It's hot", I said, as I piled ice-cube after ice-cube into my glass.

The dog buried in the sand looked on. "Ting Tong!", the waitress said. "Yes!" David said in response, tapping his head and pointing at me. "He's crazy!"

I never understood the fuss about wine. After all, It's just grapes in a bottle, and everything tastes better cold, on a hot day.

I shrugged and took a swill and sloshed it in my mouth and swallowed. I could feel the icy, grape flavoured intoxication pouring down my throat, working its way into my limbs, and more importantly, massaging my mood.

"Ahhhhhh!!"

Ting Tong Wine is born

Since then, every time I went to the stall, they served me ting tong wine with a smile. The beauty of the Thais is, they don't care. As long as you have respect, they shower you with love, joy and a welcoming spirit.

If you ever are in Thailand, check out Koh Lanta. It is quiet, has many places to explore, and some of the most friendly Thais we have ever met.

You will love the beaches, the reggae bars and, if you ever are in a stall at the beach on a hot day, remember to try the ting tong wine.