Wine: The Ultimate Liquid Asset In An Apocalypse

In a world ravaged by nuclear apocalypse, the rules of survival change dramatically. Suddenly, the value of traditional currency becomes obsolete, and the importance of tangible goods for bartering skyrockets. While some may stockpile food, water, or ammunition, there's one item often overlooked but with tremendous potential: wine.  Although the premise for this post stems from a comment I overheard about the futility of hoarding Euros over lemons in a nuclear war.  

1. Wine Holds Intrinsic Value

Unlike fiat currency, which relies on trust in a centralized authority with a big army, wine holds intrinsic value that transcends economic instability. Its production involves time, skill, and resources, making it a tangible asset with inherent worth. In a world where trust is scarce, goods like wine carry value that can be universally recognized and appreciated especially barolo.  Virtually every bottle of barolo conveys the message:  "Trust me, I am barolo."  It's akin pizza in that regard.  "I am pizza, oven-baked bread topped with zesty tomato sauce and melted mozzarella. Don't worry, you can give me the key to your Porsche and I promise to bring it back."  Barolo is just more to the point.  

2. Versatility in Bartering

Wine's versatility extends beyond its role as a beverage. It can be used for bartering with other survivors (wino's) in exchange for essential goods and services. Whether it's trading a bottle of aged Bordeaux for medical supplies or swapping a case of Chardonnay w̶i̶l̶l̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶ ̶t̶a̶k̶e̶ ̶t̶h̶i̶s̶ ̶C̶h̶e̶n̶i̶n̶ ̶B̶l̶a̶n̶c̶ ̶i̶n̶s̶t̶e̶a̶d̶ for fresh produce, wine offers flexibility in negotiations and can facilitate mutually beneficial transactions.

3. Preservation and Longevity

Properly stored wine has the remarkable ability to improve with age, making it an ideal investment for the uncertain future of a post-apocalyptic world. With the right conditions, wine can remain drinkable for decades or even centuries, ensuring its value endures over time. By stockpiling a diverse selection of wines, you're not just preparing for immediate needs but also securing assets for the long term.  Warren Buffet says his preferred investment horizon is eternity.  

4. Feels Good

In the midst of chaos and despair, the simple pleasure of enjoying a glass of wine can provide much-needed psychological comfort and a semblance of normalcy. By amassing wine, you're not just acquiring a commodity; you're investing in moments of solace and connection amidst the harsh realities of survival.

5. Cultural and Social Significance

Wine has been an integral part of human culture for millennia, symbolizing celebration, communion, and tradition. In a world plagued by geopolitical chaos, the shared experience of enjoying wine can foster camaraderie and forge bonds between survivors. Lemons are still worth more than Euro's in a nuclear war but are we really going to be divulging when was our first kiss over a lemon. 

While the prospect of a nuclear apocalypse may seem daunting I̵ ̵f̵o̵r̵g̵o̵t̵ ̵t̵o̵ ̵c̵a̵n̵c̵e̵l̵ ̵m̵y̵ ̵f̵r̵e̵e̵ ̵m̵i̵n̵o̵x̵i̵d̵a̵l̵ ̵t̵r̵i̵a̵l̵ ̵, strategic planning and preparation can significantly improve your chances of survival. By amassing wine as part of your survival strategy, you're not just hedging against economic instability – you're investing in resilience, resourcefulness, and the enduring spirit of humanity in the face of adversity. Plus balance and finesse if you are sitting on barrels of barolo.  So, stock up on your favorite vintages, because in a world where fiat currency is worthless, wine might just be your most valuable currency of all.