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wine-picks · 1 year
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🇦🇺 🍷 Happy Tuesday! Enjoying this lovely 2019 d'Arenberg The Stump Jump Grenache Shiraz Mourvèdre (89 pts, $18) from McLaren Vale. Arrived in LCBO VINTAGES last month. Solid, highly recommended buy! Full review: https://rebrand.ly/agxou0n
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wine-porn · 2 years
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Original Sin
This is some dirty dirty dirty-ass eucalyptus shit, man. Holy wow. I love eucalyptus, but this pushes my comfort level a bit, gotta say. Muddy peat and eucalyptus is pretty much the entire nose. And plenty of air doesn’t do much to alleviate it. Gradually, thick leather and salted licorice take form. It’s purple, too–not showing any of that girly-man Pinot-esque garnet Santa Barbara digs. The…
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mayfair-plumb · 2 years
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kakivino · 10 years
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Wirra Wirra 2013 Mrs Wigley Rosé
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Deep shade of pink with magenta hue at the rim, Mrs. Wigley is fun under the sun. Probably smart enough to interest rosé doubters too. Dry, crisp and vivacious. Smacks of scrumptious grenache virtues. Subtle pepper and floral notes complement a potpourri of strawberry, red berry and watermelon. Slightly creamy, positively succulent. Keep her handy and she’ll keep the party rollin'. — ★★★½
Appellation: McLaren Vale Region: McLaren Vale, South Australia, Australia Subzone: Cépage: 100% Grenache Abv: 13.5% Production: Élevage: Distributor: Asiaeuro
Critic Reviews:
Vivid and open-textured, this bright red offers a lively mouth fell of guava, strawberry and spice flavors lilting through the finish. Drink now. Harvey Steiman (Wine Spectator, 06/30/2012) 89
Light, bright hue; a very attractive, light-bodied grenache, with red fruits ranging from red cherry to raspberry; minimal tannins and oak, and rightly so. James Halliday (Australian Wine Companion 2014, 10/07/2013)
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magpiesprings · 1 year
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Paint and Sip Art Class at Magpie Springs 
Alternate Thursdays during the day - Join us book now.
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viatalium · 2 years
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McLaren Vale Wine Tours
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As you sip to your favourite wine, you’ll also get to enjoy beautiful sceneries in Adelaide Hills. Our chartered buses are comfortable, which allows us to stop over at different places during the McLaren Vale wine tour so that you can take pictures and enjoy the view. McLaren Vale Wine Tours
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vineshedvenue · 3 months
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Why the Best Winery Lunch in McLaren Vale Should Be on Your Bucket List
Exploring McLaren Vale, with its rolling vineyards and exceptional wineries, is a dream for many. But what truly elevates this experience is indulging in the best winery lunch in McLaren Vale. At Vine Shed Venue and Cellar Door, we invite you to embark on a culinary journey that will delight your senses and leave lasting memories.
The Ultimate Culinary Experience
At Vine Shed Venue and Cellar Door, we pride ourselves on offering the best winery lunch in McLaren Vale, a perfect harmony of exquisite food and premium wines. Our chefs craft each dish using the freshest local ingredients, ensuring that every bite is a celebration of McLaren Vale’s rich agricultural heritage. Whether you prefer a gourmet platter or a multi-course meal, our menu is designed to complement the wines produced right here in our vineyards.
Imagine starting your meal with a selection of artisanal cheeses, paired perfectly with a crisp white wine, followed by a main course of locally sourced lamb, cooked to perfection and served with seasonal vegetables. Each course is thoughtfully curated to enhance your dining experience, making your winery lunch not just a meal, but a journey through the flavours of McLaren Vale.
A Scenic and Relaxing Setting
Dining at Vine Shed Venue and Cellar Door means more than just enjoying the best winery lunch in McLaren Vale; it’s about soaking in the breathtaking views and tranquil atmosphere that our venue offers. Our outdoor seating area provides a panoramic view of the vineyards, allowing you to dine al fresco under the warm Australian sun or enjoy a cosy meal inside our elegantly designed dining room.
The serene environment of our winery creates the perfect backdrop for a leisurely lunch. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a day out, our venue provides the ideal setting to relax and savor the moment.
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Perfect Pairings: Wine and Food
What sets the best winery lunch in McLaren Vale apart is the seamless pairing of food and wine. At Vine Shed Venue and Cellar Door, our knowledgeable staff are passionate about helping you discover the perfect wine to accompany your meal. Each wine is carefully selected to enhance the flavours of our dishes, creating a symphony of tastes that will tantalise your palate.
From robust reds to delicate whites, our extensive wine list features some of the finest wines that McLaren Vale has to offer. Our sommeliers are on hand to guide you through the selection process, ensuring that each sip enhances your dining experience.
An Unforgettable Experience
Visiting McLaren Vale is about more than just seeing the sights; it’s about experiencing the best the region has to offer. And what better way to do that than by enjoying the best winery lunch in McLaren Vale at Vine Shed Venue and Cellar Door? Our commitment to excellence in both food and wine ensures that your visit will be unforgettable.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, making a trip to our winery should be on your bucket list. It’s not just about the food or the wine, but the entire experience — the beautiful setting, the exceptional service, and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart of McLaren Vale’s wine country.
Book Your Winery Lunch Today
Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the best winery lunch in McLaren Vale. Visit Vine Shed Venue and Cellar Door and discover why we are the top choice for food and wine lovers. Book your table today and prepare to embark on a culinary journey like no other.
At Vine Shed Venue and Cellar Door, we look forward to welcoming you and providing an unforgettable dining experience that showcases the very best of McLaren Vale.
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paragonwinetours · 3 months
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The Ultimate Guide to the McLaren Vale Wine Tour
Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of South Australia, McLaren Vale is renowned for its exquisite wine production, making it a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts and travellers alike. This ultimate guide to the McLaren Vale Wine Tour will take you through everything you need to know about this wine lover's paradise, from the best vineyards to visit to tips on making the most of your wine-tasting adventure. So, buckle up and prepare for a journey through one of Australia’s most celebrated wine regions.
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Why Choose McLaren Vale for Your Wine Tour?
Rich History and Culture
McLaren Vale boasts a rich history of winemaking that dates back to 1838 when the first vines were planted. This long heritage is reflected in the region's diverse range of wines, which have garnered international acclaim. The area is not only famous for its wine but also for its stunning natural beauty and charming small towns, making it a perfect blend of culture and nature.
Ideal Climate for Viticulture
One of the key reasons why McLaren Vale produces such outstanding wines is its Mediterranean climate. Warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters create the ideal conditions for growing a variety of grapes, particularly Shiraz, which the region is famous for. The diverse terroir, from sandy soils to ancient rocks, further enhances the uniqueness and complexity of McLaren Vale wines.
Top Vineyards to Visit on Your McLaren Vale Wine Tour
1. d’Arenberg
d’Arenberg is one of the most iconic wineries in McLaren Vale, offering a unique blend of traditional winemaking techniques and innovative practices. The winery's signature building, the d’Arenberg Cube, is an architectural marvel and a must-see on your tour. Here, you can enjoy a comprehensive tasting experience, explore the quirky art installations, and even participate in blending your own wine.
2. Wirra Wirra Vineyards
A visit to Wirra Wirra is a journey into the heart of McLaren Vale's winemaking traditions. The winery is known for its high-quality reds, particularly the Church Block blend. The picturesque grounds feature lush gardens and historic buildings, providing a perfect setting for a relaxing wine-tasting session. Don’t miss the opportunity to ring the winery's famous Angelus Bell!
3. Chapel Hill Winery
Chapel Hill Winery is celebrated for its stunning views and award-winning wines. Set in a former Methodist chapel, the winery offers a unique atmosphere that combines history with modern winemaking. Their range of wines, including the flagship McLaren Vale Shiraz, is sure to impress even the most discerning palate. The winery also offers food and wine pairings that highlight the best of local produce.
4. Coriole Vineyards
For a family-run winery with a focus on sustainability and innovation, look no further than Coriole Vineyards. The winery is renowned for its Italian varietals, such as Sangiovese and Fiano, which are a delightful change from the region's traditional offerings. The rustic cellar door and the beautiful gardens make Coriole a charming stop on your McLaren Vale wine tour.
5. Serafino Wines
Serafino Wines is another gem in McLaren Vale, known for its extensive range of wines and luxurious accommodations. The winery's picturesque lakeside setting is perfect for a leisurely afternoon of wine tasting. Be sure to try their award-winning Shiraz and indulge in the gourmet delights at the on-site restaurant.
Tips for an Unforgettable McLaren Vale Wine Tour
Plan Your Route
McLaren Vale is home to over 80 cellar doors, so planning your route in advance is essential to ensure you make the most of your time. Focus on a few key wineries to avoid rushing and allow yourself plenty of time to savour the experience at each stop.
Book in Advance
Many popular wineries require advance bookings, especially during peak seasons. Ensure you reserve your spots for tastings and tours to avoid disappointment. Some wineries also offer exclusive experiences and private tours that can enhance your visit.
Stay Hydrated and Snack Smart
Wine tasting can be dehydrating, so be sure to drink plenty of water between tastings. Carry some snacks like cheese, crackers, or nuts to cleanse your palate and keep your energy levels up throughout the day. Many wineries also offer food pairings, which can be a great way to experience the local cuisine.
Don’t Rush
Take your time to savour each wine and appreciate the unique characteristics of each vineyard. Wine tasting is as much about the experience as it is about the wine, so immerse yourself in the ambiance and enjoy the journey.
Use a Designated Driver
Safety should always be a priority. If you’re planning to indulge in multiple tastings, consider hiring a designated driver or joining a guided tour. This way, you can enjoy the wines without worrying about the drive back.
Best Time to Visit McLaren Vale
Spring (September to November)
Spring is a fantastic time to visit McLaren Vale, as the region comes alive with blossoming vines and vibrant wildflowers. The weather is mild, making it ideal for outdoor activities like vineyard tours and picnics.
Autumn (March to May)
Autumn is another great time to explore McLaren Vale, with the vineyards showcasing a stunning array of colours as the leaves change. The harvest season is in full swing, offering a unique opportunity to see winemaking in action and taste the freshest wines.
Winter (June to August)
While winter may be cooler, it’s a cosy time to visit McLaren Vale’s cellar doors, many of which offer warm, welcoming environments with roaring fireplaces. The quieter season means you can enjoy a more intimate tasting experience without the crowds.
Where to Stay During Your McLaren Vale Wine Tour
Luxury Accommodations
For those seeking a touch of luxury, there are several high-end options in McLaren Vale, including the McLaren Vale Studio Apartments and Serafino McLaren Vale. These accommodations offer modern amenities, stunning views, and easy access to top wineries.
Charming Bed and Breakfasts
If you prefer a more personal touch, the region is home to numerous charming bed and breakfasts. The Bellevue Bed & Breakfast and Amande Bed and Breakfast provide cosy rooms and a friendly atmosphere, making you feel right at home.
Unique Stays
For a unique experience, consider staying at a winery! Many vineyards, like The Vineyard McLaren Vale, offer accommodation right on their grounds, allowing you to wake up to the sight of rolling vineyards and start your day with a wine tasting.
Enjoying the Local Cuisine
No wine tour is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. McLaren Vale boasts a rich culinary scene with a focus on fresh, local produce. Be sure to visit the Willunga Farmers Market for a taste of the region's finest ingredients. Many wineries also feature on-site restaurants where you can enjoy gourmet meals paired perfectly with their wines.
Conclusion
A McLaren Vale Wine Tour is more than just a journey through vineyards; it’s an immersive experience into the heart of Australian winemaking. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and world-class wines, McLaren Vale offers a unique and unforgettable adventure for wine lovers and travellers alike. Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or a curious novice, this guide will help you navigate the best of what McLaren Vale has to offer. So, pack your bags, grab your wine glass, and get ready to explore one of Australia's premier wine regions.For more information and to book your McLaren Vale Wine Tour, visit Paragon Wine Tours.
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Office spaces in McLaren Vale require commercial carpet cleaning as an essential need, as it fulfills various important functions.
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winedivatours · 7 months
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Wine Tour Mclaren Vale South Australia | Small Group Wine Tours Mclaren Vale
Guided by experts at Wine Diva Tours with an intimate connection to the land, the wine tour of Mclaren Vale, Australia is a symphony of tastes and aromas. Call them today for assistance.
https://winedivatours.com.au/
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wine-porn · 2 years
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High Treason
I really should drink more Australian cab. I scrolled back and only found two or three in the past ten years. This thing drinks like a frickin barrel sample. Glass-staining crimson with considerable sediment. Decanted vigorously. Clean, precise nose of blockbuster proportions: heady burnt rubber, diesel and brushy briar, hot to touch and the fruit mired impossilby behind everything else. It’s…
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floodadelaide · 2 years
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Call EFRA today for professional Flood Damage Restoration Mclaren Vale Services. We offer emergency services 24/7 and will arrive at your home to clean, dry and restore your property quickly. For more, contact us at 0480029833 now.
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What Should You Learn About Wine Tours?
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Wine tours are great ways to learn about wine and get to know the winemakers behind the grapes. You will have the opportunity to taste wines from different regions around the world, learn about the history of each region, and meet some of the people who make the wine. If you are looking for something a little less formal, try going to a tasting room where they sell their own wine and offer tastings.
Where Should You Go For a Wine Tour?
If you are planning on taking a wine tour, consider visiting a place that is known for its wine production. Napa Valley, California is home to some of the most famous vineyards in the world. Other popular places include Tuscany, Italy; Bordeaux, France; and Australia. Australia has many amazing places where you can visit wineries and wine production centers, such as Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale and Adelaide. These are some of the best places in Australia that are popular for wine tours. Barossa wine tours are quite popular, and you can go on a Private wine tour, Small Group wine tour or even a Multi-Day wine tour if you like.
What is the Right Way to go on a Wine Tour?
There is no right way to do a wine tour. There are many options, including private tours, small group tours, and multi-day trips.
• Private tours are ideal if you want to go at your own pace and learn about the area without feeling rushed.
• Small group tours are great if you want to meet others who are interested in learning about wine and touring together.
• Multi-day trips are great if you want a complete vacation experience.
How Much Does a Wine Tour Cost?
The price of a wine tour varies depending on what kind of tour you take, how long you stay, and whether you travel alone or with friends. A good starting point is $100-$200 per person.
When Should You Go On a Wine Tour?
You should plan your trip between September and December, when the weather is cooler and the harvest season is underway.
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magpiesprings · 2 months
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Wine tasting experience followed by a platter and a glass of wine near McLaren Vale Saturdays and Sundays. 11am - 3 pm Bookings in advance essential. Call to book
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kingofthecotas · 6 days
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find tomorrow with you
5 times valentino suggests they get married and 1 time marc does | 2.4k words
5+1 is a fun and whimsical format that we should use more often
–––
i. 
It’s not the first time Marc has been to Tavullia since Valentino decided his life was infinitely better when they spoke—and, indeed, fucked—but today is the first time he truly seems comfortable. 
Pecco being here is helping, helping soothe the agitation that is all Bez’s, helping to be a friendly face—and Luca, if he weren’t finding it all so funny, would be helping as well. Marc is smiling, talking, laughing—and he isn’t dragging his feet as they all get ready to ride. That’s the crux of it, the load-bearing pillar that crumbled their first time around. 
Not this time. They won’t let it. 
(Not ever again, Valentino won’t let that happen ever again. He won’t do that to Marc ever again.)
It’s never polite when they race at the ranch. It’s animalistic, all friendship abandoned at the archway that marks the start of the track, screeching under helmets as they tear around corners and dive into the side of opponents. No quarter. No prisoners. 
Naturally, Marc, now he’s comfortable, is perfectly suited to this kind of all-out warfare. 
(He’s terrifying. Valentino is entranced. He loves him.) 
It happens after about an hour, all of them hot and tired but no one willing to throw a white flag. Marc goes for the lead, throws it up the inside of Bez, and outbrakes himself. He skids to the edge of the track, where his front tyre finally surrenders, and he’s sliding through dirt, one leg dragged with the bike.  
Even over the growl of two-stroke engines, Valentino can hear Bez’s, “Oh shit.” 
He pulls to the side of the track, kicks the peg-stand down with a practiced ease that covers his panic, because Marc is staggering away from under his bike, is collapsing on his back, shoulders shaking, and what if he’s hurt—?
“Marc?” 
Marc is cackling like a maniac, leathers dusted white, one hand over the part of his helmet where his forehead would be—even Bez can’t stop himself laughing in return. 
Valentino kneels beside him, pushes his visor up. Then he pushes Marc’s open, too.
“You idiot,” he says, slow and deliberate, yet without sting. 
Marc laughs harder. “That was fun!”
Valentino leans down, helmets almost touching. “I am going to divorce you.”
Bez chokes on his giggle.
Marc doesn’t miss a beat, eyes still smiling at Vale through his visor. “You have to marry me to do that.” 
“I will marry you,” Valentino agrees, “and then I will divorce you.” 
Marc laughs again. 
——
ii.
Valentino’s phone alarm goes off at 5:45, fifteen minutes to spare before lights out, and he stifles a groan, rolls away from Marc. Marc does not appreciate being woken up before seven on a Sunday. 
(He knows that. He loves that he knows that.) 
Qualifying had been hairy, drizzling but not completely wet. It should be a dry race, though, and he settles himself on the sofa downstairs just in time for the broadcast to start scrolling through the starting grid. Kimi had done well, and he smiles.
There’s a noise in the doorway: Marc, a hoodie thrown over his bare chest, eyes heavy.
“Good morning,” Valentino says, raspy. “Did I wake you up?”
“Who has a race at this time?” Marc grumbles. 
“They are in Japan,” Valentino says, and lets Marc crawl into the space next to him, tired and clumsy with it. “Now you know what it is like when I am watching you in Japan, or Malaysia, or Australia.”
Marc groans in the back of his throat.
“You could go back to bed.”
“You’re not there.” Unfocused eyes peering over the top of his hoodie, Marc glares at the screen, seemingly unaware that he’s just curled something warm and tender around Valentino’s ribs. “Who are we cheering for?”
“Ah, your friend Carlos managed only twelfth. It is Piastri and Verstappen at the front—Kimi is there in fourth, you see? And the Ferraris in fifth and sixth—always we want them to do well. Lando had a penalty, so he is seventh, but the McLaren should be fast here.”
They’re pulling away for the formation lap, weaving to warm their tyres. Marc watches, focused as ever, until he yawns. Valentino shushes him. 
“They are not even racing,” 
“They are explaining the strategy.”
Lights out. Clean start. Marc is watching more intently now, undivided attention, check pressed against Valentino’s arm.
Ten laps in, Gasly dives down the inside of Ocon, and they’re both spinning off into grass and gravel; embarrassing but harmless, enough to bring out the safety car. Valentino pulls himself free and goes to make coffee. 
Marc is barely visible beneath the throw when he returns, dark eyes glaring balefully at the television like it’s offended him personally, but he softens when Valentino hands him a mug.
“You are the best,” he mumbles, then, “At making coffee.”
Valentino laughs—once, he might have bristled at the harmless joke—and slides back into his spot between Marc and the sofa arm. Marc thumps his head down, somehow burying himself even deeper in his swaddling of blanket and hoodie and Valentino. 
It’s—it’s something they never would have imagined, even two years ago. It’s gentle, early Sunday mornings wrapped around each other; the kind of softness that shouldn’t be possible after years of tearing each other apart, digging in fingers and pulling until they drew blood. 
Valentino doesn’t ever want to go there again. He doesn’t ever want to lose this. 
Marc is breathing softly against his arm, still, quiet, perfect. 
“I want to marry you,” he murmurs.
Silence. His stomach drops. 
Marc’s inhale catches in the back of his throat, halfway to a snore, and Valentino laughs, gentle so he doesn’t wake him. He plucks the coffee cup, dangling precariously, from slack fingers, and places it on the side table. 
——
iii.
They’ve created a routine over the past few months.
(Valentino’s stomach jumps every time he thinks about it, thinks about how they’re falling into habits, into familiarity. Every time, he smiles.) 
It’s their last day together for a while: Marc is leaving later, and Valentino flies early in the morning to get to his GT race. But the routine doesn’t change. He’s making lunch for them. Marc is upstairs—his phone had rung, insistent, and he’d groaned but pulled away, leaving Valentino to chop the rest of their salad. 
Marc emerges after nearly twenty-five minutes, eyebrows pinched together, but accepts the plate Valentino slides towards him with a distracted smile.
“Everything okay?” Valentino asks.
“Ah, my accountant.” Marc scowls. “Apparently I am spending too much time in Italy.” 
Valentino can’t help the laugh that bubbles out of his chest. 
“It’s not funny,” Marc says, almost whines. “It’s a tax thing. Between all the time I spend here, and time at the factory—not enough in Spain, apparently.”
Shrugging, Valentino taps one finger on the table. “We could get married.” 
Marc snorts. “Would that help?”
“I don’t know. I am very bad to ask about tax advice, remember?”
“Me too.” Marc stabs a piece of his salad—viciously, in Valentino’s opinion. 
“Don’t frown. It will be okay.”
“I can hide here. It is difficult for you to be in Madrid.”
“It will be okay,” Valentino repeats. “And remember, we can always get married.”
He thinks he deserves it when Marc throws a slice of bread at him. 
——
iv.
Clouds hang heavy on the mountains in Spielberg, threatening rain but holding off for now. Valentino leaves Luca with a last pat on the shoulder, weaving his way up the grid towards Franky’s starting spot.
It’s slow going, stopped every few steps, shaking hands with people he recognises, people he doesn’t.
“Valentino—Valentino!”
It’s Laverty, and Valentino doesn’t mind that because he doesn’t tend to ask stupid questions. He indulges the interview, long past acceptance of the fact that he built his own mythos and will never be left alone for the rest of his life. Yes, he’s doing well, thank you. Yes, it’s nice to be on the grid. Yes, he’s proud of his boys. Yes, he’s still enjoying racing with BMW. 
“And a final question,” Michael says. “You seem like you and Marc Márquez have finally buried the hatchet. Is everything put to bed? How did you manage it?”
Maybe Michael Laverty does ask stupid questions. 
Perhaps he should have been expecting it, because clasping hands before a race, sharing a smile under the podium—people notice. Especially when the norm used to be nothing at all, or worse.
“Ah, you know.” He has plenty of shields for the media, and it’s no problem to pull out an old favourite. “We talked. Dinner with candles. It is all going very well. Maybe soon we get married.” 
Michael laughs, loud and boisterous, like Vale hasn’t just wrapped up the truth in a pretty package and presented it as a joke. He smiles, camera-easy, and returns Michael’s ciao. 
It’s only when he turns around that he realises Álex and Bez, lined up side-by-side on the grid, are staring at him. 
——
v. 
Misano is hot, sweltering August-end heat. Valentino is sweating under his cap and sunglasses, pressed in a red throng of Ducati engineers. One-two. Red on red. 
It’s Marc who’d won, victorious in the battle of weaving-turning-diving along long straights and through heavy-brake corners. Pecco had given him a good fight, an Italian classic of a race; he’s smiling at Marc, learning to enjoy the scrappy thrill of battle as well as the ease of a flawless win. 
Marc’s shining, beaming at his team, smiling down the cameras, alive under the sun. Valentino swallows down the urge to kiss him, if only because their comms officers would kill them both. 
The podium has never seemed so long. Media obligations have never seemed so long. It’s an age before they’re alone, motorhome door locked, and Valentino has Marc, to himself, finally.
He used to think Marc was too much for him, in danger of eclipsing him, their implosion inevitable as two brilliant stars orbited closer, closer, too close. Too much light for the world to handle.
If he met that version of himself now, Valentino thinks he would shake him. 
Marc glows, yes, but there’s a brightness that only Valentino gets to see, one that erupts out in starbursts of ecstasy when they’re together, when Valentino is pushing inside him, when Marc is staring up at him like there’s nothing else in the world. 
Valentino stops, earning a petulant glare; even that’s breathtaking. How—how—he can’t find the words.
“I think,” Valentino forces out, elbows taking his weight, “I want to marry you.”
Marc blinks, face suddenly cutting, incredulous. “You are telling me this now?” He’s a livewire, crackling with sparks, hot with triumph, shooting static through Valentino’s skin. He’s beautiful. Valentino wants to see this for the rest of his life, so yeah, he’s saying it now. 
He tilts his hips, and the disbelief is gone, washed away as Marc gasps. It’s something like reverence now—but not how it used to be. Nothing that Valentino could shatter this time, even though he still wants to hold it close. 
Contrary as always, Marc winds fingers through his hair, pulls him down for a breathless kiss—and Valentino smiles into it, because he can do this, he can have this effect on Marc, still. Still. 
“Vale—” 
He’s helpless when it’s Marc. Still. Always. 
When they’re finished, when they’re lying curled into each other, Valentino breathing heavy into Marc’s hair, Marc looks up, eyes narrowed. 
“You did well today,” Valentino tells him softly, and the hard expression is gone once again, replaced with a different kind of wonder. 
“Did you mean it?”
He knows what Marc means. “Yes.”
Marc nods. “Ask me again. Another time.”
It’s—Valentino smiles again. “That was not a no.” 
——
+1 
It’s not a bad crash—it’s not, not by the metrics of this sport, not compared to what it could have been, what it has been in the past. 
It’s not bad, but it could have been: Marc, bumped wide by Acosta, unable to save it, sliding helplessly through the corner apex—and Bez, unsighted, trying to avoid the recovering KTM, sailing past his braking point towards Marc, and almost—almost. 
It’s not bad, but it was close, and when Marc is back in the paddock, when he’s speaking to cameras, when he’s with his engineers, there’s something wild about him, something faraway sitting behind his eyes, and Valentino knows. He knows.  
(He still dreams, sometimes, of Austria; not of the crash, but the feeling of it, the prickle at the back of his skull, the cold finger-brush of something not right. The almost that he didn’t see coming.) 
So he waits. Marc is settled enough, trusts him enough, to reach for him when he needs him. Valentino trusts Marc enough to let him. 
The knock on his motorhome door comes long after the chequered flag has fallen. Valentino doesn’t get up, knows Marc will let himself in.
“Sorry. Pedro wanted to talk—I am not angry, but good he apologised.”
“That’s okay,” Valentino says, gentle. 
Marc drifts, loose, unmoored, towards the sofa, folds his legs underneath him, presses into Valentino’s space. Valentino lets him, waits for him to speak.
Marc is shaking. Not a lot, just enough for Valentino to notice when he takes his hand.
“Okay?”
He’s not, of course he’s not, but it’s a door nudged ajar, an opening if Marc wants to take it.
“That was—close.”
“Yeah.”
“I was—watching the bike.” Marc swallows. “Just—that was all I could do. Watch it coming towards me.” 
Valentino pulls their joined hands up, presses a kiss to the back of Marc’s. 
Marc’s next exhale trembles in the space between them. 
“You’re okay.” 
“If Bez didn’t turn—” 
If. Almost. “You’re okay,” Valentino says again, because he needs to hear it himself. Marc’s fingers clench in his. “Okay? Look, you are holding my hand. You’re okay.”
It won’t be long before Marc is through this, before he’s smiling, before he’s raring to climb on his bike again. Not yet, though. Valentino knows—he knows.
“We should get married,” Marc says abruptly.
“I have been saying—”
“Seriously.”
Valentino takes him in: pinched eyebrows; hair flattened from his Ducati cap; pursed lips. “I think I am offended, that you only ask me after today.”
Marc pulls his hand away, the laugh jolting out of him. “Valentino—”
“And you are asking me in a motorhome—really, I would have taken my hoodie off at least—”
“Vale,” Marc groans, but he’s there, he’s smiling, he’s back. 
He can’t stop a smile twitching the corners of his lips in return. “Yes?” 
“That was not a no.” 
Valentino takes his hand again.
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