MOUNTAIN MADNESS SERIES

Armed with a small video camera, a tripod, and a bag of wine, Karma Sherpa and I set off together on an wild expedition to Base Camp. After crossing precarious suspension bridges, dodging Yaks, and much huffing and puffing up through the Himalayas we made it.

In an aircraft, both food and wine taste different to us, especially after an extended period at altitude. Our sense of smell and taste is less acute, partly due to the air pressure, dry atmosphere, and fatigue. Qatar Airways had one of the best wine programs in the sky and so we needed to delve into examining the effects of altitude on the taste of wine.

Much gratitude is owed to my friend Karma Sherpa, the Buddhist Monks at 17,000 feet, and the people at Peak Freaks.

“Next time I’ll spit.”

KARMA SHERPA

The highest peak in Africa, one of the 7 summits, was the scene of our second scientific experiment.

With Hubert Henry, mountaineering guide and new friend, we climbed through the night to reach the summit, cracking into the Champagne at sunrise and starting our research.

After the trip, Hubert started a new business renting mountain equipment. He is now able to stay at sea level, out of danger, and home with his wife and daughter. This was the most successful part of the adventure.

“Peace’n love brother”

HUBERT HENRY, 54 SUMMITS ON KILIMANJARO