Love, with very young people, is a heartless business. We drink at that age from thirst, or to get drunk; it is only later in life that we occupy ourselves with the individuality of our wine.

Summary

This quote suggests that love when one is young lacks depth and sincerity. It compares the experience of love to drinking: young people seek love to fulfill their desires or for the thrill of it, akin to drinking out of thirst or to get intoxicated. It suggests that it is only as we grow older and gain more life experience that we start appreciating the unique qualities and individuality of our partners, just like how we develop a taste for the distinct flavors of wine.