The wine thread

[Bogey]

I did a search in this forum and didn't see a thread dedicated to wine.

I'm not a big wine drinker, though I was known to be a wino as a child.

I'm usually just fine with a glass of "Two Buck Chuck" before bedtime, but after watching the movie "Sideways" a couple times, and appreciating it more than I did the one time I had seen it in the theater, I thought I'd start trying Pinot Noir, the wine most appreciated in the movie by the main character, Miles.

I haven't been impressed by the bottles I have sampled as of yet.
I guess the search for a bottle I appreciate continues.

The one bottle I did enjoy recently, was a 2003 J.W. Morris Shiraz.
Yes, it's cheap and probably on the same level as Chuck, but dammit I liked it.

Please contribute your experience with wine, varieties you like, bottles you appreciate, what to drink with what food, etc.

[OTTo VoN BLoTTo]

...but after watching the movie "Sideways" a couple times, and appreciating it more than I did the one time I had seen it in the theater, I thought I'd start trying Pinot Noir, the wine most appreciated in the movie by the main character, Miles.

I haven't been impressed by the bottles I have sampled as of yet.
I guess the search for a bottle I appreciate continues.



There are a few inexpensive Pinot Noir's that are nice for the price, but because it's tough to grow and do correctly the price is higher for good ones. At it's best, PN can be very special and a truly unique wine experience--haunting, magical, and even bewitching. Unfortunately, on the low end, many can be downright strange and offensive. Because of it's native earthiness, gaminess, and even a "funkiness" it can be challenging. It's an acquired taste--and for many a "love it or hate it" thing.

Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Merlot (much maligned by Miles), and some European and South American wines are typically better buys at a more budget-minded price point. Shiraz/Syrah is also a super approachable and tasty wine. Some great values out there for all these.

But if you're talkin Pinot (or just wine in general), you're entering Snape territory. She's got great wine knowledge. And if you don't mind my asking, which Pinot Noir's did you try?

[A-FROGIRL]

My favorite Pinot Noir hands down is Edna Valley. I used to live in Santa Barbara so we used to hit up the Central Coast's wine country all the time and couldn't find a better one. The flavors are absolutely perfect.

Now that we're in SD, we go to Temecula and I was actually quite surprised how good their wine is. We are members of Ponte's wine club. I highly recommend their Super Tuscan which is a more expensive wine but worth every penny. My new infatuation is their Zinfandel Port. Just a little sit of that and a bite of pure dark chocolate and you're in absolute heaven.

[Fooferah]

Best thing you can do really is to start slowly and find out what YOU like. Keep a journal of everything you try. After a while it makes sense. Plus, you need to develop your palate a little bit to be able to appreciate what makes certain wines better than others. Go to some tastings... they can be very affordable, and you get to try several different things.

[lunchbox]

i just had a pinot noir that i got for cheap at bevmo... probably $5-6 for the bottle. i think it was called Irony. Smoking Loon also has a good one. my red of choice is cabernet though. i'm currently working on a bottle of HRM Rex Goliath which is also good & just as cheap. i usually have a glass of wine a night so i try to get good ones for cheap. i also like french wines (chateau-neuf du pape, bordeaux, cotes du rhone & beaujolais nouveau). i don't usually drink whites but if i do, i go for sauvignon blanc or muscadet sevre et maine.
two buck chuck is allright with me, too, but my french mother in law swears it makes her ill.

[Birdman]

First Bottle ----> Frog's Leap Cab

Post First Bottle ----> $2 Chuck

[gescom]

Best thing you can do really is to start slowly and find out what YOU like. Keep a journal of everything you try. After a while it makes sense. Plus, you need to develop your palate a little bit to be able to appreciate what makes certain wines better than others. Go to some tastings... they can be very affordable, and you get to try several different things.


bingo!

and by the way... if you're looking for a good pinot, start with 2004's. they tend towards a little fruitier with very mellow tannin.

Russian River Valley wineries are an excellent source for California Pinots (and Chardonnays as well) at very reasonable prices... one of our favorites this year has been the MacMurray Ranch 2004 Sonoma Coast Pinot (as in Fred MacMurray), which retails for about $27 bucks.

you CAN get a little cheaper RR pinots like Rodney Strong at the supermarket, but i'd suggest you stay away from them. terrible, WAY too bold, and drinks more like a cabernet... i've used it in my pasta sauce instead.

a good suggestion would be to obviously go wine tasting. but aside from that, i have found some knowledgable people at Bevmo... don't be afraid to ask about wines that you can really sink your teeth into and that drink well NOW.

[gescom]

oh, and QUIT drinking that f***ing Charles Shaw s***!

[Chartrand]

Not one Dancing Boy reference? I'm disappointed.

[Hipcheck]

Have a wine snob friend who says its impossible to get good Pinots at a value price so I ignore them altogether.

Some recent bottles that Ive had that were good...

Liars Dice Zinfandel- Only 15 bucks or so per bottle and arguably one of the best Zins Ive ever had. Im going to go try another bottle simply to see if it wasn't an aberration.

[Fooferah]

one of our favorites this year has been the MacMurray Ranch 2004 Sonoma Coast Pinot (as in Fred MacMurray), which retails for about $27 bucks.

Now I've got the ****ing My Three Sons theme in my head...

[Salty Dog]

Go outside California. Lots of good stuff out there that doesn't have the bloated price tag for just being grown in Napa or Sonoma.

Argentina, Chile, Spain, Australia, New Zealand, etc. all have some great wines for decent prices.

[Fooferah]

Is it time for the sequel to the Great Malbec Craze?

[Salty Dog]

Is it time for the sequel to the Great Malbec Craze?
Carmenere maybe? B ut the sequel ISN'T pinotage! Ugghhh, that stuff is awful.

[gescom]

Is it time for the sequel to the Great Malbec Craze?


Argentine Malbecs or French Malbecs?

[ketel&tonic]

Peachy Canyon's Jester. It's a blend of 4 reds (I'll post which when I get home). Not easy to find. About $15/bottle. The guy at the little market where I always find/buy it told me it wasn't going to be available for another month, and I left sad and empty handed. But then a week after that I was at Costco and they had it and I almost crashed my cart when I turned the corner and saw it. I should have picked up a case of it...dammit.

[Fooferah]

Argentine Malbecs or French Malbecs?

If you'll recall your LGK history, the Great Malbec Craze was Argentine.

[Salty Dog]

Norton Malbec to be specific. Still a great wine for under $10 and carried by Cost Plus and Bevmo.

South America also has some good tempranillos for those whole like Spanish rioja but want a cheaper alternative.

[Fooferah]

Yeah, I believe it was the '02 we were drinking back then.

[gescom]

if you can still find it around... i bought practically all of the bottles at my local Cost Plus.


Casa Lapostolle - Cuv?e Alexandre 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon.


dark fruit and a bit chocolaty... this thing has got some real legs!

a fantastic Chilean cab that retails for about $17 bucks. i haven't tried the 2005 but i got it for a wine snob friend of mine for her birthday and both she and her husband felt that it was as good as the 04.

grill a couple of steaks and enjoy!

[GregDM]

I really like the Willamette Valley Pinots from Oregon.

A couple really good ones I've had recently:

- Benton Lane (I think it was an '04)
- Domaine Serene 2004 Evenstad Reserve

I missed the whole Malbec discussion. Went to Argentina in September 2005 and spent a few days in Mendoza. We hired a driver to take us around to a few wineries. The exchange rate was about $2.9:1 so it was pretty affordable. Pretty good wines and nice tours.

[Fooferah]

It was several years back. Salty clued us in to the Nortons, and it was Malbecfest from then on for a while.

[go]

Meridian Santa Barbara County Merlot $6 from Costco. 3x better than 2 buck upChuck. My favorite cheap wine.

Zinfandel from Sonoma County.

Why buy from outside CA when we have some of the best growing wine regions in our backyard?

[King Ludwig]

I'm not a drinker at all...but I use one wine strictly for cooking purposes...Shao Hsing... Now to find a place close to me that sells it so I don't have to buy three bottles every year to make my signature dish 10 times a year...

[King Ludwig]

Would Thunderbird be an appropriate wine choice with a bean burrito???

[Fooferah]

Meridian Santa Barbara County Merlot $6 from Costco. 3x better than 2 buck upChuck. My favorite cheap wine.


He said he was going all Sideways with this. That means no ****ing Merlot!

[ChilledAgua]

Here is some tasting info for those in the Long Beach area -

http://www.thewinecountry.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=Z1_1calendar&Store_Code=TWC

One Zin selection that may find some favor is the one from EOS. It's fruit-forward with soft tannins and has been good over a number of vintages.
It's generally priced between $10.00 and $15.00, depending on whether or not it can be found on sale. This is one of our standbys for grilling.

[go]

He said he was going all Sideways with this. That means no ****ing Merlot!

Merlot is such an easy wine to like. Screw Miles.

[OTTo VoN BLoTTo]

Carmenere maybe? B ut the sequel ISN'T pinotage! Ugghhh, that stuff is awful.


Las Colinas (Chile) makes a really nice Carmenere for around 7 bucks if you can find it. Great little peppery note on the finish. The Santa Rita Carm. on the other hand... ehhhhh, not so special IMO. Their "120" Cab is much better for the same price.




Why buy from outside CA when we have some of the best growing wine regions in our backyard?


It's human nature that what's of our land and locale will taste good to us. It is us, and we are of it. Born and raised SoCals we learned on and love Cali wines. But the "old world" or earth-forward style appealed to me more and more over the years and now I'm hooked. Open something from a far-away land and it's almost as if a part of you travels there: you're tasting their fruit, their earth, their water and their history. It's unfamiliar.... and intriguing. Maybe even a tad romantic? ;)

But the bottom line is that we should try it all. Just too much good stuff out there!!

[A-FROGIRL]

We should set up an LGK invades Temecula wine tasting trip....just sayin!

[Fooferah]

Here's info for OC tastings.

http://www.hitimewine.net/winebar.asp

[go]

Las Colinas (Chile) makes a really nice Carmenere for around 7 bucks if you can find it. Great little peppery note on the finish. The Santa Rita Carm. on the other hand... ehhhhh, not so special IMO. Their "120" Cab is much better for the same price.





It's human nature that what's of our land and locale will taste good to us. It is us, and we are of it. Born and raised SoCals we learned on and love Cali wines. But the "old world" or earth-forward style appealed to me more and more over the years and now I'm hooked. Open something from a far-away land and it's almost as if a part of you travels there: you're tasting their fruit, their earth, their water and their history. It's unfamiliar.... and intriguing. Maybe even a tad romantic? ;)

But the bottom line is that we should try it all. Just too much good stuff out there!!
California wines are loved everywhere in the world.

I think since we are such a young state filled with immigrants there is a little lack of pride from being from California.

Zinfandel is a California wine through and through. When it is good it is recognized as being one of the best wines in the world.

In reality I am not much of a wine connoisseur but I believe in local products. That is why I go to the farmer's market every weekend and drink CA wines!

[gescom]

California wines are loved everywhere in the world.

I think since we are such a young state filled with immigrants there is a little lack of pride from being from California.

Zinfandel is a California wine through and through. When it is good it is recognized as being one of the best wines in the world.

In reality I am not much of a wine connoisseur but I believe in local products. That is why I go to the farmer's market every weekend and drink CA wines!



additionally, i was eating at one of the finest restaurants in Las Vegas once and had the (VERY French) sommelier choose my wine for me and my dish... and what did he give me? a California Pinot.

[Fooferah]

It was a fake accent.

[gescom]

It was a fake accent.


nah... he had those beadys 'neath the glasses. i even swear that i heard him say that i made his ass twitch under his breath.

[Salty Dog]

I think since we are such a young state filled with immigrants there is a little lack of pride from being from California.
Pride? That is the gayest thing I've heard that didn't come from Deeker. I didn't grow the grapes or ferment the wine. All I did was buy it, where's the pride in that? Should I be proud of Del Taco too since it's from California? Besides, nobody is saying California has bad wines, just that there is equally good wine out there from outside of California for people to try, and a lot of it is cheaper because they didn't tack $5-$10 onto the price because of where it is from.

[go]

Pride? That is the gayest thing I've heard that didn't come from Deeker. I didn't grow the grapes or ferment the wine. All I did was buy it, where's the pride in that? Should I be proud of Del Taco too since it's from California? Besides, nobody is saying California has bad wines, just that there is equally good wine out there from outside of California for people to try, and a lot of it is cheaper because they didn't tack $5-$10 onto the price because of where it is from.

Napa is notorious for that but besides Napa Valley wine most CA wineries don't jack of the price.

There are some good cheap CA wines out there.

[OTTo VoN BLoTTo]

California wines are loved everywhere in the world.

I think since we are such a young state filled with immigrants there is a little lack of pride from being from California.

Zinfandel is a California wine through and through. When it is good it is recognized as being one of the best wines in the world.

In reality I am not much of a wine connoisseur but I believe in local products. That is why I go to the farmer's market every weekend and drink CA wines!



I'll echo your sentiment on the farmers market. There's nothing better!!

Wine aside, I'm extremely proud of my Californa heritage. I think it's a very unique place in the world. And as such, we produce wines equally interesting and diverse.

Good Sonoma Zins and Pinot's (esp. the russian river valley) are maybe my favorites in the world. But when you drink as much as I do there's plenty of time to enjoy ours--and everyone else's too. Don't worry, go. We all love deeply our cali wines. It's just fun to try different stuff, and anyway what I'm eating will always determine what is uncorked. The harmonious pairing of tastes is the goal, and it stretches beyond geographical inclinations.

[go]

I usually don't pair up when I drink wine. I drink it sans food mostly. That is why I like merlot. I am not really against buying foreign wines but for the price I pay mainly California wines are good enough.

[GregDM]

California wines are loved everywhere in the world.

I think since we are such a young state filled with immigrants there is a little lack of pride from being from California.

Zinfandel is a California wine through and through. When it is good it is recognized as being one of the best wines in the world.

In reality I am not much of a wine connoisseur but I believe in local products. That is why I go to the farmer's market every weekend and drink CA wines!

go, although I really like the Oregon Pinots, I'd say about eight or nine of every 10 bottles of wine I drink is from CA. California absolutely has world class wines. And I definitely like the idea of supporting local products. The only problem I have with CA wines is that I don't want to see too much more good agricultural land converted to vineyards. They're not the best land use from an environmental perspective.

[go]

go, although I really like the Oregon Pinots, I'd say about eight or nine of every 10 bottles of wine I drink is from CA. California absolutely has world class wines. And I definitely like the idea of supporting local products. The only problem I have with CA wines is that I don't want to see too much more good agricultural land converted to vineyards. They're not the best land use from an environmental perspective.

I know that. Actually I am a land use planner, although for a City not the county where vineyards are placed. Behind firefox, I am supposed to be looking/working on a map with a whole bunch of parcels on it!

One could say any development is not good from an environmental perspective.

Read this mindnumbing stuff at what land use plans actually do.

http://www.forester.net/sw_0207_stormwater.html

Napa wineries, Sierra Club and CEQA.

http://www.sheppardmullin.com/publications/pubview.cfm?pubID=170

This one is a little less mindnumbing.

TG I don't work in the depths of CEQA.

[Fooferah]

I guess you're probably big into the Slow Food movement, huh?

[GregDM]

I know that. Actually I am a land use planner, although for a City not the county where vineyards are placed. Behind firefox, I am supposed to be looking/working on a map with a whole bunch of parcels on it!

One could say any development is not good from an environmental perspective.

Read this mindnumbing stuff at what land use plans actually do.

http://www.forester.net/sw_0207_stormwater.html

Napa wineries, Sierra Club and CEQA.

http://www.sheppardmullin.com/publications/pubview.cfm?pubID=170

This one is a little less mindnumbing.

TG I don't work in the depths of CEQA.

go, I have been lucky enough to be on the periphery of CEQA as well.

As far as the stormwater issue goes, I used to do TMDLs (mercury and metals) for the Regional Water Board in Sacramento, so I'm at least familiar with some of the issues.

[Salty Dog]

I guess you're probably big into the Slow Food movement, huh?

Is that where you eat turtles and 3-toed tree sloths?

[Fooferah]

Nope. And it's a test. Let's see what he says. Shh.

[go]

I guess you're probably big into the Slow Food movement, huh?

I have not let my children eat fast food. I grow a little bit of veggies in my garden. And I eat at locally owned restaurants.

But I did have a Costco frozen breaded fish yesterday.

[go]

Oh you mean escargot. No, too garlicky.

[gescom]

for all of you cheap motherf***ers, here you go...


Boekenhoutskloof Wolftrap 2005

a blended red with Syrah, Cinsault, Mourv?rde, and Viognier.



it's New World (from South Africa)
Pinot AND Merlot drinkers should find it suitable
it can be paired or had alone.
it has a screw top!
they are blowing the s*** out of them at Cost Plus for like $5 bucks!!!!

[gescom]

tonight i am grilling some chicken and willing be swilling down a bottle of (a very inexpensive) - Zenato 2004 Pinto Grigio.

for you white winos out there, i'll give you a heads up when i'm done.

[Salty Dog]

tonight i am grilling some chicken and willing be swilling down a bottle of (a very inexpensive) - Zenato 2004 Pinto Grigio.

for you white winos out there, i'll give you a heads up when i'm done.Cool. I usually steer clear of whites when I grill, even if it's chicken or fish. Or at least I'll drink a bottle of white WHILE grilling and then switch to red with dinner. Another reason charcoal grills rule - more time to drink while the coals heat up!

[Fooferah]

for all of you cheap motherf***ers, here you go...


If it'll make you feel any better, you can buy me a really nice expensive bottle of wine. You know, just 'cause I'm a nice person like that and stuff.

[gescom]

Cool. I usually steer clear of whites when I grill, even if it's chicken or fish. Or at least I'll drink a bottle of white WHILE grilling and then switch to red with dinner. Another reason charcoal grills rule - more time to drink while the coals heat up!

i hear ya (especially on the drink the white while grilling, then switch)... i do like whites with grilled chicken, but i most definitely prefer reds if i were to roast instead (it may be whatever it is that accompanies the chicken)... i never drink whites with fish though and some pinots pair well. if i'm eating an ?ber white fish, i almost rather drink beer honestly.



If it'll make you feel any better, you can buy me a really nice expensive bottle of wine. You know, just 'cause I'm a nice person like that and stuff.


well, there's cheap and then there's CHEAP. i find $17-20 to be rather inexpensive and definitely worth someone's while.

but i'll do it for you... ;)

[go]

I have half a bottle of Old Moon Zin, TJs $6/bottle in my pantry. I think I will finish it tonight before I play Forza2.

Not half bad IMO.

[esoteric1]

If you'll recall your LGK history, the Great Malbec Craze was Argentine.

The best Pinots are from Washington State. About $30 for a decent bottle.

Many great spanish, argentinian, and chilean grenaches and malbec for $6. Low in tanins, dark in color, rich in cherry and spice.

Jim Fox tells me he's a big wine fan.

[esoteric1]

The best Pinots are from Washington State. About $30 for a decent bottle.

Many great spanish, argentinian, and chilean grenaches and malbec for $6. Low in tanins, dark in color, rich in cherry and spice.

Jim Fox tells me he's a big wine fan.

I wonder if Ian Turnbull has tried the Turnbull Zinfindal?

[gescom]

The best Pinots are from Washington State. About $30 for a decent bottle.


i don't like empirical statements like this... especially those that i completely disagree with.

aside from the fact that i've always known Washington to be more of a great Merlot producer, the furthest north i think have ever heard the term "best" used with regard to a west coast pinot has been probably Oregon's Willamette Valley (Eyrie to be specific). maybe some Washingtonians are sneaking into Portland late at night and stealing s***, who knows.


at any rate, the best Pinots STILL come from France.

[Fooferah]

LOL! Dude, did you just quote yourself... in the very next post?

[zmtnbik]

Haven't seen it mentioned yet, but my wife's new favorite and slowly becoming mine:
http://www.gottwines.com/wines/CA_CS/05CACS_bottle480.jpg

My all time favorite though is a Merlot from Pride Mountain, Paloma (http://www.palomavineyard.com/wines.asp)
If you are ever in the Napa, I highly recommend a visit to vineyard owners home (Jim and Barbara) for wine tasting in their kitchen overlooking the vineyard.

[gescom]

Cool. I usually steer clear of whites when I grill, even if it's chicken or fish. Or at least I'll drink a bottle of white WHILE grilling and then switch to red with dinner. Another reason charcoal grills rule - more time to drink while the coals heat up!


update!

aw Dog... the Zenato 2004 Pinot Grigio is a TOTAL two-fer!

now i don't have any sort of developed palate for Pinot Grigio, but i CAN tell you that for the price (around $10 bucks or so at Cost Plus), THIS white is fantastic!

not at all dry like Chardonnays and other Pinot Gris/Grigios i have had at that price... i dare say at even more expensive prices as well.

this is a great white should you decide to pair with grilled chicken or fish unless you're going for more of a sweet grill (i guess), and DEFINITELY something you could absolutely wreck while grilling in the early summer evening.



tonight i am grilling some chicken and willing be swilling down a bottle of (a very inexpensive) - Zenato 2004 Pinot Grigio.


"swilling" indeed!

[No One]

at any rate, the best Pinots STILL come from France.

my wife would agree.

[gescom]

now here's one that i think Hipcheck can REALLY sink his teeth into. i think it's RIGHT up his alley.

2004 Ridge, Ponzo Vineyards California Zinfandel.

i have become a bit of a freak about 2004 Russian River Valley wines, and this is absolutely NO exception!

it is in the $20-$30 range (i can't remember exactly) at Cost Plus. if it's out of any of your price ranges, f*** it... BUY THIS!!!

it is absolutely outstanding. it has a strong punch because it is a strong wine (about 14.9%)... much more than any Zin i've ever had. probably due to the fact that it's 96% percent Zin, 3% Petite Syrah, and 1% Carignane. but make NO mistake, it finishes smoother than any Zin i've had as well and the fruit really pops on the way down. somewhat dry and VERY lengthy!

a little sweet and new tasting, it was perfect for a couple of spicy rubbed steaks and a curried rice that Kat and i had for dinner tonight... i'm going out tomorrow or Wednesday to grab a few more because this s*** is going to drink exceptionally well for the next 5 years. the bottle definitely got better the longer it sat.

http://winelibrary.com/images/8237.jpg

[Annapurna]

Ridge consistently makes a good Zin. I also like Dover Canyon Winery's "Alto Pomar"

and Burgundy is the best region for Pinot Noir, hands down. A wine from Domaine de la Roman?e-Conti will kick ass over any Pinot Noir you can get on this continent.

[salami]

My wife and I went out to an extravigant dinner in Sedona last week, and had two half bottles of 2005 Kosta Browne Pinot (one was Russian River Valley, and the other Sonoma Coast) at $90 each. I've been searching for this wine for a couple of years, and wasn't disappointed. It was so good we ordered another $90 half bottle, if that is any indicator. Without a doubt, the best wine I've ever had...and I've had lots. What's unfortunate is, when it came out it was rated by Wine Spectator as a 93, and was only $35 a bottle. Now, if you can find it, it's about $55 for a half bottle (the above price was in a restaurant). Regardless, it was worth it.

[Annapurna]

My wife and I went out to an extravigant dinner in Sedona last week, and had two half bottles of 2005 Kosta Browne Pinot (one was Russian River Valley, and the other Sonoma Coast) at $90 each. I've been searching for this wine for a couple of years, and wasn't disappointed. It was so good we ordered another $90 half bottle, if that is any indicator. Without a doubt, the best wine I've ever had...and I've had lots. What's unfortunate is, when it came out it was rated by Wine Spectator as a 93, and was only $35 a bottle. Now, if you can find it, it's about $55 for a half bottle (the above price was in a restaurant). Regardless, it was worth it.

How would you compare the RRV wine to the Sonoma Coast wine? I would imagine the RRV Pinot Noir would have a bit more ripe fruit. Drinking these young Pinot Noir's at restaurants scare me because I would want them to aerate for about 2 hours before I try them.

[Hipcheck]

now here's one that i think Hipcheck can REALLY sink his teeth into. i think it's RIGHT up his alley.

2004 Ridge, Ponzo Vineyards California Zinfandel.


a little sweet and new tasting, it was perfect for a couple of spicy rubbed steaks and a curried rice that Kat and i had for dinner tonight... i'm going out tomorrow or Wednesday to grab a few more because this s*** is going to drink exceptionally well for the next 5 years. the bottle definitely got better the longer it sat.

http://winelibrary.com/images/8237.jpg

A recent Zin I had that I thought was very good was the Murphy Goode Liars Dice Zin. It goes for 15-20 per bottle and I thought it outstanding. One thing about wine though is the quality/taste of the wine directly correlates to the occasion/mood of the wine drinker. When its a joyous celebration and you are in a good mood the wine always tastes better; if you are in a crappy mood even the most expensive wine will leave you dissapointed.

Just my 2 cents and in true Hipcheck fashion tonight Ill be drinking the $4.99 Jakes Fault Shiraz from TJs. And yes-I will use my decanter for my anonymous LGK friend who hates decanters and has yet to show the nads to reveal himself.

Anyhow...

http://www.volunteer.blogs.com/winewaves/images/murphy_goode_liars_dice_sonoma_county_zinfandel_20 03.jpg

[Bogey]

Just my 2 cents and in true Hipcheck fashion tonight Ill be drinking the $4.99 Jakes Fault Shiraz from TJs.I might have to try that. I had a good experience with the one bottle of shiraz i had.


BTW, in Sideways, the Maya character mentioned that Miles' bottle was peaking.

Anyone know what resource one would refer to to find such information?

[Fooferah]

Might try Wine Spectator.

[mitchrock]

Temecula trio available right now in the Woot off. Will probably be gone in 15 minutes.

[Hipcheck]

I used to occasionally buy from Wine Woot but lately there havent really been that good of deals.

[seraphim]

this is my favorite wine. I like it because it's good and a local Wine here in WA. This wine tastes great with Cheese Burgers.

http://silverlakewinery.com/images/labels/resmerlot.jpg

MERLOT
The bold and fresh black, blue and raspberry fruit aromas are supported by an underpinning of soft velvety wood flavors of vanilla and cedar. Aged for 22 months in small oak barrels (77% new French oak) the tannins in this wine are beautifully balanced with the intense rounded fruit flavors. Serve this wine with all types of red meat dishes. The subtle flavors of rosemary encrusted lamb make the perfect foil for the lively fruit flavors in this exceptional wine.

-_Sf

[seraphim]

I have not let my children eat fast food.

That's just brutal. They're going to end up without the necessary enzymes to eat American food, and their first trip to McDonalds will scar them for life when they **** themselves....Ronaldzuma's Revenge or something similar.

-_Sf

[Annapurna]

I might have to try that. I had a good experience with the one bottle of shiraz i had.


BTW, in Sideways, the Maya character mentioned that Miles' bottle was peaking.

Anyone know what resource one would refer to to find such information?

http://dat.erobertparker.com/info/vintagechart1.asp

[Hipcheck]

http://dat.erobertparker.com/info/vintagechart1.asp

Nice Find.

[OTTo VoN BLoTTo]

http://dat.erobertparker.com/info/vintagechart1.asp


THANK YOU for posting that! Didn't R. Parker's site used to provide those pages to members only? I printed one a few years back from a one-day trial, but you couldn't get past his front page without joining up and logging in. I carried that thing folded up in my wallet for a year or two, and towards the end it was falling to pieces like an ancient treasure map or something. Got some pretty weird looks breaking that thing out and trying to hold it together. But what a invaluable tool when you're just not sure, and there's bottles of the same wine on the shelf--from two different vintages--and the peeps at the store are (bigger) dolts (than I). Yes, I'll be printing this toot sweet.

Also... please add me to the list of Ridge lovers. At $20 to $30--and with all those bottlings--it's not a cult wine or considered high-end, but it always feels like a special occasion. Pulling one out to open and seeing that label brings a certain anticipation because you just KNOW you're in for something special.

[Bogey]

I'm bringing this thread back to life for two reasons:

1) I recently did a tour of the Santa Ynez Valley

&

2) I'm drinking a hell of a lot of wine lately. Not necessarily good wine but it's wine nonetheless.

[No One]

did I mention I have an affinity for Agrapart 2000 Mineral Champagne?

did i mention the owner of my wife's shop gave me two bottles tonight for helping him out the last 2 days with computer ****?

Tomorrow night, I see some Mineral in my future.

[BleedingPurple]

I'm bringing this thread back to life for two reasons:

1) I recently did a tour of the Santa Ynez Valley

&

2) I'm drinking a hell of a lot of wine lately. Not necessarily good wine but it's wine nonetheless.


Where did you go in Santa Ynez? My wife and I, as well as some friends, go up there at least a few times a year.

[Paulatron]

I'm usually not that into wine, but I was wine tasting in Los Olivos a few weeks ago and had some really good Pinot Gris.

http://www.sbcountywines.com/wineries/pages/scott.html

[Bogey]

Where did you go in Santa Ynez? My wife and I, as well as some friends, go up there at least a few times a year.Was my first trip to the area and I did the whole 'Sideways' tour.
Went down Santa Rosa road first, hit the new Sanford winery, Lafond, then the old Sanford Winery now called Alma Rosa.
Went to the old Windmill Hotel, noted the locations of AJ Spurs and the Hitching Post, then went to the Ostrich Farm before checking in at Solvang. Afterwards ate at the Hitching Post. Great food and I had the Highliner, of course.
Next day played 9 holes of golf at the Alisal River course, ate at the Solvang Restaurant, then checked out Kalyra, the Santa Ines Mission and Gainey before heading north up Foxen Canyon Road.
It got too late to make it to Foxen, but coming south, hit Zaca Mesa, Fess Parker and Firestone before eating at the Los Olivos Cafe and Wine Merchant.
Next day ate at Split Pea Andersons before heading back home.

[Hipcheck]

Picked up a bottle of Ghost Pines cab recently....for a sub $20 wine very very tasty.https://www.wineroom.com/store/images/23177.jpg

[BleedingPurple]

Was my first trip to the area and I did the whole 'Sideways' tour.
Went down Santa Rosa road first, hit the new Sanford winery, Lafond, then the old Sanford Winery now called Alma Rosa.
Went to the old Windmill Hotel, noted the locations of AJ Spurs and the Hitching Post, then went to the Ostrich Farm before checking in at Solvang. Afterwards ate at the Hitching Post. Great food and I had the Highliner, of course.
Next day played 9 holes of golf at the Alisal River course, ate at the Solvang Restaurant, then checked out Kalyra, the Santa Ines Mission and Gainey before heading north up Foxen Canyon Road.
It got too late to make it to Foxen, but coming south, hit Zaca Mesa, Fess Parker and Firestone before eating at the Los Olivos Cafe and Wine Merchant.
Next day ate at Split Pea Andersons before heading back home.

Very Cool. I'm actually a member of Lafond and Zaca Mesa. I've been to Sandford as well... It's pretty cool that we have a wine region so close to us. A lot of people don't realize how many wineries they have just beyond their doorstep. Hopefully you had a great time. If so, you should go back in the Spring after the rains. The hills are as green as can be and it's just amazing. We like to go up a few times a year at least.

[PPharoah]

Yea we used to live on Foxen Canyon Road! Great area that's for sure.

Cabernet Sauvignon with steak, although there's nothing wrong with Merlot, thanks Miles.

White Reisling or Chardonnay are a nice mix with lighter meats.

It's been a while but Fetzer and Stag's Leap are decent tasting and priced wines.
Byron, Sanford, Firestone, and Zaca Mesa have never done me wrong either.:)

[Leatherface]

It's been a while but Fetzer and Stag's Leap are decent tasting and priced wines.


Ive seen Stags Leap approach 50 a bottle for 2004s...I dunno. It's good, but not that good, to me anyway, and I am definitely not an expert. I just go by taste and feel.



Byron, Sanford, Firestone, and Zaca Mesa have never done me wrong either.:)


Yeah another vote for Firestone here.

Lately Ive been drinking a 5 dollar bottle of malbech from TJ's.

[OTTo VoN BLoTTo]

It's been a while but Fetzer and Stag's Leap are decent tasting and priced wines.



I'm convinced after numerous experiments that Fetzer Valley Oaks Gew?rztraminer is THEE best wine on the planet with Thai take-out. Especially the Tom-yum soup. Fan****ingtastic!!!!

[PPharoah]

Ive seen Stags Leap approach 50 a bottle for 2004s...I dunno. It's good, but not that good, to me anyway, and I am definitely not an expert. I just go by taste and feel.
PPharoah:Like I mentioned, it's been a while!

Yeah another vote for Firestone here.

Definitely a good choice.:groupwave:groupwave:groupwave


OTTo VoN BLoTTo Quote:
I'm convinced after numerous experiments that Fetzer Valley Oaks Gew?rztraminer is THEE best wine on the planet with Thai take-out. Especially the Tom-yum soup. Fan****ingtastic!!!!

You won't get an argument out of me.

[lunchbox]

I'm convinced after numerous experiments that Fetzer Valley Oaks Gew?rztraminer is THEE best wine on the planet with Thai take-out. Especially the Tom-yum soup. Fan****ingtastic!!!!

heh! that is THE wine i serve with coconut beef curry. compliments the spices well.

[Leatherface]

im so ****in drunk on cote du rhone right now

[Leatherface]

picked up one of these today...

http://nomerlot.com/reviews/media/Smoking%20Loon%20Syrah.jpg

[A-FROGIRL]

We're going up to Ponte in Temecula tomorrow. I hear Ponte's Super Tuscan and Zin Port.

[Tothecup]

Besides BevMo, the Winehouse has a great selection of really good wines at very reasonable prices. Byron is one of my personal favorites of Pinot Noir. Just bought the 2006 Le Cadeau, a vinyard from Oregon. They have great pinots up in Oregon

[ChilledAgua]

Introducing "The Peasant"

(40% Mourvedre, 32% Syrah, 17% Grenache, 7% Counoise, 4% Tannat = 100% delicious!)

http://www.fourvines.com/downloads/Peasant_2_enlarge.jpg

It's from a warm weather AVA (Paso) and, @ 15.3% alcohol, probably more of a fruit-bomb than the more refined palates would enjoy...all I know is that it was wonderful with the grilled flatiron steak I had with it.

And any wine which has the sentiment "Temperance, like chastity, is it's own punishment." printed right on the bottle can't be all bad.

Only 784 cases produced.

I've got to get me a refill...

Our Wines (http://www.fourvines.com/Our_Wines.html)

[Salty Dog]

Introducing "The Peasant"

(40% Mourvedre, 32% Syrah, 17% Grenache, 7% Counoise, 4% Tannat = 100% delicious!)
Damn, I haven't even heard of the last 2 varietals! I checked out their site and they have a bunch of fun wines, I gotta make a trip to Hi-Time and pick some up. thanks for the tip.

[Hipcheck]

Website shows Four Vines carried at Hi Times but cant find that specific varietal-what was the per bottle price?


Introducing "The Peasant"

(40% Mourvedre, 32% Syrah, 17% Grenache, 7% Counoise, 4% Tannat = 100% delicious!)

http://www.fourvines.com/downloads/Peasant_2_enlarge.jpg

It's from a warm weather AVA (Paso) and, @ 15.3% alcohol, probably more of a fruit-bomb than the more refined palates would enjoy...all I know is that it was wonderful with the grilled flatiron steak I had with it.

And any wine which has the sentiment "Temperance, like chastity, is it's own punishment." printed right on the bottle can't be all bad.

Only 784 cases produced.

I've got to get me a refill...

Our Wines (http://www.fourvines.com/Our_Wines.html)

[ChilledAgua]

Website shows Four Vines carried at Hi Times but cant find that specific varietal-what was the per bottle price?

I can't recall if I bought it at The Wine Country or BevMo (both in Long Beach). Neither website has it listed, either.

I was able to dig up this page with the price ($32.99 - about what I remember) and it apparently is in stock for ordering online.

Four Vines 2005 "The Peasant" Red Blend :: California :: Wine by Region :: Carlsbad Wine Merchants (http://store.carlsbadwinemerchants.com/product.php?productid=1941&cat=0&page=1&featured)

Hope this helps. (I may have to resort to this myself).

[ChilledAgua]

Update 0n "The Peasant-

I was off today and went to all the local places where I generally buy wine to find out where I had initially purchased it. I found the last 3 bottles at the Long Beach BevMo, even though it was not listed at all on their website, and bought them.

Hopefully, they (or maybe Hi-Time) will still have some on the shelves...

[jerseydevil]

:38smile: http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c179/rtbstrd1331/ArborMistSangriaZin1_5L.jpg you guys can keep your 'schmancy wine...i'll stick with this'un. It's cheaper by the six pack @ vons...too bad it don't come inna box

discerning interspecies erotica enthuiasts say...HEEEEEEYYYYYY!!!!

http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c179/rtbstrd1331/zak.jpg

[zmtnbik]

:38smile: http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c179/rtbstrd1331/ArborMistSangriaZin1_5L.jpg you guys can keep your 'schmancy wine...i'll stick with this'un. It's cheaper by the six pack @ vons...too bad it don't come inna box

discerning interspecies erotica enthuiasts say...HEEEEEEYYYYYY!!!!

This is a Wine thread, not "My favorite drink in high school" thread.

[jerseydevil]

This is a Wine thread, not "My favorite drink in high school" thread.



awwww go sniff a cork...

[poobaugh]

Go outside California. Lots of good stuff out there that doesn't have the bloated price tag for just being grown in Napa or Sonoma.

Argentina, Chile, Spain, Australia, New Zealand, etc. all have some great wines for decent prices.

Amen to that. Was just up in the Napa/Sonoma valley and the wine is very expensive!

[GreatSaveGerber]

Aha! At last, here's an intelligent wine thread that -- thank God -- doesn't fall all over itself with snobbishness. Getting into this discussion was one of the main reasons I joined these boards! :dance4:

My better half and I own a wine shop in Yorba Linda, so I'm something of a wine geek. But I'm happy to say I'm no snob, and learning about adult grape juice has been one of my passions for almost 18 years.

If you'll recall your LGK history, the Great Malbec Craze was Argentine.
I'll quote Jancis Robinson (Welcome to jancisrobinson.com - JancisRobinson.com (http://www.jancisrobinson.com)) -- one of the world's top experts in wine and the world's first female Master of Wine (that's basically the equivalent of a Ph.D. in the subject) -- from her Oxford Companion to Wine, Third Edition for info about Cot or Auxerrrois, French names for the Malbec grape:


Cot is an important French synomym for the black grape variety of French origin also known as Malbec and, in Cahors, Auxerrois.

Here's a bit more from JR on Cahors, that area in France she'd mentioned as it relates to Cot/Malbec:


Cahors, increasingly significant wine region in the Quercy region in South West France, producing exclusively red wine, uniquely dependent on the Malbec or Cot grape ... The wine producer of Cahors long suffered from the protectionist measures against such Haut Pays wines influcted on Cahors by the merchants of Bordeaux ... There are records of Cahors being sold in London in the early 13th Century, but the Hundred Years War disrupted patterns of trade ...

By far the largest number of growers (in Cahors) planted an overwhelming majority of Malbec, called here for obscure reasons Auxerrois, a traditional Cahors variety which is nowhere else associated with particularly long-living wines. The appelation rules stipulate that at least 70 percent Auxerrois, supplemented by the tannic Tannat and/or the supple Merlot ...

We have a killer Cahors at our shop, our '04 Clos le Coutale Cahors. We served it for our Father's Day tasting last year, which we called "Dad's Day Dandies," because of its lusty, he-man scents and flavors of ripe blackberry and currant, smoke, earth, and leather. Our customers swooned over the stuff once they tried it, and bought us out of it totally. Small wonder: We sell it for a measly $12. (Yes, it's one of our favorite wines in the shop.)

OK, that's the post I've wanted to make for quite a few weeks. Here's hoping my rambling about what JR calls "the world's most delicious beverage" didn't put too many of you guys off! ;)

Cheers,

Jan/GSG

[Bogey]

After sampling a few different wines, I have come to the conclusion that (at this time) I still can't tell the difference between "good" expensive wines and cheap wines.

I'm liking the two buck chuck shiraz at this time.

I have a Nickel & Nickel "Lightning Strike" in the "wine cellar".
Waiting for it to age and smooth before I whip it out.

I hope I can tell the difference between the two by the time I open it.

[VCRW]

eRobertParker.com: The Independent Consumer's Guide to Fine Wine (http://dat.erobertparker.com/info/vintagechart1.asp)

A belated thank you for posting this link. I also remember that this site originally was viewable via membership only. Parker's commentaries and ratings have consistently helped expand my knowledge and experience.

In the last 20 years the great California reds have become so expensive that my taste has migrated to Italian, Spanish, French, Australian, Argentine and Chilean reds. Parker has a great understanding of and appreciation for these wines. His site is a fantastic resource.

Thanks, again, Annapurna.

[Hipcheck]

After sampling a few different wines, I have come to the conclusion that (at this time) I still can't tell the difference between "good" expensive wines and cheap wines.

I'm liking the two buck chuck shiraz at this time.

I have a Nickel & Nickel "Lightning Strike" in the "wine cellar".
Waiting for it to age and smooth before I whip it out.

I hope I can tell the difference between the two by the time I open it.

Try the Ghost Pines cab. Its only 20 bucks at most per bottle but really has a much higher end taste. Comare this to any random 5 dollar cab at TJs and you will at least have a ball park idea of what it and what isnt quality grog.

[sonnyboy11]

I have been delving into NZ Suavignon Blancs of late. If anyone has some recommendations for that region/varietal let me hear em!

To date I have tried

Babich '06

Brancott '07

Jibe '06

Matua Valley '07

Monkey Bay '07

Really young wines I know but that's ok for Blancs, right? Most of these are Marlborough Valley afaik. I am also open to some other Blanc suggestions. I've tried a few Chilean ones and like them as well.

[Annapurna]

My favorite NZ SZ to date is the '06 Dog Point. The '07 Kim Crawford is pretty tasty as well.

[VCRW]

My favorite NZ SZ to date is the '06 Dog Point. The '07 Kim Crawford is pretty tasty as well.

I strongly agree with both these selections. Kim Crawford Sauv Blanc consistently makes the Wine Spectator Top 100. Dog Point is always right up there too. Another, yet more expensive, option is Cloudy Bay Chardonnay.

[ChilledAgua]

I have been delving into NZ Suavignon Blancs of late. If anyone has some recommendations for that region/varietal let me hear em!

To date I have tried

Babich '06

Brancott '07

Jibe '06

Matua Valley '07

Monkey Bay '07

Really young wines I know but that's ok for Blancs, right? Most of these are Marlborough Valley afaik. I am also open to some other Blanc suggestions. I've tried a few Chilean ones and like them as well.

I like the various vintages I've had of "House of Nobilo" Sauvignon Blanc over the years. It's also from Marlborough Valley.

No oak, with good (not excessive) acidity. It's enjoyable both as a food or cocktail wine.

[sonnyboy11]

Thanks for the recommendations guys. I was never much of a Blanc drinker till I started in on these New Zealands. They have a nice flavor with some actual body, something I've found lacking in the CA Blancs I've tried.

One thing I have noticed though is that most everything I've found is Marlborough Valley. Has anyone tried anything from Wairau Valley or Nelson Valley?

[OTTo VoN BLoTTo]

Really young wines I know but that's ok for Blancs, right?


I love this quote by British Master of Wine and writer Jancis Robinson... regarding holding wines, when asked "when is the best time to open a sauvignon blanc?", she answered "yesterday". Pretty much says it all.

I absolutely LOVE the Kim Crawford. It's def. my favorite of teh NZ's. Also agree that Monkey Bay is an awfully good bottle at that 8 dollar price point. With a little salad of arugula and watercress, torn dill or parsley, smoked salmon, goat cheese, kiwi, thin sliced red onion, olives, tomatoes and capers, and a little grapefruit vinegarette, those NZ S/B's sing like CRAZY.

I think we have the Dog Point locally, but never tried it. I'll take the advice here and pick one up this week.

Oh yeah... I really liked the Mulderbosch S/B from South Africa, but their Chenin Blanc knocked me flat on my arse. DAMN it was good!!!

[gescom]

all RIGHT, activity!

dudes and dudettes, they are totally blowing this bad boy out at my local Cost Plus for i think 10 bucks.

http://www.klwines.com/images/skus/1025543x.jpg


it'll put serious hair on your balls!

[sonnyboy11]

all RIGHT, activity!

dudes and dudettes, they are totally blowing this bad boy out at my local Cost Plus for i think 10 bucks.

it'll put serious hair on your balls!

An Aussie fruit bomb, eh? I'm always down for those. Hearty meats, like smoked ribs, typically works well there.

[VCRW]

all RIGHT, activity!

dudes and dudettes, they are totally blowing this bad boy out at my local Cost Plus for i think 10 bucks.

http://www.klwines.com/images/skus/1025543x.jpg


it'll put serious hair on your balls!

I love d'Arenburg. I am drinking (as a special treat) a beautiful bottle of this wine's big brother, a 2005 "The Dead Arm", as I write this post. The same year of "The Laughing Magpie" (about $25) is an excellent choice as well.

[VCRW]

I also highly recommend a 2005 Byron Chardonnay that is selling for around $18 at the Costco here in Las Vegas. We have loved the 2 bottles we've had so far. It carries a 93 point rating to which it certainly seems to live up.

[lunchbox]

all RIGHT, activity!

dudes and dudettes, they are totally blowing this bad boy out at my local Cost Plus for i think 10 bucks.

http://www.klwines.com/images/skus/1025543x.jpg


it'll put serious hair on your balls!

hmmm... i just got this on my wine run today:

http://www.klwines.com/images/skus/1037048x.jpg

have you had it?

i'll post my thoughts once i have it, which won't be for a little while since i usually have simple french table wines with dinner. this was $18 onsale (originally $22).

[VCRW]

The Costco in Burbank (and perhaps other SoCal locations) is selling 2006 d'Arenberg The Laughing Magpie for $18.99. That's a very good price on a 92 point wine that is very drinkable now if left open for about 1/2 hour.

[Bogey]

Alright, I'm a little tipsy right now so I'm gonna let you all on a little secret . . .

The best bottle of wine you can semi-afford to buy at this time . . .

Joseph Phelps Insignia 2004

About $200/bottle but GD really good S!

[No One]

http://www.thewinecountry.com/mm5/graphics/00000001/0000000059596.jpg

Well, at least it is what my wife has been drinking lately..

and a Chateau st. Pierre ros

[VCRW]

Just finishing a bottle of 2005 Peter Lehmann Barossa Shiraz. WS gave it 91 points and rated it a Best Buy. Costco is selling this wine for $12.99 so I gave it a try - and it has been a very pleasant surprise.

[OTTo VoN BLoTTo]

Uncorked one of these last night:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1104/1447216349_901edfaec5.jpg?v=1190899376

Our first time tried, and won't be the last. A blend of 50% Merlot; 49% Cabernet Sauvignon; and 1% Cabernet Franc. This is a KILLER bottle---and a steal for 35 bucks. Perfect balance, wonderful concentration and complexity, soft velvety tannins, and loooong on the finish. Was heaven with thick, char-grilled Prime dry-aged rib-eyes smeared with gobs of sweet roasted garlic.

[lunchbox]

hmmm... i just got this on my wine run today:

http://www.klwines.com/images/skus/1037048x.jpg

have you had it?

i'll post my thoughts once i have it, which won't be for a little while since i usually have simple french table wines with dinner. this was $18 onsale (originally $22).

i had this with dinner last night finally. it had berry flavors with a completely different, hard to describe aftertaste that in combination made it a very strongly flavored wine. i didn't mind it so much but mr. box did not like. i get the rest of the bottle to myself. heh.

[ChilledAgua]

http://cache.wine.com/labels/90015l.jpg

The usual prices I've seen for this terrific Shiraz are in the mid-$20 range.

Saw it at Sam's Club yesterday for $18.99...

[GreatSaveGerber]

I have been delving into NZ Suavignon Blancs of late. If anyone has some recommendations for that region/varietal let me hear em!

The crisp, zesty citrus-kiwi rush of the Culley 2006 Sauvignon Blanc, fresh from New Zealand, is a winner. We have it for $10.99 at Vin de Pays/Yorba Linda (PM me regarding the store's re-opening if you wish). Two other whites bursting with more of those lovely, clean citrus-kiwi flavors and a tempting streak of acidity are Culley 2007 Riesling, another quaff from the Kiwi Nation for $10.99, and Oxford Landing 2006 Chardonnay, an unoaked Aussie delight for $7.99.


I've tried a few Chilean ones and like them as well.

We're loving Chile for their fruit-forward reds, especially the elegant and plush Carmeneres. Check back with me, and I'll fill you in on what we have in stock.

Jan/GSG

[ROBUSTO]

Gravity Hills 05' syrah at TJ's right now down to $3 a bottle from its initial offering at $7. Great everyday drinker.

[rigatony]

Anyone have any thoughts on wines for Thanksgiving? I am looking for one red and one white for dinner time...I was thinking of going with a Pinot and a...well I don't know. Thanks in advance!

Guess I should say I am doing for dinner: a turkey, stuffin', yams, mashers, green beans, cranberry, and gravey!

[Annapurna]

Anyone have any thoughts on wines for Thanksgiving? I am looking for one red and one white for dinner time...I was thinking of going with a Pinot and a...well I don't know. Thanks in advance!

The choice du jour for Thanksgiving is usally a Zinfandel - Paso Robles has many decent ones. Ridge is one of of more popular winemaker of Zins.

Petit Sirah is also a good choice. Shiraz as well, I'm a fan of Torbreck "Woodcutters" Shiraz - you can find it at K&L here (http://www.klwines.com/detail.asp?sku=1030637) or for pickup at teh Hollywood store.

Riesling Spatlese is also a good choice if you want white wine.

If you want to be daring, try a Prosecco with your meal. ;)
Or pair your pumpkin pie with Tokaji Asz?.

[Annapurna]

I forgot to add to steer clear of the big Bordeaux style wines, so No Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc.

Also avoid the Super Tuscans like Barolo.

This would be my recommendation because it's a seriously great wine. My friend just came back from trip to Spain and was raving about it . I had to try it for myself and I think it is a wonderful wine and would be compliment a T-day dinner.

2005 Domini de la Cartoixa "Galena" Priorat, Spain (http://www.klwines.com/detail.asp?sku=1042787)

[Bogey]

Questions: I have a '87 Beaulieu Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve Georges de Latour.

I recently discovered erobertparker.com and found my bottle on there.

http://www.erobertparker.com/newsearch/pDistinctWines.aspx?textSearchString=beaulieu

The '87's is rated 80-89 [Above Average].

The '86 is rated 70-79 [Average].

The '86 is considered 'Mature' while the '87 is considered 'Old'.

The '88 is also rated 80-89, considered 'Mature' and goes for $75 a bottle.

The '87 goes for $64-$125.

Can anyone explain why the '87 is considered 'Old' while the '86' is considered 'Mature' and why the 'Old' '87 goes for potentially $125 a bottle while the equally rated 'Mature' '86 goes for $75?

P.S. - I better drink that '87 yesterday.

[Bogey]

I found a tasting history of the above bottle here:

1987 Beaulieu Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Georges de Latour Private Reserve (USA, California, Napa Valley) - CellarTracker! (http://www.cellartracker.com/wine.asp?iWine=6818)

Sounds like it is now indeed over-the-hill but might not have been very good even when mature.

Confuses me as to why the cost is as pricey as it is.

At least in my search for information on it, I found these useful sites.

[Hipcheck]

With the economy headed south and precarious employment situation I long for the days when I could spend 20 bucks on a bottle and not think twice about it.

I tried the 2.99 TJ Shiraz with the upside label last night and it wasnt too god awful. For 2.99 I will probably buy a case just for an everyday drinker. Still kick myself for not buying more of the Rocket Flyer wine earlier in the year.

I was looking for the Gravity Hills but both my local TJs were out. Keep the cheap wine recomendations coming folks!

[Annapurna]

Can anyone explain why the '87 is considered 'Old' while the '86' is considered 'Mature' and why the 'Old' '87 goes for potentially $125 a bottle while the equally rated 'Mature' '86 goes for $75?

P.S. - I better drink that '87 yesterday.

1987 was a warmer year than 1986. Heat causes the berries to mature faster since it brings the sugars forward.

1986 was a really mild year in Napa from what I remember reading. I have to look it up.

Drink that '87 ASAP.

[Bogey]

1987 was a warmer year than 1986. Heat causes the berries to mature faster since it brings the sugars forward.

1986 was a really mild year in Napa from what I remember reading. I have to look it up.

Drink that '87 ASAP.Thanks.

Where are you going to look it up?

[VCRW]

Thanks.

Where are you going to look it up?

eRobertParker.com: The Independent Consumer's Guide to Fine Wine (http://www.erobertparker.com/entrance.aspx)

Look at the Vintage Chart. 1987 and 1986 were probably the best of the 1980s although 1990 and 1991 were far better as I remember. Let us know what it was like.

[Annapurna]

Thanks.

Where are you going to look it up?

farmer's almanac. :)

[OTTo VoN BLoTTo]

Well Bogey, I hope it was resting on it's side in a cool place. If not, (and probably even if) don't be expecting bright, ripe fruit flavors to come across. Get ready for something more redolent of lovely goat's butt, beef blood, sweaty leather, rotting prunes, and steaming compost heap. YUM-O!!!! :alky:

And yes, some people LOVE that stuff.

[gescom]

Well Bogey, I hope it was resting on it's side in a cool place. If not, (and probably even if) don't be expecting bright, ripe fruit flavors to come across. Get ready for something more redolent of lovely goat's butt, beef blood, rotting prunes, and steaming compost heap. YUM-O!!!! :alky:

And yes, some people LOVE that stuff.

my palate is far too nouveau to develop the patience for such complexity. i've had some experiences which have kept me curious, but i'm impatient and can't sit on a wine long enough to enjoy its fruit, which is why i'm like a few and out with whatever i drink.

maybe some day.

[Salty Dog]

my palate is far too nouveau to develop the patience for such complexity. i've had some experiences which have kept me curious, but i'm impatient and can't sit on a wine long enough to enjoy its fruit, which is why i'm like a few and out with whatever i drink.

maybe some day.Same here. I'm also much more of a new world wine lover than the old world stuff. I'm not big on "wet leather" or "musty earth" in most things in my life, especially stuff I'm drinking.

[gescom]

Same here. I'm also much more of a new world wine lover than the old world stuff. I'm not big on "wet leather" or "musty earth" in most things in my life, especially stuff I'm drinking.


same here. though i like single malt scotch like a motherf***er... strange?

[Salty Dog]

same here. though i like single malt scotch like a motherf***er... strange?
I've REALLY tried the scotch thing and just can't get on board. Maybe it's being a gin drinker, I don't know, but scotch tastes like ass to me.

[Bogey]

Well Bogey, I hope it was resting on it's side in a cool place. If not, (and probably even if) don't be expecting bright, ripe fruit flavors to come across. Get ready for something more redolent of lovely goat's butt, beef blood, sweaty leather, rotting prunes, and steaming compost heap. YUM-O!!!! :alky:

And yes, some people LOVE that stuff.It has been in a cool, dark place on its side since 1989, the year I bought it.

[Halfwall]

Just finishing a bottle of 2005 Peter Lehmann Barossa Shiraz. WS gave it 91 points and rated it a Best Buy. Costco is selling this wine for $12.99 so I gave it a try - and it has been a very pleasant surprise.

I just drank the whole bottle of this with my Outback NY Strip. Yum! Costco comes up with some very good deals.

[Halfwall]

I've REALLY tried the scotch thing and just can't get on board. Maybe it's being a gin drinker, I don't know, but scotch tastes like ass to me.


Scotch whiskey is an acquired taste! You have to give it time.

[Bogey]

Scotch whiskey is an acquired taste! You have to give it time.I was taught to numb the tongue with ice before sipping so you get less of the sting and more of the taste of the scotch, but that information should be reserved for the scotch thread.

[OTTo VoN BLoTTo]

It has been in a cool, dark place on its side since 1989, the year I bought it.


Hey, if the cork held up it may not be too bad. Bogey, please let us know how is was when the time comes!

[Bogey]

Hey, if the cork held up it may not be too bad. Bogey, please let us know how is was when the time comes!I think I'm gonna ask a couple friends to drink it with me later this week.

I'll post the results.

[Annapurna]

I think I'm gonna ask a couple friends to drink it with me later this week.

I'll post the results.


Just don't forget let it sit upright for a a day or two before drinking to let the sediment settle on the bottom. Also, drink it quickly! No need to let an old wine breathe.

[Bogey]

Just don't forget let it sit upright for a a day or two before drinking to let the sediment settle on the bottom. Also, drink it quickly! No need to let an old wine breathe.Thanks for the good advice!

[VCRW]

Has anyone else tried the 2007 Sighesio Zinfandel? It's ranked #10 on the current Wine Spectator Top 100 and it's excellent... and I am not usually a big Zin fan. I bought 6 bottles for $18 each in Las Vegas and I have been giving them out for Christmas this year. When I go back up there on Sunday I am buying a few more if I can still find them.

[Bogey]

Just don't forget let it sit upright for a a day or two before drinking to let the sediment settle on the bottom. Also, drink it quickly! No need to let an old wine breathe.Well, had a time all set to drink it, but there was a change of plans.

Hopefully this week but not sure yet.

[go]

I found a new favorite sub $10 wine this weekend.

Menage a Trois Red from Costco. $7.50 a bottle.

Subtle, smooth, a bit fruity, low tannins. Good.

[OTTo VoN BLoTTo]

Hey, does anyone else have one of these? The Vinturi Wine Aerator:

http://www.gadgetgrid.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/04/wineaerator.jpg

Have had mine for two weeks now, and it's OUTSTANDING!!!! You hold it over your glass (wtf this pic--look ma, no hands!) pour through, and it does just what it says, which is aerates/decants wine instantly and like nobody's business! I call it "the gurglator" for this amusing gurgling sound as wine passes through the chamber. But it makes a HUUUUUGE difference in the texture AND taste of wine. Especially young, tannic, brutish things. Opens them up and smooths them out considerably. A beautiful looking/feeling piece of equipment, and a great investment. They did an excellent job with this. I'm a gurglin' fool these days. Can't drink wine without it.

BELIEVE IT!!!!!!!!

[Bogey]

Hey, does anyone else have one of these? The Vinturi Wine Aeratorhttp://www.vinturi.com/home.html

Interesting.

Thanks for the info.

[Annapurna]

I had the most amazing sake experience over the weekend. We went to our friends birthday party and a Japanese friend of his that owns a restaurant brought over some really great sake for the celebration.

The first sake was called Juyondai. It had a nice fruitiness to it, similar to a riesling. He said it is hard to find retail, so I'm glad I got to enjoy it.

The other sake was even better, this guy called it "the best of the best sake." I really need to find out the name but it had this really great floral quality to it. So now I'm on a quest to find out the name of this beauty. I'm sure that I even if I find it, I wouldn't be able to afford it, but I just need to know!

[Bogey]

Finally I was able to drink my 21 year old bottle of Cabernet with a couple of friends today.

Was able to uncork with the cork remaining intact and no indication of mold.
Good sign!

Took a whiff of the cork and it was fine, no vinegary scent.
2/2

Poured it and it looked good . . . no appearance of sediment with the first few pours.
Thanks for the advice Annapurna.
Of course when we got to the bottom of the bottle it got murky.

Decent bouquet and it tasted fine!
A bit of fruit flavor remained, not flat, flabby or overly "Earthy" as I had feared.
Maybe it was a just me but I thought I detected a bit of tannins.
Very surprising to me considering the age of the the wine.

I'm thankful that my storage method worked out fine.

Drank it with Stilton and crackers at a park near the beach.
A very good experience.

[OTTo VoN BLoTTo]

Outstanding, Bogey! Been wondering about that. Sounds like the cork did it's job and was up to the task. Thanks for the report. :specool:

[Halfwall]

Hey, does anyone else have one of these? The Vinturi Wine Aerator:

http://www.gadgetgrid.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/04/wineaerator.jpg

Have had mine for two weeks now, and it's OUTSTANDING!!!! You hold it over your glass (wtf this pic--look ma, no hands!) pour through, and it does just what it says, which is aerates/decants wine instantly and like nobody's business! I call it "the gurglator" for this amusing gurgling sound as wine passes through the chamber. But it makes a HUUUUUGE difference in the texture AND taste of wine. Especially young, tannic, brutish things. Opens them up and smooths them out considerably. A beautiful looking/feeling piece of equipment, and a great investment. They did an excellent job with this. I'm a gurglin' fool these days. Can't drink wine without it.

BELIEVE IT!!!!!!!!

Yeah, I picked one up a couple of months ago. Thinking about bringing it to restaurants when I want a bigger red.

[Bogey]

I bought a bottle of the following for less than a buck at a Sav-On '75% off the already marked down price' sale the other day.

2005 Smoking Loon Syrah (USA, California) - CellarTracker! (http://www.cellartracker.com/wine.asp?iWine=356918)

Heh. It's OK.

Rates from 75 to 88 on that site, average 80.4 pts in 12 notes.

[Bogey]

I bought a bottle of the following for less than a buck at a Sav-On '75% off the already marked down price' sale the other day.

2005 Smoking Loon Syrah (USA, California) - CellarTracker! (http://www.cellartracker.com/wine.asp?iWine=356918)

Heh. It's OK.

Rates from 75 to 88 on that site, average 80.4 pts in 12 notes.Upon second taste . . . it's not so good.

[Bogey]

Hey, does anyone else have one of these? The Vinturi Wine Aerator:

http://www.gadgetgrid.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/04/wineaerator.jpg

Have had mine for two weeks now, and it's OUTSTANDING!!!! You hold it over your glass (wtf this pic--look ma, no hands!) pour through, and it does just what it says, which is aerates/decants wine instantly and like nobody's business! I call it "the gurglator" for this amusing gurgling sound as wine passes through the chamber. But it makes a HUUUUUGE difference in the texture AND taste of wine. Especially young, tannic, brutish things. Opens them up and smooths them out considerably. A beautiful looking/feeling piece of equipment, and a great investment. They did an excellent job with this. I'm a gurglin' fool these days. Can't drink wine without it.

BELIEVE IT!!!!!!!!I gots me one!

Looking forward to trying it.

[Hipcheck]

Heres a great pick for a sub 5 buck wine....

Villa Mt Eden Zinfandel 2001 at Sprouts Market

Did a random sampling for some of my wine friends and not one of them said it was less then $15 a bottle. For 2.99 its a slam dunk for an everyday drinker.

[ChilledAgua]

I found a new favorite sub $10 wine this weekend.

Menage a Trois Red from Costco. $7.50 a bottle.

Subtle, smooth, a bit fruity, low tannins. Good.

The rose is a good quaffer as well for those warm / hot months coming up. I've seen it in various supermarket wine sections, and it is very refreshing when chilled.

[Bogey]

Two-buck-Chuck beaujolais nouveau through the Vinturi wine aerator is really effin' good!

[lunchbox]

i hope you didn't have that beaujolais nouveau lying around for a while as the season to drink it is usually late november-january... it's meant to be drunk rather soon after purchase since the flavor often declines with time. so says my french mother-in-law.
then again, it's two buck chuck... ;)

[Bogey]

i hope you didn't have that beaujolais nouveau lying around for a while as the season to drink it is usually late november-january... it's meant to be drunk rather soon after purchase since the flavor often declines with time. so says my french mother-in-law.
then again, it's two buck chuck... ;)I just read about that.

Someone compared drinking Beaujolais Nouveau to eating cookie dough, but WTF?, I like it, as a night cap anyway.

[lunchbox]

I just read about that.

Someone compared drinking Beaujolais Nouveau to eating cookie dough, but WTF?, I like it, as a night cap anyway.

lol :WTF2: indeed.

[Annapurna]

I just read about that.

Someone compared drinking Beaujolais Nouveau to eating cookie dough, but WTF?, I like it, as a night cap anyway.

Wine snobs tend to look down on Beaujolais Nouveau, but they are idiots. BN is a fun wine, especially on he day that it's released. ;)

[Fisch]

I've just started drinking wine more frequently with the girlfriend. She's into Syrah/Shiraz so I've been experimenting with them along with her. I don't mind them at all but they're a totally new varietal to me. My usual everyday/everything wine was Merlot. I used to love the late 90's Chateau Ste. Michele and Stag's Leap vinyards.
Just picked up some bottles, I stayed under $20 with some getting discounted with the BevMo card.
-Beaulieu Vinyard Syrah 2005, Napa Valley
-Chateau Ste. Michelle Syrah 2003, Columbia Valley
-Concannon Petite Syrah 2005, Central Coast
-Hidden Cellars Petite Syrah 2005, Mendocino County
-Robert Hall Syrah 2005, Paso Robles
-Sebeka Shiraz 2006, Western Cape, S. Africa

[sonnyboy11]

Heads up, winies- it's two for one time at BEVMO! I scored about $300 worth of good stuff this past weekend and that's just a start.

Presently I am sipping a lovely 2005 Renwood Grandmere Zin. Normally $35 a bottle at store level purchase. 2 for 1? Yea, I can swing that- yum! Coffee on the nose with thick plum and complex fruit on the tongue. A smooth back end finish with no lingering bitterness. Let it breathe for a minute or two to take care of the 15% alcohol content that'll smack you around later.

Also, out of all my purchases I have to champion a little Italian white that should not be as good as it is for about $16.99 (second bottle free)- Terre Dei Sicani, FIANO. Fecking delicious and a perfect, crisp, refreshing fruit flavored number for a warm summer evening. GET IT!

[Azagthoth]

I decided that I want to get into wine, as I am big on lots of the American Wild Ales which tend to be aged in wine barrels, and was recommended the Fat Cat from a good buddy of mine. We picked up the Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.

[Annapurna]

I decided that I want to get into wine, as I am big on lots of the American Wild Ales which tend to be aged in wine barrels, and was recommended the Fat Cat from a good buddy of mine. We picked up the Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Awesome. I would definitely go to a local wine store, give them a little info on your palate, beer-wise, and they can recommend more wines for you to try. You are in IE, correct? I would try Pacific Wine Merchants in Upland, I believe they do daily tastings as well. You can also try Wine Club in Santa Ana.

[Azagthoth]

Awesome. I would definitely go to a local wine store, give them a little info on your palate, beer-wise, and they can recommend more wines for you to try. You are in IE, correct? I would try Pacific Wine Merchants in Upland, I believe they do daily tastings as well. You can also try Wine Club in Santa Ana.

Thanks for the info! Yes, I am in the 909.

There is a killer wine tasting room which has live music in the new west development of the Claremont Village that appeared to be pretty happenin' on Friday night. We are thinking of dropping by soon, following a dinner at a highly rated Italian restaurant next door.

[Azagthoth]

Olive Garden?

I don't do Olive Garden, but Scott does.

[Hipcheck]

I don't do Olive Garden, but Scott does.

My favorite....I love the breadsticks.

[Azagthoth]

Over the weekend, we had a bottle of Fat Cat 2006 Merlot paired with:

BBQed Salmon (Olive Oil, Garlic, Cajun, Salt, Pepper, Lemon, Mrs. Dash Spicy Season)
BBQed Prawns (Same seasonings and olive oil, but with dill in the mix)
Squash and Zuchinni cooked in olive oil on the BBQ

The Merlot was awesome with this! The fiancee and I each had a glass, then headed out to the bookstore for a couple of hours. We got back home and had another couple of glasses while watching Grey's Anatomy. I really dug the Merlot, because I treated it like I would a single malt scotch while consuming it. Sip slow and savor! I didn't even finish the large glass I had poured with dinner, and let the rest of the bottle last over two days. And, not to mention - the taste was amazing! I enjoyed how boozy and warm it was, reminding me of how I enjoy my Russian Imperial Stouts!

Last night at dinner, we paired a 2006 Puerto Viejo Malbec from Mendoza Argentina with BBQed chicken. Fantastic to say the least! Tonight, we'll be doing BBQed chicken again with a Fat Cat Chardonnay.

[No One]

let's see.. in the last few weeks I have had:

Dagueneau:

2005/06 (?) pur sang
2005/06 (?) silex
2002 Buisson Renard

yeah, I suck. The (?) means I forgot the vintage. One was an 05 and the other was an 06. I think the Silex was the 06, but not sure.

[Salty Dog]

Was treated to a healthy sampling of Jayson wines last night. The pinot was very nice. I'd recommend anything from them, and the Jayson label is cheaper than the Pahlmeyer.

[Bogey]

https://www.cielofarms.com/details.php?products_id=28&categories_id=

https://www.cielofarms.com/details.php?products_id=33&categories_id=

Two excellent wines, one white, one red, both blends, both produced here in Malibu.

I think the grapes for the red were even grown in Malibu.

Who knew?

[ChilledAgua]

I was at the Costco in Cypress over the weekend and found out that they had the 2008 Sofia rose (a Francis Ford Coppola offering) for $11.69 / bottle; The Ralphs near my house carries it for $19.99.

http://www.franciscoppolawinery.com/

It's a fruit-forward, refreshing wine with a little snap of tartness on the finish, and has an appealing deep red color. Have had it with steaks and it works nicely with the ahi that I grill.

It would seem to be a good candidate for the Thanksgiving table as well (the tartness would serve the same function as cranberry sauce without overpowering the turkey).

Nice wine for a nice price.

I may need to go back for more...

[Bogey]

At lunch in El Segundo today, I stumbled upon this liquor store:

Hollymain Liquor, El Segundo, CA : Reviews and maps - Yahoo! Local (http://local.yahoo.com/info-20479189-hollymain-liquor-el-segundo)

What a find!
Cakebread, Nickel & Nickel, Sea Smoke, even Joseph Phelps Insignia (2005 though, not my beloved 2004) among others.

You can rarely find those labels in restaurants and wine stores let alone liquor stores.

If you're in the South Bay and need a great bottle, go here!

[Hipcheck]

Next time you are at Costco try the Ghost Pines. Its 14.99 and worth every cent.

[ROBUSTO]

Trader Joes is carrying a private label "VINTJS" central coast syrah bottled by Robert Lindquist of Qupe. I do not think it is extra Qupe juice but for $7 a bottle it has good fruit and is most serviceable.

The two central coast TJ's by me have been sold out or usually only have a few bottles when I visit so the word is out. BTW, there is also a Napa syrah selling for $10 that has the same label so look carefully.

[ChilledAgua]

http://hubercellars.com/images/DWine.jpg

Huber Cellars Dornfelder - estate fruit from Santa Rita Hills (http://hubercellars.com/wines/dornfelder.html) 2006

If I remember correctly, this winery has the only acreage planted in Dornfelder in the entire state. Incredible, almost black in color with a luxuriant mouthfeel and soft tannins.

It ain't cheap ($24.99 / 750ml), but is a really nice wine for the price.


We also picked up a bottle of the "Dornfelder Port" described in the link below, but have yet to open it.

Huber Cellars Hafen - a late-harvest dessert wine (http://hubercellars.com/wines/hafen.html)


Thanks to Randy at Wine Country for the heads up -

The Wine Country: Wine, Champagne and Wine Gift Baskets (http://thewinecountry.com/)

If anyone is looking for a great wine shop in the Long Beach area - this is IT!

[DMAN3474]

does anyone go up to do barrel tasting? 100 or so wineries up north and you get a wristband and drink all weekend for $20-$30? my parents are going and say its a good time, just wanted to know if anyone else goes and if its really a good time or not.

Russian River Wine Road - Our Annual Events - 32nd Annual Barrel Tasting (http://www.wineroad.com/annualevents/3)

[ChilledAgua]

Never been to anything similar up north, but have gone a number of times to the the barrel tastings in Temecula.

The various wineries have food to go with the wines they are showcasing. Everything was pretty chaotic, but we always had a good time.

[ChilledAgua]

Last night, my wife (24diving) and I went to the most amazing wine tasting over at The Wine Country.

Randy the owner had been able to get some unbelievable German wines, at a discounted price yet, because the producer was no longer going to go with the previous wholesaler. As a retailer, it pays to have a good relationship with your sources.

The wines were from the various vineyards of Wegeler. The vintages ranged from 2005 to 2008 (one of the best in memory), and were selected from a half-dozen holdings in both the Mosel and Rheingau. Included were two from the legendary Bernkasteler Doctor vineyard.

Represented were classifications from Kabinett (driest) to Trockenbeerenauslese (TBA) (rarest dessert wine).

I've been to some really special wine tastings, but the rarity of the offerings at this one made it entirely unique. It's insane to have an Eiswein, Beerenauslese, and Trockenbeerenauslese at the same sitting.

If you ever get the chance to try top-shelf German wines such as these take advantage of it.


These wines are liquid gold.


Some of the offerings -

Wegeler Rheingau 2007 Geisenheimer Rothenberg Riesling Eiswein half bottle from The Wine Country (http://www.thewinecountry.com/pc/0767946210282/Ice_Wine/Wegeler+Rheingau+2007+Geisenheimer+Rothenberg+Ries ling+Eiswein+half+bottle.html)


Wegeler Mosel 2008 Bernkasteler Doctor Riesling Spatlese from The Wine Country (http://www.thewinecountry.com/pc/0767946102129/7Dessert-Wine/Wegeler+Mosel+2008+Bernkasteler+Doctor+Riesling+Sp atlese.html)


One we picked up -

Wegeler Rheingau 2007 Geisenheimer Rothenberg Riesling Auslese from The Wine Country (http://www.thewinecountry.com/pc/0767946210237/Late_Harvest/Wegeler+Rheingau+2007+Geisenheimer+Rothenberg+Ries ling+Auslese.html)


My wife is now a 5-year cancer survivor, so this is one's for her -

Wegeler Rheingau 2005 Geisenheimer Rothenberg Riesling Beerenauslese BA half bottle from The Wine Country (http://www.thewinecountry.com/pc/0767946210268/Late_Harvest/Wegeler+Rheingau+2005+Geisenheimer+Rothenberg+Ries ling+Beerenauslese+BA+half+bottle.html)


Thanks, Randy, for an unbelievable experience!

[Hipcheck]

Anyone tried the PKNT wines from Chile? Heard theyre good for the price.

[Royal_Roader]

Here's a winery located not too far from where I live. Haven't tried the wine yet, but some people I know say it's very good. How could you not like a place that sells a wine with the name Do-Re-Mi-Fa-Q?

Long Trout Winery, Auburn, PA 17922 (http://www.longtroutwinery.com/)

[VCRW]

When I was in NYC earlier this week, I found a store selling 2005 d'Arenburg Dead Arm Shiraz for $25. This is a legit 95 point (Wine Spectator) beauty that usually sells for $45 to $60. I bought 3. Yummy!!!

[Annapurna]

When I was in NYC earlier this week, I found a store selling 2005 d'Arenburg Dead Arm Shiraz for $25. This is a legit 95 point (Wine Spectator) beauty that usually sells for $45 to $60. I bought 3. Yummy!!!


Great deal!

[gescom]

When I was in NYC earlier this week, I found a store selling 2005 d'Arenburg Dead Arm Shiraz for $25. This is a legit 95 point (Wine Spectator) beauty that usually sells for $45 to $60. I bought 3. Yummy!!!


Great deal!

totes magotes!

[No One]

Let me be the first to wish you all a happy Nouveau Day tomorrow!


ugh.

[ianmonsta]

Bear Flag!http://localfoodandwine.files.wordpress.com/2010/10/bear-flag-wine-web1.jpg

[Annapurna]

Let me be the first to wish you all a happy Nouveau Day tomorrow!


ugh.


There is nothing wrong with Beaujolais Nouveau. Enjoy it for what it is.

[Azagthoth]

Im drinking way more wine than I am beer these days. A glass or two before bed has been my thing lately. Helps me sleep, and wine is just simply delicious.

I've been grabbing a few bottles each week at Trader Joe's. I don't keep track of what I've had (like I do with beer) but I am doing pretty well at remembering what I've had just based off memory alone. Had a nice red wine the other night I got from Trader Joe's. Its out of Mendocino County and had a skeleton pirate on the artwork. Also had a red wine from Spain that wasn't bad, and just wrapped up a bottle of a Vaca Cabernet Sauvignon which might be the best wine I've ever had, simply due to the fact that you could really taste the barrel in this one.

I've got an Italian red wine lined up next, and a bottle of something called Cabernet Franc?

[Hipcheck]

Here is a good one...Its on sale too.

2002 Sloan Cabernet Napa Valley (750ml) (http://2020wines.com/2002-sloan-cabernet-napa-valley-750.html?utm_source=Vinquire&utm_medium=WineFeed&utm_content=2002+Sloan+Cabernet+Napa+Valley&utm_campaign=base&v_traceback=c0122_2255_f0206_2043)

[Annapurna]

Here is a good one...Its on sale too.

2002 Sloan Cabernet Napa Valley (750ml) (http://2020wines.com/2002-sloan-cabernet-napa-valley-750.html?utm_source=Vinquire&utm_medium=WineFeed&utm_content=2002+Sloan+Cabernet+Napa+Valley&utm_campaign=base&v_traceback=c0122_2255_f0206_2043)


LOL. Napa cult wine prices are worse than Burgundy prices.

[jammer06]

I know you guys don't see much in paying the napa premiums but my wife and I have been enjoying William Hill Estates Chardonay's recently. They've come from a long way and now the 08 and 09 are really pretty tasty. They also had a Dijon clone that was pretty good.
Another one to give a go is the Heitz Cellar 05 Cab. I really enjoyed it and it's consistently $30 at BevMo.

[Annapurna]

I know you guys don't see much in paying the napa premiums but my wife and I have been enjoying William Hill Estates Chardonay's recently. They've come from a long way and now the 08 and 09 are really pretty tasty. They also had a Dijon clone that was pretty good.
Another one to give a go is the Heitz Cellar 05 Cab. I really enjoyed it and it's consistently $30 at BevMo.


The wines you mention are reasonably priced. I'm talking about Screaming Eagle prices over here.

[salami]

Australian Blend: Tait Ball Buster. It was recommended to me as a "big" wine. It certainly lived up to the billing. Great bang for your buck at $15.

http://www.klwines.com/images/skus/1034411x.jpg

[jammer06]

Anyone have any recommendations for BevMo's 5c wine sale? Wife likes Chardonnay, will sometimes go for Reisling (she's allergic to reds).
Was hoping to pick something up for the weekend.

[gescom]

Anyone have any recommendations for BevMo's 5c wine sale? Wife likes Chardonnay, will sometimes go for Reisling (she's allergic to reds).
Was hoping to pick something up for the weekend.

yeah, my recommendation is stay away from that garbage.

[jammer06]

yeah, my recommendation is stay away from that garbage.

boooooooo

It can't all be crap can it?

[Annapurna]

boooooooo

It can't all be crap can it?

Most of it is the mass produced wine you'll likely find at a local supermarket. There are some decent wines at BevMo, but they won't be part of the 5 cent deal. It's better to go to a local wine shop where they actually care about the wine they sell to you.

[gescom]

boooooooo

It can't all be crap can it?


Most of it is the mass produced wine you'll likely find at a local supermarket. There are some decent wines at BevMo, but they won't be part of the 5 cent deal. It's better to go to a local wine shop where they actually care about the wine they sell to you.

all this time, i think i have found one, count it, ONE bottle of Chardonnay that i thought was a little too buttery but okay, but Kat liked it well enough once before and thought why not for a bottle to have in the fridge when you want a little taste of something.

[Annapurna]

all this time, i think i have found one, count it, ONE bottle of Chardonnay that i thought was a little too buttery but okay, but Kat liked it well enough once before and thought why not for a bottle to have in the fridge when you want a little taste of something.


Yeah, It would be rare to walk into a BevMo and ask the person working there to recommend a bottle of Chardonnay that was aged in either a stainless tank or French oak and have them point you in the right direction. You have a higher probability of finding decent help in Trader Joe's actually.

[jammer06]

Wow that's rough, we're still learning alot on the wine front. Never really thought of trader joe's as a place to check out for wine. Might try that for ****s and giggles. Can't wait until it's finally warm enough to go back to the napa, at least then if the wine sucks the view is usually good.

[Stormy2213]

Four Vines Heretic ftw! Beautiful Old vine Petite Sirah. Go and get it. Now.

[Hipcheck]

FYI....Jim Fox gave some recomendations at the end of the last episode of LGK Talk.

[gescom]

booyah!

http://blog.thegourmez.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/lostsonnet.jpg


10 bucks at Trader Joe's... enjoy!

[jammer06]

So we had a good time with the Cupcake Malbec and some strips from Sams Club. For $7 a bottle I'm willing to try it again.

[rinkrat]

The best place I have found to buy wine is Costco. Also like the Wine Crush (right actross the street from my house) but it is more expensive. Wine Country on Redondo is also very good. You can actually find some great deals at Rite-Aid like the J. Lohr for $12.99.

[rinkrat]

Klee 2009 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

Klee 2009 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir from The Wine Country (http://www.thewinecountry.com/p/0798304141436/Klee+2009+Willamette+Valley+Pinot+Noir.html)

"It's early yet, but this may be the domestic Pinot buy of the year for 2011."

I agree with this review. I just went back for more. ;)

"Some wines are under-priced, some over-deliver, this wine does both!" - Rinkrat

"Better than the $75 wine we drank at Grandma's birthday" - Gal VaniZed

[Hipcheck]

TJs has BearBoat Syrah 2007 for $3.99 a bottle if you can find it.....was originally 20 bucks on Wine.com and other sites.

http://www.wine.com/V6/BearBoat-Syrah-2007/wine/105865/detail.aspx

Also-some of the Ralphs markets in higher end neighborhoods have great wine selections......every once in a while they will put some on clearance.We had a 1.5L bottle of 2004 Genesis Merlot that my bro picked up for $15 bucks that was fantastic.

http://www.wine.com/V6/Hogue-Genesis-Merlot-2004/wine/89734/detail.aspx

[juliochango]

Nothing wrong at all with 7 Deadly Zins, 2006 (Lodi).
Much like RR, I try to get most of my wine at Costco. Aside from most of the mass produced stuff, difference areas have different stuff. I try to hit Lake Tahoe twice a year, everytime I stop by at the Costco in Folsom. HUGE wine selection, I guess its proximity... That is the only Costco I have found this Zin, at 12 bucks a pop. I hear the 7 Heavenly Sins (Chardonnay) is very good as well, especially for the price.

[Azagthoth]

Its been about 2 years since I've seen Fat Cat in stores. Picked up the Merlot and Cab last Sundee at Henry's here in The Cuc. Fat Cat is still, to this day, by far my favorite winery both in taste and price. Their entire output never ceases to amaze me.

[rinkrat]

http://www.cellartracker.com/labels/33285.jpg


Got this Bialla 2008 Cabernet at BevMo on the recommendation of a lady who was looking at it.

"It's like you died and went to heaven" was her review.

We were looking for something to celebrate with so this should do the trick.

[VCRW]

Klee 2009 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

Klee 2009 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir from The Wine Country (http://www.thewinecountry.com/p/0798304141436/Klee+2009+Willamette+Valley+Pinot+Noir.html)

"It's early yet, but this may be the domestic Pinot buy of the year for 2011."

I agree with this review. I just went back for more. ;)

"Some wines are under-priced, some over-deliver, this wine does both!" - Rinkrat

"Better than the $75 wine we drank at Grandma's birthday" - Gal VaniZed

2009 Rex Hill Willamette Pinot Noir is another winner. I have seen it as low as $22.

[rinkrat]

https://www.kreck.com/CartXE/Stores/456/pinot09fb.gif


Heaven in a bottle

[rinkrat]

OK, I've been drinking wine for a couple months now so I must be an expert, right?

Here a few faves:

Under $10 prize goes to Rosemount which you can find at Rite Aid for $6.99 on sale.
Under $15 prize goes to John Lohr Dark brown label
Under $20 prize goes to LA Crema Pinot Noir - This is my "go-to" wine that is always dependable and great tasting.
For $30 I'd recommend the wine in the previous post.
At this point, that's the most I spend unless it's a special day. Paying more for wine than dinner is just too hard to comprehend.

[sonnyboy11]

RR- looks like you're mostly a red fan, right? Not sure if the Bevmo 5cent sale is still on but, if so, try picking up a couple bottles of Henry's Dead Letter Office (AU). It's in the $40 range but at 2 for 1 becomes more than reasonable. A huge fruit bomb that goes great with smokey/bbq meats.

[rinkrat]

Yeah I love Pinot Noir. I always avoided it because it was so trendy and it turns out it's my fave wine. Very mellow.

I'll check out Henry's!

[rinkrat]

Hey, Von's has a 30% off sale on wine right now. Got La Crema for $18. Might have to buy 6 and save even more. ;)

[Halfwall]

Hey, Von's has a 30% off sale on wine right now. Got La Crema for $18. Might have to buy 6 and save even more. ;)

Costco has it for 16 and change.

[rinkrat]

Von's has been getting a lot of my $$ lately. Great wine sales and selection!

[Hipcheck]

Best Bargain right now is at Trader Joes and stay with me here but.....

Columbia Crest 2009 Cab for 7.99 is a steal. I know its massed produced and what not but the TJs wine pro who is brutally honest(which I totally respect him for) pointed it out to me so I saif WTF and tried it. Was fantastic right out of the bottle....and even better the next day after using a vacuum plug. If only I were making the money now that I made a few years ago this would be case buy all day long.

[geogirl]

BevMo 5 cent wine sale...2009 Unruly Red. It's a "red table wine" but is surprisingly good for $12.99 for the first bottle and 5 cents for the second.

[Hipcheck]

Another TJs wine to look at...

2009 Cotes De Duras

Its a French merlot/cab blend and while not a "Big" and not overly fruity certainly a good choice for 3.99 a bottle. If you are not into sweet/fruity/juicy this may be a home run at that price point. And I can not stress enough...the Columbia Crest is the best 7.99 pick you will ever have. My bro said it tasted like a $30 dollar bottle.

[Hipcheck]

Had another bottle of Columbia Crest Grand Estates...this time trying the Merlot. For the price...hands down the best wine I have ever had. Feel free to comment on the blog and sign up for updates if you like.

hipchecks blog: A Wonderful night with El Toro Meats and Columbia Crest Grand Estates (http://hipchecksblog.blogspot.com/2012/03/el-toro-meats-and-columbia-crest-grand.html)

[rinkrat]

I always enjoyed Fess Parker in Disney's Daniel Boone TV series, but who knew I would be drinking his wine on 4/3/2012?

[No One]

I really hope I enjoy tonight..

" Meursaults and Volnays from Dominique Lafon and the 2009 Pouilly-Fum? vintage of Dagueneau’s bottlings Silex, Pur Sang, Buisson Renard and Blanc"

[jammer06]

My wife got a bottle of Evening Land from Seven Springs vinery 2009 Pinot Noir as a gift. Decided to try it out today/tonight. Not really familiar with Pinot Noirs but it's a heck of an introduction. No idea if it's worth whatever they paid for it but a really nice glass so far. Very nice light but lingering flavor

[ICHockeyPeeps]

Von's has been getting a lot of my $$ lately. Great wine sales and selection!

What wines do you recommend?

[RosieB80]

I'm new to wines but can only handle sweet red or white wines like Stella Rosa. I would like to branch out and try better wines. Does anyone have any recommendation?

[JWR]

I'm new to wines but can only handle sweet red or white wines like Stella Rosa. I would like to branch out and try better wines. Does anyone have any recommendation?

If you like sweet wines I look at starting with a Reisling, most are a little sweeter than most white wines and some of the better ones have a lot of fruity flavors. I do suggest you consider looking at ones in the $10 - 15 range rather than the cheaper ones for they are better. Some not found in stores but can be gotten online I can recommend are ones from Fess Parker's in Los Olivos area near Solvang Ca. and Bailey in Temecula Ca. both are nice.

If you live in So Cal you might consider doing some research into these areas and maybe find it worth your time to check out some of the vineyards that have wine tasting and see what you might like.

Also if you look at red wines, make sure they sit at least 20-30 min after opening to breath and balance, it improves the flavor and cuts down on bitter elements.

[RosieB80]

If you like sweet wines I look at starting with a Reisling, most are a little sweeter than most white wines and some of the better ones have a lot of fruity flavors. I do suggest you consider looking at ones in the $10 - 15 range rather than the cheaper ones for they are better. Some not found in stores but can be gotten online I can recommend are ones from Fess Parker's in Los Olivos area near Solvang Ca. and Bailey in Temecula Ca. both are nice.

If you live in So Cal you might consider doing some research into these areas and maybe find it worth your time to check out some of the vineyards that have wine tasting and see what you might like.

Also if you look at red wines, make sure they sit at least 20-30 min after opening to breath and balance, it improves the flavor and cuts down on bitter elements.

Great advice!! Thank you very much!

[ChilledAgua]

I'm new to wines but can only handle sweet red or white wines like Stella Rosa. I would like to branch out and try better wines. Does anyone have any recommendation?

Do you have a good wine shop in your area? Here in Long Beach we have The Wine Country for example; they have tastings (different themes) every Saturday, a very knowledgable staff, and a great selection. The tastings are invaluable for anyone looking to expand their palate. The only way to truly find out what you like (and this will most likely evolve over time) is to try lots of wines, and tastings allow you to buy wines without most of the unknowns inherent in a blind purchase or verbal recommendation.

Best of luck with your quest, it can lead to a lifetime of enjoyment - there is always more to learn.

[ChilledAgua]

http://ts4.mm.bing.net/thumb/get?bid=uM42%2fU9k1QkE4w&bn=CC&fbid=7wIR63%2bClmj%2b0A&fbn=CC

Attended the Zinfandel tasting at The Wine Country this past Saturday and couldn't get out of the place without buying a bottle of the Brown 2009 Zinfandel.

If you're into zins and get a chance to try it, do yourself a favor.

[jammer06]

Back from the world of whites it seems that the unfiltered chardonnay's are all the rage up here in Napa right now. Lots of people are enjoying them and to be honest the one's I've had so far are pretty decent although expensive considering the premium that you already pay for being in Napa. Basically been seeing $30-50 a bottle depending on how many you want to buy and what club you are a member of.

[Salty Dog]

Got a few bottles of this last weekend up in Paso Robles. Fantastic wine.
http://www.greywolfcellars.com/images/labels/Jackal2010web.jpg

[rinkrat]

All I drink is Pinot Noir and I am totally into anything from around Santa Rita Hills. Also love Sonoma wines, especially Russian River Valley. The further north you go, the more earthy the wine seems to be. I like the Santa Barbara/Santa Rita wines because they are very "fruit forward".



What wines do you recommend?

Here are some good Von's wines, most you can get cheaper if you catch them on sale (like now 30% off).
ALL are Pinot Noir. I have done LOTS of research! ;)

Under $10 - Mark West
$10-20 - La Crema or Byron
$20-30 - Fess Parker or Sobriquet
$30 - $35 - Gary Farrell or Sonoma-Cutrer

Wine tastings are great because you get a nice sample of 6-10 wines and can weigh them against each other. The Wine Crush in Long Beach is within spitting distance from my house and see plenty of my money. (Since I'm in their Pinor Noir club I get the tastings for $15 instead of $20!)

[Bucky8]

some terrific Cali SBs are:

Bevan
Spottswoode

great cabs for the price:

Paul Hobbs Crossbarn
Faust
Vineyard 29 CRU
Chappellet Signature

all in thw 40-50 range.

[jammer06]

Finally got my hands on another bottle of Arrowood, this time their Syrah. Last I had was the cote de luna 2006 and it was the most remarkable bottle of wine, unfortunately I finished it at the end of the first period of that ****ing sharks game. This time I'll be waiting until the third.

[daxx]

I'm not a wine enthusiast by any stretch. I can drink the (previously known as) 2-Buck-Chuck Shiraz and be fine with it. It's decent wine for not much money. I will admit that I absolutely LOVE the Tobin James winery in Paso Robles. This place makes some flat out fantastic wines. Their Zins are great but the one they're known for is the Fat Boy. Holy **** on a stick! This wine is truly amazing. It runs for about $55. Not cheap... not expensive... but it's well worth the money.
Another wine I've been drinking a bit of is the Apothic Red. It's about $9 at Vons or Ralphs and it's pretty darn good too.

Now if you want to get ****faced, you need to try Mangria. WOW... that stuff packs a punch. The stuff has a 22% alcohol content. After the first sip, you're feeling fine.

So in my opinion, you need to go with what the moment calls for. Hanging out at home watching an away game on the cheap, 2-point5-buck-chuck. If you need a decent wine for you and your lady friend (I really believe that all women are lesbians... but that's another thread... j/k if you couldn't tell by my "tone") go for the Apothic Red. If you want to get her fall for you go for the Fat Boy. If you have a night ala Fear and Loathing style... go for the Mangria.

[VCRW]

Just in case you were interested...

https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/464066_10151421054048404_1957930278_o.jpg

[daxx]

Just in case you were interested...

https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/464066_10151421054048404_1957930278_o.jpg

This has always intrigued me. My wife loves Perrier Jouet Cuve Bel Epoc. The bottle runs about $120ish and I've seen it for under $100 at different places, so it's a little on the pricey side for 750ml. So the thing I don't get is that a magnum 1.5L is $350. Why the hell would I spend over $100 more for the same amount of champagne? They should at least have it be on par with $/ml, because this is recockulous.

[kingnut]

If anybody comes across a pinot or cab made with carneros grapes, pls shoot me a pm. costco had an acascia pinot on sale, tried it went back and all gone. oh well.

[FBJ]

Acacia is my favorite PN.

[kingnut]

Acacia is my favorite PN.

Pretty reasonable too. Retail on the bottle was 14, got it for 11 on sale.

[FBJ]

I've done the wine-tasting thing in Napa/Sonoma. It's fun, it's a pretty area, and there's some great wineries there for sure. But DAMN are they full of themselves!! $35 for a five-wine flight and they typically don't waive that if you buy a couple bottles! Even so, I've got some favorite wineries up there that I've visited: Nicholson Ranch, Acacia, Merryvale, Beaulieu, and Alpha Omega.

If you want a REALLY fun wine trip on a budget, make a drive to Lodi or Clarksburg. They both have AMAZINGLY GOOD wineries and they're WAY more down-to-Earth than the folks in N/S. Check out the Tempranillo and Petite Sirah from Harney Lane (http://harneylane.com/wines/), the Syrah from Berghold (http://bergholdvineyards.com/wines/) (Footstomp, I think it's called), and the Old Ghost from Klinker Brick (http://www.klinkerbrickwinery.com/About-our-Wines) (tough to say when you're nackered), which is hands-down my FAVORITE red wine, let alone OVZ. It's available at TW. GET SOME.

Clarksburg is the home of Bogle (http://www.boglewinery.com/ourwines_profiles.php), and they've got a great petite Sirah port they make.

But what about local around the L.A. area? Anyone got any tips on good places to taste? We like actual winery/estate tasting rooms, rather than wine bars.

[kingnut]

I've done the wine-tasting thing in Napa/Sonoma. It's fun, it's a pretty area, and there's some great wineries there for sure. But DAMN are they full of themselves!! $35 for a five-wine flight and they typically don't waive that if you buy a couple bottles! Even so, I've got some favorite wineries up there that I've visited: Nicholson Ranch, Acacia, Merryvale, Beaulieu, and Alpha Omega.

If you want a REALLY fun wine trip on a budget, make a drive to Lodi or Clarksburg. They both have AMAZINGLY GOOD wineries and they're WAY more down-to-Earth than the folks in N/S. Check out the Tempranillo and Petite Sirah from Harney Lane (http://harneylane.com/wines/), the Syrah from Berghold (http://bergholdvineyards.com/wines/) (Footstomp, I think it's called), and the Old Ghost from Klinker Brick (http://www.klinkerbrickwinery.com/About-our-Wines) (tough to say when you're nackered), which is hands-down my FAVORITE red wine, let alone OVZ. It's available at TW. GET SOME.

Clarksburg is the home of Bogle (http://www.boglewinery.com/ourwines_profiles.php), and they've got a great petite Sirah port they make.

But what about local around the L.A. area? Anyone got any tips on good places to taste? We like actual winery/estate tasting rooms, rather than wine bars.

Will check this out someday. Done the Napa thing a few times, really liked the Domaine Carneros winery.

Been doing the central cost lately. Costco has the 2011 acacia, but not on sale. Its back up to $14 :(

[FBJ]

Costco has the 2011 acacia, but not on sale. Its back up to $14 :(

And worth every penny, IMO.

Check TW for Lodi wines. Good stuff from up there.