Gary answers a lot of wine questions!

Gary answers a lot of wine questions! – Episode #88

September 12, 2006

Wines tasted in this episode:

Today Gary goes to town and answers many of the questions that have been asked of him. Gary also tastes one of the finest California Zinfandels he has ever come across! Todays episode ends with a serious question that everyone has to answer!

141 Responses

September 12, 2006

Brandon M
Success #6?
September 12, 2006

Tony
#2
September 12, 2006

Ed R
Enough with Brandon M.. Only Kidding
September 12, 2006

Brandon M
It’ll never be enough
September 12, 2006

Tony
Gary,

I almost passed out when I heard that you’re going to reveal your “plan” for the heat episode! OMG!!! You’ve got a plan!! Like D-Day!!! A plan, a strategy! Oh man, it’s gonna be great!! I can’t wait!! It’s going to happen! It’s going to happen!!!! I’m hyperventilating!!

Thanks, Gary. I appreciate you putting up with my nagging all this time and I really look forward to your “plan”.

Tony

P.S. Here’s some new grape photos taken this weekend: http://adunnphotography.com/galleries/new.asp?date=9/11/2006

Don’t get too excited, they’re from vineyards owned by Sutter Home. Most were already harvested, but we watched them mechanically harvest a couple of vineyards. The huge harvesting machines really rip up the vines. The mechanical harvester can’t get the grapes at the ends of the rows; most of these photos were taken of missed grapes.
September 12, 2006

Justin
Gary,
I liked todays episode a lot. Just doing a single wine and answering a lot of questions was nice change. I have always been interested in trying wines from Ridge but wasn’t sure where to start. I think todays wine might be a good place to.

As far as my favorite resturant, that is a really tough question. When in St. Helena, I like Pizzeria Tra Vigne (right accross from Merryvale). Good food, decent prices, great atmosphere, and no corkage fee. That whole no corkage fee is great. Lots of resturants in the Napa Valley charge you so much just to bring your own wine. So if you come to the Napa Valley, I will meet you at Pizzaria Tra Vigne and I will bring the wine.

When you go on your Tour are you going to list the dates and cities you will be in so fans of WLTV can show up?
September 12, 2006

Chris
I don’t get out all that much because we have a little, so when we do we like to go grown-up all the way. I adore both Tru in Chicago and Tribute in Detroit.
September 12, 2006

PeteB
Great call on the Ridge today! That zin is awesome!

I live in Central NJ and to tell you the truth we sure are missing our favorite BYOB “75 South” in Freehold that closed down 2 years back. But we are always on the lookout for some nicer BYOB’s, so if any fellow viewers have any recommendations or GV yourself – please post them up.

As for our current favorites:
Salt Creek Grille, Rumson/Fair haven
Dorris & Ed’s, Highlands
September 12, 2006

AlanV
Gary – wow! 10K viewers! Your WSJ article really shined the spotlight on WLTV… well deserved.

Favorite restaurant: I guess I SHOULD say Morton’s in Pittsburgh, since that is where all the Steelers eat (I wish so so so badly that they were going to play the Jets this year – so I could definitively say that the Jets won’t be 16-0, and I could get free shipping on the ~1000 cases I want to buy from WL), but I ain’t a gonna… ZACH’S in Berkeley, CA – the best damn pizza restaurant ON THE PLANET.

Thanks again for the show – you rock!

Alan

PS – where are the test-tubes??!?
September 12, 2006

LucindaV
Hey, I like Churascurria La Plataforma in NYC. Great atmosphere and meat served Brazilian style – the best to go with those great reds.
September 12, 2006

Russ J
Restaurant Daniel in NYC. Tremendous food, tremendous atmosphere, great place.
September 12, 2006

Brandon M
Tony…great pics….great talent.

QOTD – My favorite restaurant here in Roseville, CA is a new one called La Provenance. French American with a great wine shop next door. My wife and I always have a wonderful meal and they have a pretty fair wine list.

Gary…What’s one of your favorite “Out of the way” steak houses around NY / NJ.

B
September 12, 2006

Matthew L
Gary,

Great episode. I appreciate your confirming my approach–which is to try as many wines as possible. I have many friends who pride themselves on how many cases they own. That works for them, but I like to explore, drink and enjoy.

I have many favorite restaurants all over the country, but let’s stick to your neighborhood or mine. In New York, I love Circus on Lexington. It’s a great Brazilian restaurant. Though there are a number of good restaurants in DC, I love Charleston in Baltimore. Great food and a wine list that should please just about anyone.

I want to thank my fellow WLTVers for great questions. I learn everyday coming here. I am in the process of remodeling my kitchen and I will be adding a wine fridge. Nevertheless, I look forward to the heat episode.

Best,
Matthew
September 12, 2006

joe
Gary:

Really awesome episode. I really enjoyed you concentrating on one good wine and then answering so many questions. Thanks for the answer to mine – - I will put away those Las Cases for 15 years!

My favorite non-BYOB resteraunt in NJ is Ryland Inn – - but like to go to La Scala in Somerville – where it is BYOB. In Los Angeles area I really enjoy AOC (LA) and CAPO in Santa Monica – where they make a linguini with white sauce topped in truffles that makes a 1997 Barbaresco sing!
September 12, 2006

Cary
Gary,

Great episode! I’m looking forward to trying the Ridge Zin. It sounds wonderful for the price.

Having moved to Virginia (from Northeast Pennsylvania) less than 3 years ago, we have not yet found too many “not to be missed” places. So far, the nicest we’ve found near here is the Hotel Strasburg in Strasburg, VA. One of our favorites back home is the Stone Bar Inn in Snydersville, PA. We miss it.

http://www.hotelstrasburg.com/menu.htm
http://www.stonebar.com/main.htm
September 12, 2006

DougG
Well, when I lived in NJ it was the Stagehouse in the Drake days but since then I have relocated to Virginia Beach and Todd Jurich’s Bistro http://www.toddjurichsbistro.com/ would have to be it. Awesome wine list with fair prices and a knowledgeable Sommelier. A place that has been a godsend after moving away from the NY/NY area.

Question: What Pinots do you find more appealing CA or Wash/OR. I find myself seesawing between the 2 areas. Love the balls that the Sea Smoke and Kosta bring but then a Shea vineyard Pinot is just so delicate and unique. It’s a good problem to have I guess.
September 12, 2006

Tony
As to retaurants, I like to go to different places as much as I can. When I travel, I like to go to a new place every night. When my wife and I go to the City (out here on the west coast that means San Francisco), we always eat someplace new. I’ve never eaten at the same place twice there. Too many new places to choose from! Why stick to one place?

So, I don’t really have an all time favorite, though I will say that I had the best steak of my life (and an incredible view of Mt Hood) at the Portland City Grill in (you guessed it) Portland. If you’re in Portland, that’s one place for sure I would go.

As far as local establishments, the Sierra Nevada Grill at the Sierra Nevada Brewery is easily the best restuarant in Chico. Not a place for a good wine list, of course, but everything they do – from steak to lamb to ahi – they do incredibly well.

Anybody got recommendations for Rochester?? Matty Van? I’m always looking for great food when I travel.

P.S. Gary, I changed my gravatar over a week ago, and it shows changed on their site, but my old gravatar still shows up here. Is there something that needs to be done to grab the new gravatar?
September 12, 2006

Hal N.
Gary,

The first 3 resturants I’m listing are all Steak Houses (the finest) on Long Island. They also have decent wine lists/cellars, and the first one on my list you are able to BYOB. So…If you like “Steak”, you shouldnt miss these great places:

1 “Vintage” in St James
2 “Mac’s Steak House in downtown Huntington
3 “Tellers” in Islip

And for the “Italian” lovers

1 “Mama Lombardi’s” in Holbrook
2 “Mario” in Hauppague

I could go on and on, there are sooooo many Great Resturants Here on the Island, I could write a book…..oh wait….its been done.
September 12, 2006

cgf
gary,
another great episode.
I second pete B. Doris and Ed’s in Highlands is my favorite seafood restaurant bar none (http://dorisandeds.com/). Pete, check out thyme square in red bank for a BYOB with great food. It is new so they are still working out the kinks but their halibut is delicious.
September 12, 2006

stewart
my favorite restaurant is Gary Danko’s when I visit San Francisco. In my own hometown of Pittsburgh, I like The Carlton which only marks their wines up by 10 dollars
September 12, 2006

KzooWino
Gary,

It is just fantastic what you are doing with wine tv! Your store is also great. As a fellow young wine professional, it is great to see your intense enthusiasm.

Bravo!

Craig

Craig Girolami
General Manager, Chef & COO
The Park Club
219 west south street
Kalamazoo MI, 49007
http://www.parkclub.net
September 12, 2006

Rob in Allentown
Gary, you’re right on with Ridge. The cool thing about Ridge is the quality/price ratio. I’ve been drinking their zins since the early 90’s and while most other california wines have skyrocketed in price (ie the cult cabs), Ridge’s wines can still be had for under 30 bucks a bottle. Paul Draper is the man.

As for restaurants, I live in Allentown and it sucks. Locally I enjoy the Farmhouse in Emmaus. In New York I’d have to say Gramercy Tavern is one of the consistently best restaurants at which I’ve eaten. I also like Veritas quite a bit for their killer wine list (the food is great too). In Los Angeles, one of the best restaurants I’ve eaten at was Matsuhisa. In Chicago, it was Tru. In New Orleans it was Bayona. In San Francisco every restaurant is good (bastards!).

Keep up the good work,

Rob in Allentown
September 12, 2006

garybee
Nice episode. I’ll have to try the Ridge.
As for restaurants, locally (near New Hope, PA) I like Porterhouse. Great bar food! Upstairs, great steaks. Not much in the way of wine, though…since they brew beer there.
I agree with Justin that Tra Vigne is an excellent place that my wife and I love going to when in Saint Helena.
Doubt I’ll be back, but the restaurant at the Adelaide Hilton is called The Grange. Fantastic wine list and marron. Marron is similar to lobster, but MUCH better.
September 12, 2006

Jaye
Hi Gary, another winner episode! I usually buy 2-3 bottles of a recommended wine that is designed to “evolve”. I drink one within the year, one at about the half-way point, and/or one when the time is “right”. That way I get 2-3 different experiences with the same wine.

My favorite restaurant is absolutely Ciao Baby in Brick, NJ: http://www.ardore.com/listing.asp?r=ciaobaby15&c=Ocean&m=c&u=

They are BYOB and have an amazing menu. Everything is done perfect from Pizza to really fancy seafood dishes. Really nice, modern style too. Hope you try it out . . . you won’t be disappointed.

They also have a sister-restaurant in Wall, NJ . . . Lubrano’s Trattoria. Food is just as good but the restaurant is a little louder and more rustic in style: http://www.restaurantpassion-nj.com/listing.asp?r=lubranos13&c=Monmouth&m=c&u=Family+Dining
September 12, 2006

karl satirev
Thanks for the thoughtful answer to my question of yesterday. Best restaurant is a tie: Le Bec Fin, Philadelphia; Maisonnette, Cincinnati. It would have been a three-way tie, but Le Francais in Wheeling, Illinois is closed.
September 12, 2006

garybee
Gary…by the way…how dare you rag on my Raiders. We almost scored last night. We almost outgained LaDainian Tomlinson. Our quarterbacks got sacked more times than completed passes. It’s going to be a long year.
Just one word for you………..Heidi.
September 12, 2006

Duncan
Gary,
I have previously been a “silent lurker” on Wine Library TV. I must say, I agree with your philosophy of wine buying and often wish I lived closer to your store. Big bummer: you won’t ship to Maryland anymore! Keep up the great work!
September 12, 2006

Kevin C
Another great episode, Gary.
When I saw the link for the Dal Forno, I almost crapped in my pants. Many a times I’ve passed by the boxes of the Dal Forno in your wine cellar room, lusting and drooling and hoping to one day taste it myself.

As for my favorite restaurant, it’s gotta be Graziano’s Parilla Argentian in Miami. Great authentic Argentinian steak and even better wine selection and prices !
http://www.parrilla.com
September 12, 2006

ChrisV
Gary,

I would love to see an episode on wines from upstate NY.

QOD: Dinosaur Bar-B-Que (Rochester, Syracuse, and NYC)
September 12, 2006

Cesar
Good episode,

One great restaurant, Dali’s, it’s a tapas place in Somerville, MA ten minutes from Harvard square. Nice place to order 10-12 tapas for 6-8 people. They have a decent wine list, a good Rioja and a selection from the Duero region amongst some others.
September 12, 2006

Billy G
Gary,

Great episode. Here in Atlanta my favorite is Sotto Sotto. Great northern Italian food and some good Barbarescos, Barolos, Valpolicella Ripassas and Amarones.

I look forward to trying the Ridge.
September 12, 2006

Luke B
Gary –
Another Great Episode.
I look forward to your upcoming Cellaring video.
I have a related QUESTION – Does it matter what temperature to actually drink wine? I’ve been with a few wine snobs who when at a restaurant put a bottle against their chin to confirm it is at 55-60 degrees. I’ve been told that Pinot’s in particular drink better when served at the 55-60 degree range.
Gary — can you help me out?
QOD – Favorite Restaurant: Raos in East Harlem. Awesome!!!!
Thanks
Luke
September 12, 2006

Paul R
Favorite restaurant is Daniel but another one which is a under the radar is Quest (WEST) in the upper West side in NYC. Great food and wine.

Any chance we can get the list of wines for the tasting event ahead of time so we can do our research before we get there?

Paul
September 12, 2006

Scott Farnum
Mandatory response, GV said, so here goes. I liked the Cherry Picking idea you mentioned. Go with the Best Offerings you see. The future IS Brighter that way! I enjoy the site, the store, and the odd chance to run into you on occasion. Best Regards!
September 12, 2006

Mills
Gary,

Great tribute to 9/11…I love Zins and definetly going to try the Ridge. What’s your thoughts about Ravenswood Zins. I saw you did an earlier epeisode but I have not had a chance to wathc it.

As for my favorite place to eat….Ristorante da Benito in Union, NJ. It’s over the top, and great wine list.

Mills
September 12, 2006

RCP
QOD: Love the Pita House, they make a killer Gyro. No wine, so I slug back some Strawberry Faygo Pop (Michigan thing) with it.

I wish the Lions didn’t suck so much or I’d talk more trash.
September 12, 2006

wayne530
gary,
i love manresa in the bay area (CA) http://www.manresarestaurant.com/. if you’re in the mood for sushi and are in the area, check out sushi ran in sausalito (across the bay from SF) http://www.sushiran.com/. i tend to stick with beer or sake when i do sushi. are there any wines you think would pair well with sushi?
-w
September 12, 2006

Jaye
Hi Gary – posting again today because I forgot to mention this earlier. Something that would be really terrific on your ordering website on wines you have scored, would be some written tasting notes. You wrote notes for the Amarone above, but for the Ridge you just have the winery notes under your score. I have noticed you do this quite often. I realize you are very busy, but you aren’t too busy to delegate, right? When you have tasted a wine, and you feel strong enough to offer your score on the bottle description, maybe you can have your tasting notes transcribed there too (so we don’t have to watch the episode again as a reminder).

Thanks again for all you do, yeah it makes you more successful, but it also takes a lot of time and effort and it is greatly appreciated.
September 12, 2006

EJ
Another great episode!

As for the QOD: Wolfgang Steakhouse in NYC was outstanding! (am drooling as we speak!). also memorable was L’Auberge du Cochon Rouge in Ithaca (from my Cornell days), great place to enjoy food and wine after sampling the Finger Lakes wineries.

Gary, I agree with a previous commentor in trying to get a list of the wines in the Super Tasting 2006 so we can start planning our strategy for the evening.

Also looking for recommendations on wine refrigerators from any of the commentors. I’ve seen some that have two temperature controlled areas– what’s that for? should reds be at a different temp than whites? or is this marketing/overkill. I’d probably be looking for a stand alone and not a build in like Matt probably is refering to in a previous comment as he renovates his kitchen. Am using a storage room right now in the basement that is cool all year round… I may just stick with that.

Keep up the good work.
September 12, 2006

Italian Stallion
Hey Gary, thanks for the AMAZING shout out. I love this show…..I live and work in the city and I love the steakhouses…I love

- Del Frisco’s
- Peter Luger’s (Brooklyn)
- Fiamma Osteria….its not a steakhouse, but its great northern Italian cuisine.

Gary….I plan on coming to the store possibly this Saturday or next. Are you in the store on Saturday’s? I would really love to meet you.

-The Stallion
September 12, 2006

Grant Gallagher
Hi Gary – good to see you back. I enjoyed the episode today and also the “flashback” to episode 67 that came on email regarding the Pinot bargain. I agreee wihth you regarding the Risge Zins and others – they are excellent value wines and amongst the highest “grapes per buck” producers.

My favourite restaurant? Hmm. Brix in Summit is very good for lunch or dinner. Both their cooked food and sushi are excellent. Of possible interest (or derision, depending on one’s bent) is the fact that they serve only New Jersey wines. Now THAT is interesting -some are very good, some are , well, not.

Thanks also for the cellaring comments. I’m looking foreard to hearing more about this.

Many thanks
Grant
September 12, 2006

David K
The finest restaurant? Hmmh. Well, for food and wine (i.e. total dining experience), its a toss up. Its either The Inn at Little Washington in Little Washington, Virginia or Aureole in Las Vegas. For just food, that’s easy. The Plantation House in Maui, Hawaii.
September 12, 2006

TimF
Great episode. I need to try the Independence School. As for the bottle caps from Domaine Chandon: I think it’s hypocritical for them to do it. They’ve got a huge advertisement if your driving around Napa. Two corks: one a sparkling wine cork, the other a regular still wine cork. Under the corks it says something like, “which one looks more fun?” I’m all in favor of synthetic corks except when it comes to sparkling wine. It takes some of the fun out of it.

QOD: I love the Chicago Chop House. Great steaks, great wine list, great service.
September 12, 2006

Dee
QOD: Gramercy Tavern, NYC.
September 12, 2006

Panman
Gary,

Ridge Indy School looks good. I hope to try this soon. Will it be available at the Super Tasting? In fact here’s a question/idea for the tasting: Can you or Chris Stan’s make that spreadsheet available prior to the Super Tasting? I think you said you were working on this. Maybe even indicate which wines will be available at the Super Tasting.

QOD: For NJ: Arturo’s in Midland Park, NJ
For NYC: Tauromino’s on Mulberry
September 12, 2006

Cameron
QOD:
While there are tons of great restaurants here in LA, I actually think Hoppe’s Bistro in Cayucos, CA is the best I’ve had. Their prices are incredibly reasonable, and their quality is of the highest order across the board. They have a great sommelier, wonderful staff, and beautiful location by the ocean. Hard to beat.
September 12, 2006

Ferrigno
hello gary.
September 13, 2006

MarcT
Gary, no doubt and awesome episode again!
Your QOD is perfect for meâ€¦
The best restaurant in my town is Woodfire Grill. (I live in Atlanta). They are in the WS Dining Guide. The food prepared by Chef Michael Tuohy is from the heart and extremely fresh. The menu is created every day from heritage meats and locally grown produce. The cuisine is characterized as Northern California but there are many different influences.
Matt Olson is the Wine Director there and does a wonderful job with the wine list. Pairing oh so well with the entire menu items as well as having a few gems for the oenophiles to imbibe. He also does wine tastings as well as pairs beverages for the monthly Cheese tastings.
If you come to Atlanta (maybe you will be coming down for Wine South next weekend?) it would be an honor to take you to meet my friends at Woodfire.
Of course I also patronize the high end houses like Seegerâ€™s, Bacchanalia, Quinones, The Oceanaire, Atlanta Grill, Joelâ€¦(all of these well worth the money and if you wanted to goâ€¦well I would have to oblige ïŠ) but at Woodfire, you not only feed your stomach, you feed your soul. Do you know what I mean? The atmosphere, service, and everything else as well as the food and wine just does it.
This is my recommendation. I am a personal chef that not only cooks for my clients but also conducts wine tastings.
September 13, 2006

ray n
Hey Gary, another great episode. I would like to thank Paul R for his rec on favorite restaurant, but a small correction: it is Ouest(the French way to spell West), not Quest. I know since I am one of the owners. Other than Ouest, I love the River Cafe in Brooklyn. It has that rare combination of great view and great food. Also an excellent sommelier, Joe D. With his input, no doubt we can feast on great wine and food.
September 13, 2006

LMA
Gary… Been nutty at work lately so been slacking on the posting (still watching tho). Curious about the Independence School Ridge. Had the 2003 Lytton Springs not too long ago and, man, is that a nice bottle. On the other hand also had the 2003 Pagani Ranch recently, and that was a jammy, syrupy mess. At least in my opinon.

As for restaurants, here in Chicago (yes, there seems to be quite a few of us here) Blackbird is the way to go. Best restaurant I’ve been to here. If you’re ever in town, drop a line and we’ll knock back a glass or two. In the city (just moved to Chicago from New York) I had a soft spot for the Tasting Room and Hearth. And Dee, good call on Gramercy Tavern. And, hell, since I’m throwing out restaurants (and it’s a hop skip and jump from NYC) Au Pied De Cochon in Montreal is incredible.
September 13, 2006

scotty
Gary great show as always.In Wantagh LI there is a little place called Snaps with a very talented Chef/Owner who is a lot like you. You both take what you do very seriously but are not serious about it,try new and quality things yet have some fun. If you go back to yesterdays comment #51 you will see the wines we are opening in a few weeks at my 40th B-Day dinner at Snaps. We will most likely have 8 to 9 courses matching some pretty nice wines. If your going to be on LI shoot me an e mail.
September 13, 2006

Chris from NY
Rao’s,Daniel,Luger’s, come on people stop trying to impress ol Vaynerchuk. First it takes you months to get in there on a weekend and Rao’s if you dont know some one, fugedabowdit!!!! Obviously mispelled on purpose. Gary wanna have a great meal? Be entertained by the owner Renato?(who is a character)and drink some nice wine come with me to Piccolo Angolo in the west village. I was there a little while back and Tony Soprano himself was busing tables. He really was, it was hysterical! Alan V.you ever had NY pizza before? Just wondering after that comment. Gary, have you ever had The Prisoner before? If so what did you think of it?
September 13, 2006

BillD
Gary,

Posting today because you said we had to in order to keep listening! Haven’t posted before, but did blog about you and your most excellent vidcast in some detail here (after hearing about you in the WSJ and checking out your programs): http://whdwight.blogspot.com/2006/08/tribute-to-passionate-craftsmanship.html

Favorite restaurant in Palo Alto, CA: Osteria on Hamilton and Bryant. Great little restaurant for pasta and Chianti with friends in a boisterous communal atmosphere. You can’t help but enjoy yourself.

Keep up the great work – your vidcast is a treat to watch at the end of a long day.

Bill
—-
September 13, 2006

Ian S.
Gary love the show, been watching for a long time, first time poster.
QOTD – You have to check out Bern’s Steakhouse in Tampa Florida, best wine list you will find ANYWHERE. Me some friends and family go there once a year and have some awesome aged steaks and aged wine, and the prices are very reasonable( for the wine too! ).
September 13, 2006

MikeMe
Gary, if you are going to travel then you should come out to Woodinville, WA before the rain comes back. You did an episode on Woodhouse Family cellars so time to visit the winery (which you can also eat at one weekend a month). While here you can see many of the other local wineries and eat at the Golden Goat which does not feature any local wines, they only feature Italian – the place is awesome. You will often see many local wine makers eating there.

Couple comments – I tend to watch your episodes in batches (2-3 at a time) so do not get upset I do not comment. Secondly I wish your big wine event was not in the middle of crush. This weekend we start crushing Merlot and a couple whites and this will continue well into Oct so makes it hard to attend – will try and work something out.

cheers
September 13, 2006

TimF
LMA – Great call on Blackbird. I go there at lunch from time to time. I used to work just a few blocks from there. They’ve got a great wine list for it being such a small place. I also love that they have a cheese plate option for dessert.
September 13, 2006

wey
Ok, especially for mister Gary V.! My very first comment

I really love your show. I have been watching since the Carmenere episode, so shame on me for not commenting earlier. Not many of the tasted wines can be obtained easily here in Europe, but it is still quite educational.

Looking forward to seeing some more Italian wines (Vino Nobile? ) on the show.

Peace
W.
September 13, 2006

BobW
First post, long time watcher. Now I can sleep tonight knowing there will be more Wine TV in my house.

We’re plannig a visit from Connecticut this fall to the Wine Library store. I’m making my list and checking it twice (it really will be like Christmas day for me!). Keep the episodes coming….I’m learning a lot!!

Bob.
September 13, 2006

AndrewH
QOTD – For me, nothing has come close to the dining experience I had at Per Se in NYC. We had the 9 course chef’s tasting menu that included combinations of foods that you would never have dreamed of pairing together, but were just incredible. As each new selection was announced and placed before us, there was nothing you could have done that would have wiped the smile off my face. Having a new wine with each course wasn’t so bad either! At $210 per person (without the wine), though, it’s not something most of us could do very often. Some of the more special dining experiences for me have come at smaller, more intimate restaurants–places like Antonella’s in South Orange, NJ. The dishes are creative, the food is fresh, and almost everything is done by the husband and wife owners and their son.
September 13, 2006

TheGosling
Gary, As usual, great show. As a person very new to wine its a great source for me and my fiancÃ© when looking for some yummy wine. We just got engaged recently and I was wondering if you could recommend a special bottle of wine I can get for her. Price isn’t reall a concern. I just want to wow her! She is really into New Zealand Sav Blancs right now…

Restaurant- Via Allegro Ristorante in Toronto. They received the Grand Award from the Wine Spectator for their wine cellar and they have really beautiful and delicious food.

Cheers,

Geoff
September 13, 2006

NickP
Gary,

QOD: Since you live in Manhattan I’ll stay away from those. In Brooklyn here are a few good and interesting places I like: Blue Ribbon,Saul,and Da Tommasso’s. On Hilton Head Island, SC would highly recommend Michael Anthony’s – great Italian food and fantstic wine list. In Washington DC, I recommend Equinox – interesting seasonal menu and excellent wines.

Nick P
September 13, 2006

Bruce
Hi Gary,

Very good episode and I think it is great idea to do this every couple episodes and catch up on questions. The more questions you answer, the more comments/questions I think you will get.

Best Restaurant(s)

Steak – Manny’s, Minneapolis, MN
Spanish Tapas – Meson Sabika – Naperville, IL
Sushi – ToJo – Vancouver, BC
French – Ambria, Chicago, IL
German – Mader’s, Milwaukee, WI
Italian – Spiaggia, Chicago, IL
Seafood – Ocean Grille, Minneapolis, MN
Neighborhood Bar – Bunnies, St. Louis Park, MN

Sorry could not help myself and pretty hard to pick only one favorite!

Take care,

Bruce
September 13, 2006

Mark Z
Gary,
I must say I am a lurker. I have watched every episode and have not commented yet. Great episode answering the viewers questions. Very informative. As for your QOD: Even thought I live in NJ, the most memorable restaurants are on the west coast. I don’t know if it was the company, the food, the experience, or a combination of all of them but they truly stand out in my mind.
The first would be Prime at the Bellagio in Las Vegas and the other is Redd in St. Helena. I would go back to either in a heartbeat. Thanks for the blog and keep up the good work.
Thanks
Mark Z
September 13, 2006

Jared
GV,

Very good episode. As you know there are a ton of great restaurants in NYC. One that might be interesting for you to try would be The Tasting Room or how about Telepan. There are just too many to list them all, but both these places us only seasonally fresh ingrediants and have very nice wine lists as well. If you are ever in the New Haven area you must go to Sallys Pizza and in St. Louis an old favorite is Harvest where you have to have the bread pudding.

enjoy
September 13, 2006

Paul B
Gary,
Great episode as always. That was a great question you were asked about when to drink the Las Cases. I’m sure there are many of us wanna-be-winos that also have a bottle or 2 that we just dont know when to drink. Short of us all emailing you and asking, what’s the best way to know when to open a bottle? Especially if you have just one? A few years ago when my wife and I were just starting to really get into wine we bought 1 bottle of the 1996 Pio Cesare Barolo Ornato (from the Wine Library, at a great price of course!). When do we drink it?

As for the QOD, coincidently the last poster and I appear to both be from Brooklyn. So… if you ever happen to swing by Park Slope in Brooklyn, I highly recommend:
- Stone Park Cafe
- Tempo
- Al Di La

As for Manhattan, our personal fave right now is Bar Americain. Bobby Flay puts out an extremely flavorful menu with a great wine list to match.

Enjoy!

Paul B
September 13, 2006

Mark Z
Gary,
I need to make one correction on my last post. Redd is in Yountville, NOT St. Helena.

Thanks
Mark Z
September 13, 2006

Jaye
Bill D (Comment 53) – Nice write-up! Looks like GV’s got another fan.
September 13, 2006

Michael P
Gary,
I like that you are answering more questions at the end. Friday is pizze night every week & I’ve been searching for that perfect bottle. I will defintely seek out the Chinon.

My wife & I have 2 great restaurants:
Piccola Venezia – decor leaves much to be desired but then again thats not why we go there. We’ve never ever been disappointed. Service is top notch. Their Fusi alla Grappa is a MUST try. They will almost always make anything for you thats not on the menu so always ask.

Acappella – outstanding!! Very expensive but definitely worth it. Its in Tribeca NYC about 2 blocks North of the WTC. This restaurant is very special to us. We only go once a year on our anniversary & after dinner we walk to Ground Zero. Its an emotional day because we have reason to celebrate but we always take the time to remember those we lost.
They serve this antipasto dish with fried mushrooms & a great spice to it. Its awesome.
ps HBO filmed an episode of the Soprano’s here.

Piccola Venezia
42-01 28th Ave (42nd St)
Astoria, NY 11103 * 718-721-8470
http://www.piccola-venezia.com/

Acappella Restaurant
1 Hudson Street
New York, NY
http://www.acappella-restaurant.com/
September 13, 2006

eugene
Hi, Gary
Please do tell us more about zinâ€™s. I think it is really underappreciated wine. Also, I would like to see a comparison between Primitivo and Zinfandel.

QOTD:

I like many restaurants but these come to mind:

Jules in East Village for good food, live jazz, wine
Harvest in Closter, NJ, again, live jazz Tuesdays, good wine and food
Umeya excellent sushi BOYB in Cresskill NJ.
Salmon River in Midtown when I am in the mood for fish.
September 13, 2006

Rich S
I have a ton of favorite restaurants but the ones that I can always rely on are Trattoria Romana in Staten Island (although their wine list isn’t the greatest) and a new one that I am really digging is Loucas in Edison, NJ. Great Italian food, BYOB, and reasonably priced. In fact, I am going there on Sunday! For a once in a while, fine dining experience, my favorite places are the River Cafe in Brooklyn and Erminia in Manhattan. Definitely check those places out if you have never been there.
September 13, 2006

Sam Zen
G- wonder if you should have only one day a week (eg. Mondays) where you focus solely on questions, kind’a like in this episode. All my favorite restaurants are overseas… that would be one hell of a WLTV episode.
September 13, 2006

Vinacull
Gary,
Very good EP, and loved the Jets sign. Your description of the Ridge I.S. Zin has me curious and salivating, as I am familiar with the Lytton Springs and Pagani Ranch. I agree and abide by the comment about buying as many different wines as possible when shopping, rather than cases of one wine. QOTD: I’ll mention two. Lucia’s Restaurant and Wine Bar in Uptown Minneapolis is a beautiful little restaurant that serves excellent food at very reasonable non-pretentious prices in an elegant/quiet atmosphere where the service is fastidious and friendly. Another fave for great food and a fashionable dining experience is Mark’s of Las Olas in Florida.
Gary here is a QUESTION for calling you to the carpet, and I hope you get to it because you’ve never answered one of my questions. About eight or nine months ago we were doing a blind tasting where we were comparing different red varietals using California wines in order to learn how they are different from one another in color, body, smell, taste, etc. Shopping at Wine Library, there was of course an abundance of bottles to choose from across a big range of price points when it came to Cab Sav, Pinot Noir, Petite Syrah, Shiraz, and Zinfandel. However, there were just a handful of bottles to choose from in the entire store when it came to Cabernet Franc – the varietal you mentioned in today’s EP. So, my questions are: A) Why does it seem that Cabernet Franc is used more often for blending than bottled on its own? B) For viewers and/or drinkers who have never had a Cabernet Franc, what are its virtues, such that they should seek it out as you encourage them to do – especially if it is scarce to find? If you can, please address whether/when WL will carry more Cabernet Franc (i.e., a search on CA Cab Franc on WL site currently results in a greand total of three hits).
Thanking you if you rise to the challenge, CK
September 13, 2006

Mike I
For something a little different I’d recommend The Place, Boston Post Road, Guilford, Connecticut (http://www.ctnow.com/dining/hce-hta-ctn-burd-artsep07,0,3542518.story?coll=hce-headlines-dining). It’s bring your own so you decide on the wine list, and you can’t beat it for a get togehter with friends.

One other thing, have you mentioned cellartracker.com on wine library TV? It’s a great way to find out what people think of just about every wine on the planet and you can keep track of your own wines.
September 13, 2006

Fluffy
Gary,
You have to dine in Houston to truly enjoy a world class French bistro: Cafe Rabelais (http://www.caferabelais.com/). Owner Christophe Paul is from Provence/Southern Rhone but his Sancere, Bordeaux selections are unbelievable.

Having said that if you want to meet at the French Laundry in Napa, I’m a big Go!

Thanks for answering the q’s – Fluff in H-town
September 13, 2006

TimF
Mike I – Are you from Guilford? That’s where I grew up. I love The Place. It’s amazing how many restaurants people have posted that I’ve either eaten at or heard of.
September 13, 2006

TimF
Jared – Sally’s Pizza?!? That’s heresy! The only real pizza made in the US is at Pepe’s.
September 13, 2006

TimF
For all of you who live in CT (seems like there are quite a few) I need to give props to Le Petit Cafe in Branford. It was started by Jacques Pepin’s son probably 15 years ago and serves French food. They have two seatings a night and the food is amazing (prix fixe). I think Jacques lives in Madison (or at least he used to). When I worked at Bishop’s farm market in Guilford (high school job) he would come in all the time and want to talk about eggplants for some reason. My dad sold him a Peugeot back in the 1970s and claims his over-the-top accent is totally phony.
September 13, 2006

Tom
Gary,

Even though you can’t ship to Tennessee I watch your WLTV episodes. Some day Tennessee may move out of the “dark ages” and remove the stranglehold of the wine distributors in this state. Not to worry though, when I retire, I will be in a state where I can import.

Now we have that completed on the the question and 1 comment.

Favorite Restaurant in Memphis, TN area is easy.

Cafe Society
212 N Evergreen St
Memphis, TN 38112

The comment on Pizza was very interesting. I will try some, as I am a huge Rioja fan.

My wife and I also enjoy Champagne and or Sparkling Wine with pizza. Excellent!
September 13, 2006

Katie
Iowa might not be known for its restaurant, but Lincoln CafÃ© in Mt. Vernon is changing that. Their menu features three entrÃ©e specials that change weekly so every time you go there you are guaranteed a dinner worth the trip.

http://www.foodisimportant.com/

I have been watching your podcast for a while, but this is my first post.
September 13, 2006

Mike M
love it…but can you give us some real bargains
September 13, 2006

NateDogg
GV,

Alright, alright. I’ve been watching WL TV for the past two months, and I haven’t held up my end of the bargain. You finally broke me and today’s my 1st comment. Pretty excited about the Ridge Zin, which is my uncle’s favorite type of wine. I think I’ll bring a bottle of the Independence School to Thanksgiving dinner back in Massachusetts. Speaking of which, a certain football team from said state will be coming to NJ and is going to roll all over your JETS this weekend

Although originally a New England native, I’ve lived in Denver the past 3 years and was in the Bay Area for 5 before that, and I must say that Denver’s food scene is highly underappreciated. If you make it to the great state of CO on your restaurant tour you should check out Rioja (http://www.riojadenver.com/). Later,

NateDogg

P.S. Just bought my first Chateauneuf-du-Pape, the 2003 Le Vieux Donjon. Unfortunately I’ll have to wait 10 years to drink it… My fiancee and I also love the Paneretta Chianti Reserva â€“Â your video e-mail was a great inspiration!!!
September 13, 2006

Lawrence Leichtman
Great episode as always. Didn’t get to my question maybe one of these days. Always a fan of Ridge Zinds, haven’t had the Independence School yet and will have to try some.

Restaurants
Two in Napa in Yountville Bistor Jeanty and French Laundry when I can get by the reservation number
Used to love Emeril’s Delmonico before the Hurricanre and Commanders Palace in NO
Nobu for Japanese in NYC
Absolute favorite is one you went to El Bulli
September 13, 2006

David S.
Gary….in Cape May you must visit 410 Bank Street but unfortunately it’s only seasonal. You’ll take home two orders of the blackened scallops!

Going to a tasting of Oregon wines…any info to share?
September 13, 2006

Julius
I live in New York (Manhattan), one of the best “restaurant cities” in the country, so the selection is huge, but I would agree with a few earlier postings that Daniel is at the top. Impeccable service, outstanding food and wine and a genuinely gracious host (Daniel Boulud). Carnivorously speaking, my top steakhouse vote goes to Peter Luger (Brooklyn).

I have a question for you, Gary. If your father didn’t own a wine shop, what do you think you would be doing today careerwise?
September 13, 2006

E
Chinon and pizza, eh? Can’t believe I never thought of that; it’s worked with just about everything else.

Speaking of CabFranc upthread: don’t know if they have it here, but Ironstone makes a nice California CF for the price, and Chinon, Bourgueil, Saumur, and Touraine will all point you in the right direction (the CRB Touraine Cabernet I picked up last year was one of the most astonishing $10 wines I’ve ever had).

QOD: since there aren’t a lot of killer restaurants in the sticks and I can usually do better on the front porch, I’ll nominate the last truly great meal I had out, at Tosca in DC–great Northern Italian stuff and Barbaresco by the glass, which was good enough to make me go in search of more. Good times.
September 13, 2006

Rich T.
I am in Wine Library all the time, and I have never seen you!! Looking forward to a brush with a celebrity!! Anyway, my second comment here, and still want to know if I am drinking junk wines if I only really like semi-sweet wines? Are there any hightly rated Semi-sweets?
September 13, 2006

K Spengler
Gary, great episode, you were like a speed demon getting thru all those questions. Reading all these responses,there are so many HUGE name places, of course their good. My favorite eating place is a gem called Bistro 614, located on Penn Ave., West Reading, PA. Private and top of the line. It’d be a real treat for you to try it, their sommelier would flip if you showed up.

Keep up the great work, Gary. Bring your wife to PA.
September 13, 2006

Matty Van
GV thank you for asnwering my questions you rule like chicken nuggets on a teusday.

QOD – all in Rochester,Ny…here ya go Chris V.

Hogans Hideaway – great home town feel, small wine list though, dinner $15-$25 http://www.hoganshideaway.com/

pomodoro grill and wine bar – Nice place, casual dress, dinner about $20

Mama Sans – Great thai food, very few wine choices dinner $10-15 http://www.mamasans.com/

2vine – favorite for a date, dinners $20-30, awesome wine list at great prices http://www.2vine.com/Default.asp

The grill at strathallan – got wine spectators top award of excelance, HUGE wine list, great but expensive food
September 13, 2006

Anthony V.
Gary, great show as usual. My favorite restaurant of all time is C’era Una Volta. It’s a family run restaurant in the hills of Tuscany right outside Montespertoli. Freshest Veal Chop my wife and I have ever had. Great local Chianti which unfortunately we did not buy enough of while there.
September 13, 2006

joe
Gary, I want to second Sam Zen’s (who always makes very thoughtful and smart comments) recommendation about devoting one episode a week to JUST answering questions. This past episode was so educational. By answering so many questions – you address the education of thousands of viewers. Maybe do a Wed or Firiday “question-only” day. 4 days of wine tasting, one day of question answering. What do you think?
Joe
September 13, 2006

Evan T
OK. De-lurking as per your request and finally leaving a comment.

I enjoy the blog very much.

Since I am writing, here is a suggested sign off for you (QOD from days gone by). Just throw a cork at the lens. We’ll see what kind of aim you have, Jets fan.
September 13, 2006

Bob H
Favorite restaurant: Flagstaff House, Boulder, Colorado- Outstanding wine selection and food with a view of Boulder and Denver from the mountainside.
September 13, 2006

GOL
GV, great energy on ep 88, way to come back strong after a day off on Fri!

QOD – Here are my two cents on Chicago restaurants. There is one clear winner, and it is Alinea. If you live in the Chi area and haven’t been there you are missing a true experience. Forget Trotter’s, Tru (which is great), Blackbird, et al. Owner and head chef came from Trio, which when he was there was consistently ranked right with French Laundry and Le Cirque in what I will call the “new world” category of restaurants, very creative, my wife describes it as “Willy Wonka for adults.” Dinner for two will run about a bottle of Amarone easy so it’s only a special occasion place for me… dining with GV and other WLTV viewers from chitown would certainly qualify as a special occasion
September 13, 2006

Jean F.
Hi Gary,
I really like your TV show a lot. I discovered it by using DemocracyPlayer software in which WLTV is available.

I would like to know your feelings about french wines from Loire. In this episode you told about Chinon and I remember that you already tasted and appreciated a Sancerre wine. I like other wines like some Bourgueil, Saumur-champigny, Anjou-villages, coteaux du Layon and coteaux de l’Aubance. Do you know these wines and do you like?

QOD: Menelik in Paris (food from Ethiopia), great!

Jean F. from Anjou, France
September 13, 2006

Kathy Hughes
Gary, My favorite restaurants are: Cote D’azur in Naples, Florida and Saporitos’ Florence Club Cafe in Hull, Massachusetts. Both restaurants offer superlative food and have quaint, rustic settings that are perfect pairings for enjoying excellent wine. All the best to you, as I’m just beginning to be interested in wine….thanks to you and your WLTV. Kathy H. Naples, FL
September 13, 2006

Jonathan B
Gary, another great show. My favorite restaurant is Al Forno Restaurant in Providence RI.

http://www.alforno.com/

Thanks
September 13, 2006

Steve B
BillD,
I was also inspired to blog about Gary and WLTV last month – I even beat you by about a week
I’m glad to see that Gary is getting some great press and feedback from wine lovers from around the world. Gary told me that he had seen my blog soon after it was posted, so we know he’s out there looking for reactions to WLTV. My blog entry can be found at http://blog.thegrapenuts.net/?p=35

Steve B
September 13, 2006

Tony
Chad Penn… who?
Mike Vick Baby!!
September 13, 2006

Al Diaz
Best restaurant RAINWATER in Atlanta. Food incredible, service impeccable, superb wine list and the after dinner NOVAL port well it finished a glorious evening for my family of 17 folks. Keep up the good work and yes the Seattle Seahawks will beat the Jets.
September 13, 2006

Italian Stallion
Hey if you guys want real pizza, come to Brooklyn….Totonno’s in Coney Island has the best pizza outside of Naples (and believe me, I had the pizza in Naples and nothing compares). I am convinced that there is no pizza in the US that tastes as good as pizza does from NY, especially Brooklyn. I may be biased because I live in Brooklyn, but I have had pizza in many other states and its sad what they think good pizza is.
September 13, 2006

saul
i’ ve been going to park and orchard in east rutherford. for over 20 years didn’t realize until i started drinking wine what an incredible wine list they have meet you there any time
September 13, 2006

Al Diaz
Hey Italian Stallion it all has to do with the water in NYC and the way the pizza is made. Ex NYorker.
September 13, 2006

Al Diaz
Hey Gary since you suggest tasting a different bottle of wine every day why not put together packages of 12 different bottles of your most recommended wines so that those of us that live outside NJ and pay shipping can take advantage of it? Do something different like include some reds, whites, some ports, maybe a sake and maybe a champagne, just a thought. This would be a first since i am not aware of anyone else doing this. See ya.
September 13, 2006

RTH
Hey Gary. Commenting for the first time today, however I enjoy WineLibraryTV almost every day. I just bought some Twenty Rows Grappler and some Ridge Independence School.

Too bad your beloved Jets are destined to have a 5-win season. I know how it feels though – I’m a lifelong Bengals fan! You wanna talk about bad draft picks??? It’s nice to finally win some games now after losing throughout the 90s.
September 13, 2006

RTH
Restaurant: Camel City Cafe, Winston-Salem, NC, http://www.camelcitycafe.com/

But stay away from the NC wines – opt for one of their other great selections. Our server there a few years ago suggested the Rosenblum Rockpile Road Zin before it became popular and that is the wine that got me really interested in tasting and collecting. In fact I went home and ordered a case that night at $20/bottle… just had one of them last Saturday.
September 13, 2006

Michael W
I have three favorite resturants. I come from a food and beverage background. I have been in marketing for the past 15 years and that has aloud me to enjoy many fine resturant around the country.

1. Burns Steakhouse Tampa Florida.
The food is good but can be duplicated at other resturants. The thing that make this resturant so special is it’s been around a long time and carries the largest [if not one of the largest 2-3] wine collection of wine in the entire country. That in itself does not make it special. Burns has purchased throughout the years the the right wines for for aging purposes and is extreemly fair in its pricing. There is no where I can go and get 15-100 year old wines at very fair prices. Their white and red burgandy selection is out of this world. How many times have you come across great small wineries or 2nd and 3rd growths from exceptional years that have been properly cellared. The irony is probably the best part of their collection is their dessert wines which they escort you to a whole other floor to enjoy. 5 million bottles…50,000 different sellections enough said.

2. California Grill Orlando Florida
This resuarant sits on top of the contempoary resort [the hotel that the monorail goes through the middle. Not only do you enjoy the views/entertaimant from all five theme parks but the food is fantasctic....some of the best susie I've ever had. The resurant uses their disney name and international press to procure some of the best our country makes in regards to wine. The best part is they offer all! [over 200] of their wines by the glass.

3. The Grill Room. Ritz Carlton Naples Florida
I’ll put their food and service up against any! restuarant I’ve been too including cities like New Orleans, New York, Chicago, and San Fran. [I consider those the best cities in our country for food.] Their are 87 master chefs in the world and this property has two. The downside is their wine prices are high.

I just had an emergancy come uop and i do not have time for spell check
September 13, 2006

Scott S
Hey Gary,
Great information in this session. Thanks for answering our questions. The best restaurant for me recently is Peasant in NYC – NoLita. This is a cool very small old world Italian place where all dishes are served in rustic style and all regional wines. Would be a great place, check it out
September 13, 2006

Neal
Hey Gary…long time lurker finally posting….love WTV and enjoyed the WSJ write-up.

Favorite restaurant is easy. La Louisianne in Montreal Quebec. While Montreal has a lot of great restaurants covering every ethnicity in the world (after NYC, it could be the most cosmopolitan in North America), la Louâ€™s French Cajun cuisine is a hidden gem. Relatively small (perhaps 20 tables) and an open kitchen with flames flying and a bourbon street feel keeps it fun yet intimate. Wonderful seafood, steaks, crab cakes, gumbo and desserts. Reasonably decent affordable wine list but the trick is to ask Kyle or Greg (the owners) what they have in the basement, off the menuâ€¦that is where the good stuff isâ€¦youâ€™d love it. Montreal joie de vivre. Best time to go in my opinion? Middle of February when it is ridiculously coldâ€¦makes walking into the warmth of La Lou so much more enjoyableâ€¦let me know when you want to met upâ€¦wines on me.

Neal
September 13, 2006

John Parisi
One Jet Fan to another, my favorite restaurant is Ponticello in Astoria Queens. Their wine cellar dining room is fantastic and their Nortern Italian menu is world class.

J E T S!!!
September 13, 2006

johnm
Guess the website went down last night and ate my comment #9. Restaurant- Charlie Trotter’s in Chicago. RTH, I live in Boone and will look for an opportunity to check out Carmel City next time I’m in W-S – thanks for the heads up.
September 14, 2006

Chairman M
First time poster… transplant from NY.
In the Seattle area – The Herbfarm (Woodinville, WA). Usually they do a 5-6 course set meal with matched wines. The first time I was there, they served a Malmesey Madeira from 1906 with dessert. Blew my socks off. Used to be really difficult to get a reservation but they’ve modernized and its much easier.
I agree with one of the earlier posters that Commander’s Palace is phenomenal!

but of course any NY pizza rules…
September 14, 2006

David M
Hey Gary!

In LA I would say Sona is my favorite great food and wine tied with AOC. However I really enjoy La Toque is Napa.

Cheers!
September 14, 2006

Michael P
Tim F – I’m sorry to inform you but the only place for the BEST pizza in the world (yes the world because even in Italy their pizza consists of tomato sauce baked on flat bread. no cheese)is NYC!!
2 spots that I’ve been too many many times & have consistently ranked in the top 3 in Zagats for many years is
Nicks in Forest Hills (Queens) NY
Patsies (formerly Grimaldi’s) in Brooklyn.

THey both serve brick oven pizza with an array of toppings. Nicks has an incredible canolli!!
September 14, 2006

Tampa Steve
Gary, my favorite restaurant, thats easy Burn Steak House in Tampa Fl. With over a half million bottles of wine in their cellars the food still shines through. I have been to almost every steak house in NY/Tampa/Orlando and nothing comes even close…PERIOD! Any time, just let me know my friend;) I would never turn down a dinner at Burns.
September 14, 2006

Tony G.
Liked the episode! Favorite restaurant? has to be Mexicali Rose in Montclair NJ. Small place, great great food! never disappointed! and it seems like no matter how long between visits the owner still recognizes you and treats you like one of his family.

Another great, but rather unknown place is Que Pasta in Saddle Brook. Small, casual, but everything is fresh and the pasta is made on site.
September 16, 2006

Ray
Gary:

Had the Ridge last night aster receiving the case I bought. It definitely reminded me of Lyttton Springs I have previously had and also a ‘99 Freemark Abbey. You’re right, the fruit deinitely explodes but it doesn’t samck you. If it will help to hold it I will but it will be hard to put it away. I hope to make it to your store someday. Being from Philly, we root for the Iggles. Are those Jets still in the3 NFL?
September 19, 2006

Rob S.
How about a Midwestern steakhouse? St. Elmo’s in Indianapolis gets my vote.

I’ve worked in the retail wine business for 10 years now, and have sold a few bottles of the the Dal Forno Amarone. Although I’ve never tasted it, whenever I show a bottle to a knowledgeable customer, their eyes light up.
September 19, 2006

Susan
The best restaurant in Charlotte is…
Mama Ricotta’s
Fabulous Home Made Italian and great wines!
Home made garlic bread as much as you can eat!
Chicken Carciofo that is to die for!!
September 20, 2006

Guy
Hi Gary,

I’ve had many terrific meals at many fabulous restaurants around the world, but for a restaurant to be a favorite, I believe it has to be one you’ve eaten at many, many times … therefore a favorite because you consistently love the quality of the food, ambiance, etc.

To that end, most of my favorites are in New Jersey (where I live) or NYC (where we spend a lot of our free time … and money). I will name two restaurants that I absolutely love in NYC, because most readers will have the opportunity to visit NYC at least once and a while.

First, my favorite overall is Rene Pujol’s @ 321 West 51st Street in Manhattan. It is a marvelous French bistro right on the edge of the theatre district and has marvelous pre fixe dinner and lunch selections. The wine list is absolutely fabulous and relatively inexpensive … with some actual bargains available. Spacious, never try to cram to many tables in a small area, with delightful and refined service. I’ve never been disappointed here. Overall, this is my favorite restaurant due to the combination of exellent food, reasonable prices, wine, ambiance, service, etc.

Second, my wife and I love to go to “One if by Land, Two if by Sea” in the village. It is simply the most romantic restaurant in the city. They have a Chef’s sampler dinner (around $100 per person) and with a matched set of wines with the courses, it comes to about $160 per person. The food is always very good, but not necessarily “the best”, but the atmosphere is just overwhelmingly wonderful. Add to that the friendly and attentive service. Pricey … yes; but for the special occasion, it really makes the evening memorable. One thing we always to here is to bring our own wine (it has to be a truly wonderful bottle though, or else it is simply too tacky to do) and drop it off before the theatre and ask them to decant … then return to dinner with a wine that has been decanted for several hours and enjoy with the wonderful dinner. This place can be trusted to do a marvelous job with the decanting and they definitely can be trusted not to pull anything while in possession of your wine.
September 21, 2006

Chris Stanisci
To My Fellow WLTV Viewers,

I’ve created a spreadsheet that lists ALL of the restaurant recommendations posted above (and below if any are added).

If you would like a copy of the spreadsheet, post a comment on this episode (I’ll continue to check it) and leave me your email address. thanks, Chris
September 25, 2006

Chris
Based on Gary’s review I bought this Ridge. I love Zins and had a few Ridge’s, some were very good some not. Also in the purchase was Arrocal, the Villacreces and some daily wines. I have been seriously drinking red wine for 15 years. Enjoy finding great wine (by my tastes) at a great price. With Wine Library, TV and Gary, this is easier than ever.

PS: I am no longer lurking.
September 25, 2006

GatorFan
Gary,

Great Show! Favorite Restaurant:
Sequoia in Placerville, CA. This restaurant is the perfect ending to a day of tasting wines in the Sierra foothills. This restaurant takes all the annoying things out of fine dining. First, the service is excellent and the staff is very warm. Second, the portions are huge! Not what you expect from an upscale place. Plus it tastes great, way better than Cetrella in Half Moon Bay. Finally, the wine list includes many of the best local wines. And I’m not the only one that loves it; I understand that some critics have rated it on par with the best restaurants in Napa/Sonoma.

Thanks for WLTV!
October 7, 2006

the professor and....
Gary, great meeting you today! You’re the real deal and a really cool, down to earth guy. Thanks for the your wine suggestions. Had to come back and watch the video again for this wine, I can’t say that I can taste ALL of the things that you pointed out, but I really like this wine. It is loaded. Thanks again, I’ll definately be back to buy more.
October 11, 2006

Bruno
Stop asking us to comment. you become annoying when you do that. just check the site’s stats. Why do you so many pointless comments anyways?
October 18, 2006

Brandon M
GatorFan…how can you say Sequoia when everyone knows it’s Poor Reds?

B
December 17, 2006

mjen
Gary,

Silks in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel San Francisco. Not only because I work there. The food is absolutely amazing. Stop by if you are ever in SF.
January 1, 2007

Richard Wolf
Gary, I enjoy your show–but please give a due to the this Giant fan from Missouri and get a picture saying Giants( after all-Jets play in Giants Stadium) with spitt bucket on the right–ps just tried a gaja & ray–any comments to where it fits in your pantheon? I felt like it was the wine from heaven——-Rick Wolf
January 22, 2007

thomas korent
Lift, in Vancouver’s Stanley Park. Amazing Bison!
January 25, 2007

Bob Cordosi
Restaurants:

Bobbywood & Todd Jurich’s Bistro in Norfolk, Va. Also Zinc in Virignia Beach. All have outsanding food and award winning wine cellars. Email me. We’ll go. Heck, Me and the wife would hit all three with ya.
March 12, 2007

Danny Hope
I was interested to see what you had to say about the 100 point wine but (although, under the movie it says:

Wines tasted in this episode:
* 2003 Ridge Independence School Zinfandel
* 1999 Dal Forno Amarone

You only mention one wine.

What am I missing? I’m sure it’s something obviousâ€“it’s 1am here in the UK and I’m tired and I need to go home.
April 22, 2007

acrobaticfish
QOTD: Going to have to go with three. Tartine Bakery, Pizzeria Delfina, and Delfina all on the same ridiculous block in San Francisco.

http://travel.nytimes.com/2007/01/28/travel/28Bite.html?em&ex=1170219600&en=2c1363eecdd7f73c&ei=5087
May 14, 2007

Pablo
Did you ever do an episode on apartment wine cellaring? I’d be very interested in that episode since I don’t have a house =)

QOTD: It’s a toss up between two restaurants here in Phoenix. Oregano’s, which is a slightly chainy Italian restaurant who’s motto is ‘Bigger is Better’ =) The second would be Fate which is this tiny little Thai restaurant in the downtown Phoenix art district. It is also an art gallery which is very cool.
May 17, 2007

jen kawanari
hi gary,

i was wondering what are these asian spices that are in these wines? i’m asian and i don’t know what that means. i really enjoy your show btw, i’ve never really been interested in wine. but now my girlfriend and friends do little wine tastings while watching your show. thanks!
July 18, 2007

David Canada
Love it when you do the q&a episodes
QOTD – The Old Prune in Stratford Ontario. Here is the website http://www.oldprune.on.ca
It is my fav in southen Ontario. If you come, dinner is on me.
September 25, 2007

soyhead
Evan T wrote … (from the original comments)

“Since I am writing, here is a suggested sign off for you (QOD from days gone by). Just throw a cork at the lens. Weâ€™ll see what kind of aim you have, Jets fan.”

I think this is the first suggestion of this kind. Be sure Evan T gets some props.
November 7, 2007

Alos Diallo
I thought that this was a great episode because you can learn sooo much from the questions that were answered, such as the cab franc with tomato dishes! Thanks Gary!
January 8, 2008

winemad
Favorite restaurant: Rats, Hamilton NJ
February 14, 2008

thefanjestic
That was a lot of good questions and a lot of good answers.

Gary does finally taste the Opus 1 on his brother 21st birthday episode – but I’m not sure if he tasted prior to that.
April 20, 2008

Kristen
QOTD: Bravo Bravo in Mystic, CT is very good. I liked the Sakonnet Fish Company in Portsmouth, RI, but it is now defunct.
June 3, 2008

Logan
Hi Gary, you guilted me with the “must post” bit.

I’m a New Hampshire boy currently living in Tokyo, Japan, and, as you may have heard, Tokyo was recently rated by Michelin as the world’s #1 city for gourmet. Not that I choose to frequent (not could afford to) starred restaurants, and of course its great to enjoy the indigenous cuisine here, but Tokyo has some amazing foreign restaurants.

My favorite Italian restaurant is Evo in Ebisu, Tokyo, near downtown. I love it, and I’m used to awesome Italian in Boston’s North End, so I was really impressed by this restaurant here. Evo is authentic (not that I’ve been to Italy), cozy and warm, with knowledgeable staff (both Italian and Japanese), an awesome stone furnace where they cook the best pizza I’ve had in Tokyo, an open patio when it’s warm… Really a great place.

I also enjoyed Greco di Tufo (only 4,000 yen on the wine list) for the first time here, at the recommendation of the young female sommelier, and I’m rarely a white wine kinda guy.

Anyway, if you’re ever in Tokyo for just a short time I recommend you focus on eating the best Japanese food you can (and there’s so much more than sushi in this city’s 80,000 eating establishments), but Evo is a great place that I’d bring anyone.
September 19, 2009

John J.
Great episode Gary, love that you wanna more question and comments. Mine is will you ever do an episode on vin jaune’s, and you do so many tastings how about one on the different charbono’s in California?

Gary answers a lot of wine questions! – Episode #88

Wines tasted in this episode:

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