Cotes Du Rhone wine reviews.

Cotes Du Rhone wine reviews. – Episode 101

October 5, 2006

Wines tasted in this episode:

Today Gary tastes through some of the biggest names in the wine world and has a lot of fun doing it. He also tackles some of the stuff going on in the comments section.

Links mentioned in todays episode.

Delicious Days
Portals and KM
Chancecube

144 Responses

October 5, 2006

Brandon M
Opened a bottle of the San Felipe last night and REALLY took the time to analyze.
I think what is throwing me is the nose when it’s first pored into the decanter.

I gave it about 45 minutes before first taste and it was extremely pleasant, nice body.

#101…on our way!

B
October 5, 2006

Big Billy from Big D
Please remember that Wine Librarians know where to locate Great Expectorations
October 5, 2006

hingrman
great episode
October 5, 2006

Jason R.
Brandon – Do you work?? LOL

Drinking a 2004 Sebastiani Zin (Sonoma) Given to me as a gift Gift. Pretty light for a Zin. Actually going pretty well with Brats & Dorito’s… hehe
October 5, 2006

kidseyemd
I will keep your theme today and open a 2003 JL Chave Mon Couer Cote du Rhone.
Gary this is another CDR that will fool you blind. stunning, though “pricey” for a cote du rhone at about $15-16.

That gives me an idea-viewers should drink what you taste (not the same wines, but same category) and submit a review!!
October 5, 2006

zerokreap (kw)
back in the top 10…
October 5, 2006

Big Billy from Big D
Vote for your choice of T-Shirt name:

http://www.vaynervote.com/

Remember WLTV TERROIRists
Have Their Place

Chin chin
October 5, 2006

Brandon M
Jason R…someday I will get a real job and move out of my Mom’s house. Until then I will continue following Gary around and throwing my used corks on stage. Do you think he’ll notice me????

Tonight I am going to try another Reisling, only this time I’m going to the wine shop so I don’t know what it’s going to be yet.

Just ordered one of every bottle from today. Can’t wait to try!

B
October 5, 2006

Dan G.
Good show and very informative. Never tried Cotes Du rhone yet, but willing now. Hell you got me hooked on the CDP’s now so why not. What am I drinking tonight…..Jagermeister – since the Yankees lost
October 5, 2006

Jason R.
Shame on me for posting what I was drinking before I watched the Episode. Gary you have to get em up earlier in the day if I am going to drink along with you (CDR). I open at lunch time, drink for dinner.

Question – Should a person be wary when in a respectable wine shop, and find something on the shelf (Not in the climate controled area), that is lets say a 1998 or 1999 Bordeaux. It has been laying down, but not exactly the best conditions. Assuming the shop keeps it at a “consistant” room temp of 68 and it having sat there for 3 years or so – should you buy it? Should you be concerned?

My thoughts on this – I will buy it if it is something that I am not paying a huge amount of $$ for. If it is something that is in the $50+ range – I would expect to have one pulled from a climate controlled area where the bottle that I am taking home has not been fondled by everyone that has picked it up and put it back down… Anyways – Not a great Question – But just a “humm” question….
October 5, 2006

TimF
Oh man, somebody beat me to the spoof! I’ve already got a script ready and everything.
October 5, 2006

zerokreap (kw)
QOTD: funny story on this…i was at a local chain grocery and noticed they had the ol’ basket o’ wine bargains going on…so i looked through not expecting anything. well, i came across a franciscan magnificat 2001…well, it didn’t have a price on it…i took it up to the front and told the lady behind the counter that it didn’t have a price on it, but that i found it in the basket…the UPC was marked through, so it was definitely supposed to be in the basket…everything else in there was in the $12-$18 range, but she said “i think this was going for $4.50. i said “great” and took my prize home….looked it up and noticed it was an 87 rating and currently $40.00….so i got a decent deal…popped it open last night and it tasted remarkably like the lunada sonoma meritage…vacu-vined it last night and put it in the fridge….i will break it out here when i get home from work and after it warms up a bit that will be what i am drinking….it’s a monster at 14.1%
wouldn’t normally drink it, but since it was a steal:
i am drinking
2001 franciscan Magnificat meritage
October 5, 2006

Tony
Some of my favs!
October 5, 2006

Jaye
Saturday!! Great, I’m flying out to Seattle on Saturday. Oh well, I am sure I will run in to you one day. BTW, what’s the name of the man who pointed you to the 2nd wine in episode 100 (in the wine room)? He had answered some questions for me once before in the store and I found him very helpful.

Please take a gulp of the Zin for me, I’m not drinking tonight (have a meeting to go to). Cheers!
October 5, 2006

Susan
Gary-
Great episode! I give it a 95.
Now, if someone could just get you fired up about SPORTS we would be ok!??!?!
Just joking around,
but seriously….
Keep up the GOOD work!
October 5, 2006

Tony
Sorry to hear about the Perrin and Guigal. I’ve got several of each in my wine cooler.

I’m drinking whatever we find at whereever we go to eat tonight.
October 5, 2006

Mike S.
Haven’t decided yet, Gary V. Maybe the 2002 Ramian Estate (very intrigued by that one) or mayhaps the 2001 Catena Alta Malbec. Like you, I’m going big this evening. Pairing whatever I drink with some jambalaya, so it ought to be a pretty good evening. Might even meet up with the rugby team later on…

This is Mike S and I’m a Redskins fan.
October 5, 2006

NickP
Top 20? guess I have to be half way around the world in Tokyo to get an early post. Glad you confirmed what I thought of the Guigal. See you at the Manor on Monday.
NickP
October 5, 2006

Denyce M
Hello Gary,

Well I have to admit that I am a closet watcher and I am Brandon M’s wife. Never would I admit that I enjoy your show to him as we only need 1 wine buyer in the family…by the way B…how many bottles of wine did you buy today????and what wine shop are you planning on going to before you come home???

Gary I have a question for you…in your episodes you comment on the different fruitful smells from the wine. How long did it take you to actually smell these different fruits? I have a really hard time smelling them. Brandon always asks me “What do you smell” and honestly I just smell wine…

Thanks Gary!

Denyce M
October 5, 2006

Deb L
GO VIKES!! What will I drink tonight with the girls? Semillon silly.
anyhoo – cant wait until the next episode – already have a xmas list to order
October 5, 2006

Tony S.
Nice to see you’re honest and know that your Jets are going to lose to the Jags this weekend. Who know’s maybe it’ll be an upset.

QOD: Double mag of 1982 Petrus. Ya…right, I mean a bottle of 2005 Las Brisas (Spanish white wine). My wife loves it, and keeping her happy is key…especially during football season.

Nice episode, I tend to stray away from Cotes-du-Rhones cause I’ve had so many blah ones.

OK…gotta run. Go Bears!!!
T
October 5, 2006

Picktown
Well, now you’ve inspired me to open the Domaine La Garrigue Cotes du Rhone…

But tonight it was the Beringer Knight’s Valley Cab with dinner. We’re actually headed out the door to the local wine shoppe, to see what’s new from Washington.

Go Buckeyes!
O – H – …
October 5, 2006

PattyO
The chancecube was FAN-TAS-TIC! Guys – you had me crying! No spitting because they don’t believe in wasting! Way to go! I want to see a cat (or a pig or a racoon…) hop across Gary’s table during the next episode…
As for the Cotes Du Rhones – thanks for tasting these today! I have great memories of the ones I drank in France but have just bought dud after dud here at home. In fact, I just checked and the only one I have on hand at the moment is the Perrin – yet another dud it would appear! So now I have a little direction and I’m excited about 2 great-value options from your tasting today!
October 5, 2006

MaryS
Ouch Gary! Are you really drinking Beringer White Zin tonight? I bet you are just teasing me to get me to comment. Well it worked. Come on over. I have plenty. But I am still trying new stuff

Didn’t get a chance to comment on Episode 100 yesterday. It was really funny. One of my favorite episodes along with the tour, the drive and Rieslings. I learned a lot from that one.

Mary S
Martinsville, New Jersey
October 5, 2006

Matthew L
T I G E R S !!!

Nice show. I am big fan of Rhone wine.

I am a foodie, and my wife’s a chef, so we will check out delicious days. I’ll be sure to stick a fork in that pretentious-looking Bill Eaves.

Tonight I’m trying a bottle of Pago del Vicaro 2005 Petit Verdot Rosado(Spain).

In addition to the victorious TIGERS…Gary, you know I’m Lions fan. They play the Jets on Oct. 22.

Gary…thanks for the nice e-mail!
October 5, 2006

GOL
GV – Teenage boy… is that your way of working current events into WLTV?

As coincidence has it I had the ‘03 Guigal and the ‘01 Guigal the other night at a family dinner. Had it with and without food and I enjoyed it with food (lots of vegetables, salmon, chicken). I didn’t get the evergreen grass nose (in fact, i didn’t get much of a nose at all out of it) but I certainly agree that it is not complex and not offensive, which I think in the under $10 category means you’ve done OK. The ‘01 was inferior to ‘03. I will be seeking out the two winners from this ep.

Vayniacs – To answer the QOD I need a suggestion for what to drink with Thai food tonight, probably chicken pad thai maybe green curry chicken with broccoli (mild spice)… it’s not gonna be the rest of an over-oaked, under-fruited Penny Hill ‘04 Red Dot Chardonnary I had the other night

This is GOL and I’m a BEARS fan (and Tigers fan for this week only)!
October 5, 2006

Cameron P
Great episode, nice to see you back in full swing after the brief hiatus. I love the Rhone, thanks for highlighting some good values. QOD: Tonight I will be drinking a Syrah from Addamo Vineyards, a new boutique winery on Cali’s central coast.
October 5, 2006

Bear Down
Gary,

Good episode. I’ve been burned by Cotes du Rhone, Guigal a few times. I’ll never drink it again. Althought, I do enjoy their Cote-Rote, Brune et Blonde, but that’s not always in the budget.

I’ll likely be drinking a half bottles of 2002 Frank Family C/S, Napa, and maybe a couple of Old Styles (mid-western cheap beer).

Only 4-0 team in the NFC! ‘da Bears!
October 5, 2006

Chris
Great episode Gary! Tonight I will be drinking an 04 Neal Zin. Gary, how about a Brunello or Super Tuscan episode? What are some of your favorite wine parings with Turkey? I’m starting to think about Thanksgiving. Thanks. Chris
October 5, 2006

SeanM
Gol,

Thai food GewÃ¼rztraminer

QOD:

I’ll be drinking a simple Zin tonight. Ranch Zabaco Dancing Bull 2002
October 5, 2006

bryan
nice to see the show get back to normal. I am going to be drinking the 2004 Etude Pinot Noir tonight.
October 5, 2006

Matty Van, Rochester NY
“Chancecube” guys thats was great…which reminds me it would be great to see an finger lakes NY show, I recomend our reislings.

Gary you are funny haha, not funny queer (sling blade)….I sent they guy an e-mail

QOD – 2002 BV merlot, I like it dont love it, its good for the $ as are all of the wines I buy or at least I hope

Brandon M – maybe I can quit my job and move in with you and your mom, has to be room for a futon for me to sleep on somewhere in the basement, then we could comment on here sooo much that we would rule the WLTV world.
October 5, 2006

GOL
no gewurz in my cellar… but thx and i’ll remember that SeanM
October 5, 2006

good old ludwig van
QOTD:

I’m drinking the 2003 Clos Mimi Syrah Petite Rousse that Gary raved about in episode 80, and it’s very nice. Check out my tasting notes on cellartracker.com.

I liked today’s episode–I’m kind of glad to get back to the meat and potatoes wine tasting.
October 5, 2006

StanVH
Giacomo-Mori Chianti 2001

Did I really hear you say a Berenger white Zin??? And they say you “are not funny”.
October 5, 2006

JustinL
Gary, you have a Strawberry Shortcake collection? Creepy.
October 5, 2006

JustinL
BTW, I’m going to a German Riesling tasting tonight, so that’s what I’m drinking.
October 5, 2006

DWildman
Drinking Clos Mimi Petite Rousse with a steak burrito. Goes incredibly well.

Gary, what is your favorite method of wine preservation? Do you think the Vacu-Vin and similar things really work for red wine left at room temperature? I have a Wine Keeper, one of the nitrogen things…i find it works but definitely needs a few minutes of swirling to get oxygen back in the wine and nitrogen out. Find if i drink the nitrogen-saturated wine immediately it tastes, well, “off” somehow.

Gary, do you have a Nikolai Volkoff action figure? He was my favorite villain. My favorite “heroes” were Chief J. Strongbow and Billy White Wolf.

Great show. Very tempted to buy the Grand Veneur….
October 5, 2006

Rick
Hi

vaynerchuck!
vaynerchuck!
vaynerchuck!
Ha!
Ha!
Ha!

http://winelibrary.com/reviewwine.asp?item=26780
The Garretson winey says,

“2003
G RED
Central Coast
Red Wine

Varietal Composition:
70% Syrah
12% Grenache
10% MourvÃ¨dre
8% Viognier

Finished Chemistry:
14.7% Alcohol
3.75 pH
0.62 TA
0.15 RS

Production Protocol:
Hand-harvested fruit was gently destemmed, resulting in nearly 100% whole berry fruit. All lots were inoculated with a combination of D-254, D-80 and D-21 RhÃ´ne yeast isolates. Through primary fermentation, each lot was punched down three to four times a day. After fermentation, both free-run and press lots were transferred into a combination of third- and fourth-fill and neutral oak barrels. The wine underwent 100% malolactic in barrel, and was aged on the lees for 18 months. A careful barrel selection was followed by judicious blending to create the resulting wine.

Winemakerâ€™s Notes:
Bright garnet in color, this wine exhibits aromas of rasberry, white peach, blueberry, spice box and white pepper lead. Medium to full bodied on the palate, it displays great intensity of fruit with wonderful grip and texture. While drinking nicely now, this wine will improve over the next year and drink well for 5 to 7 years or beyond.

Wines in our “G” Series are crafted to maximize drinking pleasure without sacrificing balance or complexity. They serve as a great introduction to our winery…not to mention they’re just plain fun to drink.

Case Production: 3,600 (12 x 750ml)

Suggested Retail: $20 per bottle.”
October 5, 2006

PattyO
Little Penguin Shiraz – thanks to you Gary!
Guess what – yep, it’s a surprisingly yummy little cheapo!
October 5, 2006

Rich S
No wine tonight but last night I had a easy drinking red table wine from Renault Winery in our own state of NJ. It is a blend so I don’t know exactly what grape varietals are in it, but it is nothing fancy. It went well though with the pasta and rustic tomato sauce we had last night………

This weekend I am going to a friend’s house for a dinner party though and will be bringing some better juice. A nice, crisp Australian blend of semillon and sauv blanc (Leeuwin Estate from WL) and a really nice meritage from a small CA winery, named Little Vineyards oddly enough.
October 5, 2006

Brandon M
Crap…I’ve been found out!
October 5, 2006

Anthony L
First time commenting long time lurking. Love what your doing keep up the the great work.
October 5, 2006

SS Chris
DENYCE M, Welcome to VaynerNation….you are officially a Vayniac.

Your hubby and I have grown rather tight (I’m a little obsessive compulsive like B)..just look at the SS….nuff said.

Anyway welcome….and we thank you for allowing Brandon to contribute as he does.

Brandon…there’s no hiding now..
October 5, 2006

the professor and....
Drinking Noblaine Chinon, my favorite wine with a big salad. I’m a fan of the Packers. Okay got both of your questions answered, so now my question for you, how and why do you know what strawberry shortcake dolls smell like?
October 5, 2006

Paul M
Gary – If you open a red that seems like it needs some breathing can you simulate an hour or two of decanting by swirling the wine for say a minute straight? Seems like swirling in the glass mixes the wine with air so I was curious if you though this would appoximate the effects of breathing?
October 5, 2006

ML
It’s good to have you back Gary!

Do those strawberry shortcake dolls really smell? Reminds me of those scratch-n-sniff stickers from the ’80s. Gary, I know you had them all over your Trapper Keeper.

Tonight I’m drinking (about to open) a 2001 Minervois…Chateau Coupe Roses… I think I bought it at WL a few years ago. Hopefully it’s not over the hill.
October 5, 2006

dougiefresh
GV’s back to tasting and commenting on wine, love it. great episode.

Had the Notre Dame a few weeks ago (recommended on the floor of WL by one of the dudes who cameod in #100) and thought it was brutal, what up? Does the typical Cotes Du Rhone benefit greatly from a longer breathing session/decanting more so than your typical “new world” wine? Or am I just a philistine? (don’t answer that Vaneyacks)

enjoying the Hecula tonight, looking forward to the super tasting on Monday.
October 5, 2006

chrisb
Im drinking the Clos Mimi 2003 Petite Rousse. Great recommendation, Gary

Look forward to trying some CDRs.
October 5, 2006

Rick E
DWildman (#38) — Gary commented on the wine preservation thing in one of last season’s episodes. He’s a cork-back-in-bottle kind of guy. Simple method for simple folk–hereto known as the “VaynerSaver”.

Gary, oddly enough my bottle this evening was the second half of the Paul Jaboulet “Parallele 45″ Cotes du Rhone that I opened last night. Light bodied with cherries, strawberries, mineral, and spice, with bracing acidity and drying tannins. Nothing special, but not bad QPR at $10. Thanks for the Rhone episode!

Rick
October 5, 2006

tim
Great show Gary, good to see you back to form.

Tonight it’s a Tyrus Evan Claret. Tyrus Evan is the second label from Ken Wright who makes some damn fine, and popular, Oregon Pinots; this is his Bordeaux varietal label and most of the fruit comes from Washington and Southern Oregon. The 03 Claret is from the Ciel du Cheval vineyard in WA and is a Merlot based meritage. good stuff.

Rick! That G Red is good stuff – used to see it around here but not any more. Enjoy it.

Broncos.
October 5, 2006

Tony S
Really enjoyed today’s show.

Tonight, I’m drinking a 2003 Greg Norman Limecoast Cabernet/Merlot.
October 5, 2006

Marc McSorley
2001 Chateau La Nerthe.

MyQOD: When will there be another tasting 6 pack. I want in on the vblog fun.
October 5, 2006

Chuck W
I am drinking the Tryst tonight per your suggestion. I decanted it for an hour and my 1st pour was bizarre. The legs in my glass appeared to have sugar crystals within them. The crystals were gone by the second pour but I was curious to see if you had a reason for this occurrence. Is this normal with decanting? Do I need to give the wine more decanting time? I have had my first decanter for a less than a week. I need some advice. Oh yeah, I did buy it at the WL.

Brandon, youâ€™re a lucky man. It seems like she puts up with your obsession pretty well.

I AM A CLEVELAND BROWNS FAN!!! WOOF!
October 5, 2006

JohnM
I’m a fan of both the Panthers and the Saints. Grew up in N.O. and now live in NC. Currently drinking a homemade, kit Cab. Pretty good, about an 84, but since it cost $2/bottle, it’s great value.
October 5, 2006

Matty Van, Rochester NY
from this episode sounds to me like Cotes Du rhone is more of an old world style wine that may not apeal to me who is still more of a new world type of guy untill my palete develops in time…

so I ask of anyone more wine smart than I is this a true statment?
October 5, 2006

Douglas
Welcome back Gary! I posted this during your break so maybe you missed it: Your store and some of the larger ones here in Chicago offer futures, usually Bordeaux. Do you think investing in futures is worthwhile for those of us still learning about wine? Or is it better to leave futures to the experts?

Douglas
October 5, 2006

Darlene O.
Hey, Gary…You’re off to a great ’second season’! Tonight I’m having a fun red. The Big Red Monster California Red Wine. Fun label and I actually like the wine.
October 5, 2006

Colin D. Devroe
Glad everyone enjoyed our little take on WLTV!

Great episode Gary. Keep them coming.

Storage. Storage. Storage.
October 5, 2006

Chris from NY
How about the wig on Bill Ives from Portals and KM …now thats funny! Anybody ever have wines from Baer? Monster fruit bombs…wow. If anyone wants to see some real humor watch A-Rod try to catch up to some of those fastballs he saw today. Sad yankee fan tonight. Get a life Rick!
October 5, 2006

Dan G.
Jags 23 Jets 13…whats up with that? You betting against your beloved Jets?
October 5, 2006

garyv
Dan G…I have a concept
October 6, 2006

Chris from NY
Reverse psychology huh Gary? It’s so silly it might just work.
October 6, 2006

PeteB
Bob E… sucks, the Tiger suck!!!!!! The Yanks will bring it home!!!!!

QOD: I started the night in Red Bank, NJ @ Ashes w/ Belgium White Ales and then ended up in Fair Haven/Rumson, NJ @ Salt Creek Grille w/ a Ravenswood Cab Sauv. The Belgium White Ale gets 92-93 pts. and the Ravenswoos Cab gets 81-82 pts… no wonder they had the Ravenswood on their market list….

GV nice to see that ur hitting the floor on Sat – sorry can’t make it, but my nephew is playing in hist first T-ball game and I wouldn’t miss that for the world!!!!!
October 6, 2006

E
CDR! See, I told you it would be a great episode!

You are selling the Jets short, Gary. After the Indy game, I am convinced there is absolutely no telling what they are capable of. You cannot predict them; you can only hope to contain them.

Jason: thanks much, and check your mail.

QOD: the only CDR I have in the house at the moment, Parallele 45. Strawberries, Lavoris mouthwash and a little Rhone funk on the nose … not bad at all. I wouldn’t kick it out of the kitchen.

ML: would love to know how the Minervois turned out, I wasn’t going to open mine for awhile …

Matty: probably. If you want to edge in with a new world equivalent, Curtis Heritage Cuvee from Santa Barbara used to be a favorite when I could still find it …
October 6, 2006

Matty Van, Rochester NY
GV I have watched 3 of the jets game this year, and they were a couple bounces of the ball away from 4-0 or 3-1 right now…

I am predicting the jets will win in a 4th qtr come back, as for my bills I have a feeling they will get crushed by the bears in chicago and JP Losman will have his worst game of the year, probally get sacked 5 times, 2 INT’s and a fumble.

GV if your still up working I think you should treat yourself to a ting or a yoohoo,how is your white zin. tasting tonight?

show idea how about tasting on WLTV some of the wine that you have great deals on, and let us know maybe 2 weeks ahead of time what date you will taste them so we can taste them with you
October 6, 2006

Tony manning
I will be opening a bottle of Hecula that Gary reccomended. I am looking forward to trying it.
Has anyone else had it? Any good?
http://www.thewineglass.net
October 6, 2006

Panman
Gary,

Is there anything in particular about the 1977 vintage (seemingly across many regions) that would preclude RP from rating it? It is absent from his chart:
http://www.erobertparker.com/info/vintagechart2.asp
Some of the best folks were born that year!

Also, I am interest to get your thoughts on L’Aventure Optimus. Have you tried this at all? I picked up some from WL the other day.
October 6, 2006

Matthew from Barossa
Drinking a (or should I saw a few) 2004 Langmeil Valley Floor Shiraz (in the recnet 375 screw cap form!) from the Barossa. I am sure it’s also great value for money in the sates as you mentioned in your Shiraz episode which was so ‘yesterday’ now that you’re over the episode #100 mark…

Great episode and while I haven’t watched all your episodes being a late arrival and all, I’d like you to answer what your thoughts are on blending wines from different countries. I lived in NZ for several years until recently and there is a big market there which they simply can’t satisfy with only the domestic supply. Therefore, for the more commercial brands they import wines from Australia, South Africa, Chile & Italy (in the main) and blend it to bulk up their wines. Perhaps the average NZ consumer doesn’t note that the bottle states product of NZ, South Africa and Chile (all on the same bottle) when they buy their Sauv Blanc or Pinot Grigio for NZD 10.99 but it is a growing market. This is especially true when you consider the current large wine glut in Australia where some producers are turning to make grape Vodka. Even though they need about 3 times as many grapeds to make vodka than previous mehtods because we have grapes on the vines just not being harvested it really is a good market with Vodka being one of the few growth spirits down here. So I digress, thanks GV to comment on bulk wine for blending… Now China is on to it and branding wines from Australia, South Africa and South America in China as ‘Chinese’ wine… Perhaps, you could let us know your opinion…
October 6, 2006

Matthew L
Gary…As for a question. Let me try to not make this long-winded. Say your on the run, and not near a wine store. You find a liquor store that has a decent amount of wine in many varietals, but none made by producers you recognize beyond the “training wheel” brands like Turning Leaf, etc. What is your suggestion for finding/picking out a nice bottle of wine when you’re in a pinch?
October 6, 2006

Jared
Very interesting episode. I see you got your glass back…

My name is Jared and I am a Jets fan too. I had asked this question a number of episodes ago, but i was wondering about your free shipping policy to us New Yorkers and fellow Jets fans. You have offered free shipping to any city that beats the Jets, but what about us?

Gary, I hope you either have a sister or a daughter becuase your strawberry shortcake comment is a little scary…how would you know all the other names of her gang and pull them right out from the top of your head?
October 6, 2006

Matthew L
I do stand corrected on Bill Ives. (Comment 25) Looks can be deceiving. He took a second look at WLTV and found humor. We should probably show a little discretion before we gang up like the Green Street Hooligans and perform a beat down.
October 6, 2006

Rick McQ
Gary:

Loved the episode! I’m going to drink Chelsea Cellers 2000 Cab from Finesville, NJ. Have you ever tried it? It was a gift from my Dad. I’ll let you know how it is.

It’s good to see more comments from the Vaynerbabes!
October 6, 2006

Ian F
Watching this episode at 8:52 AM drinking 2004 Folgers medium roast blend. Little bit of heat on the mid palate, great nose of coffee bean and sugar. Last Cotes Du Rhone I had was very light color as well as the body, looking forward to try these with fuller body with jammy Grenache. Tried the Blue Amethyst syrah last night, great value, not much on the nose but decent rasberry. Tonight (Friday) will try one of the zins (pesagno I think its called) that Gary reveiwed w/ a steak. Anyone else down here in South Jersey excited about the Eagles and Cowboys showdown! or any Texans ready to watch there Cowboys & TO get demolished!
October 6, 2006

Eugene
Gary,
Thanks for the Rhone episode-one of my favorite rigeons.

Iâ€™ve had both Guigal and Perrin before and didnâ€™t think that they were too bad for the money, especially with food. Guigal is a little more subtle and Perrin more fruit forward as I remember. I usually try every vintage of Guigal (except 2002) as well as Vidal Fleury, which is very similar and own by Guigal.

Hereâ€™s what Eric Asimov of NY Times (I often agree with Eric and enjoy reading his column every Wednesday as well as his blog â€œthe pourâ€) says on Perrin in this article
http://www.nytimes.com/2006/09/06/dining/06wine.html?ei=5070&en=67a1004a8b944562&ex=1160280000&pagewanted=print :

â€œOur No. 1 red wine is the 2004 Perrin RÃ©serve CÃ´tes-du-RhÃ´ne, from the family that owns ChÃ¢teau de Beaucastel, the esteemed ChÃ¢teauneuf-du-Pape. Humble CÃ´tes-du-RhÃ´ne used to be the house wine in countless Paris cafes and bistros, until it got too expensive. But this $9 one recalls the honest character of many of those wines, with its dark, earthy fruit flavors and lively acidity.â€
â€œPerrin RÃ©serve CÃ´tes-du-RhÃ´ne 2004
$9
**Â½
Direct, balanced and refreshing with aromas of earth, raspberries and dark fruit. (Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, Ala.)â€
I believe that Mr. Gilberty of W.Post named Perrin as a good QPR too.

I guess itâ€™s just a matter of opinion and of course $8 wine should look pale comparing to $14 wine in the perfect world.

QOTD:

I had a glass of albarino with smoked salmon egg benedict for dinner (thereâ€™s nothing wrong in eating eggs for dinner especially when youâ€™re hungry, just back from the gym and nobody wants to cook!). Went really well.

On the nose albarino had something that I couldnâ€™t pinpoint in addition to usual pear and some lemon. Anise mixed with pine needles may be?
Really nice golden color, dry with refreshing acidity.
October 6, 2006

Brandon M
Chuck W….VERY LUCKY

Matty Van…Living in California means no basements and since my wife found out how much wine I’m buying, I’ll be the one on the futon

B
October 6, 2006

Eugene
Matty Van from Rochester NY says:

â€œsounds to me like Cotes Du rhone is more of an old world style wine that may not apeal to meâ€

Matty,

This is very broad statement. CDR and Provencal wines cover a wide range from earty to very fruity. They usually made from Grenache, Syrah, Mourverdre and several others.

Look for those (especially southern Rhone and Languedoc wines) with higher percentage of Grenache and Mourverdre in the blend, they usually fruitier.
October 6, 2006

SS Chris
Tony Manning,
I’ve had the Hecula and really liked it very much…bought some more after.
I thought Gary’s tasting notes (Ep. 76 in Spreadsheet) were on point.
Only $8.99…..great QPR!!
October 6, 2006

dougiefresh
hey gary,
Quick question, how many people are going to be at the super tasting on Monday? Is it going to be a mob scene where we’ll have to stand in line to get a taste?

D
October 6, 2006

Bill T.
Nice episode, I’ve never had a Cotes du rhone but I’ll give the Notre Dame a try. Last night’s wine was nothing special, just a Coppola Rosso …although cheap, I think it packs a lot of value as an everyday wine. Upping the ante tonight with a 1999 Robert Young Scion and some BBQ’d rib eyes! …mmmmmmmm, can’t wait!
October 6, 2006

Sam Zen
G- I love my Chtnfdpps, so I’m psyched with this episode. I didn;t hear any terroir driven notes though. It sounds like the two nicer wines were fruit driven (Strawberry) rather than earth/mineral driven, is this about right?
October 6, 2006

Julius
Chuck W – What you probably saw were tartrate crystals, a harmless bi-product of the fermentation and ageing of wine.
October 6, 2006

Paul
Tried the Meerendal Shiraz (recommended in your email a day or two ago) with a pork roast last night. Very enjoyable, well balanced, excellent QPR.
BrandonM – sorry you got caught.
October 6, 2006

Julius
Colin – Great parody of WLTV. Definitely deserves a shout-out.
October 6, 2006

jon777
Gary — Enjoyed the CdR ep. Definitely a “go-to” wine when I’m in a restaurant and looking for a good, inexpensive wine to do with dinner. This ep helps as it gives me a couple to seek out and a couple to avoid…

As for tonight, don’t know yet — not sure if we’re eating in or out yet.
October 6, 2006

the professor and....
Gary you said to ask a question, so here’s one for you. I pulled the foil off and saw what looked like a red tint bleeding through on the cork, should I be suspect of this wine? Is it bad? Should I open it and find out or try to return it to the store (it’s a recent purchase)?

Thanks
October 6, 2006

Julius
I’m happy to see (and hear) that Gary has replaced the table. Now he can swirl the glass on the table without the annoying sound that the old table produced. Plus it looks a lot nicer.

For the last couple of nights, I’ve been drinking a 2001 Terrabianca Campaccio, a “Super Tuscan” blend of 70% cabernet sauvignon and 30% sangiovese. Medium-full body, medium-high acidity, firm ripe tannins, blackcurrant, raspberry, plum and a hint of oak. Good for now and the next 4-5 years. Had it with both hanger steak and pasta with Bolognese sauce.
October 6, 2006

Brandon M
Isn’t that the same table with a cloth or cover on it?
Is this LA / NY series gonna be a sweep? Maaaaaan I hate being a Dodger fan sometimes.

Last night…couldn’t make it to the wine shop. Had to open an Eleventh Hour. Such a great wine, I could get into a rut drinking this one. Sadly, I only have one bottle left of the six I ordered so I’m switching to the CDR when it arrives!

B
October 6, 2006

Rick McQ
Julius:

Terrabianca Campaccio Reserve is one of my favorite wines. After tasting it I booked a trip to Italy to visit the winery. I would recommend it if you go there. However, It’s in the middle of nowhere.
October 6, 2006

stewart l
Tonight, we are celebrating theopening of our new cancer center. I will be drinking the Ridge 2003 Paso Robles Zin and Peter Lehman 2002 Barossa Shiraz
October 6, 2006

Julius
I agree with you, Rick McQ, that the reserve is better than the standard bottling, but at twice the price, I save it for a special occasion. BTW, it’s mighty impulsive of you to taste a wine and immediately fly to Europe to visit the source.

GaryV – A question for you. Since you gravitated into your father’s business, do you think that if he had a dry goods store instead of a wine shop, today you would be selling shmatas?
October 6, 2006

Bob U
Gary

Cesari Amarone 01 on tap tonight and I am an Eagles fan.
October 6, 2006

SonicGG
Had a session at a local wine shop/bar including a Phillipe Pacalet Morgon 2005 – thought it was a bit, uh, insipid for a Pinot and then my better educated friend clued me in – it’s a Gamay. Not bad but maybe better enjoyed at a Beau. Nov. party (?)…Also had a Dolcetto D’Alba, first time I think, don’t remember the exact details but it was an excellent wine. Only 2003 so I can it see it maturing into a real beauty.
Looking forward to episodes 200, 500 and, of course, 1,000!!
October 6, 2006

Russ J
Still catching up. Not just the episode to view anymore, but the hundreds of commnents!
Great episode!
Last night: ‘05 Nobilo SB-decent, crisp, fruity but not insane grapefruit like some NZ SB’s
Tonight: I’m thinking Zin, maybe the ‘02 Lunada Paso Robles.

I am a lapsed Giants fan. They lost me after the ‘01 Super Bowl. Pathetic showing.
October 6, 2006

Flemboy
Nice show and belated congratulations on your 100th! A friend gave me a bottle of MacRostie 2001 Napa Merlot and I was pleasantly surprised. Nice dark, full body with a smooth finish.

Also thought I would let you know, I was reviewing some of your older videos and ran across the 2005 Bordeaux Future issue. I ended up buying some Clos L’Eglise and Le Gay. Typically I stick with Italian and California wines. I guess my kids donâ€™t need to go to a four year college!

PS I think you can be pretty funny at times (even though you are a Jets Fan).
October 6, 2006

Brandon M
Flemboy…classic…nothing wrong with community college

B
October 6, 2006

Carlitos
Hi Gary,

Glad to see the CdR some of my favorite wines. Yesterday I had a very nice 2003 Domaine St. Antoine Syrah from the Pays du Gard. Nice balance with incredible terroir. It’s imported by Robert Kacher. I was at one of their tastings and they had incredible wines. I had to buy a case of this.

Do you carry any other Kacher wines? As I said the ones I tried were excellent, both in value and in regional and varietal typicity.

Carlitos
October 6, 2006

TimF
Does anyone listen to the San Francisco Chronicle wine of the week podcast? The guy is always recommending really cheap wines — boxed wines, jug wines, etc. Is he crazy or is the stuff good?
October 6, 2006

PattyO
Stewart (#90) – That P Lehman shiraz is one Gary gave a MAJOR “pazz” to in the shiraz ep. – let us know what YOU think of it. And, I’m pretty sure he gave that Ridge Zin a big “seek this one out” – so I’d be interested to know what you think on it as well. I like to know how we “real people” line up with Gary’s take!
October 6, 2006

Billy G
Gary, great show. I had the Snoqualmie Merlot Reserve last night. A great deal at $14.99.
October 6, 2006

Brandon M
I’ve been listening to the Blake Gray podcasts.
Not bad, there’s some good knowledge there. Seems like he trying to break down some barriers (Like Gary) on why some wines are panned and shouldn’t be. It’s really not the same without the video though.

B
October 6, 2006

ML
The Minervois was interesting. At first it was all barnyard, leather, and earth. If you don’t know what barnyard tastes like, go lick a barn. But seriously…the “harshness” mellowed out after a couple of hours and the fruit came through…mostly dried cherries I guess (I’m not so hot at discerning between currant, blackberries, boysenberries, raspberries, etc.). I would definitely say this is a food wine. Will try the 2nd half of the bottle tonight…it’s been vacu-vinned and is waiting in the fridge.
October 6, 2006

Big Billy from Big D
For those who have not voted for the Tshirt Name

http://www.vaynervote.com/

Wine Librarians
Will entitle hangovers as
The Wrath Of Grapes

Bitty bing
October 6, 2006

Tony
Brandon,

Interesting that your wife first posted the same day mine did (go back to yesterday’s ep and seach for Jhan Mason). We both got caught, but mine knows I buy too much wine because I can’t hide the stacks of bottles!
October 6, 2006

Denyce M
Tony,

Your right, I probably don’t know about half of the wine he is buying. All I know is that my cook books keep on appearing in the laundry room…

D
October 6, 2006

Brandon M
That is pretty cool. She asked me when I got home…Did you ALL the comments? Great suprise!
Now your comment back to Jhan makes total sense.
Denyce knows I buy too much..she definitely likes giving me a hard time, but when I come accross a home run, she has no problem drinking it with me either.

B
October 6, 2006

Brandon M
Allright now!
October 6, 2006

MaryS
Where is today’s WLTV? It’s already after 5:30 here on the East Coast so the wait is a killer. Trying to figure out what to try tonight. What is the best thing to drink with pizza? My husband is on the Beck’s Octoberfest beer kick right now, but I need my wine.
October 6, 2006

Brandon M
MaryS…Funny you asked about Pizza. That’s one of the PodCasts I listened to today. The recomendation was a good Chianti.

Thats hard for me as I haven’t had any great Chiantis in the past…but that’s what was recommended. Definitely not Cab, Merlot, or Pinot Noir.

B
October 6, 2006

MaryS
B….Are any white wines good with pizza? I am a novice wine drinker compared to the rest of you guys.
October 6, 2006

Brandon M
Not really sure about that. White wine is not something I would pair Pizza with, but someone will probably have a suggestion.

B
October 6, 2006

Big Billy from Big D
Pairing wine to food is really a matter of personal preference. My brother thinks Dr Pepper is the PERFECT accompaniememnt to pizza.
I would say that it depends on the toppings. A cheese pizza with mushrooms might pair up with a reisling (There’s decent Washington reislings for way less than $10 a bottle). Put pepperoni on it and maybe a Fetzer gevurtz (or Columbia or Chat Ste Michelle). You might check out a California Rose like Menage a Trois, or a Miner rosato. All of them have a some degree of sweetness, which if I remember you still like that in wine.

There’s not a single combination that will kill you, and only wine snobs will roll their eyes.

Chin Chin and Bottoms up withat pizza.
October 6, 2006

Denyce M
In response to Mary S…

Maybe no wine TV today because the crazy villain with the stash took off with Gary’s wine glass….

Hmmmmm
D
October 6, 2006

Brandon M
I want my money for nothin and my chicks for free.
I want my WLTV.

B
October 6, 2006

McGeyver
Hey All,
I’m so broke I won’t be drinking a damn thing tonight; guess its good since I’ve got problem sets to do and essays to write. I KILLED a 40 of Coors Light last night after rugby practice, though.

I liked the ep Gary. The La Garrigue you gave the thumbs up to a while back was great. I wish I could try the winners of this episode. With the amount of money I spend on a damn bottle here on the UWS, like $20, could buy me a few really great wines from your shop…dammit. That’s the one thing I miss about being home in NJ. Great show. And dammit you are funny…at times queer, strange that is , but in a refreshing way. My favorite was when you said something about Justin bringing Sexy back and your bringing Merlot back…then later in the ep you sang it whilst contemplating a wine…I was rollin’. Probably the funiest wine moment ever on WLTV, for me at least.

Holla back son!
October 6, 2006

McGeyver
Hey Big Billy,
Your brother has got it pegged. Dr. Pepper IS the perfect drink with pizza!

Ya tu sabes!
October 6, 2006

MaryS
Thanks Big Billy. Yes, I am the white zin drinker. But hopefully with Gary’s help I will be able to expand my tastes. I have tried a Chardonnay and didn’t really care for it. I like Riesling but the taste varies a lot. I like sweet but not too sweet and not too dry. So it has been trial and error. Thanks for the info
October 6, 2006

MaryS
Denyce & Brandon M….are you guys taking turns on the same PC or working back to back?? I haven’t been able to get my husband on the WLTV bandwagon yet. He is mostly a beer drinker.
October 6, 2006

Brandon M
I am at the office…believe it or not!

Denyce is at home.

B
October 6, 2006

Denyce M
yep…home with kids today. I actually like a cold beer after coming home from work:)
October 6, 2006

Albert and Remy
GV, having a bottle of Torres, Grand Coronas 1989, recorked on March 2006. The wine was a little cloudy, but oh boy, does it go well with Spicy Thai food. Maybe since VaynerNation is growing, you can try another one of those taste along with GV episodes. We are looking forward to it!
Albert & Remy from SteelerNation.
Pittsburgh, PA
October 6, 2006

MaryS
I’m home with the kids too. I have never been able to drink beer. Just don’t like the taste. Used to like mixed drinks but now just the wine.
October 6, 2006

Chuck W
Thanks Julius! Does the decanting cause this?
October 6, 2006

Ed R
Try a pinot grigio if you want white with your pizza or a Rioja like GV suggested a few episodes ago I have had both and they work well. If you bought any arrocal that worked out well also.
October 6, 2006

Richard B
OK … what am I drinking tonight? About two years ago I spent a week or so in Avignon. While driving in the Southern Rhone, I ended up in Gigondas… great little town. I took my wife and daughter to the cooperative tasting .. in the center of the town. Although the person manning the tasting bar could not recommend any particular vineyard, she would recommend “characteristics”. That’s when I stumbled upon the St. Cosme. … so what am I drinking for the CDR episode …2003 St. Cosme Gigondas …takes me back!
October 6, 2006

MaryS
Anybody else getting plug-in errors when trying to watch WLTV. I watched episode 101 less than an hour ago and it was fine. I just went to watch another older one and all I get is errors. Now getting it on all episodes.
October 6, 2006

Brandon M
Everything here is fine Mary…if it continues, I would go to quick time and re-install the plug in.
October 6, 2006

Noah Rosenblum
Gary,

This weekend I’m planning on having one of my favorite Merlot wines from Napa valley, by the name of “Amizetta”, which I received yesterday from another site (non-winelibrary).

Have you had a chance to taste it ? If so, what’s your thought of it ?

Thanks

Noah
October 6, 2006

Matt L.
Gary,

I’m going for a recommendation you had in episode #5: 2 up Shiraz…the first WLTV recommendation I’ve really been able to find out west.
October 6, 2006

Denise
Mahoney Pinot Noir. Wish I had a bottle of CDR, though. Looking forward to trying that Grand Veneur…CDP is my favorite. Thanks, Gary!
October 7, 2006

DaveL
Late post, but I had some Saranac Golden Pilsner. I don’t drink wine every night.

QUESTION: Is it a general rule for a bottle of red that the less expensive it is, the less aging it can handle?

I remember hearing that the vast majority of wine purchased at WL is consumed immediately (well, within days or weeks….not right there in the parking lot). How do I know when it will hit its peak or start going bad? Bought some Lucky Country blend ($15?) and it went sour in about a year under pretty good storage conditions.

RELATED QUESTION: Does a screw-top scream “Drink me now!” while a wax seal over the cork screams “You better put me away for a few years!” or not?
October 7, 2006

Brandon M
DaveL…the people over at Rubicon say there is no way a bottle can age with a screw top on it…I think that is scientifically wrong…however, that is what they say.

Gary?

B
October 7, 2006

Paul from DC
I was searching for reviews for the Arrocal 2004 and came across, on Google, your video on Best Values (or something like that). Your review matched mine, so WLTV got bookmarked. I like that you call em as you see em, and (strange but true) that you seem to have a good relationship with your Pop (ep 100).

One idea, though I am sure it may be antithema to tho those who value their tastes senses… are there wines that reallyh go with good cigars, or is Marvin Shanken just blowing smoke? Trying to justify acouple of vices here.

Drinking Arrocal with some Peccorino again tonight.

Paul In Washington DC
October 10, 2006

Vinacull
A few days late commenting on this, but better late than lurker! Gary I rate this EP a 95, with admission of my love (bias) for Cotes du Rhone as some of the best vino value out there! You are back in fine form, and thanks very much for requesting viewer questions. I am a couple episodes behind in watching, but I hope you get back to addressing a couple/few viewer questions per episode. Brandon M’s question (#132) is a good one and I’d be interested to hear opinion(s). It seems that although air exchange through cork that normally aids aging process is ameliorated with screw top, that does not necessarily mean there is no aging whatsoever of the wine. QOTD: Drank a Little Valley Cabernet Sauvignon from WL on Friday. Gary that is a pretty damn good value! Drank a 2004 Mitolo GAM last night (also from WL). Bit young, but beautiful.
October 10, 2006

JayZee
Catching up on a few episodes tonight. Nice episode on the Cote du Rhones. Always love value. Tonight we had a bottle of 2003 J. Bookwalter Merlot that we bought at the winery in June 2005. Excellent Washington State merlot.
October 12, 2006

mikep
Great episode Gary. Just started watching a couple of weeks ago can’t get enough. By the By You are funny and personable to boot. Have a great day.
October 14, 2006

Susan
Gary-
I am BACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I have been taking care of my nephew full-time and not even been at home recently soooooooooooooo….
Please do not be offended!
THANK YOU FOR DISPLAYING ‘IT’S WINE – LET’S KEEP IT FUN’!!!!!!!!!
I am glad someone noticed my ideas!!!!!
July 19, 2007

Dave Canada
Just checked out Delicious days and it is pretty cool, thanks for the tip
QOTD – 2001 Cuvaison Cabernet
October 29, 2007

soyhead
first usage of ‘vayniac’?
January 6, 2008

Looking for a wine we used to drink
[...] I love this guy: Cotes Du Rhone wine reviews. – Episode 101 [...]
February 17, 2008

thefanjestic
Qotd: I love my family. nd right now my WLTV viewing partner miss Sophie Williams (6 months old on Friday)!
June 21, 2008

Purple Tooth
QOTD: 2006 Pillar Box Red Australia (I’m still playing “catch up” on the episodes)
September 21, 2009

John J.
qotd: Tablas Creek Cotes de Tablas blanc 2008
you want questions? Will you do an episode on tasting different charbono,s?, and one on vin jaune’s?
September 21, 2009

John J.
oh yeah I forgot, when you posted the label in the upper right hand corner for the E. Guigal Cotes du Rhone, you posted the label for a ROSE Cotes du Rhone, not a red.