Grower Champagne and Two Huge Announcements.

Grower Champagne and Two Huge Announcements. – Episode #114

October 24, 2006

Wines tasted in this episode:

Spreadsheet courtesy of Chris Stanisci
Pierre Peters Cuvee Reserve
Drappier Blanc De Blancs
Pierre Moncuit Cuvee Delos Blanc De Blancs Brut
Henri Billiot Brut Reserve
Eric Rodez Blanc De Noirs

Links mentioned in todays episode.

The Vloggies. Go vote for Gary now!
The Grape Nuts Blog

Today Gary tastes through five grower Champagnes and talks about the two big things to do today and tomorrow. Gary also goes in depth on how Moet, Clicquot, Perrier Jouet and others are good for the Champagne business and more importantly, you the consumer. Sit back pop a bottle of bubbly and enjoy this fantastic show. Lurkers you are welcome to join in!

383 Responses

October 24, 2006

Brandon M
Announcement time!!!…a new look maybe?
Party Dates?
Free wine for the idiot with the most posts?

Time to watch and see….

B
October 24, 2006

Brandon M
Tomorrow? Whaaaaaat?
October 24, 2006

Jason R.
Finally – break time- WLTV TIME!@!
October 24, 2006

Pinot Noir Guy
I’m here and ready
October 24, 2006

Susan
Gary-
We have to wait?!?!?
American’s are sooooooo
impatient!
I will gladly wait!
October 24, 2006

The Godfather
#6 ?
October 24, 2006

Jim Kay
Lurkers unite #7?
October 24, 2006

Brandon M
Saweeet…great stuff…I just voted for all three categories. Great job Gary!

B
October 24, 2006

QueSeraSyrah
Thanks for the episode! Good timing too since I have an important celebration coming up soon.
October 24, 2006

QueSeraSyrah
Oh yeah… happy birthday SS Chris! Get yourself a bottle of Champagne!
October 24, 2006

boz151
Gary,
Great news. Keep up the good work. Great show.
October 24, 2006

Dominus
Great show and especially that intro! Thank you Gary.

My 15 seconds of fame.

And, I too, have always loved champagne and would be my drink of choice, hands down.

Cheers!
Dom

P.S. Congrats to the Jets.
October 24, 2006

KAHUNA
Gary,
watching bubbles is a thrill- head to the mall check out the escalators they will keep you thrilled for hous
October 24, 2006

zerokreap (kw)
i love champagne…recently i have wondered if it was a bad idea to have opened that 1996 Dom P. that i enjoyed last valentine’s day with my girl. what do you think gary? should i have shelved it for a while longer? it was really good…and although i am sure it would have gotten better, it was worth it in my eyes.
October 24, 2006

Brandon M
I can’t answer the question of the day, but by the time you have the big tasting I bet I will.

Lurkers…cmon…seriously…YOU GUYS BETTER POST! Gary and every regular here puts their time in, now it’s your turn!

B
October 24, 2006

KAHUNA
Like the champaignes- cuirious if anyone else has had the Barefoot cellars Chardonnay(champaigne) extra dry- I found it very drinkable- I am not a champagne drinker that often so it may be just that I happen to like it.

Good episode Gary I will pick up some of these when I am in the shop
October 24, 2006

Brandon M
Kevin!!!!! Where have you been dude?
October 24, 2006

Tony S.
Gary, congratulations on the nominee thingy. Good job. Great show…I love Champagne…just too damn expensive. The best I’ve had–and this was at a Champagne tasting, so I’ll never have it again (unless it’s at another tasting)…but nothing has matched it since: 1985 Krug Brut. Freakin’ rad.

I’ll try and get a NY Times tomorrow…but their sports section is soo bad, so I don’t know if I can muster up the extra change. Plus I’m not one of those technologically advanced types and won’t be able to send you a picture anyway, but I’ll check out the add from the one that is laying around the office.

And I’ll go and vote for you. Good job.
See you later,
GO BEARS!!!
T
October 24, 2006

KAHUNA
Barefoot is about $10 a bottle
October 24, 2006

Rob M.
Gary, here is a thought. Traffic to this site will increase in a major way tomorrow am, as early as people get their NY Times. I think you should be prepared to rope in a large number of new viewers. I am guessing most people who watch regularly are hooked based on what you do every day. So why change anything?

Perhaps you should have another blockbuster episode tomorrow. Perhaps you should release it a little earlier than normal (or your thousands of viewers will be listening to the great news about the ad in the NYTimes, which many of them are there because of).

I think it may be wise to mention some of the many points which make this vlog so much fun and so well done. For example, drop the line how you always tape the entire episode in one sitting. Mention how long the wines have been open. Drop a lizard reference or wet rock if it comes to your mind when tasting. Answer lots of questions from viewers. Finally, my favorite (as I have said so many times) is the jokes, gags, whatever you want to call them- your quote, “How do people drink this stuff” after tasting the Berringer White Zin may give off the wrong impression, but these, as well as the Carlo Rossi, etc stunts are my most memorable scenes from WLTV.

Congrats, best of luck, I look forward to many new comments from new viewers.
October 24, 2006

KAHUNA
“Meet my niece, Bubbles”
October 24, 2006

Rob M.
When you say you don’t know where the spectator is on Drappier Blanc De Blancs (GV 92, WS 88), I assume they taste their bubbly at room temperature as well, yes? You always say how chilling wine may hide some flaws and accentuate others. Can’t quite imaging sparkling wine at room temp, but I am willing to give it a try.
October 24, 2006

KAHUNA
Gary V
I will vote for you and pass it along in my email correspondance-to get you some more votes-
QOD-sorry only California Sparklings here- Mumm, Gloria Ferrer(?) drank at their wineries it was nice for sure.
October 24, 2006

Christopher
With reference to the glass episode.. champagne in a ‘big’ glass.

Infact, how often has there been a reason to celebrate with Champagne or sparkling… and no champagne flutes are in sight, only coffee mugs!
October 24, 2006

Joe P.
Gary,
I’ll check out the NYT… when was the heat episode?
October 24, 2006

Colleen
I’ll tell you again…Delicious Orchards Apple Cider!!!
Going to vote now!! Gary for Vloggie of the year!!!
October 24, 2006

QueSeraSyrah
QOD- Is Diebolt-Vallois a grower champagne? (Relatively new to the world of champagne so not sure what the non-mainstream champagnes are besides Dom Perignon, Moet and Chandon, Veuve Cliquot, Perrier-Jouet, Taittinger, Nicholas Freuillet (sp?)) If so, I would have to say that would be my answer. Really enjoyed the blanc de blanc. Rob M. (comment 22) makes an interesting point. Did you taste these champagnes at room temperature?
October 24, 2006

K Spengler
wow, your really excited today! No wonder..you’re up for a “Vloggie”! My votes are in,..getting hubby to vote too. Great advice on the sparklers..I’ll be glad to try anything other than mainstream. BTW, when do you find out if you’ve WON?????

Good luck GV…
October 24, 2006

garyv
ROOM TEMP………….ALWAYS!!!
Now go and vote and tell your friends to vote too
October 24, 2006

Julia
QOD: My favorite sparkling wine is actually not a champagne, but Saint-Hilaire Blanquette de Limoux. It’s a great everyday bubbly for $9 or so.
October 24, 2006

MarcT
QOTD: While in Munich I remember drinking Vilmart and thinking how great it was! I wish I had some now. I was told about how they are “farmers” (I’m am hearing the story from a Bavarian) and make champagne with their own grapes.
Cool story and AWESOME wine!
I too can NOT drink enough champagne.

Off to vote…
October 24, 2006

Susan
JoeP-
The heat episode has not happened yet.
That was a little Gary Sarcasm.
October 24, 2006

Julius
QOTD = Best grower’s ChampagneI drank was a Jacquesson % Fils Brut NV. But the best vintage Champagne I ever had was from one of the biggies, the Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame 1990. And the few DPs I had were also not too shabby.
October 24, 2006

wey
How about tasting champagne in a Bordeaux / Bourgogne glass
October 24, 2006

Susan
I did finally find all 3 categories and I did vote for Gary.
Now it is time to get out the vote.
I want EVERYONE even you lurkers to vote NOW!
VOTE NOW!
VOTE NOW!
October 24, 2006

Susan
Gary-
Congratulations!
I am glad you were nominated for THREE Vloggies!
Excellent!
October 24, 2006

damon
Favorite at this momment…. Jean Laurent Blanc de Noir NV. Yum……
Thanks for the tips on the small stuff. I’m always looking out for a champange deal.
Gary, have you ever had Chateau Musar? The great stuff from Lebanon. I would love to see you taste that on WLTV.
October 24, 2006

Susan
ALL VAYNIACS!!!!!!!!!!!!
VOTE NOW!
vote now!
VOTE NOW!!!!
Hint:
VOTE NOW!!
October 24, 2006

TampaSteve
CONGRATS my friend! I for sure will be voting for WLTV. I will be on the hunt for the NYT tomorrow here in Tampa. I hope the server can handle tomorrows load.
As for the QOTD…can’t answer as I rarely drink Champagne.

HEY LURKERS, COME ON OUT AND POST. US WLTV-AHOLICS NEED YOUR HELP.
October 24, 2006

Joe P.
Susan,
That’s what I thought, I just wanted to politely call GV out. He’s really sandbagging on the heat episode!
October 24, 2006

Joe P.
oh yeah… I voted for GV on this super tues
October 24, 2006

TampaSteve
When is that heat episode????????? Hey Gary you can always come to Tampa, we can easily help you out on the heat front. A WLTV film clip of us having dinner/tasting wines at Berns could also be a nice touch…hint…hint…
October 24, 2006

Susan
**************ALL LUKERS!!!!!!!! ********************* ALL LUKERS!!!!!!!!*************************

MAKE A STATEMENT!

QUOTE SOMEONE!!

SAY SOMETHING!!!

STAND AND BE COUNTED!!!
October 24, 2006

TampaSteve
Voted, at least I think I did. I clicked on vote in the 3 catagories and the star turned yellow. I didn’t see anything however to enter vote? Is that all you are supposed to do?
October 24, 2006

TimF
The only awards show I officially recognize is The Dundies.
October 24, 2006

zerokreap (kw)
yo brandon…you talking to me? i’ve been working like a mofo…haven’t been able to comment….but i am always here…just feel there is no point in commenting when i am like the 150th comment..you know?
October 24, 2006

Steve B
Gary V,

Thanks for the episode and the mention of my blog.thegrapenuts.net blog!!!

Steve B
blog.thegrapenuts.net
October 24, 2006

Susan
TampaSteve,
Yes, You did the right thing.
When you vote the star for that Vlogger turns yellow.
Great!
Now we just need another 3,000 people to VOTE!!!!!
October 24, 2006

drwMD
**lurker**

‘In victory, you deserve Champagne, in defeat, you need it.’
Napoleon Bonaparte

**recloaking**
October 24, 2006

jon777
Voted. Good luck Gary!

QOD: Unfortunately can’t answer — I usually don’t buy Champagne often, as we usually end up getting a couple bottles a year as gifts, and they usually end up being the usual suspects. So this was a very interesting ep for me. Will have to make an effort to pick up some of these in the future.

Champagne and Lobster RULES! Probably my favorite food & wine combo…

I think the only way Gary would have been in a better mood for the ep today is if it had been the Jets winning last night on MNF…
October 24, 2006

Roch
Hey, long time lurker, first time poster. I’m not a huge sparkling wine fan, but I should probably try some good stuff before writing off the whole category.

I have a question for the crowd. I have to go to Dallas this weekend for a wedding. I would like to take a nice bottle of wine for the happy couple, something that would keep for at least their 10th, ideally their 25th anniversary. I’m leary of taking anything with me on the plane because of the limits on carrying liquids on board. (Who wants to donate a $100 bottle of wine to the TSA?) Any recommendations of a good wine shop near DFW? I’m flying in and staying in the vicinity. I know nothing can compare to WL for price and selection, but a good deal would be nice. Thanks!
October 24, 2006

Susan
Gary,
QOD:
I have only had a few champagnes.
I am not sure if Biltmore Champagne qualifies
but it is EXCELLENT Champagne.
I have such expensive taste.
We went to a tasting that included Champagne ( not the free tasting)
at Biltmore Estate.
The more expensive the champagnes got the more I liked!
Dangerous information!!!
October 24, 2006

Brandon M
KW…Ya I was talking to you…whats the deal? You should comment no matter where your at. A few episodes back I was like…Hey Where’s ZeroKreap? Thought you fell off the face!

B
October 24, 2006

Brandon M
Roch = 1
October 24, 2006

Brandon M
drwMD = 2

but whats with the recloaking thing…cmon drwMD…come out into the light! Jooooiiiiin Us
October 24, 2006

PattyO
Roch (#51) – I wish I’d invited you to MY wedding 25 years ago! My #25 is comin up in a few months and I was JUST thinking (seriously – I was thinking it today!) how cool would it be if someone had given us a special, 25-yr.-cellar-worthy bottle that we could be opening this year! But then again – who knows if we’d have handled it right, stored it well, moved it safely… it might be vinegar now anyway!
October 24, 2006

Don from Seattle
This episode kinda makes me want to break out in song.

http://www.keepsakevideo.com/audio/a066c44.mp3 or
http://www.donho.com/music/Don%20Ho%20Gold/Tiny%20Bubbles.mov
(Quicktime compatible formats)
October 24, 2006

Jeff S. aka Opus None
You’ve got my vote!

Except for the Cooking category. An image of Julia Child popped into my head – I couldn’t click the button. It seemed so wrong.

What’s the right champagne for sushi???
October 24, 2006

MaryS
Hey Gary, you have my votes! I love champagne too, but with Filet Mignon. No one favorite champagne yet. I am always trying different ones. Can’t wait until the episode with 12 bottles!!!!!
October 24, 2006

Brandon M
If Gary wins for the cooking sction, it will just prove how big and strong VaynerNation is!

B
October 24, 2006

Brandon M
My favorite Grower Champagne is from a man named Andre!
October 24, 2006

Italian Stallion
Gary….you got the Stallions vote………all you lurkers better post!!!!!

Never had a champagne that I liked…after this episode, I will buy some and let you know

-Stallion
October 24, 2006

Don from Seattle
This episode makes me kinda want me to break out in song. Here goes…

http://www.keepsakevideo.com/audio/a066c44.mp3 or
http://www.donho.com/music/Don%20Ho%20Gold/Tiny%20Bubbles.mov
(Quicktime compatible audio files.)
October 24, 2006

big_cigar
I have watched several videos and have ordered a few times. This is my first comment. Gary I love the show. I will be back.
October 24, 2006

Russ J
Voted. I remember the first time GV gave the rap about getting away from the big name Champagnes. I tried to spread the word. We were having some people over and one guy was supposed to bring two bottles of Champagne. I told him to go with anything but VC, Moet, or PJ. He showed up with VC. Said he panicked and then played it safe. He knew everyone liked it so…Unreal. Power of marketing.
QOTD: I have had a few versions of Nicolas Feuillatte that have been good, also some from Brice. I honestly don’t know if those are “growers” Champagnes or not…I have also had some damn good Bollinger and Taittinger.
SS Chris (or whatever handle you may switch to): I was using your spreadsheet today to find the other Champagne episodes. What a great and useful tool! Happy Birthday and a big thanks for the effort.
Finally, my question for Gary and group: I am looking for a “school night” Pinot Noir. I prefer the Cali-style, fuller bodied versions, under $15 (preferably under $12!). In the past have used the Gloria Ferrer Carneros, and also liked the Bad Fish Reserve (should have bought more of that).
Suggestions?
October 24, 2006

Karen Lorentz
Voted in all three categories. QODYears ago, boyfrined (now hubby) got a gift of Charles Heidsick champagne from a French client. Drank it all summer long on his sailboat. I remember it being great, but I think I might have fallen in love with any champagne that summer.
October 24, 2006

Rob M.
When voting for the Vloggies, you cannot search “Gary Vaynerchuk” as the Cooking Vloggie only lists “Gary”- perhaps it is a Brazilian thing, like Ronaldo. If you search “winelibrary”, you will get the WLTV website for all three nominations. Congrats Gary, I do not watch any other vlogs, but I am sure you deserve it.

I know you taste at room temp- how about the WS folks?
October 24, 2006

Jaye
Hiya. Yes I voted. Very odd that there wasn’t a “submit” button of some sort.

Never had a grower champagne that I am aware of. I tried some really awful German Sekt once. I couldn’t pour it down the sink fast enough.

I will try one of your champagnes that you recommended today, probably the H. Billiot. I will give it the “old college try”, but I think I am very happy with my basic red wines. I am working on an intro for WLTV, but I need to find my microphone for my computer first. Hope to find one soon.
October 24, 2006

Jeff S. aka Opus None
Post #2 for today.

I’ve never done more than one post per day. Can this count towards the lurker total???

I’ve got a question. All these Bubblies you tasted today are NV. Is there year to year variation for NV champagne? and if so, how do I know I’m buying what you (or someone else) tasted/rated?

Oh yeah, I almost forgot the QOD

Charles Ellner (Grower?) Blanc de Blanc – a Saturday tasting at Zachy’s
October 24, 2006

Rick
All the good ‘pie knots no ears’ are listed here:
http://www.americangoldmedalwines.com/search_free2006.php
Crosspoint Winery – 2004 CA New World Int’l G $12.00
Crosspoint Winery – 2004 CA CA State Fair G $12.00
Crosspoint Winery – 2004 CA Long Beach G $12.00
Meridian Vineyards – 2004 CA New World Int’l GGBOC $12.00
Mirassou Winery – 2004 CA SF Chronicle P G $11.00
Mirassou Winery – 2004 CA Long Beach GBOC $11.00
Quail Creek Cellars – 2003 CA New World Int’l GBOC $11.00
Three Thieves – 2004 Circle K Ranch CA New World Int’l G $11.00
Five Rivers Winery – 2004 CA Pacific Rim GBOC $10.00
Martin Ray Winery – 2004 Angeline CA SF Chronicle P GBOC $10.00
HRM Rex Goliath – NV CA SF Chronicle P G $9.00
Lindemans – 2005 Bin 99 AUS Long Beach G $8.00
The Little Penguin – 2004 AUS Int’l Eastern P G $8.00
Turning Leaf – 2004 CA New World Int’l G $8.00
Sutter Home Winery – 2005 CA CA State Fair GGBOC $6.00
Sutter Home Winery – 2005 CA Orange County PS G $6.00
October 24, 2006

GeneV
Favorite grower champagne was the Brice Gary tasted on one of the early WLTV episodes. Big hit with my friends as well. Sipped with a tailgate meal in the parking lot of the Santa Fe opera. One of the most amazing 27 “bones” I have spent.
October 24, 2006

Susan
zerokreap,
Hey!
We want EVERYONE to comment when they can.
But, please don’t be a lurker!
I don’t care if your comment is #150 or #250
please make a comment, any comment.
October 24, 2006

SS Chris
Thank you, Gary….appreciate the shout-out very much.
October 24, 2006

Susan
drwMD,
Hey!
Glad to have you come out of the shadows!
I am serious about my last comment #71!
Please feel free to make comments anytime.
Please don’t feel like you can’t make a comment
if you worked late or whatever until late.
We want to lure out all of the lurkers!
Everyone, make a comment!
October 24, 2006

Brandon M
big_cigar = 3
October 24, 2006

Susan
Roch,
Hey!
Glad to have you come out of the shadows!
Please read my last few comments!
And please make a few of your own!
October 24, 2006

Chris
Great Show!!! I love grower champagnes. Some of my recent favorites are Michel Turgy Champagne RÃ©serve Selection Brut Blanc de Blanc, Jean Laurent Champagne Blanc de Noirs, Alain Thienot Champagne Brut (this is a great bargain at about $20) & Billecart-Salmon Rose. I can’t wait to taste 1996 Alain Thienot Champagne CuvÃ©e Stanislaus and 1996 Philipponnat Brut Clos Des Goisses (thanks for the recommendation Gary).
October 24, 2006

Brandon M
Jeff S. AKA Opus One = .5

Total = 3.5

CMON GUYS….no WLTV makes Brandon M. a cranky boy, and Denyce HATES that.

B
October 24, 2006

Ian F
This is my 5th post in WLTV history & I watch every day. I kinda liked the quaint more personal WLTV. After tomorrow I think Gary will get his 500 + posts. Maybe he will offer free shipping or buy one get one free, maybe he’ll be a billionare. Was todays NY Times anouncment the suprise or is gary a robot? Thanks for the free shipping last week. Saved me a 2 hour drive for my monthly stocking. Anyone try NV Bele Casel Prosecco di Valdobbiadene? great Italian sprarkler for 15.00 bucks.
October 24, 2006

Jaye
Gary, you may be wrong on the Drappier Wine Spectator score. There are two Drappier Signature NV Blanc de Blancs scored by Wine Spectator (both in 1994 by the way, so I don’t know how they relate to today’s bottles).
The one you tasted looked like the Brut which was scored 91 by Wine Spectator. The Cuvee was scored 88 by WS. You may want to check into that.
October 24, 2006

eugene
Gary,

First-congratulations on the academy award (we still yet to hear the acceptance speech, you know, Iâ€™d like to thank the Academy and my general manager as well as my wifeâ€¦)!

I donâ€™t have to buy the NY Times-I have a subscription!

QOTD:

I am not sure if Piper Heidseck counts but I like his champagne. I also had some pretty good cremant from Alsace, which leads me to the question:

Do you like just Champagne or other sparklers as well? How about Alsace, Loire, California or Spain for god sake?

It would be interesting to see a comparison of this type of wines from different regions.
October 24, 2006

Susan
Ian F,
Hey!
The NY Times announcement IS the surprise!
We had no idea Gary V had put a big ad in
The Times for tomorrow.
Make sure you check it out.
I know I will be out in the morning bothering
my local Harris Teeter for a copy.
I really can’t wait!!!
October 24, 2006

Susan
big cigar,
Hey!
Glad to have you come out of the shadows!
Please feel free to comment as many times as you would like.
Please tell all of your friends about WLTV.
October 24, 2006

GregK
The Steelers have had a BIT of bad luck w/r/t injuries (and not playing well). But Gary, I still think they will finsih with a record superior to the J-E-T-S! Chad is almost a given to get hurt again, and then what do the Jets have at QB? Some LOSER nobody has heard of nor wants to hear of? The Boys From The ‘Burg will get fired up and rebound. Too bad they can’t beat the Jets in the regular season this year…
October 24, 2006

eugene
Btw,
For those who gets the times tomorrow â€“ read Thomas Friedman and Maureen Dowd articles in editorial (last page) as well as Ericâ€™s article on wine in the food section.

Kahuna,
Comment # 13 hilarious. LOL.

PattyO,

Chris didnâ€™t listen to us (see the end of the comments of the previous episode).
October 24, 2006

Karen
nice to see you so excited garyv. i’ve been looking forward to more champagne episodes because i’m trying to get into sparkling stuff now. had a real hate for it based on big brand tooth rattling yucky stuff of my misspent and undereducated youth. but i bought a bottle of champage by hillebrand estates, from their trius collection (a niagara-on-the-lake winery here in canada) last new year’s and enjoyed it tremendously. have more recently purchased sparkling stuff on garyv’s recommendations and will pick up one of these from today too (found one available to me here). with the trius i got a taste almost like sweettart candy, a bit chalky and tart but also sweet. i have no idea yet if that good or not but i liked it. i even get the physics behind the champagne glass even if i do think you’re all out to lunch on some of the others. oh that reminds me: i actually smelled the “vegetal aspect” in a recent trius purchase (cab sauv), like green peppers on the nose and a bit in the first taste. i think i’m actually learning here.
congrats garyv and wltv. i’ll take a quick tour of the vloggies site now to vote.
October 24, 2006

stewart l
Congrats Gary on the vloggie nominations! Favorite champagne Duval Leroy 1996. Just recently the wine spectator rated the Duval-Leroy non vintage brut a 93. Listed at 35 available at the wine club in Santa Ana at 26.99. GO STEELERS There is still a chance they could make the playoffs. Too bad they don’t play the Jets
October 24, 2006

eugene
Susan,
Half of the people donâ€™t vote even for the president.
I will go cast my vote now.
October 24, 2006

KAHUNA
Roch,
Get them something that lasts for 4 years since the the avg. people stayed married or if you get them a bottle that lasts 25 make them sign a pre-bot that you get the bottle back if they divorce.
October 24, 2006

eugene
I did it.
I think WLTV should be under Inspirational, Religious, Spiritual category!
October 24, 2006

KAHUNA
I will take my neighbors NY Times off his grass in the morning since I refuse to support that garbage newspaper NY Times- they are trash
October 24, 2006

Susan
eugene,
Thanks for taking the time to vote!
It is good use of your time.
Remember if you don’t vote, don’t complain.
That is not just a saying for me.
If you don’t vote for president
don’t complain about the president!
Seriously!
I do realize American’s are spoiled
and don’t realize the power of a vote.
But I am telling you,
each one of you CAN make a huge difference.
I believe as long as you are breathing
and old enough everyone in the USA should vote.
Trust me on this, I have lived in a third-world country.
I know – we all should vote.
GET OUT THE VOTE!!!
October 24, 2006

TampaSteve
Roche, big_cigar and drwMD WELCOME to WLTV!!!!!
Roche, how about ordering a bottle from WLTV and having it shipped to Texas…just a thought.
Susan…thanks!

big_cigar….now that’s talking my language. Wine and cigars…wine and cigars.
October 24, 2006

Mike C
Hey Gary,

I’m a long time viewer and this is the first time I’m posting. Sorry I can’t answer the question of the day. I’n not a huge champagne fan, but today’s episode made me more interested.

Mike C.
October 24, 2006

Susan
Brandon M and SS Chris,
Are you still there?
I hope you can make some comments
and
spur on some voting and comments from people!
Hello!
Do I hear an echo?
October 24, 2006

ML
Happy B-day SS Chris.

Question for Gary…when you say you drink 90% of your white wines at room temp…do you mean when working/tasting or when drinking for pleasure? When you order at a restaurant…do you let it sit on the table for an hour or so? Or maybe ask the kitchen to throw it in the microwave for 30 seconds?

How about reds? What’s your preferred temp? A little below room temp….say 65? That’s my pref.
October 24, 2006

E
I thought the line about deserving champagne in victory and needing it in success came from the Pol Roger poster boy, Winston Churchill.

QOD: I don’t know from grower champagne either, but it’s going on the to-do list. I don’t suppose Gruet Blanc de Noir (from NM) counts … probably not anymore, but I still like the stuff.
October 24, 2006

Bear Down
Gary,

QOTD: My favorite grower Chapagne is Andre Clouet. I’m also a fan of Philliponot, but that’s borderline big brand. Altough, the best champagnes I’ve ever had are 1985 Krug and 1990 Pol Roger, Cuvee Sir Winston Churchill. I had these at tastings. I could never afford to buy them.

Bland de Noirs is 100% “red grape” white champagne, but it can contain Pinot Meunier as well (the other red Champagne grape…this is for the sake of some viewers…I know you know this GV). So Blanc de Noirs is not necessarily 100% P/N, but Blanc de Blancs is 100% Chardonnay.

GO BLACKHAWKS!!! (a little throw back to your Ranger fan days) You should come back to hockey man.

‘Bear Down
October 24, 2006

Bear Down
Damon,

I recelntly had the 1970 Musar. It is the only one I’ve had. It was a bit out of condition, but still drinking quite nicely. Very Bordeaux like.
October 24, 2006

Susan
Mike C,
Hey!
Glad to have you come out of the shadows!
I am happy that you like WLTV.
Please tell your friends.
October 24, 2006

Susan
# 100???
October 24, 2006

AlisonD
My three votes are in!
October 24, 2006

Jason R.
Kahuna – I think there was a Bubbles at Scores?? Ya know – the one with the big Tannins

Just kidding – Best Sparkler – Damn this is a stumper – I was not a big fan of Dom P the 3 times I have had it. Yeasty which I like, but I think it lacks fruit – CAN YOU BELIEVE THIS!!! I have been tempted to buy a L. R. Cristal sometime for a very special ocasion, but like everything else, I always find about 10 other things to spend my money on. Best in a while is the RENE GEOFFROY Cuvee Reserve. It was not over the top – it just delivered where so many others fell short…
October 24, 2006

Steffen Pelz
Gary.

Been lurking for a long time. Love your show. My favorite grower champagne producer is Launois.

Cheers.
October 24, 2006

Jason R.
I voted for ya Gary!!!

OK – Tonight – What was a Crappy day here in Iowa – Turned out to be a great night!

Sauteed some onions and mushroom caps and had deer fillets with green beans and baked potatoes. I opened the VERY CONTROVERSIAL Beaulieu Vineyards Dulcet Reserve 2001. (WE-92 / W&S-92 / WIL WONG-88 & WS 68 –

I have 6 bottles I bought 8/2005 – First I drank was 8/10/2006 – Very hot, Alc, Awckward??? I looked back in my notes and I scored a 84.
Second Bottle tonight with the above – Muted nose, Just a little prune after hours, bright red fruit, silky mouth feel – WOW – IS THIS THE SAME WINE 6 months later??? I rated it a 91 this time. I am diggin this!!!! At first I was wondering what guests I was going to pawn this $25 bottle stuff off on, and now I am wondering how long before I pop the next of 6???

GARY – HOW ABOUT DO AN EPISODE OF CONTROVERSIAL SCORED WINES THAT VIEWERS PICK. Like this one that had scores from 68 to 92. I think BV Georges De Latour had one similar to this as well. Viewers could send in their findings and you could taste em, and see who you agree with. I am typically a conservative rater, more along the Tanzer lines, but in this case, I think the wine has developed in the last 5 years and will get better in another 3-5 before signing off.

Brandon – SS Chris – I know each of you are good for at least 1 tasting for Gary of Cotroversial scored wines???
October 24, 2006

shacke
NY times ad? Oh well. There goes the cozy family aura. waaaa.
October 24, 2006

Chuck W
Happy Birthday Super Star Chris! I hope you enjoy that â€˜02 Havens Black & Blue (a Napa meritage from Ep. #41).

Brandon M. – please pass the port.
October 24, 2006

Craig G
My wife and I went to One If By Land, Two If By Sea Restaurant in New York City to celebrate my brother in laws engagement. Anyway, the best man asked the waiter to bring out their best Champagne. Out came Champagne Chapuy Vintage 2001. We toasted with it. I ended up having several extra glasses of the stuff. It was a great night, but I will never forget Champagne Chapuy.

GREAT EPISODES! GO JETS!!!!! Oh, my wife and I went to the Wine Library two Saturdays ago when Lorraine Bracco hosted. Well, we ran into you, and you made our day! It was great to finally meet our wine celebrity! Great recommendation on the Rocky Creek Zin. Looking forward to seeing the New York Times tomorrow! Keep WLTV Going!!!! Does this entitle me to a 10% discount????????!!!!!!
October 24, 2006

Craig G
Once Again, Vintage 2001 Champagne Chapuy. Let me ask again. Does this entitle me to a discount on any wine? Perhaps the half bottles of Chateau Pavie 2000? You know, the ones that were sitting in the wine cellar? Let me know, I would love to take them off your hands. GO JETS!!!!!!!!!!!
October 24, 2006

lizv
don’t forget to vote in all 3 categories and PLEASE fwd the link on to all your contacts!!! it’s our way to thank gary & all the AMAZING guys behind the scenes.
happy bday ssc
October 24, 2006

Chuck W
Gary, I have really enjoy your shows. I have my votes in for you. Good luck with the vloggies.

QOD – My sparkling experience is weak. Most of the time my champagne tastings occur after the ball drops. Your show has encouraged me to change that.

A star is born – Winslow Jr, Edwards, Frye, Wimbley.

GV – I hope you have placed your Cuvaison Pinot order.
October 24, 2006

Albert and Remy
Gary,
Congratulations on the nominations! You got our votes, even though you have dissed our Super Steelers 2 episodes in a row. Anyway, when you win the Vloggie(s), do not forget to thank your wife!
October 24, 2006

Chuck W
What happened to your WSJ affiliation? The NY Times? Democratic RAG bent on dividing the country! Sorry BM, no politics.
October 24, 2006

SeanM
Prosecco Pro-sec-co Pro-SEC-co

Voted.
October 24, 2006

Susan
NY Times -
Here I come!
I am sure this ad will be
SUPER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
October 24, 2006

Susan
Gary-
Keep up the good work!
I am sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo
glad to see your energy today!!!!!!!!
October 24, 2006

TimF
QOD: I’ve got to admit, I usually go with Moet White Star (what can I say, I really like it). I do really like Raventos I Blanc Cava as well.
October 24, 2006

TimF
Oh yeah, I almost forgot: Long time lurker, first time poster.
October 24, 2006

Susan
Do we have 2 people who go by the name of TimF?
I remember someone named TimF posting before?
Anyone know?
October 24, 2006

JustinL
QOTD Answer: NV Diebolt-Vallois Cuvee Prestige Blanc de Blancs
October 24, 2006

MarcT
Man…even Lizy is getting in on the action today!
I think I counted four Lurkers…one more to go…come on guys, you had better get a post in.

My idea for the NY Times ad is killer…just wait!!!
October 24, 2006

MarcT
TimF…good point on the White Star…it is the “classic wedding bubbly” but still remains to be a pretty good drink…not the best…but palatable.
October 24, 2006

MarcT's Girlfriend
Hello. I am MarcT’s girlfriend. I ALWAYS hear bout Wine Library TV. I will watch with him some but I have never written any comments.
Do I count as a “lurker?”
October 24, 2006

MarcT
Make it count Gary!!!
That’s 5 baby!!!
October 24, 2006

Dan
Question GV-

Are the grower champagnes the ones with a little “RM” on the lable somewhere?

I can remember seeing this designation on some of the bottles that I do not recognize at local beer depots.

Thanks!

Dan (In Houston. Where we don’t really call liquor stores “beer depots” we call them that in Wisconsin, where I grew up)
October 24, 2006

Matthew L
Great episode Gary. I, too, am a big fan of sparkling. Though, I cannot, in all honestly, give you an all time producer of champagne. I’ve a number of excellent sparklers and cuvees, but no champagne, particularly outside the big houses.

I will be sure to check out the NY Times tomorrow and take a picture. Congrats on the Vloggie nomination. You deserve it! I will be sure to submit my vote.

Nice intro Dominus. Happy birthday Chris! Lurkers, please come out of the shadows.

Cheers to all!
October 24, 2006

MarcT's Girlfriend
Hey I just put in a comment and it went away!
Marc says it might be because we are on the same computer. Well I am trying again.

Do I count as a “lurker?”
I watch the episodes with Marc sometimes but I ALWAYS listen to him talk about them.
October 24, 2006

Dan
Heck!

I forgot my blog address in my last question. It isn’t very interesting, but it IS mine.

One more thing:

I went to Spain last year and visited Sant Sadurni d’Anoia. (http://triptospain2005.blogspot.com/2005/07/sant-sadurn-danoia.html )any chance of looking at small (the equivalentg of RM) bottlers from there?

Thanks

Dan (in Houston. wasting time alone as my lovely wife is at a book group without me. Women only)
October 24, 2006

Skol
Long time viewer. I think I’m going try them all !!!

Great episode.
October 24, 2006

MarcT
OK…so I go and lay down after getting Stephanie to post and now she is complaining about her posts not showing up.
What is up?
Is it because we are on the same computer?
I was hoping she could be the 5th lurker.
October 24, 2006

Susan
******EVERYONE*********
Please READ
Comment #91!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
October 24, 2006

MarcT
Guys…we just got back from seeing “The Departed”
Good movie…violent and great acting…Martin Scorsese film.
October 24, 2006

EJ
Gary,

Just voted! congrats on the nominations! will await your victories this november.

Lurkers!… where are you?!?!?! just post SOMETHING! say hello…. anything!!!! How about agreeing or disagreeing that the Giants are going to the Super Bowl (to play the Jet of course, right Gary?

Jason R.- looks like we’ll have to keep our bottles in the fridge and wait for the heat/fridge episode next July(I am a believer in skunked beer, and since things like vibration and shipping can shock and affect a wine, i’m afraid to bring it through all these temperature fluctuations).

Can’t really comment on the QOD, but you’ve given me some ideas for this coming holiday season.

Currently enjoying the raspberry jam and cherries in my 2001 Guigal CdP– Gary you are right on once again!
October 24, 2006

Skol
Forgot to leave a reply regarding the champagne.
I was young but there was a champagne I thought tasted good when I was in France:
Boizel
October 24, 2006

SS Chris
VaynIACS, thanks very much for all the birthday wishes!

I cannot lie….it makes me happy
October 24, 2006

KAHUNA
SS Chris,
Forgot the B-day wish have a great one- thanks for all the work! Also my parents 47th anniversary.
October 24, 2006

TampaSteve
SS Chris, you big suck up….lolol

Only kidding my friend….happy birthday again buddy!
October 24, 2006

SS Chris
LizV,

Per your request (#107), I have cast my 3 votes for your VaynerMAN.

And I almost missed your birthday shout-out…thanks very much.

Finally, a REQUEST: You’ve been commenting more lately, and I’m going to speak for all VaynIACS within the ever-growing VaynerNATION, when I say that we all love it!! Please keep the comments coming!!
October 24, 2006

SS Chris
Tampa Steve, you did me!! LOL
October 24, 2006

zerokreap (kw)
nah, im here bro…and since i now know someone actually was paying attention, i will never let you down again. haha

gary: i need some schwag…
October 24, 2006

MaryS
Happy birthday SSChris!!!
October 24, 2006

Brandon M
Chuck W, do you know the Bishop of Norwich?
October 24, 2006

Brandon M
I second the Schwag….get it together!
October 24, 2006

Brandon M
To everyone….I voted nine times. Ran around the office using everyones computer, and made them vote. Then went back to the server room and used those to vote tooo…we gonna win this thing!!!!

Where’s the after party gonna be?
October 24, 2006

TampaSteve
Brandon, didn’t you get the invite from Gary? He is flying us all in.
October 24, 2006

Brandon M
NO I DID NOT!
I guess I’m not part of the INNER circle!
October 24, 2006

MarcT
Chuck W…The Bishop of Norwich was said to be such a persistent talker that he sometimes forgot to pass the port.

I got my invite yesterday with a 1st class plane ticket to boot!!! I’m sitting next to Vanna White! Coming up on 50 years old and still smokin’!
October 24, 2006

Brandon M
SS Chris…let me be the last to today to say
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!

Now go to bed, a man your age needs his rest!

B
October 24, 2006

garyv
SS Chris let me be the last Person to wish you a HAPPY BDAY
October 25, 2006

MarcT
Nice Gary!!!
October 25, 2006

MarcT
Now you go to bed. You have another episode to tape tomorrow!
October 25, 2006

garyv
Marc thnx but I have 300+ more emails to read and then 400+ emaisl to answer man this WLTV is gonna kill me!
October 25, 2006

KAHUNA
Gary & VaynerNATION,

Just dug into my wine rack and dug out a Franciscan 2003(didn’t have to dig far) actually I did not even know I had it. I remeber Gary trying and not being thrilled-He like me loves Franciscan. I popped and poured- I thought the nose was nice but not stellar(Franciscan usually needs 45 minutes to open up) I drank it normally and it tasted like a Cab from years past more smooth on the front and not over fruity. Not like a typical Franciscan especially 2000 & 2001. Finishes very dry.

Then I VaynerchuCKED the wine and gave it the listerine test- Gotta say I hated it, dry on the back of my tongue felt like I licked my barrell. I am no expert like Gary but I have to say the difference between VaynerchuCKING a wine and drinking it is huge-

OK- now the wine has been open for 45 minutes and the nose is great- I mean real great-can smell the Tannin also(like grape cluster vine when cut). The taste has not changed- this is not up to Franciscan standards- it is still good- I will wait to give it another try in 45 minutes and see. I will also get some to hold and see.

GIRARD Petite Syrah- Ok I had this last night and did not realize that Gary had tried it oddly same episode as Franciscan. If you are a Petite Fan go get this wine- I loved it- it was my GIANTS win Treat. This is bigger and bolder than most Petites if that could be poss. I will be getting a case of this and tasting it every year. Gary loved it also
October 25, 2006

MarcT
Well I’m going to bed…good luck!
October 25, 2006

Brandon M
GaryV…what the hell? Stealing my shhhhtuff

You HACK!…i joke i joke, i keed i keed

B
October 25, 2006

Brandon M
Drinking the Rocky Creek after 24 hours of open bottle. MUCH better tonight….schmooov

B
October 25, 2006

joe
Didn’t see much repsose on the Champaign question, my favs are:

Billecart Salmon, Burt NV and Rose
Nicholas Feuillate nv
October 25, 2006

SS Chris
Sweet move GARY V…..slipping in right under the bell on Brandon M.

thanks again to everyone! All of the comments DID make the day even better.

KAHUNA, I don’t even have to check..the Girard is sold out at WL…I remember GV loving it and it sounded delicious…went to order, but they were out.

That reminds me….to check w/Brant or Ian to see if they can special order. I’ll let you know, if they can get some.
October 25, 2006

Jaye
SS Chris, let me the first this morning to wish you a belated happy birthday.
October 25, 2006

SS Chris
good one Jaye…

Gary V,
Do you realize that in the “Best Male Vlogger” category, you’re up against a guy named BUNS…this can’t be good….not that there’s anything wrong with it.

Also, in the Cooking category, there is no description listed…get Sir Brian on it!!
October 25, 2006

SS Chris
Gary, BTW, Congrats on the NY Times…that’s friggin’ HUUUUUUUUUUUUUGE!! (w/13 U’s)

Get it??
October 25, 2006

PeteB
Gary congrats on the vloggies and the Times! QOD: don’t have one yet, so I’ll let you know when I find one.

Welcome to all the new posters! Roch – I would suggest a vintage port for 25 yr cellaring. Maybe a 2003 or 2000 vintage.
October 25, 2006

Darlene O.
Hey, Gary…votes in. We’re all rootin’ for you!!!!! Ok…now to find a New York Times….:}
October 25, 2006

SS Chris
****IMPORTANT – NEED INPUT FROM VAYNERNATION****

PATTY O & EUGENE (& VaynerNATION),

I did see Patty’s comment #214 in previous Ep. #113 where you said,

“Eugene – Stainless Steel is one thing that pops to mind with SpreadSheet Chrisâ€™ nickname of SSChris – but I have to say I always think of SS in the context of Hitlerâ€™s regime (as in the elite, personal guard unit in Nazi Germany). Not good.

SSChris – would you consider changing your name AGAIN? Maybe – to mark your special day today??”

I never thought of that, and I’d feel really bad it that’s the case.

For background, this name was nominated by GOL in Ep 92, when he said,

“SS Chris (I nominate that as your new blog name for this blog, kinda cool, all WLTVers know what it stands for but it also sounds like a ship)”

This SS/Ship referenc is the way I’ve always thought of it….but, if many VaynIACS are thinking of the Nazi connection, I will definitely change it.

#1. HOW MANY VaynIACS HAVE THOUGHT OF THIS NAZI REFERENCE?

#2. Any suggestions would be welcomed and appreciated

BRANDON, may need another VaynerVOTE…
October 25, 2006

Tom F
Long time viewer, first time making a comment. I haven’t counted the first time posters, but if it helps, I have multiple personalities, so I count as four first timers. I can also legally drive in the HOV lane when I’m alone.

I’m new to the fine wine gig, which is why I’ve been watching WLTV. Therefore, I don’t have any favorite vineyard champagnes, but I’ll start looking. I like to use Cooks and mix it with Haagen Daas Lemon sorbet. Mix the two and enjoy. It’s a suitable way to use bulk wine — cleanses the palate and a super way start a Sunday morning . (Obviously, I wouldn’t use the high-end champagne for such a concoction.)

A couple questions that maybe you can address (or just ignore):

(1) I have a stew recipe that calls for a cup of “fine wine.” What do cooks or chefs typically use for cooking wines? Any particular brands? I’m guessing it’s not high-end wines (which are for drinking). I use bulk wines for cooking (Gallo, Yellow Tail, etc), but I’m curious if “fine wine” means wines over say, $20 per bottle? Or if it even makes a difference.

(2) If you get the chance, explain what the mid-palate is. From watching the vlog, I get the impression that tasting starts with the nose and ends on the follow through. But to the uninitiated like myself, the mid-palate sounds like the Middle Earth of the mouth (preferably without an aftertaste of hobbit feet).
October 25, 2006

SS Chris
BTW, I’m hoping it doens’t offend, because I like SS Chris
October 25, 2006

Brandon M
SS Chris makes me think of Nazi Germany also, I mean there is such a close resemblence to Spread Sheet Chris and a rutheless killer with no soul…..
wait….
SS Chris reminds me of Giligans Island cause there is such a close resemblence to The Professor…
wait…
SS Chris reminds me of a Chevy Camaro cause there’s such a close resemblence to..well…you know…
wait…
SS Chris reminds me of the fact that I probably will never see Social Security money even though I will have paid in my whole life…
wait…
It REALLY makes me think of a great car…damn dirty Nazi’s…
Now…I will send a bottle of wine from WL to the first person that can tell me the story on that last statement…of course…if WL can ship to the state / country your in!
I will let Gary pick the wine. It will be in the $10 – $15 range.
It’s time to make things even MORE fun…so a little blogger contest from me to you!

How silly is it to relate SS Chris to the Nazis? I for one say people are reading WAY to far into things.

B
October 25, 2006

Brandon M
the key to the contest…Tell The Blog The Story, not just the meaning.
October 25, 2006

Brandon M
sorry…what I meant was Chevy Impala…but you get the point
October 25, 2006

SS Chris
Dude….you are HYSTERICAL!!

Thanks for putting this in perspective.

Please clarify which statement the contest is for? is it “damn dirty Nazi’s”?
October 25, 2006

Brandon M
The contest is for this statement….

It REALLY makes me think of a great carâ€¦damn dirty Naziâ€™sâ€¦

B
October 25, 2006

Michael B
Long time viewer, 1st time poster! I really enjoy WLTV, so keep up the good work. This is off-topic for the Champagne episode, but would you taste a Joseph Phelps wine on WLTV? I loved the 2002 cab I ordered from WL, and would be interested in your review.
October 25, 2006

Miguelo DiMarco
Brandon, it sounds like you’re either quoting from a movie or referring to how Volkswagen was born out of the collaboration of Hitler (the dirtiest Nazi) and Dr.F.Porsche (not a Nazi himself as far as I know) among others.

Q. o’ da day: you’re right Gary, I can’t answer it. I’m not a big fan of champagne outside of Grande Dame and P.Jouet Fleur. I usually go for the Prosecco Italiano – Drusian (if I can find it) or Zardetto. I’ve been ‘bitten’ too many times by champagne in the $20-$40, but you claim today’s selections behave nicer. Besides the Italians are only $10-$15 and get positive remarks from women with a fragile palates — Banfi Rosa Regale is another (Wine Library – $15.99).
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
I think you guys get a bit carried away reading into things. Either that or you are posting so much that you aren’t getting enough sleep. SS….SS…..SS…..SS…..SS…..SS
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
BTW…I always thought that the SS in front of SS Chris stood for SERIOUS SUCK-UP
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
My wife just called and told me she picked up the NYT for me from Starbucks drive-through. If you are looking for one in your area…that may work for you also. Can’t wait to see what Gary put together.
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
BTW…am I just talking to myself this morning or what?????
October 25, 2006

SS Chris
No TampaSteve….I’m here and I’ve taken enough abuse from you!!

Just for that, Burns Steakhouse is being deleted from the Fav Restaurant SS (purposely spelled incorrectly in tribute to YOU!!)
October 25, 2006

Jay Requarth
Gary V,

Great program. I’ve watched some in the past, but not too regularly. Definitely going to start checking it out more often. I’ve never commented before so you can count at least 1 new one to your list.

Thanks for the mention during the program as well – feel good about yourself – you drove nearly 100 (so far) new visitors to our site. You are a MEDIA MOGUL my friend!

Jay
(A Grape Nut)
http://blog.thegrapenuts.net
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
Ahhh…come on Chris…it’s all in love. BTW you spelled Bern wrong…lolol. Hey Chris, you know I love ya:)Your a Joursey boy after all.

GARY, what no quote from me in your NYT add…I am INSULTED…lolol
Add looks good and PLEASE DO NOT take this the wrong way. The FULL center 2 page add that Wine Spectator put in right before yours, took a bit of a bite out of the WLTV add.
October 25, 2006

Colin D. Devroe
HAHA! I had to listen to the first 2 minutes twice because you said that I was an Eagles fan again!!! Ha! Congrats on the Vloggys nod. You desire it.

Great episode.
October 25, 2006

Colin D. Devroe
I meant “deserve” not “desire” but I suppose both are fitting.
October 25, 2006

Bill T.
Gary,
You just got my votes, good luck! Great episode but I’m dissapointed that you didn’t try the Schramsberg Cremant. I absolutely love this stuff …it’s my all time favorite! It seems to be the bubbly of choice at the White House! Here’s a link… http://www.schramsberg.com/cremant.pdf Anyone doing the wine thing in Napa needs to stop by Schramsberg and take the tour/tasting, you won’t be dissapointed! They take you through their cave (2 miles long and doug out by Chinese immigrants 100 years ago), explain their process and treat you to a nice tasteing. Great stuff, give it a try!
October 25, 2006

Stumpf
Hi Gary

Long time viewer, first time poster !

Great show today.

QOD : favourites growers : Thierry Blondel in Ludes and Serge Rafflin in Ludes as well. Great wines, both Vintage and NV. In 1996, we got the chance to taste old vintages (back to 1982) from Rafflin. Very exotic flavors, kinda mushroomy nose. Superb wines.
October 25, 2006

MarcT
BrandonM…I have searched the heavens. I can’t wait to find out what you are referencing.

I agree…SS stands for Spread Sheet…we all know that…letting a blog name offend is a little weak.
I say if SS Chris has to change his name then so does Patty O because I am big time offended by her name…I don’t know about you guys but Patty O’ The Giant Leprechaun has beaten many people to a pulp in the squared circle and scares the crap out of me!
Then…what does M stand for REALLY Brandon…sure your last name may be Miller but are you giving us a signal? Maybe it stands for…the 1931 movie “M” and you are a CHILD-MURDERER from Germany!!!!
October 25, 2006

Stumpf
QOD : I almost forgot Jacques Selosse’s regular cuvÃ©e. Incredible wine, more like an excellent Montrachet stuffed with bubbles (it has a definite mineral and oak character).
October 25, 2006

Eugene
Chris,

I think of SS as stainless steel and as a nazi connection.

Pleas change it.

I suggest that you use your real name since it is on the top of the spread sheet and everyone knows it anyway.

My point is – you don’t need a screen name.
October 25, 2006

Eugene
Kahuna,

I usually quickly scan through the comments.

When I saw â€œ45â€ and â€œbarrelâ€ in you comment #153 I thought that youâ€™re in trouble.

Reading slower alleviated my worries.
October 25, 2006

MarcT
SS Chris…if you change your name because of something that has NOTHING to do with you or anything I will be sorely disappointed.
I might have to change my blog name to something like Ganjaweed… What? Is that to close to Janjaweed for anyone?
October 25, 2006

MarcT
Eugene…Please change your name…it is offensive because it reminds me of Pope Eugene III Summons to A Crusade, Dec 1, 1154. What a ruthless killer he was…killing people because they worship something other than God!!!
October 25, 2006

Susan
Stumpf,
Hey!
Glad to have you come out of the shadows!
Feel free to make comments on every episode!
Please tell your friends about WLTV!
October 25, 2006

Susan
Jaye(A Grape Nut),
Hey!
Glad to welcome you out of the shadows!!
Feel Free to make comments on each episode!
Please tell your friends about WLTV!
October 25, 2006

Eugene
Marc,

He was very influential fellow I gather.

I can name a few Marcs that were in the same league.

But Marc reminds me of Saint Mark hotel and bar in East Village, which brings back good memories. So please keep it.

All I am saying that Chris should use his real name.
October 25, 2006

Susan
Michael B,
Hey!
Glad to welcome you in from the shadow lurkers!
Feel free to post on each episode!
Please tell your friends about WLTV!
October 25, 2006

Susan
Steffen Pelz,
Hey!
Glad to welcome you in from the shadow lurkers!
Feel free to post on each episode!
Please tell your friends about WLTV!
October 25, 2006

Susan
Tom F,
Hey!
Glad to welcome you in from the shadow lurkers!
Feel free to post on each episode!
Please tell your friends about WLTV!
October 25, 2006

Susan
Mark T’s Girlfriend,
Hey!
Glad to welcome you in from the shadows.
Feel free to post on each episode!
Please tell your friends about WLTV!
October 25, 2006

EJ
OK…… which one of you guys took my NYTimes from my yard this morning!!!!!!

Chris, don’t worry, i didn’t really relate SS Chris to the Nazi’s ; thought more of a “Spread Sheet” chris… I am surprise with the number of people who chimed in that the do associate the names. it’s getting a little out of hand.
October 25, 2006

Susan
NEW!
I did count at least one dozen new commenters(former lurkers).
YEAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
October 25, 2006

Susan
200 ?????????????
October 25, 2006

Susan
BTW:
Please don’t anyone change their name!
I won’t be able to tell who is who if you do!
We all like you just as you are!
October 25, 2006

SS Chris
Eugene, Now that you know the genesis of SS Chris (I had already attached the initial comment from “GOL” where he nominated this BLOG name), does that make you feel any better? He did this after I was repeatedly referring to the Spreadsheet as the “SS” to make it easier typing for my many comments.

As Brandon indicated, there are plenty of other examples where SS appears (ships, cars, etc. etc.).

Prior to that I used to go by Chris Stan (Gary even referred to me as Chris Stan a few times on the episodes).

Also, the top of the SS, states both my name AND SS Chris.

For reference, here’s GOL’s initial comment:

“SS Chris, (I nominate that as your new blog name for this blog, kinda cool, all WLTVers know what it stands for but it also sounds like a ship. GOL”
October 25, 2006

TimF
Brandon M: Blues Mobile?
October 25, 2006

Susan
SS Chris,
Do NOT change your name!
SS Chris is a good name!
I like it!
October 25, 2006

zerokreap (kw)
should we consider all of these comments as a milestone….when brandon M and susan are like half of them?!?!?
October 25, 2006

TimF
Susan: It was about 8,000 posts ago, but I was joking about this being my first post. Had the gravitars been operating properly we could have avoided this terrible mess.
October 25, 2006

MarcT
And Eugene is also a cool city

Susan is trying to take BrandonM’s spot as top poster!!!

I think we will have another episode!

Gary, nice ad…wait ’til you see my picture…it will be on the way soon!
October 25, 2006

Steve B
Vayniacs,

Can anyone with a NYT describe the WL ad? I won’t be able to get to the newstand (in Dayton, OH) until after work. Thanks!

Steve B
blog.thegrapenuts.net
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
FOR THOSE THAT WANT TO SEE THE NEW YORK TIMES WLTV ADD, I MADE A HOMEPAGE SO YOU CAN VIEW IT. HERE IS THE LINK http://www.geocities.com/bajathree/WLTV.html?1161784239281
October 25, 2006

TimF
After I got off the train this morning and went to the news stand to buy a copy of the NY Times, I thought I had a problem. I paid $1.00 in order to view a newspaper advertisement. Then I thought about the following statistic: Roughly 1.1 Billion people live on $1.00 a day.

“If you have a WLTV addiction or know someone who does, please call 1-888-WLTV-ANON”
October 25, 2006

SS Chris
TAMPA STEVE,

To answer your last comment to me(#180), I knew you were joking in comments 137 & 175….and so was I in my response (#178)….I wasnt’offended at all. Sometimes the “joking” aspect doesn’t come through in the written word (although I did include a laughing face in my comment #178)

For the record, I LOVE busting balls, so I beg you (and all VaynIACS) to ‘get me’ whenever you can….trust me, I will do the same to you (and all VaynIACS).

This is part of the ‘VaynerNATION CONSTITUTION’ that BRANDON and I are working on…Paragraph III, subsection A states,

“VaynIACS cannot have a thin skin…you must take any ball-busting directed at you like a MAN”. (

(WE apologize for using difficult to understand legal jargon here..if anyone needs clarifcation, let us know)

P.S. If you haven’t noticed, I’m such a newbie to wine (although I already have a pretty nice collection due to Gary, Ian Dorin & WL), that I offer absolutely NOTHING to to this BLOG relative to wine (a little sad, I know). My comments are almost entirely humerous wise cracks!! It’s one of the main reasons I love this BLOG!!
October 25, 2006

E
Impala SS, Camaro SS, Chevelle SS, Nova SS or Monte Carlo SS?

(SS = Super Sport in this context, although if you’re under 30, then SS: Impala :: IROC: Camaro).
October 25, 2006

Mike E
Hi non-lurkers,

Does anyone have any thoughts on sparkling Shiraz? I know it has a cult following down under and little of it gets to the States, but I wonder if anyone can share any experiences. I have had some good ‘red’ Sekt which is pretty interesting beyond the obvious novelty factor so I’m interested if the Shiraz is worth a look.

Cheers,
Mike E.
October 25, 2006

Rob B
gary you got my vote!!! Keep it coming
October 25, 2006

SS Chris
Tim F,

Your comment where you ‘posed’ as a VaynerLURKER was #118. I laughed out loud when I first read that.

Secondly, are you a big fan of The OFFICE (#45)? I may need to get you a Dwight BobbleHEAD too!!

Third, where do you come down on the ‘SS Chris’ controversy?
October 25, 2006

PattyO
Good grief! WAY out of hand on the SS! Lighten up friends-
I didn’t say Chris was a Natzi or that SS makes me think HE is a Natzi or or or or or or or…
I definitely think Chris knows it wasn’t a heavy or stressful comment – and definitely not a comment about him, for heaven’s sake! Just the “ss” and the association in my mind (in response to the comments about stainless steel). That’s all, guys.
October 25, 2006

TimF
Mike E: From the SF Chronicle

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2006/08/17/WIG4DKJ6SL1.DTL&hw=sparkling+shiraz&sn=002&sc=1000
October 25, 2006

Kathy Hughes
Voted the Trifecta: 1. Best Male; Best Istructional and Best Cooking categories. Well deserved, Naples Kathy
October 25, 2006

Rob B
Gary got my vote. Am I a Lurker? Long time viewer second post
October 25, 2006

Michael P
Congratulations my friend on the nominations. You have my vote for most jacked-up vlog host!! And for the awards too ;o

I’m not into champagne so I can’t answer the QOD.

Anymore free shipping on the horizon???? Yes..hmmm.hmmm..
October 25, 2006

SS Chris
PattyO, I knew you where you were coming from. Then, Eugene left 2 comments, and I became worried that I was offending (EUGENE, I have absolutely no problem with your comments on this…it was what you felt…again, hoping that I’ve clarified things).

So, I didn’t want to blow it off. I also wanted to put it out there to see what other VaynIACS thought. If I received a bunch of comments saying that it conjured the NAZI reference for them, I would have had to, at least, consider changing my name.

It doesn’t appear that many have been thinking that and, for anyone that was thinking that, this allowed me to clarify what the SS stands for AND how the name came about…which is a good thing.

So thanks Patty girl!! luv ya
October 25, 2006

Bill Ross
Dan from Houston (Comment # 125)- I’m also from Houston (Baytown)- guess how many strange looks I got when I asked about the “nearest liquor store” in Philly.

Russ J (Comment # 65) I was very happy with Calera Central Coast Pinot Noir that WL carried (’01 and ‘02). WL also promoted the Agustino ‘03 Reserve PN from Chile for $10, and I liked it enough to re-order, too.

Voted.
October 25, 2006

rich loughrey
Who wouldn’t love this episode? A+ for content and enthusiasm plus we didn’t have to hear about the lowly Jets. First time -long time.
October 25, 2006

SS Chris
I fear that Gary may lose the VLOGGIE for “Best Male Vlogger” to “BUNS”…what kind of awards are these?
October 25, 2006

Sam Zen
I know nothing baout champagne. So thaks for this episode. You got my vote for best educational blog… and this episode proves it.
October 25, 2006

Julia
Hey, WLTV: (I cleared this post w/Gary) Below is a link to sign up for notification of wine events from Local Wine Events.com. They have listings in many US and international cities. For each person who registers using referral code 42003-38, I receive one â€œgrapeâ€ (point). The person with the most â€œgrapesâ€ by Nov 10, 2006 (Fri) will win four free tickets (reg $95) to a Benefit for City Harvest – World Tasting with Spanish Wine Festival (full deets about the event at http://www.pjwine.com/html/events.html)

Date: Nov 15, 2006
Time: 5:30-10:30pm VIP Admission; 7:00-10:30pm General Admission
Place: The Puck Building
295 Lafayette Street (at West Houston ST)
New York, New York 10012

If I win, I will take the first 3 WLTV-ers who email me at juschul@yahoo.com with me! You donâ€™t have to be in NYC to sign up with the link below (although you will have to be here to attend the event, of course).

Hereâ€™s the link to click: http://www.localwineevents.com/be_notified.php?ref=42003-38

Thanks, and letâ€™s hope we win!
October 25, 2006

Russ J
Brandon, I think TimF in #203 is closing in. I believe you are referring to a scene in “Blues Brothers” where Jake and Ellwood are stuck in a traffic jam caused by a rally being held by the Illinois Nazi Party. They are digusted and drive around the roadblock and force all of the nazi’s to jump off a bridge into the water, in their former police car compete with “cop motor, cop tires, cop suspension”. But wait, that was a Dodge St. Regis.
Never mind….
October 25, 2006

TimF
SS Chris – I am a huge fan of The Office. I loved the British version, but like the US version even more (and I get a lot of flack for that).

On the ‘SS’ controversy: I work with an application called ‘eSSbase’. It stands for Extended SpreadSheet dataBase. I am also what you might call an Excel expert. I have been working with spreadsheets since VisiCalc. So when I see ‘SS’ together I tend to think of spreadsheets. So I think the name fits. Stick with it. Even if you could convince me otherwise I still wouldn’t change my mind. So until I see you doing the goose-step, you’re SS Chris.
October 25, 2006

SS Chris
****GARY V….GARY V…GARY V….GARY V****

CONGRATS on the Fantastic Ad in the NYTimes. I think that even Red-Staters will relent and buy the TIMES today.

Maybe Gary Vayner–CHUK is the only one who can bring this fractured Nation together again.

GARY for PRESIDENT!!!!!

(Gary, are you a ’stay-the-course’ guy or a ‘cut & run’ guy?? LOL ;-D
October 25, 2006

TimF
I hate Illinois nazis.
October 25, 2006

E
Actually, the Bluesmobile was a ‘74 Dodge Monaco, not a St. Regis. The St. Regis didn’t come around until ‘78 or ‘79, I think, and was the Dodge version of the Chrysler Newport.

I feel like I should be embarrassed for knowing that, but if it helps any I still don’t get any of the numerous Lost references.
October 25, 2006

TimF
According to my calculations, there are only 22 days until Beaujolais Nouveau Day. I fully expect to see a celebration here on WLTV to mark the occasion.
October 25, 2006

Steve B
TampaSteve,

Thanks for scanning and posting the ad!!

Steve B
October 25, 2006

BruceP
Voted for you all 3 times. Hey Gary, have fun in Paris, and if you haven’t been there, have dinner at Willi’s Wine Bar. A great place for a wine-centric meal, and great value by parisian standards as well.
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
You are more than welcome Steve B. You do know we have the same initials Steve. The first few posts I placed on WLTV were under SteveB. I then switched to TampaSteve. However I hope that that does not offend anyone since SS Chris has stirred the whole pot here with his damn SS.
October 25, 2006

Julia
FYI, if you are interested in the “Whys” of wine, NY Academy of Sciences ( http://www.nyas.org )is holding a talk on “The Science of Wine” on December 11th: Speaker James Kennedy, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Food Science and Technology, Oregon State University, will discuss the science of wine, followed by a wine tasting.
October 25, 2006

KAHUNA
Korbel made for a short time Merlot Champagne available at the winery and it was great- it was a short run and their fastest selling ever- last year it was no longer available- Their Rouge is good-
October 25, 2006

SS Chris
Tampa Steve,

Actually, it’s all a big RUSE. Patty O, Eugene and I conspired to create a stire in hopes of facilitating the BLOG comments hitting the big 300 for the first time….ssshhh…keep this under your hat.
October 25, 2006

Russ J
E #227: I am nominating you for a Vloggie for “arcane bluesmobile knowledge”. At least I did not think that it had “fine Corinthian leather”.

Bill Ross #220: Thanks for the rec.
Gotta go grab the Times out of Kahuna’s recycling.
October 25, 2006

Julie
Recent viewer… first time poster!
October 25, 2006

KAHUNA
Eugene,
don’t worry I am safe, didn’t use the 45-

Russ J,
Enjoy the Times mine might be a little soggy
October 25, 2006

Brandon M
What is the approximate dry weight of the average Madagascan fruit tree bat?
October 25, 2006

TimF
African or European?
October 25, 2006

ando
This is good stuff. I have ordered from Wine Library a bunch and the WLTV is really getting me more fired up about wine. I had the clos Mimi and thought it was great for the price.
October 25, 2006

KAHUNA
Brandon M,
“You mean you don’t know”

Your attention, please. The story you are about to see is true; the names have been changed to protect the innocent. For example: George Baker is now called “Sylvia Wiss. “
October 25, 2006

Brandon M
Classic KAHUNA….simply Classic!
October 25, 2006

Lawrence Leichtman
As ususal a great episode and a fun one as sparkiling wines are also my favorites. I like almost any sparkling wine that is made well. Tried the Prosecco that Gary just recommended to me and enjoyed the first bottle immensely. The other two of the 3 will wait for Thanksgiving along with Beujolais and Chardonnay. My favorite is Billicart Salmon and Krug. Used to drink Nicholas Feuillet but lately they haven’t been as good.

I get the e-mail late but I’m putting in as many votes for Gary as possible so vote early vote often.
October 25, 2006

Brandon M
Brandon,
are screen names attached to the email address? I am going to do a test- here
October 25, 2006

KAHUNA
SCREEN NAME- I think WLTV will have to go to permanent screen names associated with the email address- I just did a test with Brandon’s name and it allowed me to post so far- I think as WLTV expands we would not want people posting and leaving comments under our screen names-

I mean I do not nead any help making myself look stupid- I do a damn good job myself.
October 25, 2006

Brandon M
Has it posted, because I don’t see your test.

B
October 25, 2006

KAHUNA
It is still in review- First time posters w screen name to email address’s go to review first- I typed it just like yours so if it is reviewed by a human maybe they will catch it- or if they are reading the blog they will for sure. but it did allow me to get to the review spot- it should automatically say that screen name is taken.
October 25, 2006

MarcT
So BrandonM…what is the car and nazi thing? I have been shirking off on my clients computers trying to find something but I am coming up with zip!
October 25, 2006

KAHUNA
I also used the email address I use for Kahuna- I would have to try it with a diff email address also
October 25, 2006

MarcT
Good point Kahuna. You do make yourself look stupid!
Just don’t make yourself look as stupid as me do…then I will always hold the stupid crown and kingdom!
October 25, 2006

SS Chris
300 is clearly in our sights!!!
October 25, 2006

Brandon M
OK…I’ll start giving hints.

Hint Number 1: Henry Ford was a friend of Adolf Hitler
October 25, 2006

MarcT
BrandonM…I know about Ford and his ties to Hitler but the SS is a Chevy tag…
October 25, 2006

MarcT
>>> From Who Financed Hitler: The Secret Funding of Hitler’s Rise to Power 1919-1933 by James Pool and Suzanne Pool (The Dial Press, 1978), pp 111, 129:

“That Henry Ford, the famous automobile manufacturer gave money to the National Socialists directly or indirectly has never been disputed,” said Konrad Heiden, one of the first biographers of Hitler.[87] Novelist Upton Sinclair wrote in The Flivver King, a book about Ford, that the Nazis got forty-thousand dollars from Ford to reprint anti-Jewish pamphlets in German translations, and that an additional $300,00 was later sent to Hitler through a grandson of the ex-Kaiser who acted as an intermediary.[88] The US Ambassador to Germany, William E. Dodd, said in an interview that “certain American industrialists had a great deal to do with bringing fascist regimes into being in both Germany and Italy.”[89] At the time of Dodd’s criticisms, the general public was aware that he was speaking of Ford because the press made a direct association between Dodd’s statements and other reports of Ford’s anti-Semitism.

….

Henry Ford’s reward from Hitler finally came in July 1938, when on his seventy-fifth birthday he was awarded the Grand Cross of the Supreme Order of the German Eagle. Ford was the first American and the fourth person in the world to receive this medal, which was the highest decoration that could be given to any non-German citizen. Benito Mussolini, another of Hitler’s financiers, had been decorated with the same honor earlier that year.[128]

The presentation was made in Ford’s Dearborn office by the German Counsul on Cleveland, Karl Kapp, and Consul Fritz Hailer of Detroit. Kapp placed the silk red sash over Ford’s right shoulder. The sash was worn in a diagonal line from the right shoulder to the left hip where it was clasped with a gold and white cross. Kapp then pinned a large, shining star-shaped medal of Ford’s white suit. The decoration was given “in recognition of [Ford's] pioneering in making motor cars available for the masses.” Hitler’s personal congratulatory message accompanied the award.[129]

Endnotes

87. Konrad Heiden, Hitler: A Biography, p. 221.
88. Upton Sinclair, The Flivver King: The Story of Ford in America (Pasadena, Calif., 1937), p. 109.
89. Georg Seldes, Facts and Fascism (New York, 1943), p. 122.
128. See Chapter 7.
129. Detroit News, July 31, 1938.
October 25, 2006

MarcT
So BrandonM…do I win?
October 25, 2006

MarcT
Also another good read…
http://reformed-theology.org/html/books/wall_street/chapter_06.htm
October 25, 2006

E
Brandon: are you referring to Henry Gibson’s red Pinto?
October 25, 2006

KAHUNA
MarcT,
ok me will be Prince of the stupid kingdom
October 25, 2006

TimF
Should we go down the VW Schwimmwagen road?
October 25, 2006

MarcT
I deem Kahuna…Prince and High Priest of Stupid Kingdom.
Now…Kahuna…Do YOU know the Bishop of Norwich?
October 25, 2006

TimF
I want to take an informal poll: How many of you use port tongs?
October 25, 2006

MarcT
I have seen them used (Port Tongs) and made some informal ones (that did not work) but do not own any REAL Port Tongs.
Though I do have a friend with the nickname “Hot Tongs”
October 25, 2006

TimF
I wonder if people would get confused if I changed my screen name to Port Tongs?
October 25, 2006

MarcT
TimF…I think people in the stupid kingdom (Me and Kahuna) might get confused at first but then all would work out…
BTW anyone wanting to join the Stupid Kingdom my ask my permission!

I deem BrandonM head Pillager and director of voting…He must always wear his Viking Hat!!!

Port Tongs…formally known as TimF is now deemed Bishop of Norwich.
October 25, 2006

TimF
Brandon M – Does your little contest have anything to do with an amphibious vehicle?
October 25, 2006

TimF
Do we have any readers of the NY Times reading this comment board for the first time today? Step up and let us know.
October 25, 2006

Bonkers
Lurker:

Favorite estate bottled, estate grown Champagne – Jean Laurent. The Blanc de Blancs is incredible! And the vintage Champagnes are utterly amazing, if you can find them…

Its great to see you on WineLibrary TV now, since I no longer live near NJ.
October 25, 2006

KAHUNA
here is the Crest for the Bishop of Norwich

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Bishofnorwarms.PNG
October 25, 2006

Matty Van, Rochester,NY
Port Tongs….I did not know such a thing exsisted…here is a link to a page with a picture of them…
http://www.thevintageportsite.com/decanting.htm

It’s 106 miles to Chicago, we’ve got a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes, it’s dark out, and we’re wearing sunglasses
October 25, 2006

dougiefresh
the servers must be smoking from the NYT traffic. Got server errors the first 5 times I attempted to visit tv.winelibrary.com. Somebody call Akamai!

I guess our little vlog is all growds up. : )
October 25, 2006

Russ J
I’ll have three fried chickens, and a Coke.
October 25, 2006

Matty Van, Rochester,NY
and some dry white toast
October 25, 2006

TimF
For episode 200 I expect to see Gary use port tongs to open a bottle and for 300 I’d like to see him try his hand at sabering a bottle of Champagne.
October 25, 2006

TimF
MarcT: Please explain about the Hot Tongs, include diagrams, dioramas and pictures if necessary.
October 25, 2006

MarcT
Well me and some friends went to a century ride (100 mile bike ride) in Claxton GA…That’s right the Fruit Cake Capital of the World…and after the ride we went to a really crappy buffet…The one and only girl that was with us was walking down the trough and I was right behind her…as she reached for the corn bread I said “Man those are some mighty hot tongs!”…Everyone thought I was talking to her…and the name stuck.
Now we call her Hot Tongs and Mon (the French way) because her real name is Cherie.
October 25, 2006

TimF
Of course, the buffet! I should have guessed.
October 25, 2006

Italian Stallion
“We are VayNIACS, VAYNIACS that’s for sure….and we’ve danced like we never danced before”

I Love being a Vayniac…….Gary is the man. I picked up a copy of the New York Times…..very nice Gary……now that your an extreme big timer….don’t forget about us little guys who made this WLTV what it is….

VAYNERCHUK for President in ‘08

-Stallion
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
279
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
280……..
October 25, 2006

MarcT
BrandonM…Are you busy today?
I’m stuck in a server room doing a SBS 2003 reload…so that gives me time to play on WLTV…

I still want to know if I win.
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
281………………………..
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
282………………………………………………………………………..
October 25, 2006

MarcT
Guys…do you think that we will hit 300 today before the episode is released?
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
283…………………………………………………………………………………………………
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
ooohhhhhhhhhhhhh…….286
October 25, 2006

MarcT
TampaSteve…I deem you Head Tax collector for the Stupid Kingdumb!!! Due to your skill with numbers!
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
287……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
Daaaaammmnnnnnnnnnnnnnn……………289
October 25, 2006

TimF
What a scam. At least post something related to wine.
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
Do I hear 300!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
October 25, 2006

TimF
How ’bout them Tigers? Four game sweep everyone said, right?
October 25, 2006

Julius
As of this posting, the score (# of postings by name) is as follows:

Susan – 31
Brandon M – 27
MarcT – 26
SS Chris – 19
TimF – 18
KAHUNA – 17
TampaSteve – 13
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
LOLOLOL….hey TimF I am posting on WLTV…ther that had WINE in it:)
October 25, 2006

TimF
I love how there are posts that don’t hit until they are approved by the admin thus throwing everyone’s numbers off…
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
Hey, did anyone read the WINE section in the NYT today?
October 25, 2006

TimF
Is anyone getting a vibe on what today’s show topic will be? I predict Argentine Cab.
October 25, 2006

MarcT
Curtis, I don’t want to listen to no jive-ass preacher talking to me about Heaven and Hell.
October 25, 2006

garyv
I think our blog’s comment #’s are more inflated then Barry Bond’s stats
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
Consuming one glass of red WINE is reported to be good for you…..what are we up to now????
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
300!!!!
October 25, 2006

garyv
October 25, 2006

TimF
Look who’s talking ‘garyv’ — if that IS your real name.
October 25, 2006

MarcT
We certainly hope you all enjoy the show. And remember, people, that no matter who you are and what you do to live, thrive and survive, there’re still some things that makes us all the same. You. Me. Them. Everybody. Everybody.
People, when you do find that special somebody, you gotta hold that man, hold that woman! Love him, please him, squeeze her, please her! Signify your feelings with every gentle caress, because it’s so important to have that special somebody to hold, to kiss, to miss, to squeeze, and please!
October 25, 2006

MarcT
And then the Lord spake and he said…” ”

Thanks for chiming in Gary
October 25, 2006

cgf
Gary-
Finally, ive been looking for this episode and you delivered! Gary, what do you consider a grower champagne? Is it any champagne that is not the widely marketed ones as you suggest? Is it single-vineyard champagnes? just wondering. sorry if this was asked above but there are way too many comments to read.
QOD: ive only had the big-name champagnes, so now i have to change that!
Cool ad in the NYTimes today. Too bad there was no wine column.
thanks again for all that you do. Forget the vloggies, Gary Vaynerchuk for N.J. Senate!
October 25, 2006

Julius
Corrected scoring. As of comment #300, the top five posters are:

Susan – 31
MarcT – 30
Brandon M -27
TampaSteve – 26
TimF – 22
October 25, 2006

MarcT
I can’t wait to explain to my kids about sporting records and why there is a star next to them!
October 25, 2006

Brandon M
No Amphibeous Vehicles…
Not the story of Ford and Hitler…

Think about the conversation
October 25, 2006

MarcT
cgf…try Vilmart…great Grower Champagne and awesome price…Library Code: 3427
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
Hey Gary got a question. Do you think that Wine Spectator got tipped off that you were going to place an add in the NYT? Maybe that is why they placed a 2 page giant color add on the page right before yours announcing their 2 week “free access” period. Do you think they are getting worried about WLTV’s success???
October 25, 2006

MarcT
BrandonM…I am stumped…I need more hints please.
October 25, 2006

MarcT
Remember I am the King of Stupid Kingdumb!
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
OK…now I KNOW that WS got tipped off. Look at the pic on the top left page of “Wine Spectator Online”. What do you see under “Tasting Highlights”….BARBARESCO. Look at your add dead center…”Episode 85 BARBBARESCO”. What the heck are the chances of THAT!!!! GARY I SMELL TIP-OFF….BIG TIME
October 25, 2006

TimF
1st?
October 25, 2006

MarcT
TampaSteve…I doubt WS is worried about WLTV…not that WLTV is not the most important thing EVER!
I did happen to notice the HUGE full page ads at the end of the food section from other wine stores…but they mean nothing to me here in Atlanta.
October 25, 2006

MarcT
TimF…that was the best post I have ever seen!!! My eyes are watering with laughter!
October 25, 2006

MarcT
BrandonM…
General Motors produced vast quantities of armaments, vehicles and even aircraft during World War II, and also had sizeable interests in Nazi Germany. During the war, the U.S auto companies were concerned that the Nazis would nationalize American owned factories in Germany. In the spring of 1939, the Nazis had assumed day to day control of American owned factories in Germany, but decided against nationalizing them. GM’s William P. Knudson served as head of U.S. wartime production for President Franklin Roosevelt who had referred to Detroit as the Arsenal of Democracy. Today, Detroit is the headquarters for the U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, known as TACOM.

I am reaching now!!!
October 25, 2006

cgf
Oh, and for the Big-Name Champagnes vs. Grower Champagnes taste-off, I am assuming you will taste the wines blind?
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
MarcT, I still say TIP-OFF. Why would WS spend HUGE HUGE bucs (or as Gary would say…BONES) to run an add today that advertises a free access period from Oct. 16 to Oct. 31. Heck today is the 25th already. Spending HUGE HUGE money to run an add that is already 10 days into it’s 14 day target period. Something just doesn’t make sense with that, other than TIP-OFF.
October 25, 2006

E
Speaking of Pintos …

“You’ve got to hand it to the Germans, they make great cars!”
October 25, 2006

Mike E
Hi TimF,

Thanks for the link.

It seems that there is not much out there in the US press/web about full-on red sparklers. I have had a couple of German ones that are very interesting from a tasting and novelty perspective. However it seems to be a more localized market for these. The most we see is the Rose variety.

Cheers,
Mike E.
October 25, 2006

Julius
Re TimF’s post (#217), at the bottom of the page of the link (SFGate…) is another interesting link where you can take the “Ultimate wine IQ test.”

http://www.winelearningcenter.com/home.html
October 25, 2006

Mike E
Hey cgf,

It has to be a blind taste off. Only way to go with that one.

Cheers, Mike E.
October 25, 2006

MarcT
Mike E…I once had a sparkling Shiraz Fox Creek Sparkling Shiraz “The Vixen” it was OK but did not impress me.
October 25, 2006

KAHUNA
Brandon- I have no idea were this SS thing started on the post so guide me so I can debunk the Brandvinvi code-Remember I am the Prince of the Stupid Kingdom
October 25, 2006

Brandon M
KAHUNA…go up to comment 165 and read….then try to figure out what I meant!

B
October 25, 2006

Brandon M
Hint #1… Henry Ford was a friend of Hitler

Hint #2… Henry Ford never visited Jacksonville, his cars aren’t there.
October 25, 2006

K Spengler
OMG, you guys really need a life…these posts were a hoot. You are nothing, if not loyal VAYNIAKS. TampaSteve, thanks for the picture of NYT adv. Nice countertops, by the way.
October 25, 2006

BigAl
This place cracks me up!
October 25, 2006

Paul B
Wow… comments section out of control! Anybody still reading? That’s the problem with trying to catch up on past episodes, your comments are no longer relevant.

Anyway… SS Chris, keep the name!

QOD: I have no answer, since not much of a champagne guy. We like it, just don’t covet it. But Gary has inspired, so I’ll have to pick up a bottle or 2!
October 25, 2006

Brandon M
Sorry KAHUNA…Comment #167
And there’s a hint there also.

B
October 25, 2006

Paul B
Apparently… yes, people are reading. Wow. About 100 comments from the time I accessed the page until the time I actually read through and submitted (yes, I’m slow, but I am at work afterall)
October 25, 2006

Brandon M
Tony is in New York missing all of this, but it doesn’t matter becasue he doesn’t belong on this blog anyway!
October 25, 2006

Steve B
I’m feeling good today – Gary mentioned my blog last night and my ‘2017′ order arrived today.

It was a small order (only 5 bottles) but I appreciate the free shipping Gary.
2002 Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon Knight’s Valley $18.99
2004 St. Cosme Les Deux Albions Cotes Du Rhone Rouge $13.99 ($23.99 in Dayton, OH -yikes!)
2004 Syncline Syrah Milbrandt $20.99
2004 Rosenblum Petite Sirah Heritage Clones $14.99
NV Charles De Fere Jean Louis Brut $6.99

I has hoping that we might find a ‘free shipping’ Easter Egg hidden somewhere in the NYT ad but no such luck.

Steve B
blog.thegrapenuts.net
October 25, 2006

TimF
From wiki:

Super Sport, or SS, is an option package offered by Chevrolet on many of its vehicle lines since 1961. Some of the better-known models to bear the SS badge include the Camaro, Chevelle, El Camino, Impala, and Nova. Originally introduced in 1961 as an appearance package for the Impala, it became a high-performance package in 1966.

Until the Impala SS was brought back in 1994, the Super Sport package was only available on two-door passenger cars. Since then, however, the SS package has been used on a variety of GM vehicles, including pickup trucks, four-door sedans, and front wheel drive cars.

Both historically and today, the Super Sport package has typically included high-performance tires, heavy-duty suspension, and increased power, along with a variety of other performance and appearance upgrades. All SS models have come with “SS” markings.

Newer SS models are the Chevrolet Cobalt SS, Chevrolet Impala SS, Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS, and the Silverado SS, along with the Trailblazer SS.
October 25, 2006

TimF
Swallow Sidecars called their cars ‘SS Cars’ (ancestor of Jaguar) but dropped the name in 1945 due to the connotation with Hitler’s regime.
October 25, 2006

Aussie
Here is why I remain a lurker. Who wants to listen to :
Continuous banter from Brandon
Stallion referring to himself in the third person
Kahunaâ€™s moronic posts (Hey Kahuna, you said if we discussed politics you refused to post, so I say we start discussing Bush on a daily basis)
Susanâ€™s attempt at being moderator (are you kidding, hasnâ€™t TimF posted before? Did you just start watching last week?). Congratulations on being number 100 and 200.
Idiots like Craig asking for 10% off
SS Chris brag about his SS (nice work man, but donâ€™t you get enough unsolicited thanks? Happy Birthday if that is what you want to hear). I really donâ€™t care what your screen name is or should be.
Bishop of Norwood, passing the port, etc.

Gary, WLTV is awesome to watch, but I am officially stopping reading the comments. Sorry, there is some decent info, but the ridiculous banter has overwhelmed the few decent posts. I liked it better with double nickels!

Oh yeah, Long time viewer, first (and last) time poster.
October 25, 2006

MarcT
Man I feel so STUPID!!! I normally can find something by now…ALL DAY I HAVE SEARCHED!
BrandonM…please…more hints.
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
And I always thought SS stood for Super Steve
October 25, 2006

GOL
As the original coiner of the “SS Chris” nickname, I feel obliged to comment. GV would certainly note the pop culture connection between the creator and curator of the WLTV spreadsheet and a certain vessel that sailed on a three-hour tour. Note also the spirit of WLTV in light of the following:

“The name “S.S. Minnow” was actually named after Newton Minow who was chairman of the FCC in 1961. He made a speech and called television “America’s vast wasteland.” The boat was named after the man who, Sherwood insists, “ruined television.” Minow gave networks authority and placed the power of programming in the hands of the networks. He did this after Gilligan’s Island was started.”

GV places power in the hands of VAYNiacs!
October 25, 2006

MaryS
Hey TampaSteve, that is a nice countertop. It looks just like the one in MY kitchen. Wait a minute……where is my copy of the NYT??????
October 25, 2006

Grasshopper
Sensei,

You knew you could count on my votes! Good luck with the Vloggies!

Grasshopper
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
Ut…Ohh…MaryS realized her countertop is missing…….
October 25, 2006

TimF
Bad day Aussie?
October 25, 2006

MaryS
You took my countertop and my paper?!?! What is this blog coming to?????
October 25, 2006

volcom
Aussie,

I stopped reading about 10 episodes ago when this crap started
October 25, 2006

MarcT
Aussie…sorry to disappoint.
Volcom…if you stopped reading then…………..
October 25, 2006

GOL
I don’t post frequently, but I do read the comments, and I find it easy to gloss over comments that aren’t wine related. And for the record, most of those people whom Aussie malignes (as does, implicitly, volcom) above almost always have a comment on anyone’s posted wine question or comment or the QOD (and if you don’t know what that is, then you really have read many comments).
October 25, 2006

GOL
So, if you want to talk about wine, go ahead. And if you want to talk about something else, go ahead. For better or worse this is what this blog is, a community. Not run by a dictator, it is free form. If you want dictatorship go visit the RNC website.
October 25, 2006

MaryS
volcom…..I thought you stopped reading 10 episodes ago?
October 25, 2006

TimF
MaryS – Don’t bother, they stopped reading already.
October 25, 2006

MarcT
1926 Rickenbacker Super Sport
Henry Ford put out full page ads (including Jacksonville, FL) discounting the 4 wheel brakes saying they were unsafe.
October 25, 2006

MarcT
That was for BrandonM (Comment 356)
October 25, 2006

MarcT
OK…I give for now…I’m off to the Social Distortion concert!!!!!!!

Tonight I will be Prison Bound, in, Another State of Mind, meeting, Mommy’s Little Monster…aaahhh…the Story of My Life.
October 25, 2006

Miguelo DiMarco
Brandon:

Your contest has nothing to do with Volkswagen?
October 25, 2006

K Spengler
Hey, are we all still posting because # 115 isn’t up yet? How long can I hold up dinner….?
Well, I do have a Chianti Reserva decanted and waiting so, ok….I’ll be patient.
October 25, 2006

Brandon M
Not Volkswagen, but your getting there.

B
October 25, 2006

Miguelo DiMarco
How about the Rolls Royce that Hitler liked to ride?
October 25, 2006

TimF
It’s not the Swallow Sidecar -> Jaguar?
October 25, 2006

allyart
Short-time lurker – you’ve won me over … have you done any episodes on Oregon Pinot Noirs? My boyfriend, Michael (who will still remain a lurker), answers your question about a favorite growers champagne – he picks Gosset Celebris and Duval Leroy (i don’t know if i spelled them correctly) – you have peaked my interest in champagne – Thanks!!!
P.S. You are going somewhere with this wine-knowledge of yours – straight to the top!!!
October 25, 2006

TampaSteve
Who here ordered or tried the Di Majo Norante? MAN, you just can’t beat that wine for 7 bones. A VERY serious buy. Can’t wait for my case to get here tomorrow because I just polished off the 4 bottles I had of it in the last week and a half.
October 25, 2006

Rob M.
GV, were Jonesing here. Give us some love! Bring it on!
October 25, 2006

Brandon M
Tim F, I’m not sure…is it the Swallow Sidecar?
Why would it be that?

B
October 25, 2006

Italian Stallion
Aussie….when does the Stallion refer to himself in the third person. I don’t know where your getting that from, but the Stallion definetely disagrees.

Gary your the man
October 25, 2006

Brandon M
EVERYONE…I’m moving my stupid little contest into the Forum as this is a better place for it to be…thanks

B
October 25, 2006

Denise
Gary, I’m so proud of you! WLTV just keeps getting better. Have been away forever…home computer has been down. : ( Lots of catching up to do…

I’m not at all surprised about your nominations. (I just voted!) I wanted to ask you if we could do a wine and food episode sometime (I’m a chef…and former demo chef) but, man, you’re too close to the big time now! I think I missed the boat!

Cheers to another great episode!
October 25, 2006

SS Chris
Aussie

F you
October 26, 2006

TommyG
WOW! So many comments…

QOD answer: Great Western Champagne, from Finger Lakes region New York.
October 26, 2006

Matthew from Barossa
Hey GV, You got my vote! QOD: My favourite sparkling is the Langmeil 2005 (just released a week ago) Sparkling Ondenc from the Barossa Valley produced in the Methode Champenoise style and disgorged in Oct 2006. Do you know much about this grape variety? Would love to know more about this variety as I haven’t seen it anywhere else in Australia or on my worldly travels. Though never really looked for it either. Have a chat to Ben H @ Epicurean to see if you can get your hands on some!

P.S. Went to the 10 Year vertical tasting of the Langmeil Freedom Shiraz on the weekend. What a blast! 1997 vintage through to current barrel samples of the 2005 and 2006…
October 27, 2006

phig
Hey Gary
one of the very best shows you’ve ever done. All the champagnes you tasted are wines that I like though I think my preference goes to the Peters which is leaner (something I like in bubbles). So I can’t name one producer because champagne is mood wine, something the need for which strikes me at a particular moment. And it is always one flavor profile I want. It is one of the great pleasures of having a cellar–I have at least six producers to choose from at any time. So here goes. My favorite all in all in terms of QPR is Diebolt-Vallois. I also adore Gimonnet’s champagnes. Other than that Gaston Chiquet for a slightly simpler spritz. I used to drink a lot of Jacquesson but I think the quality has dropped somewhat. Drappier certainly is in the mix. It goes on and on. Without thinking about price, Krug hands down.
Now, as to champagne being the most profound wine, I can’t go there. The history of champagne is that a poor wine growing region with extremely variable weather (it is the northern most Chardonnay growing area in the world if I’m not mistaken) found a way to sell what was often screetchy wine (high acidity low sugar). They would spike it with sugar and add bubbles as well as mixing different vintages together to even out the flaws of any given year. There is a simple test I would conduct to assess the true greatness of any champagne (and I know that Krug passes this). How does your champagne taste once it has gone flat. There are very few that come away tasting all that exciting. Some are decent, most are not. All of the commercial biggies (thanks for calling them what they are, factory wines) taste like nothing at all. If what gives champagne at least half its character is bubbles, then I can’t rate it as great wine. Tough to rate non-vintage wine as such as well. That being said, I drink my fair share of champagne. I absolutely adore the stuff and there is nothing more festive in the world than a mag of something you like. It just screams party and good times. And it is food friendly so if you start with a big bottle, even with four people, you can continue drinking it with you fist course, for example.
Now, on another issue, the pricing. For the same reasons I described above, champagne is not underpriced but overpriced. There is no other region in the world that produces so much wine in any given year and has the kind of prestige attached to it that champagne does. This is a the product of a long and brilliant marketing strategy. It really isn’t that much different than Beaujolais. There is absolutely no reason that most champagne should not be selling for $8 a bottle. That is exactly what it is worth. The Clicquot’s, Mumms and Taittengers of this world are producing litterally dozens of millions of bottles a year that are made from grapes purchased from all over the (overly) vast appelation of Champagne. The only thing that gives them there price is labeling, marketing, and the demand such a long-term selling scheme has produced.
Now, back to the bottles shown here. These are all great wines. My tastes tend towards slightly leaner wines than Gary. But the message here, and let me translate for you because Gary is too nice: If you buy factory champagne, YOU ARE AN IDIOT. Before you had an excuse, now you don’t. The wines Gary showed, are worth the price. They may be a little over priced in the absolute (I think it would be appropriate if Veuve were $8 and the little producers were selling at $15-25) but given what you have to pay for the other guys, and the fact that champagne is not a luxury but a necessity (smile), this is what you should be buying. One thing I would hope, and Gary this is something you could look for your stock, is that more of them come in large formats. It ages better, and they are simply more fun. Champagne and Magnum just go together.
One last thing. Gary, I too started my wine geekdome with Bob Parker as a guide. With the help of a friend whose taste I respect more than anyones, I slowly weened myself from both Bob and from Bordeaux. You remain attached to Bob but your scores, if you were to look back over all your episodes, are now almost always very different from his. So why bother mentioning him rather than say, Tanzer or Meadows? Parker is not god, though he thinks he is–and his scoring has become completely rediculous–particularly with respect to places like Spain. As for the WS, there is virtually not a singly time when you agree with them. Those guys are on crack. I’m sorry. I can never tell what the heck they are tasting. With Parker, at least I know what appeals to him and think I can predict what wines would get a good score from him. With WS it is completely off the wall. I understand why you use them as a benchmark but, I guess what I am saying is, is that I am more intersted in your palate which I think I have a pretty good bead on now. Its not mine, but I greatly enjoy watching it at work and I think I can tell the places where it intersects my own–thus making it possible to decide which wines you taste and like I might get. New world wines aren’t among them.
Thanks again for a great episode
October 27, 2006

Brandon M
phig…that has got to be the longest post of alltime…nice job
October 28, 2006

jason
My favorite is Egly Ouriet !00% Pinot Meunier
October 30, 2006

TGN Hit the Big Time at The Grape Nuts Blog
[...] Gary Vaynerchuk mentioned this blog on Episode 114 of Wine Library TV. Gary focused on grower champagnes during this episode including 4 of the wines we will be tasting at our November 4th wine gathering. If you haven’t checked out WLTV, you should give it a try. [...]
December 15, 2006

De Long Wine Moment » Blog Archive » Grower Champagne
[...] Wine Library’s episode on Grower Champagne. The inimitable Gary Vay-ner-chuk makes a compelling case. [...]
December 16, 2006

TheSuperTuscan
Gary,

The best grower champagne I have ever had for the money was by a small grower named Franck Pascal. Kermit Lynch is bringing him in along with a number of other great growers. Another great one is Francois Bedel. Both are predominantly Pinot Meunier but distinctive and tremendous values. However, the greatest champagne i have ever tasted was Salon “Le Mesnil” 1995.
March 14, 2008

Deeve
OK, how the heck did those bottles move all by themselves?

When the cursor is right under the M in .com, the bottles move all by themselves!

Freaky.
June 22, 2008

carlie
I just bought a bottle of the H. Billiot this weekend for my husband’s and my first wedding anniversary. I had it for the first time last week on a girl’s night out and oh my goodness, it was yuuuuummmmmy. I’ve done Krug, Cristal, Dom, Veuve, etc., etc. and while a couple of those are of course fun to drink, I really like the intensity of the flavors in the H. Billiot better. It’s definitely much more complicated. Love it.

Thanks for the other growers recommendations. Can’t wait to try them!
December 25, 2008

Merry Christmas | Eat It, Atlanta
[...] I am still learning a lot about wine, and I’m particularly inexperienced with bubbles. So I was quite excited about a Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs (white from whites – 100% chardonnay), and a grower champagne none the less. Grower champagne is champagne where the grape grower also does the vinification, instead of just selling the grapes to a large champagne house for production. If you are interested in reading more about why grower champagne is special, check out this very useful document here. Gary Vaynerchuk did a grower champagne tasting a few hundred episodes ago and discusses some aspects of this topic as well (link here). [...]
September 22, 2009

John J.
qotd: Barnaut
Great episode Gary, love to see you bringing the lesser known Champagnes to the forefront. I’m so tired of all the bandwagon stuff. Speaking of which, it would be a joy Gary, to see you do an episode on vin jaune’s. An episode on tasting the different charbono’s out there would be fun.