California Cabernet Taste Off.

California Cabernet Taste Off. – Episode #242

May 24, 2007

Gary sits down with 3 very different California Cabernet.

Comments on this episode(132) Leave a comment ›

“Please send me a wristband ……I know I know….I’m just 2 years 1 m…” by Adrian
“QOTD: Water. Many of my wines are too young to be drinking now or sh…” by Dessert Wine Nerd
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Wines tasted in this episode:

2004 Clos Du Bois Cabernet SauvignonSonoma Cabernet Sauvignon
2004 Seventy Five Wine Co. Cabernet SauvignonOther California Cabernet Sauv
2002 Chateau St Jean Cinq CepagesSonoma Cabernet Sauvignon

Links mentioned in todays episode.

Having trouble viewing this video? Try the Quicktime version.

132 Responses

May 24, 2007

sfgiants55
Going there this weekend. I look forward to many great cabs!
May 24, 2007

waibeans
heck yea.. number 2 this time.

Love those action figures GV
May 24, 2007

Jeffrey
THUNDERCATS ROAR!
May 24, 2007

Ryan D
Snarf snarf. Big up to ‘75… December 18th here.
May 24, 2007

Ryan D
And WTF to the December comment!!! Grrr!!!!
May 24, 2007

Rob B.
Alright a Cab episode. It’s about time!!
May 24, 2007

craig
first time in the top 10?
May 24, 2007

Ryan D
QOTD: Probably going to be drinking beer.
May 24, 2007

Randy B
Top 10…it’s been awhile
May 24, 2007

Clifford James
WOW, cool, I’m in the top 10 today! No big deal, I guess, but it’s a first, so … yay me!
May 24, 2007

Bossman
Top ten? who cares?

Have your techies take a look at #162, only loads about a third of the way and thats unacceptable. I can’t go on not knowing how it ends.
May 24, 2007

damon
Hmmm. what am I drinking this weekend?….. You told us the other day to open something great right? How bout 01 Pago del Ama? some of my own wine for sure. 03 JJ Prum Wehlener Sonnenhur Riesling Auslese. If I was going to be home I’d have more.
May 24, 2007

patrill
QOTD: moonshine wine made in my closet.
May 24, 2007

Jeffrey
Let’s here it for November of 75! (You’re 12 days older than me — old man!)

I’ve been eye’ing that 1975 for a while, nice to see the review.
May 24, 2007

Jeffrey
Forgot the qotd…Maybe some Finger Lakes Seyval Blanc, if it’s hot ?
May 24, 2007

DK44
QOTD: Bad, cheap beer…….

But it will worth it, to be at Wrigley!

Cheers
May 24, 2007

Randy B
QOTD: It’s time to pop one of my 2001 Beringer Reserve Cabernet Sauvignons. I’ll let you know what a 96 Robert Parker wine tastes like.
May 24, 2007

waibeans
ok so who’s birthday is closest to GV.. I call 2 days.

11/12/75

november babies represent!
May 24, 2007

craig
like the standard cab episode, maybe next time through in the “reserve” of some of the big labels. I actually had a kendall jackson grand reserve napa cab 1996 that was prety darn fantastic, but i can’t stand their regular run of the mill “vitners” or what ever they call the usual stuff.

As for QOTD – we have a bottle of Spy valley sauv blanc, so it might be that…
May 24, 2007

thescrewcap
I’ll probably drink beer this weekend. Maybe some Zin, I have a bottle of Dashe that I’m looking to open soon.
May 24, 2007

Clifford James
Well, Bossman, I guess I CARE about top ten cuz I’m IN IT!!! Just feels nice to watch the video so soon after it’s produced, for some reason that goes beyond rational thought.

Not surprised at all about the Clos Du Bois: there’s so much better out there for the money. Thanks GV for your continued honesty!

QOTD: Memorial day popper: Four Vines Dusi Ranch Zinfandel … been looking forward to this, and it will only be our (my girl Darcey’s and my) second Zin ever! Good holiday all!

Thanks again Gary!
May 24, 2007

TSchampaert
Two shows in one day for me. Last one not really a succes for you. Pity.
QOTD: told ya: a CdP Blanc 2004, 1999 Haute CabriÃ¨re Pinot Noir and a bottle of 1995 Domaine Diznoko Tokaji 5 Puttunyos!
C ya!
May 24, 2007

Clifford James
BTW – GARY: I would REALLY value another blind tasting soon! Thanks. I was so impressed with that last one (Episode 197).

YUP
May 24, 2007

mas
Got tons of Cab/Bordeaux already, so everything here was a pazzz…thanks for the reviews though.

QOTD: 1997 Silvio Grasso Barolo Ciabot Manzoni, the 2006 Matua Valley Sauvignon Blanc Paretai, and sampling the Rose made from the saignee of this year’s crush (50% Sangiovese, 25% Cab, 25% Syrah from Sierra Foothills).
May 24, 2007

Louisiana George
need to open a 1994 Mondavi Oakville Cab – gathering with the in-laws, so might do a blind tasting with that and an under $10 cab to see what the verdict is

8 cents in, 2 to go
May 24, 2007

bruty
QOTD: Im going to be drinking Heineken
May 24, 2007

Lars
QOTD: Probably a Sav. Blanc I got from WL.

Take a moment on Monday to thank a service man/women for their service to this county. Freedom isn’t free. I thank each and every one of you.
Tom
May 24, 2007

jorge
I need to get a benchmark of what the Oak Monster means to Gary, the oak didn’t bother me when I had the 02 CinqCP, I did use a vinturi wine aerator, so maybe that tamed it.
QOTD: for sure 2004 Mer Soleil Chardonnay, a bunch of bottles, 1998 Val Llach, and perhaps a 1999 Ballot-Millot & Fils Red Meursault. Then drop dead drunk.
May 24, 2007

Garret Nagle
Hi Gary,

Today’s episode should remind us all why you avoid CA cabernet… There’s not as much excitement to talk about, except for the fact tht for the quality, the prices seem too high. I haven’t had a CA cab since December!

That being said, to me, the Hess wines have had some good QPR. The 2002 Hess Collection Cabernet at 34.99 was one of the most polished and well structured wines I’ve had, at a friendy price for Napa. Wine Enthusiast scored it a 94 pointer, but that may be a point or two too high perhaps.

QOTD: I’m popping a nice bottle of CDP for sure this memorial day, but I wanted to know from you what you meant on Twitter about meeting on Saturday? Does this mean you are going to meet some Vayniacs in LA?

Garret
May 24, 2007

John Blue Label
GV,
Good basic show. Can’t always do the high end, right?
QOTD: having some grilled chicken and will open a Daniel Barraud 05 Poully Fuisse. Never tried it. Will see if the Oak Monster shows up.
May 24, 2007

Elliot Essman
Good show. You’ve inspired me. It’s definitely California Cabernet this weekend. I will make a real effort to like it, despite residual sugar, despite oak, even if it tastes like soda pop. Matter of patriotic pride.
May 24, 2007

CindyW
QOTD: We’re popping open wine in memory of Lance Baer, a Washington winemaker who passed away this week at the much-too-young age of 38. Tonight we’ll be toasting him with some of his wonderful Baer Ursa wine. This weekend, I think we’ll go grab a few more bottles to tuck away.
May 24, 2007

Ben N.
QOTD: 1996 Sterling Diamond Mountain Ranch Cab.
May 24, 2007

KenP
I’m a little over Cal cabs. Too much alc. and oak to trust a bottle anymore. Parker has done a number on the grape. These days I look for Cal Petite Syrah out of the Sierra Foothills, Petite Verdot, Pinot out of Santa Rita and the Russian River, and Rhone Rangers’ stuff. With reds anyway. That said, Gary, another brutally honest episode. That’s why we love ya man…you tell it like it is. Results may differ, of course.
May 24, 2007

Neil
Too bad about the oak monster. He showed up a lot today. Not to be too snobbish but I can’t stand the heavily oaked (wood chips), micro-ox, de alched efforts that 10.00 th 15.00 cabs from California seem to be these days. I could tell you were expecting the worst with the first, but were surprised to find the Chateau St. Jean Cinc Sepages to be too heavily oaked.

QOTD: Some White Burgundy and, potentially, a 1996 Hartwell Estate Cabernet although it all depends on what’s being served for diner.
May 24, 2007

geespot
Hey G, good ep. I’m in NYC comtemplating my next drink and now you go and put the Cab in my brain. My wallet always thanks you!
May 24, 2007

Shadowbird
QOTD: That depends on what kind of wedding reception my sister has. It looks like I might be having some more of the Sauvignon Blanc I bought (and reviewed on Cork’d) recently, though.
May 24, 2007

Dan G
QOTD: Probably some tequilla or rum, wife and I are heading to Cabo on Sunday so not much “good” wine going to be going on that the bars.
May 24, 2007

tim
Good show! Nice variety of price points and wines that I have seen in the wine shop! QOTD: Friday- Chardonnay, Sat- Margaritas, Sunday-sober , Monday is still up for grabs, but I am thinking of trying the Granache I got from WINE LIBRARY Free shipping!
May 24, 2007

Matt the Lurker
QOTD – Something I bought on WLTV or maybe some home brew. Got a nice pilsner right now with a hint of banana peal flavor for some reason.
May 24, 2007

Robin
QOTD: I’m thinking of the ZD 2004 Pinot Noir Carneros Reserve for Memorial Day.
We just had an $9.00 Argentinial wine that I really, really liked – Fantelli Malbec Mendoza 2004: lots of blueberry and charcoal with a bit of dark chocolate and mint. I need to try more to see if I still like it. It was in Wine Spectator at 83 points, but I’d give it more. I’m very into blueberries.
May 24, 2007

Billy G
I just had the 1975 a tasting this week. It is a decent value for California Cab.

I’ll be in Santa Barbara tasting all kinds of stuff this weekend.

Cheers
May 24, 2007

SoCal
G,
Ya let me down…..I too was born in 1975…..I too think it is a great year…..but you said that this wine is a little fake must be December!
AHHHHHH!
DOB: 12/17/1975
QOTD: Visiting my buddy the is a new world type of guy so: Vineyard 29 Cru 2004, Page wine Cellars 2001 & 2002, Bodega Numanthia Termes Toro Termes 2004, Joseph Phelps Cab 2002, and Larkmead Cab 2004.
…..december….ha
May 24, 2007

Jonathon M Chicago
QOTD: What ever is on the wine list at The American Club.
I’ll check it out after I play Whistling Straits!
May 24, 2007

Mike Hale
QOTD:

I am going to switch it up a little this Mem. Day weekend and drink some of the home brew my buddies and I mad recently. We mad a nice Pilsner that should be ready to be consumed and an IPA that is getting close to ready to be transfered to the secondary vessel.
May 24, 2007

Dominus
A very good show. Any time you review CA Cabs it’s a good show. Too bad you included the Clos but understand your reasoning due to price points. Maybe a show on 2nd growths/bottlings of major CA cabs, i.e. Innisfree of Jos Phelps?

QOTD: Well, since you unveiled the Cinq Cepages (your fav number, 5, rears its head) I’m going to uncork the one that was #1 WS a few years ago. I bought a few at 30 bones so this should be a good comparison to see if the Oak Monster is still alive and kicking.

Cheers!

P.S. Thanks for displaying Peyton with his two buddies, The Dominus Twins.
May 24, 2007

Harold
November 14, 1975? November 14, 1969! I knew there was a reason that I liked Gary V.
May 24, 2007

Samantha H.
QOTD: Meeting up with dad for the weekend – he lives near the Finger Lakes and he’s bringing a couple of bottle from up there, so it’ll be a surprise!
May 24, 2007

Harold
QOTD: I will be popping two bottles in particular this weekend: Les Verrieres De Montagnac Clos Des Soutyeres Coteaux Du Languedoc 2004 and Bride of Black Bart 2005 both of which I discovered thanks to WLTV.
May 24, 2007

Orion Slayer
Thanks for a great episode. It’s cool when you drink wines that I see on the shelf of my local wine store. I’ve been curious about the Clos du Bois and hadn’t been thinking about the Ch. St Jean because of the price. How does Cellar 8 compare?

QOTD: I hope to pick up an AlbariÃ±o and try it.

PS: I still owe you a picture of me wearing a sweatband! :~
May 24, 2007

Dave-from-Katonah
Gary – Great ep. Good form. Good energy. No jerking around.
Jorge has a point. Do you think decanting for 2-3hrs might help that Oak Monster melt off the Ch St Jean?? 4-5 hrs?

QOTD – I was thinking of popping that Philip Togni Spring Mtn 2004, or else maybe that Guigal Cote de Rote Brune et Blonde 2003. I still have to try that CDP Paul Autaard 2003 or the 2003 Ch Montviel Pomerol. Which would you pick 1,2,3,4??

Wish I was with Jonathon M Chicago playing Whistling Straits, but I’ll just have to settle for Centennial in Carmel, NY – my home away from home!

Have a good holiday weekend to you Gary and to all you Vayniacs!!
May 24, 2007

Dublin
Had the same experience at my appreciation class last night with Cali Cabs.
QOTD: I just might pop my new 2005 Sea Smoke Southing to see how it’s tasting young. And probably a Sancerre at some point.
May 24, 2007

Alos Diallo
I will be making dinner so I will serve the regular Hugal Riesling the 10 dollar one haha not the costly one you reviewed to go with some sea bass and 2000 Royal Tokaji Wine Co. Tokaji AszÃº 5 Puttonyos to go with chocolate covered strawberries
May 24, 2007

FTboomer
Have fun in LA this weekend (my hometown).

QOTD:

After Bern’s Tuesday night, does it really matter?
May 24, 2007

portman
Nice episode. I’ve been avoiding the Clos du Bois since I had a lame merlot last year.

QOTD: The family is coming in for a cookout, and time to have a California zin to go with the ribs. I think some cheap beer and maybe some sauvignon blanc if the heat moves in.

Mike
May 24, 2007

C.W. Miller IV
A(nswer)otD: Testarossa Vineyards’ 2004 Sleepy Hollow Vineyard Chardonnay
May 24, 2007

Karol
QOTD: 2006 KIM CRAWFORD SAUVIGNON BLANC – great wine for the summer.
May 24, 2007

Sue Z.
QOD – I’ll be popping some awsome homebrew (my interpretation of lager) @ my mom’s annual Memorial Day picnic on Sunday. It will pair up great with her chile dogs:-) Maybe some New Zealand sav. blanc &/or dry Austrian riesling as well! Got any wine suggestions to pair with some grilled vidalia onion/panchetta and balsamic vinegar reduction kabobs?
May 24, 2007

vivaitalia
QOTD: Memorial day usually calls for a huge cooler full of beer. But over the weekend i’m drinking and 1.5 of 2000 rosemount gsm that is at it’s perfect drinking age. Also drinking an 04 gaja promis right now. Are you going to tape episodes for friday and monday? I’ve always hated Cali cabs but i’m thinking maybe i’ve just had some really bad ones and maybe there are some that I would really like. Any suggestions?
May 24, 2007

KAHUNA
I think the GV is throwing the “fake” term around a little too much these days- I did not get any fakeness in the 1975 Cab at all- When I think fake I think Yellow Tail or Baroosa Shiraz- This is no where near that level. I also did not notice any sweetness to it.
May 24, 2007

Kirk
QOTD: hahaha….I have no clue. I have a 2004 Copain I was thinking about opening, or possibly a 2004 Domaine Serene Yamhill Cuvee…time will tell.
May 24, 2007

Tom (vtjones)
QOTD: I am going to the Austin Wine Festival so most likely we will be drinking a wine from a Texas Hill Country Winery of some kind. Hmmmmm… Though we might go shopping in Austin. We will be cooking some 1.5 inch ribeye steaks though for sure. Yummy!
May 24, 2007

Winodontist
QOTD: Gary you’ve inspired me again to open some of my better bottles.

I was thinking about doing a 1996 Vigneti in Cannubi Barolo.

I know it seems too big for a barbeque, but it needs to be opened!
May 24, 2007

EthanPSU
Great Cab episode…
QOTD: It’s my sister’s graduation so we’ll prob. pop some Cava but that’s just a guess i’ll have to see what my father’s in the mood for.
May 24, 2007

J Crazy
Bye the Eye of Thundera this was a great episode. I see Cal Cabs as a challenge. Get out there and taste a whole heck of a lot and you’ll be sure to find some great ones. I went to some great wineries in Cali recently and had really nice cabs or cab blends at: Benziger, Kunde, Turnbull, Galante, Georis, Heller, Grgich Hills, etc. I definitely agree that the Oak Monster and his gang of Fakies runs rampant around the state but there are still many many fantastic Cal Cabs at good price points. I tried some from the barrels and have to say I was pleasantly surprised at how many cabs are stearing away from the oak, the sugar, the fruit all up in your mouth and are focusing more on balance, complexity and subtle excellence.
QOTD: 2004 Ch. St. Jean Merlot, 2003 Weisinger’s Rouge Valley Gewurztraminer (an awe awesome Gewurtz!)
May 24, 2007

Bobinnati
Thanks for the cab episode. QOTD – no idea……I’ll peruse my massive collection of two dozen bottles, pick out one of my best and raise a glass to those who can no longer drink with us because they have made the ultimate sacrifice to preserve our wonderful American way of life.
May 24, 2007

Dave Canada
Nice episode Gary…noticed my photo didn’t make the collage but I asume Chris Mott will hook me up next time around.
QOTD – No memorial day in Canada, but it is my 30th B-day party..gonna pull out some serious shit! 1990 Dom, 1997 Clarendon Hills Cab, 2001 Dominus, 2002 Mosswood Pinot Noir and 1977 Fonseca…It is going to ROCK. IF you are in the area, drop by!
May 24, 2007

Autoproxy
QOTD – Hendry Zin, probably block 28 if only because some old friends are back in town. Bottle number two will be their choice…and they’re big fans of Chard. Uh-oh…
May 24, 2007

Bossman
Forgot QOTD: either Grant Burge Meshach Shiraz or Schulz Marcus Shiraz, probably the former as I have 2 of those and only 1 of the Schulz left. Oh wait, it’s a 3 dayer? More likely both. I have my annual physical on Tues. but what’s a little elevated liver function among friends?

Clifford,
No offense intended, if I weren’t a NYer and had some semblance of couth I would’ve said MY being in the top ten and crowing about it is silly. Whatever floats your boat, diversity is what this world is all about.

In retrospect though it does make it easy to skim the first ten knowing there’s no real content…. he he.

Enjoy the trip Gary, it’s not often I get to be envious of the West Coasters.
May 24, 2007

ColdVVaves
QOTD: 03 Flowers Pinot with a monster dry aged ribeye sounds good to me.

Damn, I was just in SF this weekend – would have like to make the party!
May 24, 2007

TommyBoBo of WI
My attempt at Twittering,, comment style:
Sitting here sipping a 2004 Alban Lorraine syrah,,16.9% alcohol WOW!
Tomorrow, massage in AM, Golf in PM, Beer and Fish fry
Sat: Golf, Golf, Golf,, 29 day dry aged ribeye on grill and old Beringer Cab Reserve 1989-1995 haven’t decided which yet,,1990 Suduiraut for dessert.
Sunday: worship, golf, SpiderMan with the kids, brats and a viognier.
Monday: attend parade honoring those that have made the sacrifice, pontoon Lake Wissota, all you can eat and drink Native Bay hog and microbeers.

How’s that sound Mr. Twitter??!
May 24, 2007

RuralTom
Greetings Mr Vaynerchuk!

Question of the day: Whatever wine goes best with the last of the season’s morels… leaning towards a French pinot, followed by a good rhone.

enjoy ‘Frisco
May 24, 2007

Tom T.
QOTD – a hefty dose of Margaritas with perhaps some nice white wine in there somewhere (maybe the Albert Mann Gewurstraminer…not sure just yet). BTW I agree with Lars 100%. We all should pause and give thanks to our service men and women both past and present.
May 24, 2007

Dale Cruse
QOTD: I’m LOVING Hungarian Harslevelu.
May 24, 2007

Doc Dan
Good show. Love to see Clos de Bois get routed!
QOTD: V.Sattui 2000 Moriselli vinyard
May 24, 2007

amgryger
QOTD: I haven’t figured it out yet. I’ll be traveling to the Philly area this weekend and prefer to travel light, so the State of Pennsylvania is probably going to have to something to say about what I drink. Maybe I will look for a Chateauneuf Du Pape.
May 24, 2007

E-Rock
QOTD = Probably some Albarino after yesterday’s show
May 24, 2007

Scott S.
Hey Gary, next time you do Cali cabs seek out the 2002 Forth Vineyards. You have it it your stock and you have diamond in the rough. This is real under the radar Dry Creek cab from a 500 case production for 20 bones. Last year you had the 01 and this was unreal.

Qotd: just received the winery my 6 bottles shipment of Rochioli Russian River Pinot Noir. Awesome stuff, going to pop a bottle with some friends and pair with some Cedar Plank Salmon on the Grill. Perfect Macth!
May 24, 2007

TimF
Wow, lots of wristband pics!

Will the oak monster be travelling with you to Cali?

Talk about confusing marketing — a 2004 from 1975. Yikes!

I agree about 1975. I had a glass of Port at Berns the other night from that year just because it was such a great year (not for Port, but for people).

I know some folks who like the “bean action”.

Spam with chocolate syrup! Yum!

QOTD: I haven’t thought that far ahead.
May 24, 2007

Chris S.
Since your on the tasting widely available wines kick, how about chateau ste michelle? Food and Wine did a whole article on the winery.
May 24, 2007

zeppo55
QOTD: Robert Biale Black Chicken(Can’t remember if 2004 or 2005)..
May 24, 2007

Badger Ann
(It’s good to be finally back in the USA! Now to catch up on all those episodes I missed.)

This weekend, I’ll likely pop open a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc for relaxing on the porch. And, we’ll also make some mojitos to go along with our slow-roasted Cuban Pork for our post-500 mile race dinner. I can’t wait!
May 24, 2007

njbabs
QOTD: No idea, something summery and light.

Thanks for the show.
May 24, 2007

Pat Mc
Dude – I knew you were a Scorpio – the passion, the fire, the wine!
May 24, 2007

KW
Gary,
I bought a case of 1999 Clos du Bois based on Consumer Reports recommendation in 2001 which I recently started to drink and it is very good! I have been holding it for a while 5 yrs because it was too hot when I got it initially and a bit on the young side plus one dimensional. But recently it has opened up, lost a lot of its heat and is super smooth with nicely balanced spicy/peppery overtones. What is the chance that any of the wines you tasted today will change that dramatically over the years? I am getting a bit biased towards holding good reds for 3 – 5 years before I open them up. I’ll open up a Spanish red this weekend.
May 24, 2007

mark
QOTD- St Francis rsv zin

great show!
May 24, 2007

mikep
Gary, You finally lost me. Your descriptors ar SO over the top as of late. The weiner/greenbean/vanilla shake totally has no anchor for me. Especially having tasted two of the three wines in this episode.

Come back to earth. Cassis, currant, cocoa, tar, cigar box, leather, black cherry, red cherry, blackberries, & licorice are most of the cabernet descriptors I can follow. Other than the oak thing, i am lost.

But hey, its all in good fun.

Good job……I think….
May 24, 2007

3dvw
QOTD: Going on a short vacation with some friends…. buying a bunch of different wines for the trip…. doing a tasting of all different kinds
May 24, 2007

Wendy Elam
great show, really liked it. but, gotta tell ya, gary, i hate the new web design. used to be i could see all the shows you did — ALL the shows. now i can’t see anything but today’s show. can’t alway get to you every day. sorry but sometimes life gets crazy and i don’t get home or have the time to watch every day. maybe i’m just a techno idiot but i can’t really figure out how to access your archives. i missed the great show on your bordeaux trip and i really wanted to see them.

QOTD: memorial day…hmmm…i’m thinking a vin gris or spanish rose. perhaps you might want to do a whole show on roses from various wine growing regions — france, california, spain, australia, germany, etc…might be fun for the coming summer months. gee…maybe you’ve already done one and i just don’t know because i can’t access your archives!!!
May 24, 2007

Gree
GV,

Think I’ll open my Barolo this weekend , That and lots of beer.

G
May 24, 2007

cpd
Qotd: A Robert Young ‘05 Chardonnay and an ‘03 Napanook
May 24, 2007

Sarah L
Wendy Elam, hit the “episode archives” button at the top of the web-page. The archives are organized by month as well as subject matter. You can also able to to your own specific search.
May 24, 2007

Nico
QOTD: Not sure yet! Depends if my wife has to work on memorial day! Maybe something nice like 2005 Amon-Ra!!???!? Or 2004 Gigondas Moulin de la Gardette “CuvÃ©e Ventabren”???

Check out the “cellar” if you want to recommend something! http://corkd.com/people/nasv/cellar

-Nico
May 24, 2007

Panoca
Great episode as usual. Love these Cali cab episodes because there is so much to explore (so much crap too).
QOTD: important day, important wine. Probably a Don Melchor 2001 Cab with my usual monday steak.
Hope you have a great weekend (the weather here in Los Angeles is SPECTACULAR!)
May 25, 2007

t_moderrne
woo hoo – top 100 – again.
Does that ever really matter? Does anyone ever read comments.
Hellooooo – is anybody out there?
QOTD – Drinking some really good bottle from the cellar – like Three Blind Moose Cab or maybe a Fish Eye Shiraz. Maybe really go deep into the cellar for some Castle Rock Cab.Just joking. c’mon. laugh a little.
Like to have some Pinot – a nice summertime wine – maybe some Williams Selyem or Ap Vin. I have some Loring that’s calling my name too.
May 25, 2007

Justin S
My .02; People that follow too closely really piss me off.

QOTD: I have no idea but probably a nice beer.
May 25, 2007

life's too short...
Probably trying a couple of different whites for the wedding. Sunday Night Flight, kinda thing. Oh, and one of the Paraduxx, prolly, although the Veraison is tempting as well…
May 25, 2007

YoungDave
CALI CABS… and didn’t we know that the Mr. Sugar and the Oak Monster were going to show up to the party…

QOTD: Not sure yet, but I’m STILL on my quest to never buy the same bottle of wine twice until I’ve tried as many varietals and regions of the world as possible… but I’ll be sure to let you know after next week’s trip to the good ol’ WIne Empoirum of Boston’s South End.
May 25, 2007

TD
Another fine show. I’ve been lurking for weeks now, always fantastic stuff.

Sorry to say this in my first post, but Gary, did you rinse after the Clos de Bois? “Let’s go to the video tape.” Seems you got caught up on all things 1975 and forgot to dump your first pour.

QOTD: Some Bordeaux. No idea which ones because I’m heading there to see some friends and they’re in charge.
May 25, 2007

vibemore
Go 1974!

QOTD: Rutherford Ranch Sauvignon Blanc
May 25, 2007

medo
QOTD: we do not have a MD this weekend in germany – so I have to seek out what my cousin serves on his wedding.
May 25, 2007

NathanN
Thanks for showing a picture of my Boyz!

1975 ROCKS

QOTD: Not sure but a Langwerth Spatlese and Downing Cab are in play.
May 25, 2007

Jimmy B
QOTD: Drinking for Memorial Day? Water and lots of it! Have to work. But maybe before I go home, I may go and pick up a bottle of Port – any suggestions??
May 25, 2007

OhioPride
QOTD: I have one bottle left of 1988 Langoa Barton. Not after this weekend. 1988, how fitting as I’m typing this Tesla is on the Radio. Long live the metal years.
May 25, 2007

Susan
Gary-
Great Ep !!!!!
QOTD:
Trying to drink more whites!!
Meerlust Chard.
May 25, 2007

luvgrapsqeezins
This Weekend

Maybe I’ll pop a ‘99 Louis Martini, Monte Rosso Estate cab
Or of of several Chateau Neuf Du Papes,
What about a big Carlo Rossi?
To that I give no props.

Prosecco, Verdiccio and Bellini too,
Should start to satisfy the crew,
Remember to save room
-For Bratwurst and brew,
Or Chateau Pipeau

In the mix of it all,
Remember what Gary said
Live well, be healthy
Realize we’re fortunate
May 25, 2007

Iron Man
GV the 1975 looks interesting, I wonder if there’s any at WL? what do you think?

QOTD some Opie on another wine board suggested opening something 1995 and older, so I’m seriously thinking of opening a 1995 Martin Ray DM, should be real nice with ribeyes. Will also open some Moscato d’Asti, since my wife loves the stuff.

Enjoy the holiday Gary and gang!!
May 25, 2007

Robert F
Too bad about that oak monster. I find that the more my nose and palate are refined, the more the oak monster makes me literally sick to my stomach. That never used to happen when I first started getting into wine. It’s kind of annoying.

QOTD: since there’s no memorial day in France, I’ll probably just be drinking the local cab franc as usual.
May 25, 2007

Jen
I’m Sept. 12, 1975!!!! Whoo-hoo!!! What a great year.
QOTD: Hmmm, that all depends. I may be taking a recommendation of YOURS. We aren’t grilling at home or anything, though, and might head out to Malibu for the day Monday, so I may be having seafood and beer for this holiday!! Don’t hate me.
May 25, 2007

Rick W.
QOTD
Cuvaison Chardonay
Rombauer Chardonay

Not sure if I will have any reds since this is the Holiday that we think of Summer is around the corner.
May 25, 2007

Peter G.
Nice episode. I have some of the Cinq Cepage ‘02 I have been really looking forward to. But not this weekend. Beer and good tequila for me. A Memorial Day tradition!
May 25, 2007

Dusty
QOTD: toss up between caipirihna’s or margaritas…..although with the grilling my Match Vineyard Butterdragon Hill Cab is sounding awfully tempting.
May 25, 2007

Frank Pinto
Please send me a wristband baby!

Frank Pinto
21 Cherry Tree Lane
Chester, NJ 07930
May 25, 2007

Jameus
Great episode! Nov. 24 /75 here man! I’ll have to seek that bottle out now for sure. This officially de-lurks me to btw Been watching for some time, keep them coming!!

What will I be drinking… I can forsee some Margarita’s and perhaps a bottle of white (trying to explore more whites) if the wife sais it’s in the budget. This wine tasting hobby can get pricy hehe.
May 25, 2007

TagWorld Brian
Hey Gary,

Action figures are cool, but when are you going to get a real ol’ skool wrestler to sit in and co-host? Who’s into wine? Captain Lou? Hogan? JYD? Jesse the Body?
May 25, 2007

wannaBconnoisseur
Nice ep Gary!!

QOTD: Umm, let’s see, several Corona Lights, a few margaritas, maybe some rum by the pool and of course wine.
May 25, 2007

Quaker Prison
Memorial Day. Start of summer. Summer of the rosÃ©. Some nice Tavel or Domaines Ott rosÃ© this weekend (and probably every subsequent weekend).

Sad to hear about the Cinq Cepages. I have an ‘01 that I got in the (atrocious) PA state store. Was looking forward to it, now not so sure.

Hey Gary, how far are you guys from Philly? Road trip!!!
May 25, 2007

fsbrainstorm v4.2 » Blog Archive » Together at Last: Wine Library TV, Cork'd, and Diggnation
[...] out Gary in action at Wine Library [...]
May 25, 2007

nougat
QOTD: Starting it off with a dry gin martini, then go to some New Zealand SB and probably finish with a red from Argentina. And then I may do them all over again in reverse order while gripping cold porcelain.
May 26, 2007

Karl Laczko
I’m working my way through the other Red Grape varieties and am still jaded by too much single-varietal Cab-Sauv early on. I haven’t tried any for a while and only have 5 in the cellar, with just one Californian, Jekel Vineyards 2003.

QOTD – It’s not Memorial day in the UK (we have our equivalent in November to mark the end of WWI) but it is a Holiday Monday so wine will be consumed. Not sure yet exactly what, but most likely a Tempranillo from Ribera del Duero, El Quintanal.
May 26, 2007

Brian W Woodbury
How about a wrist band?? Thanks!

Brian Woodbury
2017 Westbourne Way
Alpharetta, GA 30022
May 26, 2007

Brian W Woodbury
Good start to the long weekend.
May 26, 2007

JayZee
QOTD: My wife is sitting here telling me that we are having ribs with a cranberry-orange glaze for dinner on Memorial Day. I am thinking that we will open a Ridge Zinfandel to go with that. So what are you going to be drinking, Gary?
May 27, 2007

GottaGoDrink
QOTD- Probably Sunday Mountain Sauv Blanc (thanks for the rec. Gary- very good stuff) with the appetizers and 2003 Carlisle Zin with the steaks.

Thanks for trying the Cal Cabs Gary, but nothing very interesting.
May 28, 2007

Amy P.
QOTD – 2005 Bitch Grenache – yum!!!
May 28, 2007

avwineguy
Don’t say Cali!!! It’s Cal-i-for-nia.
May 30, 2007

cgf
Hey Gary,
I am catching up on some episodes. You know you tasted the ‘02 cinq cepages in episode 53 when you interviewed the winemaker margo something. I watched the ep to make sure, and you were really holding back in that interview when it came time for your synopsis on the wine. That, or bottle variation.

QOTD: Thai food and 2002 bergweiler riesling kabinett wehlennur sonnenhur. awesome combo.
also had a 2004 domaine girard sancerre and i was not very impressed the night before. the sancerres recommended in your shop have been better than the ones i have bought based on spectator’s molesworth’s recs. i like his taste in cab franc alot though.
June 1, 2007

jbailey
Gary, you mentioned how people are looking for some mass produced wines that are easily available. How about an episode with just wines that are massed produced…like 35,000 cases or more? Just my 2 cents today.
-JB
June 3, 2007

Mike Erdely
Hey, Gary. It still amazes me the way you describe the way wine smells and tastes!

QOTD, late: I ended up drinking some beer (Guinness) and some CHEAP Chianti (Piccini — I know, I know)

-ME
June 5, 2007

ktw
you need to lighten up on the bashing of us SoCal women gv – is it possible they were unable to deliver on the convo because…well you know where i am going with this one
July 10, 2008

Dessert Wine Nerd
QOTD: Water. Many of my wines are too young to be drinking now or should be opened for a special time and last memorial day ( as I write this on 7/10/08 ) I worked then came home and just relaxed… Is it just me or have you said the phrase “As you can see, really nice dark red color” about 1000 times so far on the show? So the Clos du Bois didnt pass the test? Ive seen that in many a store and am quite happy now that I didnt spend the $15 or so dollars on it.
June 24, 2009

Adrian
Please send me a wristband ……I know I know….I’m just 2 years 1 month too late but no harm trying…… Great show as usual… ..all the way from Malaysia…..