Best Wine Buys Continue Today

Best Wine Buys Continue Today – Episode #313

September 12, 2007

There are so many wines out there today under $13 and today Gary continues in his search for the best ones. A Rhone, Austrian and Portuguese wine make cameo’s today.

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Comments on this episode(179) Leave a comment ›

“When you come to North Carolina, eat at Bin 54 in Chapel Hill. Very ve…” by DF
“Nice to see once again some of the value wines bringing it. I too hav…” by Dessert Wine Nerd
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Wines tasted in this episode:

2005 Claude Branger Le Fils De Gras Moutons MuscadetMuscadet
2006 Nec-otium Pinot GrigioNon-Tuscan Pinot Grigio
2005 Berco Do Infante Estremadura ReservaOther Portuguese Red Wine
2005 Image Du Sud Cotes Du RhoneCotes du Rhone Rouge

Links mentioned in todays episode.

Piperjs videos on Veoh

179 Responses

September 12, 2007

Bossman
One of a kind
September 12, 2007

JSH
Nice line up
September 12, 2007

Senor Sangria
Rock on! I’m in the top 5. Keep it up Gary!
September 12, 2007

Jameus
Wow this is up early Glad I checked so soon now! Looks like a good 4bottle line up man!
September 12, 2007

jryoung
Out of the lurk and into the top 10
September 12, 2007

Brendan L (SmokeyUST)
Heck YES!

5!!!
September 12, 2007

Deano
top 10 ???
September 12, 2007

Martin
Top ten! First time in a long time; great show. Love the Dwight bobble head!
September 12, 2007

Matt N.
Top 10 again because no one was expecting it this early
September 12, 2007

Veloce55
Lurker no more –
Been watching for two months and thoroughly hooked – particularly enjoying this weeks shows on value wines, and also took advantage of the free shipping, which I hope you’ll offer again in the near future.
Looking forward to more value episodes in the future.
September 12, 2007

Hinrgman
Gary,

Keep it comming
September 12, 2007

G. Tweeze
TOP 10….BOOOOYYYYAAAAAHHHHHH
September 12, 2007

Hinrgman
Just another great episode – -thanks
September 12, 2007

daverdude
” TOP SOMETHING ”

YIPPY !!!!!!!
September 12, 2007

Marc
Darn, #12. Hey Gary, don’t forget my spitbucket!
September 12, 2007

THe Mad Hiker
Nice review of the Berco and I have to agree that Portugal is awesome! That’s one of the reasons I married a Portuguese girl Anyway – they produce world class reds that people often pass by. Wake up, they are GOOD!!!
September 12, 2007

G. Tweeze
GV…good show. Really liking the topic this week. One question…where’s my armband? I want to rock it but I ain’t got it. Did you send it pony express? Send me some love, from one G to another.
September 12, 2007

Senor Sangria
It is good to see you happy Gary!

QOTD: This isn’t a new restaurant. We’ve been going to it for a while but Saint James Gate in Maplewood rocks. It is an Irish pub. The food is great, the atmosphere is better and on Friday and Saturday nights its fun to sit down at the bar and BS with the bartenders. By the way they make a mean Long Island Ice Tea. The best I’ve ever tasted.
September 12, 2007

Brendan L (SmokeyUST)
In Minneapolis, MN – Mission American Kitchen & Bar -or- Basil’s
September 12, 2007

Bossman
I’m not sure about eating the banana peel scrapings but I can tell you smoking it is pretty nasty (what can I say? mispent youth)

Looks like the Nec-otium had a bit of a head start, no way that bottle was full the way you were swinging it around. A twist on the noob question:

What happens to the wine BEFORE you do the tastings?

More importantly what are you doing with your nose in a expensive leather handbag to know what it smells like?

Mud bombs are great to throw near little sisters (just watch out for the return mud pies).

What’s the pretense on not scoring? 90 on the Nec 88 on the Berco Do Infante Estremadura Reserva for the Google impaired (or those that smoked too many bananas). Are you scoring only those you like?

Sorry about the CDR, so the bookends sucked. Kind of like having great roast beef on crappy bread.

Killer ending, sincere and brought the Thunder, the feeling is mutual.

QOTD: I live in the boonies of L.I., plenty of restaurants – most stink, a few are passable, haven’t found anything new of any consequence but it doesn’t stop me from looking (as we are seated the girls usually guess how long into the meal my wife or I will say “we’ll never come back here”.)
September 12, 2007

Deano
Gary great episode just watching you in a good mood gets me in a good mood too hahah. I love the value episodes because the ballers on a budget like me can buy some of this stuff hahah. I just ordered a case of different wines from you and it was only a little over 100 bucks so I am stoked.

QOTD:
-Somewhat of a new place to eat its called fume bistro in Napa they have some real good food and good wines on the list as well.
September 12, 2007

Matt N.
Favorite new restaurant in DC is Ardeo/Bardeo. These are connected with Ardeo being more of a sit down dinner place and Bardeo serves tapas and has a very diverse drink menu. Moderately priced, nice wine list, good stuff.
September 12, 2007

Elliot Essman
New French bistro opening in my little town.

I don’t know the name yet.

Very excited.
September 12, 2007

Matt N.
On a random note, I can’t be the only one who gets chills everytime I see the new Nike commercial with Shawn Merriman and Steven Jackson (Oregon State baby), not because of the content but it has the music from the final scene of Last of the Mohicans (I think).
September 12, 2007

1855class
great intensity today!
love the values-love portuguese table wine
qotd-if you ever make it to milwaukee, you need to visit me at roots restaurant. the menu changes seasonally and we just released our autumn offerings -including the most delicious duck plate ever. check out the menu at http://www.rootsmilwaukee.com
September 12, 2007

Dusty
QOTD: there just opened up in downtown Indianapolis a Weber Grill Restaurant. Absolutely delicious. Apparently there are three in the Chicago area, and this one is the test restaurant before they start expanding. Mouth wateringly delicious. Gotta love the bargain shows. I know the ckc’s do.
September 12, 2007

daverdude
Favorite Restaurant ?
Oh this is an easy one

Taco Bell at 3 am
After drinking two back to back bottles
of serious Shiraz at some Hangout $$

I Dont even have to get out of the car
” Well I couldnt anyway “
September 12, 2007

Vinnie Baum
Great show, Gary! Hey, why can’t you send stuff to Nevada?! I get wine all the time from the foothills in California (better area than Napa – Napa makes auto parts, El Dorado and Amador County makes wine)
September 12, 2007

Joe
QOTD: Chapter 8 in Agoura Hills and Leila’s in Oak Park, California.
September 12, 2007

*/^_^\*
QOTD: red prime steakhouse, OKC,,,,even tho the wine list is weak on french reds…
September 12, 2007

Rob B.
Great episode again, love the value wines week.
QOTD: Prime15 steakhouse. Opened almost a year now. Service is spotty, but is a great QPR.
September 12, 2007

Martin
Alinea in Chicago. Haven’t actually been there, but conceptually, I’m very intrigued. Generally though, I’m not into the restaurat scene. It’s 18000 times more enjoyable to make a dinner at home with freinds and family.
September 12, 2007

Mike S.
Gary,

You were sad Monday after the Jets’ loss, and now after watching the USA lose a very winnable game against Tonga in the Rugby World Cup, I’m sad. No, depressed. Uggggghhhhh….
September 12, 2007

Jameus
Great show today! It’s so good to know that there IS decent wine at that price range. It’s a pretty daunting task sometimes to sift through them all though, so these episodes are appreciated man.

QOTD: That’s a tough one. After moving here to P-burg OH, I tried this place called the ground round. Always good service and good prices. It’s a much better choice then say an outback or applebee’s if that’s what you’re looking for. Took the wife to a place called Fifi’s here for our 1yr anniversary and it was fantastic. It’s pricey but you totally get what you pay for. The server told us right up front we should expect to be there for at least 2hrs unless we had something to do and he’d hurry it up. I placed my wine order and told him we planed on taking our time
September 12, 2007

TommyBoBo of WI
http://www.nativebayrestaurant.com/

Nice job again,,, glad to see U on the happy side of life!
September 12, 2007

Mr. Cabernet
You said temprinillo was big in Italy. How about Spain?

QOTD: Last good discovery was Korean restaurant (can’t think of name but it’s the only one in the Japanese dining district on Sawtelle in Los Angeles about 4 doors down from Giant Robot and across the street of the Japanese boba place Lollipop).
September 12, 2007

Arthur
Santa Ynez, CA: The Vineyard house: http://www.thevineyardhouse.com
Los Olivos: Patrick’s Sidestreet Cafe: http://www.patrickssidestreetcafe.com/
Santa Maria, CA: Chef Rick’s Ultimately Fine Foods: http://www.chefricks.com/home.htm
Orcutt, CA: Wine Cottage Bistro: http://www.winecottagebistro.com/
Pacific Grove (Monterey) CA: Passionfish: http://www.passionfish.net/
September 12, 2007

Autoproxy
QOTD – I’ll go with The Orchard in NYC on the LES. Great food and environment, and pretty good wine list. Had an upstate NY Gewurtz there, which made me happy. Fairly limited menu, but everything I’ve had or tasted was extremely good.
September 12, 2007

thepiratedoc
If you ever find yourself washed up in Beaufort, NC stop in Stillwater Cafe or Sharpie’s. Not necessarily new, but we are in the boonies here, OK?
September 12, 2007

Mezz
Second the tempranillo comment from Mr. CAbernet. And thanks for “not rating” the wines.
Favorite restaurant: Il Mulino, NYC.
September 12, 2007

Palmer
qotd: it’s not so new anymore, but just went to Pizzeria Mozza (L.A.) for the 2nd time last night and ate more than any human being should eat – fried squash blossoms with riccotta, green bean salad with mustard and hazelnuts, white bean bruschetta, homemade fennel sausage pizza, mixed mushroom pizza – it’s amazing! had a decent dolcetto d’alba, a nice barbera d’alba and a great moscato d’asti dessert wine with dinner. get there if you can.
September 12, 2007

Neil
QOTD: Best – Go Fish, Napa. Worst – Zen Penninsula, Millbrae.
September 12, 2007

Jennifer Knieling
Ok, you have so convinced me to go get some wine Right Now! Wow, i needed some new inspiration, thank you! Ya know, just because they have no scores already, doesn’t mean you can’t start the revolution and score them yourselves. Challenges those other stick-in-……… to go outside the box. Rock it! Nice corks! And yeah, where’d the rest of that Nec-otium go from the bottle that you so nicely shook at us? and thanks, i care none for sweaty inner-thigh pigs farmer johns.
September 12, 2007

E. Zimman
Gary!
good to see you in a uber-chipper mood.
see you again tomorrow
congrats on booking the Ellen Show, she’s a hoot
yes, yes i did use the word “hoot”
September 12, 2007

Daniel
QOTD: Totally new joint, or just new to me? I’ll go with New To Me.

I really dig Akida, a shoe box of a place in the Fan here in Richmond, VA which serves up delicious sushi.
September 12, 2007

JRjones
Nec-Otium sounds scrumptious! Hey, another P. Grigio that delivers a hat trick is Pavi out of Napa…i put a tasting note for it in the whatchya drinkin forum. If you haven’t had it yet, find it. And! It’s organic so Squirrels along with all the other woodland creatures will love it to.

Cheers!
September 12, 2007

GrapeStuff
Our Thundercats have been replaced by bobble-heads??

Reset my TIVO to Thursday!

Ewwww = stinky inner thigh (omg)
September 12, 2007

rob in indy
Can’t wait to try the Nec-otium..
QOTD: Chain = PF Changs (maybe just on a kick right now) 4x’s in the past 6 weeks or so

If you are ever in Jasper, Indiana you have to try the Schnitzelbank. Nothing like good German food or if in a pinch try Haufbrau House in Las Vegas. That’s some good times if you are in the beer drinking mood.
September 12, 2007

carnyc
QOTD:

Nook – 9th Ave b/t 51st and 52nd St in NYC

It’s a BYOB w/ no corkage fee. The menu is somewhat small, but everything I’ve tried there so far I’ve liked a whole lot and it’s really inexpensive by NY standards. I’ll be taking my family who are coming from PA, CT and CA respectively there this Saturday w/ a bottle of Barolo and a wine to be named later. Check it out!
September 12, 2007

Orion Slayer
Finally, a wine to go with my grilled octopus! Loved your subtle comments today.

I love Portugal! Thanks to these affordable wines I’ve been able to experience different wines and not break the bank. Love the Vihno Verde especially!

QOTD: Don’t have one. I live a sad gastronomic life.
September 12, 2007

Zach
Great episode. I hope you stay chipper through the next five or six episodes you’re taping today

QOTD: My favorite restaurant – http://www.nimbusrestaurant.com It’s in Bellingham, and I live in Seattle, but it’s WELL WORTH the hour+ drive up there.
September 12, 2007

Norcal
QOTD: Ottimista in Sf. Just a much-better-than-it-needs-to-be Italian restaurant with fantastic wines. I don’t know if it’s my favorite ever, but it definitely rules.

Feeling the Dwight bobblehead!
September 12, 2007

BruceP
QOTD: Not really new, but new to me is The Slow Club in San Francisco. Great food, and surprisingly good prices. That’s a hard combo to beat in SF.
September 12, 2007

Derek7877
Thanks again for these wines Gary…I am making a list and I am going to find some of these cheap little bad cats…WOOHOO!!!
September 12, 2007

KimG
QOTD: hardly new, but Fru Larsen in Laurbjerg, Denmark is my current favorite: http://frularsen.dk – Dominus at a fair price And matching food

Very interesting tasting, though!
September 12, 2007

Kevin
Access to wine in Canada sucks compared to in the US. It ticks me off. You get to try all kinds of cheap stuff that doesn’t ever appear here. Wha.

QOTD: really. are you REALLY going to come to Edmonton? Seriously.
September 12, 2007

chenin
Thanks for doing the show for us. You’re great man!
My experience with muscadets is that they really need a lot of
breathing time to show their minerality and depth.
This might be a factor.
Sometimes it takes half the day until they shine, so maybe
decanting would be an option.
September 12, 2007

LarryF
Best new restruant in Greece NY is tasso Bistro. Everything made fresh, everything a NYC Bistro has but the price.

Same team that had to plow the field to kick a field goal
September 12, 2007

wolfie
hey gv. i’ve been slackin off on the comments lately, so i’ve gotta pay my due today.

favorite new restaurant….. like new because it’s *new*, or new because it’s new to me? i hit this place in boston called Pierrot, a french bistro over near mass general. just stumbled in off the cuff last week when it was late and we needed a bite.

turned out to be excellent. fantastic, old school french classics. i had wild boar and snails in garlic butter. the owner was awesome, practically hugging the ladies in our party, shaking all of our hands, etc. you could tell he was truly happy to have us in his restaurant. anyways great atmosphere, great food, great people… the whole thing just did it for me. check ‘em out if you’re up that way. here’ the web site: http://pierrotbistrot.com/
September 12, 2007

manpod
Black Orchid Grille in beautiful downtown Nashua NH. I just love the menu.No urgency to drive to Boston.

Too bad about the camera at the Jets game. Perhaps he was only doing a Jimmy Hoffa documentary at Giants stadium. The sad part is that they didn’t need it.
September 12, 2007

Dougie
HEY GARY i can’t believe you guys are making all this merch but you havn’t had mouse-pads printed up. everytime i watch i put my emails on hold, push my mouse to the side, and swirl my glass around on the pad. i need a designated swirling wine ring!

P.S. can’t go wrong at Toy Thai in Hollywood
September 12, 2007

John J.
QOTD: The Cantina Real down at Hermosa Beach pier. The food is your standard Mexican fair, but the margaritas are out of this world.
September 12, 2007

kopi luwak
new to me…Joel Palmer House in Dayton (Willamette Valley, OR). Specialize in mushrooms (chanterelles, porcini, morels…) and truffles. Duck, elk, pork tenderloin, salmon…all the things that match so well with pinot noir. And 8 pages of Oregon pinot is the start of an ass-kicking wine list. Sadly, no grilled octopus.
September 12, 2007

BYB
Hey Gary, while you are reviewing values, what about the Cote de Blaye?

QOTD: Albuquerque, NM. La Provence
September 12, 2007

sharon
Can’t recommend anything new in L.A. but the old standbys are: Angelini, San Marino, Beacon, Orris, and of course the Hollywood Farmers Market (I wouldn’t
drink the wine there though). Thanks for another great show!
September 12, 2007

crank
Relative newbie just showing you some love. You know how you could show me some love??? Send me that rocking wrist band I ordered weeks ago.
September 12, 2007

Bob F
Hi Gary,
There’s a terrific local seaford resturant on the waterfront in Portland, ME called “J’s Oysters”. Don’t go looking for a fancy place, just go for some really good seafood.
Beaufoe
Longmeadow, MA
September 12, 2007

Frank B
Buying so much of your wine I can’t afford to go to a restaurant.
September 12, 2007

Fred Schechter
It’s so weird Gary, every time I grill octopus, I invite over a sweaty farmer. So I have been pairing it correctly!!!

No,,
wait,, maybe not.

QOTD:hmm, so much good just here in Oakland, my secret sushi spot in the hood, Drunken Fish (ask for fiona).
http://eastbay.citysearch.com/profile/37924058/oakland_ca/drunken_fish.html
(I suck at html and tinurl is screwing me up)

See if you can get my 8 bucks back from Ellen!

Great tips Arthur! (time to make the drive down south)
http://www.ds4design.com
September 12, 2007

Brian Kachel
QOTD: In NJ… hmmm… there used to be so many. I think my favorite is this BYOB called Porcini’s near Willowbrook mall.. great food, great prices, and I can bring my own wine! I love the atmosphere at Milan but the food has gone down and kinda sucks lately… Chengu46 is the absolute BEST chinese in the state…

In NC where I live now.. I think Cinelli’s restaurant on Sixforks is my favorite for a #of reasons.. food/taste wise Gaetano’s in Wakeforest is pretty damn good.
Sullivans is by far my favorite steak joint.
September 12, 2007

Dave Canada
Stinky inner thigh…..I gotta tell you I was not going to the jockstrap place when i thought of that one…..;)
QOTD – Just went to a great restaurant in Toronto called Bymark, really great http://www.bymark.ca
September 12, 2007

Dominus
Crabcakes? Lived in MD all my life so yes, gotta have some of the Muscadet! I’m guessing the wine will go with sauteed soft shell? Now we’re talking.

Now, I go to buy some of the Berco and it’s SOLD OUT! Damn

QOTD: Favorite “new” restaurant? I had dinner at Daniel Boulud’s relatively new “Moderne” establishment last week during the US Open which was very nice but da best is “L’Auberge Chez Francois” in Great Falls, VA.

P.S. With regards to the cheatin’ bum Patsies, like the Nixon Watergate break-in, why oh why? Whether they cheated with some camera action, they were still going to win. They are playing the Jets (sorry Gary) not the Chargers or Colts. Based on stupidity alone, they should lose the rights to next year’s 1st round pick and for their cheating Belichick should be castrated. We won’t get into Brady dumping a woman who is going to have his baby. Mercy

Go Colts!
September 12, 2007

lenny
Fish City Grill – Houston, Tx.
September 12, 2007

Bernie Bearnaise
Thanks for the value wine week and for every winner there are more eliminations. It occurred to me the other day that you could accumulate the winners of each episode and have a tasteoff culminating in a best QPR in different price levels. Announce the winners during Super bowl week….

I was treated to a very tasty meal at Bistro d’Oc in downtown Wash. DC right across from the Ford’s Theater. I had the lamb and it was delicious with some Mas de Guiot Cabernet/Syrah Vin de Pays du Gard which would also qualify for this weeks theme at retail.

Ellen D makes me laugh when she dances onto the stage…get funky!
September 12, 2007

Sumit
Got me out of lurker status with the restaurant question. Got big up another H-town venue: Reef. Definately worth the price of admission and has AMAZING wine prices.
September 12, 2007

NY Pete
Damn CHEATERS…no wonder Belichick is a genius
September 12, 2007

Zgray
Great show! Love the enthusiasm. Gotta try one those wines
September 12, 2007

Capt M
Gary, your bright mood is contagious! Today you’re not running at 45 rpm but 78! Phenomenal episode. The first three wines are phenomenal. You’re thankful and we are much more. QOTD: La Folie. It’s a new, 5-star restaurant in my (new) neighborhood. Punta Pacifica is really blooming in Panama City. La Folie has great atmosphere, wine bottle covered walls, fancy food. Gary, today’s WLTV show is very well done! Txs.
September 12, 2007

pete c
QOTD- favorite new restaurant is Due Terre in Benardsville, NJ. Very nice wine list with fair pricing, delicious food, and friendly and attetive service. Maybe WL could do a dinner there (hint, hint, Brandon!)
September 12, 2007

AlisonD
My favorite new restaurant was my favorite old restaurant but the owners and the name changed recently. Atillio’s in Denville, NJ is now called La Cucina. It’s a quaint wood floored homestyle kick-a*s old school BYO Italian restaurant.
September 12, 2007

Happyuke
You rock Gary ,what a great show,gonna check out some lower priced Portugal wines,most of the wines you try I cannot get in Manitoba,still waiting for a show on BC wines,please.
Go Blue Bombers CFL football is tops,no of this 4 down caca.
Anyways I cheer for The Steelers
September 12, 2007

JustinL
QOTD: Toro Bravo in Portland, OR
September 12, 2007

Tommy Vernieri
QOTD: FIG.

FIG has awesome “slow food,” by which they mean local ingredients. Their menu changes seasonally and it’s all delicious. If you’re in Charleston you must go to FIG.
September 12, 2007

The Doc
QOTD – Not a new one but Chengdu 46 in Clifton, NJ is by far the greatest chinese restaurant ever. Get the peking duck, absolutely heavenly. By the way they also do 4 wine tasting events a year, an added bonus. BTW – your birthday is coming up soon, How old?
September 12, 2007

The Doc
Just read some other comments and there was a second nod for Chengdu 46, seek it out, right around the corner from you and please give it a shout out
September 12, 2007

Pastafari Pirate
LOL, great job, Gare. You are a joy – nay, thrill – to watch. Thanks for making the wine world exciting for me. QOTD: I seldom eat out. New restaurant? Probably Chipotle…. yeah, not very new, and not all that impressive (but fits in with my alimony-impaired budget). Hey, seeing as how you like crabcakes, next time you’re near Annapolis, go to Grasonville (Kent Narrows) and check out Fisherman’s Inn Crab Deck. The Fisherman’s Inn is one restaurant — and pretty good too — but it’s their separate restaurant restaurant next door: the CRAB DECK, with the decks right out on the piers, that is the real gem.

Caw! Caw! Caw! Caw!
September 12, 2007

Pastafari Pirate
http://www.fishermansinn.com/crab_deck.htm
September 12, 2007

AmandaM
GV, I actually an a squirrel so that wine is right up my alley.

QOTD: I’m not out enough in the city to try lots of new restaurants. But if I hear you’re coming to Boston and I hear of someplace good, I’ll let you know.
September 12, 2007

winelover4ever
Qotd…..if ever stop at MIAMI….. do not miss the most impresive plate presentation ever seen, super exciting quality food and impresive atmosfere… the name is Barton G. (on south beach)… of course the best is always a bit expensive….clue convince the manager to let tou bring your wine, cause the wine list really s…ks or switch to a new sensation martini with nitro (smoke) pouring down the glass for about 27 bones . Another super good one is …. Prime 112… in this case bring a double wallet to buy the wine cause they have good but expensive little monsters there. Or the classic restaurant in town is Capital Grill…also very good with an extensive wine list.
September 12, 2007

wannaBconnoisseur
THE PATRIOTS COULD HAVE WON THAT GAME WITH THEIR EYES CLOSED!!!
September 12, 2007

wlburk
Good show, blad that you got a lesast a couple of good wines on their.

QOTD: Kona Grill in KC, MO!
September 12, 2007

Pastafari Pirate
Hey Matt N. (in DC), yeah, that advert gives me chills too, for the same reason. When I saw it Monday night for the first time during the Ravens game, I was trying, trying, trying, trying, to remember which movie that music came from. First I thought BraveHeart (but knew that wasn’t right), then I thought Rob Roy. But I think you got it! I am pretty sure it IS Last of the Mohicans. Yeah man, that ad really pumped me up.
September 12, 2007

Grapedigger
Fun episode. Recently I discovered an awesome sushi restaurant in Montreal called Kaizen (http://www.kaizensushibar.com/Kaizen.html). Best sushi I ever had…BTW, what would you recommend with Sushi? When I were at Kaizen we had some pinot noir from Burgundy that matched very nicely…
Cheers
September 12, 2007

pforty
Loving the Al toon reference!

QOTD: NOt that new, but I love Alinea in Chicago. Wicked expensive, but an amazing once in a lifetime kinda thing. Get the wine pairing. Serious fun.
September 12, 2007

TommyBoBo of WI
WHERE ARE THE GOSH DARN GRAVATARS??????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
September 12, 2007

J Crazy?
First of all, don’t disrespect John Elway. He’s EASILY way way better than all Jets QBs formed together in one super-voltronic-transor-zeezy QB. …

…

Best new Restaurant is a ramen shop down the road called “Tokisho”. GV you NEED to get yourself over here to Japan to enjoy the sake and even taste some native grape wine!!! I’ll count to ten.
September 12, 2007

tarheel17
New restaurants? How about just good restaurants. I know of several. Here in Seattle, we know how to eat!
Waterfront
Purple (OK, haven’t been there myself, but I’ve heard wonderful things)
Black Pearl (Chinese)

ANd if you’re ever in Hawaii, you MUST go to Roy’s. AMAZING sushi, plus all the other great seafood. Truly spectacular, and a good, QPR from a food standpoint. Thanks for all the taped episodes!
September 12, 2007

aleib
Lurker coming out. Another great show, loving this weeks series, and loving the collection of bobbleheads. Keep em coming
September 12, 2007

Double J
Gary,

Hook me up. I’m a new Vayniak. If I keep watching your show at this rate my wife will probably leave me. First, I’m from the great state of Oregon where nobody can compete with the Pinot Noir. Secondly, we produced your next miracle man Kellen Clemens. Three requests that I would greatly appreciate it:

1)Sharecropper’s 2005 Cabernet (Owen Roe)- please rate this wine. For $20, fantastic.
2)Walla Walla vs. Napa head to head only like you can do it.
3)Oregon Pinot Noir vs. the World

Love the show. Keep it rollin.
September 12, 2007

mrzitro
Only way for the Commish to curb cheating…make an example of NE by taking the win away…FORFEIT BABY.

QOTD: Dude, there isnâ€™t any new restaurants in Tallahassee. You’ll have head south to Panacea and try the newly reopened Angelos Seafood Rest. (got hammered by Hurricane Dennis in 05).
September 12, 2007

Kristen
Loved the comment “If you’re a squirrel, you need to seek this wine out!” Wished I had watched tonight’s episode before I ordered some wine with the free shipping!

QOTD: Kabuls in Madison, WI; ever ate Afghani food at a sit-down restaurant? (cause kebab stands in NYC don’t really count)…definitely have to check it out if in the area!

And I speak on behalf of all Vayniaks to say that we’re glad that you’re here helping us change the wine world!
September 12, 2007

Beav
QOTD: The last unique place i’ve eaten in Madison, WI was Bluephies, dessert was amazing.
September 12, 2007

Double J
Sorry Gary- but the bobble head makes you look like Tim Donahey.
September 12, 2007

Dash
Gary, thanks for all of the values today! I can’t wait to try the Portugal wine.
QOTD: Well I have recently moved to San Francisco, so I am not too sure about what is a good new restaurant, I am still enjoying all of the classic ones that are absolutely fabulous! All though I have heard some great recommendations for new restaurants in Hayes Valley… Eventually I will make it there!
September 13, 2007

Jerry the 2THDR
QOTD: Krush In Portsmouth,VA. No need to travel to New York for a great meal. This place brings the THUNDER!
September 13, 2007

Marc
QOTD: Appare in Urbandale, IA (suburb of Des Moines). They’ve got something called a TriColor sushi roll. We split it between three of us (among other foods), and ALL three of us thought it was THE best food we have ever had in our lives.
September 13, 2007

hiliner
hey GV! dude, you come to olympia,wa… you go to Trinacria.(4th and State St downtown) tiny little hole in the wall. the sicilian guy who owns it, cooks it all by scratch everyday. the guy has a pile of vino. if he likes you, you eat with him in the kitchen. did i say he cooks it from scratch everyday!?

hey, by the way, you will here more of me. i learn tons every week…its a blast. your style is CLASSIC!

waiting on that caspian sea ep… QOTD: i find the Rkatsiteli grape fascinating.
September 13, 2007

Ferrigno
Great episode… is sooooo nice not to see a cab or chard in these episodes…
September 13, 2007

Harley Stan
Gary, Great episode as always, way to bring Hill Billy Jim, I was hiding under the desk waiting for the Oak Monster.
QOTD Jacks Corner Cafe in Firestone Colorado, good stuff and they have a monthly wine dinner.
September 13, 2007

msb2ncsu
QOTD:
Enoteca Vin in Raleigh, NC.
http://www.enotecavin.com/
Just ate there for my wife’s birthday and it was incredible. They are owned by the largest wine retailer in the area and the selection is not what you find in typical restaurants. Ashley Christensen is a dynamite chef and doing great things with locally grown produce and regional producers.
September 13, 2007

Russ B
nice show. I am a big fan of Blue Coral in Newport Beach. Great seafood!
September 13, 2007

Sue in Vegas
I just finished watching your last 3 episode. I am a first time viewer and I loved them. I got the link from the 30 sec wine advisor. I went to order several of your recommendations, including the Vayniac (which I think is a great idea) but alas I live in Nevada and you do not ship here. Very sad but I will keep watching.
September 13, 2007

wildebeest
What’s with the “no scores” thing all of a sudden? I’ve been missing them a little here and there all week, but today I REALLY wanted your scores on the Nec-otium and the Berco Do Infante.

QOTD: I don’t expect that you’ll be in Elko (NV) anytime soon, but if you drive from Reno to Salt Lake City, you’ll pass through Elko about halfway. And you’ll probably be hungry because it’s a 9-10 hour drive. So, make sure to check out The Star. It’s a Basque restaurant that serves one of the best filet mignons you’ll ever taste, and it’s dirt-cheap to boot!
September 13, 2007

YoungDave
QOTD: NEST TIME YOU’RE IN LA– Come to “BIN 8945″ !! It is a small, boutique fine dining and wine restaurant where I just landed a job as a bartender and a server, and we have 650 wines by the bottle, 70 by the glass, and tasting menus that our Sommelier creates on the spot (regardless of what is on our regular menu) and I’m expanding my wine knowledge and feeding my passion to learn about wine at the same time here. Hope to see you here, or at crush in Napa, soon!
September 13, 2007

YoungDave
QOTD: NEXT TIME YOU’RE IN LA– Come to “BIN 8945″ !! It is a small, boutique fine dining and wine restaurant where I just landed a job as a bartender and a server, and we have 650 wines by the bottle, 70 by the glass, and tasting menus that our Sommelier creates on the spot (regardless of what is on our regular menu) and I’m expanding my wine knowledge and feeding my passion to learn about wine at the same time here. Hope to see you here, or at crush in Napa, soon!
September 13, 2007

mudshark
QOTD: Definitely ‘Tsuki no Utage’ in Tokyo’s Nerima Ward. The interior is all dark wood, the lighting is mellow, the food is innovative and inexpensive, and the sakÃ© flows like…well, wine. When are you coming to Japan?
September 13, 2007

Jon B.
Love this weeks topic. I’ve found myself buying more expensive wines recently,and have almost forgot where the true value in wine can be found.So for the free shipping this week I assembeled a $100 case from wine library and I can’t wait.QOTD In Cincinnati Ohio there are handfull of Chefs producing top notch food at some really reasonable prices. I don’t know if you are planning on taking the opportunity to visit Bengals nation in the middle of October with your Jets coming to town. If so I’ll throw you a list of restaurants in the area you might be interested in. Thanks Gary and WLTV crew.
September 13, 2007

kcbrous
Well, you finally got me out of the “lurker” status — you said people are always looking for a great Pino, try Barboursville. It’s a Virginia wine and was recommended to me by a “kid” on a flight to New York who was the Chopin Award Winner and had tried Pino around the world. He said it was his favorite, so I gave it a try and he was right. Its a stable in our house.
September 13, 2007

theando
My wife and I love Enoteca Barbone in the east village. Unbelievably cheap with a huge selection of italian wine are ridiculous prices. They also serve quartinos 250ml “glasses” which are awesome if you want to try different types of wine. They always have different varietals. And you have to have the asparagus fries.
September 13, 2007

Andy
QOTD— For a great time and experience ROY’S is the Best — AWESOME FOOD and a great wine list.. Love the Pacific fusion cuisine… Pinot Grigo feelin it
September 13, 2007

Karl B.
QOTD – Steve and Erika’s in Stowe, Vermont. Great food with an eccentric wine list.
September 13, 2007

hd16141b
If you are ever in PLano TX, at Park and Alma there is a great Thia resturaunt called Jasmun II. Absolutly fenomonal.
September 13, 2007

Joe Po
Hi Gary,

Wonderful shows with the bargain wines. Portuguese vinos rock!
QOTD: Thai Rak Thai in Scranton, PA
September 13, 2007

C-Dub Hammerhead
QOTD: If you ever find yourself in Roanoke, Virginia (cricket, cricket, chirp, chirp)swing by Trio (Bistro, Bar, Bottle) to get your grub on. It’s smack-dab in the middle of historic Roanoke.
September 13, 2007

Sassodoro
Great show, Gary! I love the value theme!

QOTD. I don’t think I have been to any new restaurants lately, but I can tell you my two favorite restaurants in the Chicago area. Spiaggia (http://www.levyrestaurants.com/Levy/DiningExperiences/Restaurants/Group2/Spiaggia.htm) is very high end Italian (and very expensive). La Piazza (http://www.piazzacafe.com/) is in the western suburb of Forest Park. They are both wonderful in different ways. Each has been the site of some of my most memorable food/wine experiences.
September 13, 2007

Taylor
Feels good to have my heritage representing on WLTV go Portugal!
QOTD It’s not new one, but L’etoile in Edgartown MA, best meals of my life!
September 13, 2007

mattygroves
QOTD: When in Nashville (come on down for the Titans vs. Jets Dec. 23), Watermark and Radius 10 are the best bets.
September 13, 2007

tom m
Hey Gary, since your are coming to LA try my 2 favorites in the area. Lucques is like you are in the south of France with great food to go with it. AOC is a great wine bar experience also with great food. They actually are owned by same people and are both great places to hang when in LA.

http://www.lucques.com/
http://www.aocwinebar.com/
September 13, 2007

Dave
Great show!

One of the best restaurants in Sonoma County is Flavor Bistro! In addition, they offer 50 – 60 wines by the glass. Give it a shot!
September 13, 2007

Christopher T
Loved the bottle swig!
Some of my favorite quotes ever:

“If you’re a squirrel you need to seriously think about buying this wine!”

“Sweaty inner-thigh….”

QOTD: “The Fiddler’s Hearth” in South Bend, IN. Its a lovely Irish pub. If you’re into beer and Irish culture you should give it a try if you’re passing by.
September 13, 2007

Colin
GV – Fun show yo.

QOTD – Bin 26 Enoteca in Boston
September 13, 2007

Karl Laczko
QOTD – Toscanini in Amsterdam, great Italian food. Djago’s in Amsterdam, great Indonesian food. Haven’t been out in the UK recently, so come back to me on that….

Nice wines, except the stinky farmer one. I have to try more Portuguese.
September 13, 2007

Drew Hillard
Ballantine’s gastrobpub in Willoughby, Ohio. The lobster corndogs are amazing.
September 13, 2007

Robin C.
QOTD: Favorite new restaurant so near my home we could walk (if I weren’t wearing nice shoes) is Vernon’s Steakhouse – it’s black and white elegant with a wonderful piano player and lots of older R.C. Gorman paintings which the owners took from their home, and it’s cozy and dark and friendly. In general, the only red meat I eat is prime rib, but I pretty much always enjoy it and there’s always some left over for my friend Robin’s German Shepherd, Oscar, who just successfully completed extensive heartworm treatment.

In Santa Fe even the old restaurants often seem new as chefs never seem to stay long at one place. Casa Sena with a wonderful garden patio, the Old House at El Dorado – impeccable service and faultless food, Inn of the Anasazi – gorgeous presentation – lots of rectangular plates in varying colors – incredible food.
Wines are always incredibly overpriced in Santa Fe, but one copes.
September 13, 2007

wayno da wino
All Right Gary!! Bringin’ da Thunder as usual!!

Da dirty PATS are playin’ my(?) Chargers this
weekend! Dhose dirty scoundrels!!

QOTD: Ain’t found anything “New & Good” lately.
Just hit da Old Reliable Hangouts (for Super
Chinese & Mexican food). Yuuummy!!
September 13, 2007

T Scott
QOTD: Cafe Presse Seattle. Could use a little more thunder on wine list, but a great place to grab breakfast, lunch or dinner (same menu all day).
September 13, 2007

Lawrence Leichtman
Unfortunately, the Portuguese wine as sold out as soon as the episode came up on e-mail. Always looking for good Portuguese Red wines as they are so affordable. Getting more in I hope!

Favorite new restaurant; well there are several: Redd in Napa, Willi’s Wine Bar in Santa Rosa, other than my Sushi restaurant most of the restaurants in Tidewater VA suck.
September 13, 2007

JerseyGirl turned CNY vayniac
I’m a nerd, I had already set my DVR! it did say in the info for the tuesday show that you’d be on it… i’ll check again.

Very excited to give these wines from today’s show a try… sounds like they’re right up my alley!

QOTD: Rochester and Syracuse NY – Aladdin’s has great medditeranean food and usually has a good wine selection.
September 13, 2007

eduardo amaral
Hey Gary,

Got you. Tempranillo reigns in Spain; not in Italy. BerÃ§o do Infante is a pretty good choice. It’s a steal; it has always been. I agree with you 100% about Portugal. Furthermore, one has the possibility to taste dozens of local grapes hardly ever cultivated anywhere out of the Iberic peninsule. It’s a pity we do not have more of Portugal available in the US. Here in Brazil we are fortunate to have a broader availability of Portuguese labels from many regions. Try everything made from Paulo Laureano and Anselmo Mendes, just to get started….

Cheers,
==
Eduardo Amaral
September 13, 2007

The Celebrator
QOTD: Catalan Food and Wine in Houston, TX
Last time I was there we had the 05 Sea Smoke Southing for $65. They’re wine list is always changing and the pork belly with Steen’s cane syrup rocks. A must try in Houston.
September 13, 2007

Mike S.
Love the free shipping. Hats off to Sasha.

QOTD: There is a restaurant in Long Beach (on 2nd Street), CA called ‘Open sesame.’ It is fantastic. They have the plate called the Chicken Tawook. Unbelievabe! Their Humas is fantastic as well. (Lebanese wines……fun!) If you are down in LA, Long Beach area, it is worth checking out.
It’s casual dining.

ps. Where is the Temecula episode brotha???
September 13, 2007

Talley
QOTD: elemental@gasworks in Seattle! Small, under the radar restaurant with a great wine “experience”. incredible value, and delicious food. also in seattle (and a bit less under the radar): Sitka & Spruce. Bringin’ the daily incredible food thunder. . .
September 13, 2007

j carey
piazollo in Oakland and Wood Tavern in Oakland, CA
September 13, 2007

yowens
GV- I’ve has that Cote de Rhone, I didnt like it a whole lot either. QOTD: When in Providence, RI: check out Gracies or La Laterie, great food, great ambiance, great wine.
September 13, 2007

Terrance
GV, what are you talking about? I live in Japan. Octopus gumbo, deep fried octopus, octopus shishkabob, octopus carpaccio, and grilled octopus. We eat it all, maybe except for the gumbo.
September 13, 2007

Dan NYC
Nice show GV. QOTD Resto nyc. More selections of beer than wine but the food and the vibe are cool.
September 13, 2007

ktw
babbos
September 14, 2007

PRW
I loved the “stinky inner thigh” comment. That was one of you best. I was listening with headphones and knew it was a nice day there because birds were chirping out your open window. It’s all about the Portuguese wines!
September 14, 2007

MetalDave
There’s a great Iranian kebab place in Dublin called Zaytoon. It’s perfect for when you eat at Patrick Guilbaud’s Michelin Starred place, then go get all hammered at the pub and need something to fill the old gut at 1am before stumbling off to bed.
September 14, 2007

JayZee
Interesting show once again, Gary. I have had some Portuguese red wine thaht was quite good but it was about 17 bones. I am very intrigued by today’s wine. And a Pinot Grigio that sounds really interesting as well. Wow!

QOTD: Best new restaurant I’ve tried lately in Cleveland (where I live) is Lago in Tremont. Very good Italian food with an Italian (mostly) wine list that is very nice. Also, the mark-up on their wines is very, very reasonable. You can visit anytime.
September 14, 2007

Mike Turro
Please keep these budget tasting coming!!!

Portuguese wine does not surprise me – with food THAT good they have to have great wine too… no?

Tried Osteria Giotto in Montclair yet?
September 14, 2007

Renee Anderson
QOTD: Cova Dels Vins Ombra Barrica, Spanish yum; Bonny Doon Albarino, yuk. I’ve had wonderful Albarinos, I’m seriously dis-enamoured with that winery.
September 14, 2007

Renee Anderson
oops, wrong episode, that was meant for #2 inexpensive wines. Oh well.
September 14, 2007

BelgianBeerMistress
QOTD: Coquette (Philadelphia). You like BYOB French Bistro with Raw Bar? Then go here! Amazingly good food at crazy great prices. But it gets crowded every night – even Monday, so book a reservation or go around 5:30.
September 14, 2007

Jeff Cleveland
QOTD: The Paramount Restaurant in Grafton, WI
September 14, 2007

SoCal
QOTD: RedWhite + Bluezz…Pasadena, CA…..you got to go GV You would love it
September 14, 2007

Joshua Wait
My new motto: “Lurk no more.” Thanks for the great reviews.
September 14, 2007

maggiej
Ack…no ratings! Bring them back…you were dying to give out ratings

Thanks for some info on inexpenive wines. QOTD: no new restraunts, but new to us was the Super Rica in Santa Barbara. We went tasting last weekend, but found nothing worth buying. We did find out that the Lafond winery is owned by the owner of the Santa Barbara winery (a less expesive line). Like Banana Republic and Gap!
September 15, 2007

Piper
AWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW!!!! Thanks for the shout-out Gary!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
QOTD: Bamboom in Agoura Hills, CA! Had some FANTASTIC sushi there last night – great rolls, with a slant on the traditional. Lots of saki, beer, wine too. All that and Tempura Snickers Bar for dessert!
September 15, 2007

steve
Ok, go ahead and abuse me, I’m a lurker. Just view your show, don’t buy anything and am usually a day or three behind. A couple days ago you mentioned buying wine with free shipping, I can’t seem to find a link to purchase other than Cork’d and they can’t spell.
Thanks
September 15, 2007

Stu
Getting the farmer….classic. Best new restaurant, Carnevore, downtown Milwaukee, E. Guigal Gigondas 2001 for $40.00.
September 15, 2007

Jan Manni
How can I get you out to my wine bar in Paso Robles, CA?? You are fantastic!!!!
Jan Manni
Owner
September 16, 2007

Herm
Sorry about not being a regular viewer anymore…..great episode….how about some offensive line bobble-heads….do they actually make them? The offensive line is only visible to most fans when they are penalized….thanks for the tip on Portugal
September 18, 2007

HC
Great job all wee Gary .I love the value shows , and it’s great to show the wine snobs of the world that you can still enjoy the wine experience without taking a second mortage.Thanks for all you do .

HC
September 18, 2007

Zew
Great stuff. I appreciate that you aren’t afraid to hate a wine. It makes all of your reviews seem very reputable.
September 19, 2007

kosher wine
I enjoy this episode. Thank for sharing this article.
September 19, 2007

zinmaster
I’m way late here as I’ve been out of town. But the QOTD is too important not to answer.

I live in West Virginia but my favorite restaurant is Stage Left in New Brunswick. NJ
September 26, 2007

rascoagogo
I’m so late on this, but my wine guy recommended this very highly as an inexpensive pinot grigio. We liked it a lot–and we drink a lot of pinot grigio. Obvs cheap wine week is over, but I’d love to know what you think of it if you get a chance… It’s the Tiefenbrunner 2006 Pinot Grigio, and it’s about $14.

This was a great series. I’m hunting down the Portuguese red with a vengeance.
October 3, 2007

SeregaBrin
ohlssJ Hello! Very good job(this site)! Thank you man.
October 3, 2007

Local Advertising
Drink, Food. What more is there than great company to share it with.
October 8, 2007

Bhaskar Gorti
Great blog, I love reading it every morning over my semi-half-caff, double mochiatta cleveland steamer from the starbucks in our lobby.

We should do lunch some time, would like to meet you.

your pal,

Bhaskar
October 9, 2007

Nuno Teixeira
Very exciting to see a Portuguese wine in the hizouse! Been watching strong since the early 200s and sporadically before that with no memory of Portuguese wines covered. Maybe I missed it or forgot about it. In any case, being Portuguese and being around Portuguese wine for 30 years and still NOT liking wine, I’m excited to get into some bottles next time I’m at a family festivity. Not sure I can get passed the dryness of most Portuguese wines I HAVE tasted, but that’s what wine tasting is all about right!? The experience!
October 22, 2007

A-Gar
Favorite new(er) restaurant in Spokane, WA? Gonna have to go with O’Doherty’s Irish Grille and Pub. Excellent Irish pub food. Try the shepherds pie and you can die in peace. Excellent beef pasty cooked in Guinness, as well. Spokane is all about good people, good food, and hey, Washington wine is pretty much the greatest. Stop by sometime.
November 27, 2007

Tommy Vernieri
Tasted the Nec-otium today. Outrageous mouthfeel.
December 8, 2007

HuskerJamie
QOTD: A new restaurant called JTK here in Lincoln, Nebraska is really good.
January 6, 2008

David Ziemba
QOTD Sonoma wine bar and grill…Virginia Beach Va
February 21, 2008

bigmay
Outstanding show! My 101st (I’m going backwards when I have time). Interesting synchronicity with the swimming pool in the Sauternes episode (#413) I just watched and the Clorox in the Muscadet.

QOTD: Favorite new spot has to be Saffron in Minneapolis. Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food that brings the thunder. Come to MN. I’ll take YOU to dinner.
August 15, 2008

Dessert Wine Nerd
Nice to see once again some of the value wines bringing it. I too have to remember that cost does not always equal value AND good wine. QOTD: A place here in Seattle called Serious Pie. Amazing pizzas. I mean best pizza youve ever had pizza. Rustic-style pizzas that bring some serious thunder to the palate. You need to stop by the next time youre in Seattle.
February 10, 2009

DF
When you come to North Carolina, eat at Bin 54 in Chapel Hill. Very very very expensive, very very very worth it.