The Pinot Noir Episode – Episode #317

September 19, 2007

Gary Vaynerchuk explores some Pinot Noir’s from different parts of the world.

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Comments on this episode(230) Leave a comment ›

“If you like Mayer-Nakel Spätburgunder (pronounced with a long-A, by t…” by Bonn Professor
“Good show. I’ll try a pinot in the future and try to dig it (hopefull…” by Dessert Wine Nerd
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Wines tasted in this episode:

2006 Castle Rock Pinot Noir SonomaSonoma Pinot Noir
2006 Coopers Creek Pinot NoirNew Zealand Pinot Noir
2005 Ghisolfi PinayLanghe
2004 Meyer Nakel Pinot Noir AhrGerman Red Wine

Links mentioned in todays episode.

Gary on Conan

230 Responses

September 19, 2007

CJM
1st
September 19, 2007

rob b.
2nd!!!
September 19, 2007

JSH
Bring more pinot reviews!
September 19, 2007

JerseyGirl turned CNY vayniac
fourth?!
September 19, 2007

Billy G
early episode, thanks
September 19, 2007

johnyaction
Top Ten as a Lurker!!!!
September 19, 2007

malbec maniac
Sixth!!!!! Great episode, Gary! Good luck on “Ellen” tomorrow!
September 19, 2007

Chris B
Wow, I am a lurker too and made it in the top 10!
September 19, 2007

J-Dub
first top 10 ever !!! sweeeeet !!!!

You rock Gary !!
September 19, 2007

Kiel
such a good 1st wine, cheap considerable buy
September 19, 2007

rob b.
Great episode!!! QOTD: not really mad at pinot, since we don’t drink a lot of it. Such a newbie that I don’t remember the prices being so high.
September 19, 2007

napaspa.com
top 10?
September 19, 2007

JerseyGirl turned CNY vayniac
QOTD: nah, I’ve got no beef with the pinot noir – I leave him alone and he leaves me alone. sometimes our paths cross, but we don’t expect much from each other so no one gets dissapointed

Good show Gary – glad to see you’re feeling better! I can’t wait to watch Ellen tomorrow!
September 19, 2007

Phil G
QOTD – not mad, cause there are SO MANY other options at good prices. Thank you PN, for helping me try new things…
September 19, 2007

Tony S.
Not exactly mad at PN, more mad about greedy wine makers that take advantage of people’s inability to control themselves from “movie-hype”. I’ve had that Castle Rock before and remember enjoying it quite a bit. I need to try that Italian one…see you later,

T

GO BEARS!!!
September 19, 2007

Saftig
Never lose your childlike enthusiasm, whether it’s wine, sports, meeting celebrities, your family or life in general. It’s a gift. Refreshing with a long finish. You make my day.
September 19, 2007

DaveyDonut
Hey Gary, are you going to make a T-Shirt out of your wood in the 9th grade gym class quote?

QOTD: Yes, I am mad. The first wine I ever really appreciated was Oregon Pinot Noir back in college. That’s right, it wasn’t even that long ago that CKC’s could afford good Oregon Pinot. I can’t even afford good Oregon Pinot now! Okay I choose not to… when a 90 point Oregon pinot averages $35+, there’s just better values out there in the world. So yeah, I’m quite annoyed, because I want to love my local grapes, I just don’t want to pay the new prices for them! I recently went to a tasting at Ponzi for their new 2005 reserve single vineyard bottling. Great stuff, but it was $100/bottle! Just not worth it to me, even though it was flying off the shelves…

David
September 19, 2007

StaceyS
Super Early episode…just like to finally leave a Top 20 comment! Now I get to watch!
September 19, 2007

Jeff
good episode…pinot is my favorite and has been since long before “the movie.”
I always thought the castle rock pinot was a good value at $10 compared to the others on the shelf in that range, still, it left me wishing I’d spent $25 on something a little better. I added the 2004 Meyer Nakel Pinot Noir Ahr to my cart. Sounds like something I’d want to try.

QOTD: Totally PISSED! Why could Miles not have liked Gewurtztaminer! LOL
September 19, 2007

Dom
Wow, glad you are feeling better. Now to watch the show, on company time!
September 19, 2007

KAHUNA
QOTD: NOPE I love it- Why I used to enjoy some Cali Pinot’s few and far in between and now I dont care anything about them at all- Which is great because it is always nice to have a wine that I can skip on buying- Now hopefully they will make a movie bashing Petite Sirah as sales of Petite have been increasing the price has been going up and the style has shifted to a much more concentraded aproach-
September 19, 2007

purplejuicebruce
QOTD. No, I’m not a huge fan of Pinot Noir I prefer wines with a little more body
September 19, 2007

Tom T.
It’s Wednesday. QOTD no because I’m not a Pinot Noir drinker. Might give the Pinay a shot since I like those traits.
September 19, 2007

Atreyu
Great episode, thanks for throwing in some Pinot Noir values.
QOTD: I am not mad at Pinot because I’m not a big fan.
September 19, 2007

Chris
Not mad at PN, currenly disapointed with the Philly Eagles. PN makes me think of sideways and the funniest scene where they drove into the tree to explain the broken the nose & when Paul G. drank from the spit bucket was good too.
September 19, 2007

pforty
Thanks for the Pinot Love today. Break a leg on Ellen!!!!

QOTD: I am not mad at Pinot. I do however have a problem with wine marketing. I think the price jump is less supply/demand and more marketing. But hey, there’s a lot of good juice out there and it costs money to make the stuff, so if the producers can find a way to sell their juice for more money and I buy it…Who’s to blame…really…
September 19, 2007

Jeff D.
I like merlot (though I am trying to broaden my horizons ) so the surge in pinot certainly is good for me. So I guess I’m not mad at pinot.
September 19, 2007

waibeans
QOD still don’t really drink pinot, just don’t come across it much for some reason. So… i’m not mad.

~all is well~
September 19, 2007

Fred Schechter
Pinot owes me 40 Bones!!!!
September 19, 2007

Arthur
Castle Rock always beefs up their Pinots with a lot of Syrah: http://www.castlerockwinery.com/documents/SonomaCountyPinotNoir2006.pdf
B/C it’s a Sonoma County designation, 20% Syrah is allowed. It’s agood value but I find the Syrah is very dominant in the blend and it masks the true character of Pinot.

I must admit that your tasting of the 2004 Meyer Nakel Pinot Noir Ahr traumatized me, stirring up memories of a pig sty on a hot day…

QUOTD: I am mad at the way it’s being made. They are making it too ripe and ramping up the prices! Pinot is about finesse and a light touch. What a lot of people make these days, is no longer a Pinot but a Frnakenwine.

I hope your’re doing better, GV. Hussle is good! Hussle gets the bills paid!
September 19, 2007

Sassodoro
Good show, Gary!

QOTD. I’m more mad at myself about Pinot. I tried Pinot back in the bad old days, before Americans had figured out where to plant it and how to do it right. Back then it was thin and dilute and not very interesting. (And I never could afford really good Burgundy.) So I stayed away from it, and didn’t really revisit it seriously until after the movie — preconceived notions. So I missed out on the window of opportunity when good Pinot could be had for half of the current price. Damn!
September 19, 2007

redmon
I’m scared of pickles and saurkrout (spelling?), so I’ll pass on that german stuff, but I like that Pinay….sod and all.

qotd – Yes, I am mad. experimentation should not be this expensive. I’ve had a bunch of $35 pinot that I thought was garbage, so i’ll wait for tastings where I can sample wines before buying them.

That Ellen is a witty lady…..be on your toes mate!
September 19, 2007

chenin
Gary,
thanks for doing the Meyer-NÃ¤kel!

Finally a serious red wine from germany on your show (the Dornfelder recently was a shame).
Oh, and it’s not a fruit bomb
It’s damn tasty, what were you thinking ??

QOTD: No, we in europe are not affected anyway. But I dislike the movie Sideways,
almost fell asleep. It’s got nothing to do with wine and it’s just bad.
September 19, 2007

Deano
Gary Good episode. I cant wait to see you on Ellen i am sure it will be good.

QOTD:
-Not mad at it because i am a Merlot fan anyway
September 19, 2007

Billr
QOTD: Can’t seem to get mad at something I never had but the good old American Way of “supply and demand (SAD)” is a big pain at times. I just hate it when we allow the SAD rule us and sometimes take control of our life. For example, look at the SAD say in the Florida Keys housing/vacation rental market for example or the same could be said for the Texas Gulf Coast housing/vacation rental market. Everyone wants to head to those areas (beautiful areas by the way) for vacations and are willing to pay top dollar plus for the privilage to do so. Thus DEMAND. SUPPLY gets overbooked and all of a sudden new rental houses start springing up everywhere. Property values go up and thus TAXES go up to. Sure it sounds just great but poor little old 80 year old grandma’s 1200 square foot house is now worth $150,000 instead of $20,000 but the poor old grandma’s TAXES are now $20,000 a year instead of $600 and she only gets a $400 SS check every month and can’t afford to put away $1600 plus to pay those new taxes with. So she has to sell her little home of 60 plus years where she has raised 8 kids and move into her 30 year old Pinot Noir guzzling great grandson’s house. Go figure.

I retract my previous statement, HELL YES I am pissed about the Pinot Noir thingy……:):):):):)
September 19, 2007

Billr
Gary, you may be creating a monster here. You said for the Lurkers to get up and get involved…..:):):):)
September 19, 2007

Bossman
QOTD: I’m just made adout saffron.
September 19, 2007

Larry The Wine Guy
I am a cerified Sommelier Level 2. I love your website Gary and you changing the Wine World. I try to do the same in my own little world here in South Florida (Originally from Brooklyn New York) I am TOTALLY Pinot Obsessed and most Sommeliers will agree that it is one of the most Complex Grape Varietals in the World Of Wine…Even before ths Movie Sideways Jacked up the Price of all the Pinots. Pinot Noir to quote Andrea Immer… is like going on a Blind Date. The Perfumes the Seduction all unknown until you try the Wine and it depends if that Producer is Obsessed with Pinot and nutures the most difficult grape varietal to grow….but if he or she does…. You ask her out for a Second Date…and you can’t stop thinking about her all day long!! With all that Said… with 3 or maybe half dozen exceptions to the Rule…. THE BEST PINOT NOIR’s IN THE WORLD YES BURGUNDY…VIVE LA FRANCE OR VIVE BORDEAUX…..is Willamette Vally Oregon Hands Down. Sample Some Beaux Freres or Domaine Drouhin, Or Belle Valle or Yamhill Valley Vineyards or Et Fille or …on and on and on… And then tell me about Your Pinay Or Your Spatburgunders!!!!!! Oregon all the way BABY!!!!!
September 19, 2007

haentz
Great to have a wine from the Ahr valley on. This is just around the corner from where I live and I just love going a little shopping for wine down there. This is really the main valley for red wine from Germany.
September 19, 2007

sky
i absolutely love pinot moir…usually dont pay the cali prices cause l like the dirty stinky ones from across the way but have found some relatively inexpensive insanely good values with all the compost pile and dirty laundry anyone can stomach. Kermit Lynch picks most of my favorites. i havent found any worth paying for in cali……….
September 19, 2007

sky
that would be pinot noir………..
September 19, 2007

BF
QOTD: I like pinot because I don’t like pinot (generally). Its popularity makes my merlots and zins that much cheaper.
September 19, 2007

sky
spatburgunder is just what they call pn in germany……….
September 19, 2007

wtvLurker
Billr’s grandma’s county tax rate is way too high. she should move to a more reasonable county. if it were closer to normal (eg 1%) than her tax would be only 1200 bones vs 20000. also she ought to look into tax relief as she might not have to pay any real estate taxes if she qualifies based on income, assets (other than the house), age etc…

qotd: pinot is beguiling because it is so good when it is good but so many are not worth it.
September 19, 2007

1855class
i dig pinots abillity to express terroir.
qotd: im not mad at pinot noir; im mad when people ONLY like pinot noir.
September 19, 2007

Wil
QOTD: Ya know, I never got on the Sideways train in time to see it or have an opinon, and now that it’s caused so much hype and/or nega-hype, I don’t think I will. However, a Louis Jadot Pinot Noir and I have a blood-feud to settle after it turned my teeth blacker than Charles Manson’s soul during a very prestigious first-of-the-year party.
September 19, 2007

Andy
Still love the Pinot G — We still search for deals — Really like the New Zealand Pinots
September 19, 2007

JerseyGirl turned CNY vayniac
almost forgot – thanks for the free schwag shipping Gary! i missed the Sasha opportunity, but I bought a t-shirt… should be waiting for me when I get home… WILL send pics if it fits! You rule!
September 19, 2007

kahy
QOTD==I am mad at Pinot because I can’t seem to find one I love. I feel like I tolerate it because I am suppose to like it because of some movie. Gary is giving me to admit that it just isn’t my favorite and I am trusting my own palate
September 19, 2007

GrapeStuff
Love Pinot – a little annoyed at the price points. It seems like almost anyone can start a boutique winery and start selling micro-produced pinot at the higher end of the $30 range, if not into the $40-$50 range.

I wish it was more affordable, as I really enjoy dreaking it. Maybe the 2008 Vayniac wine should be a pinot!
September 19, 2007

RDaneel
I’m not mad at Pinot, but I am mad at the hype that made me blow 40+ bones on a bottle of Anthill Farms Comptche Ridge pinot that was a total disappointment. There are other pinots I like for far less, and I wouldn’t have spent that much had it not, honestly, been for the fact that pinot is in vogue. It’s a great varietal, but not my favorite. You just can’t get mad at a grape!
September 19, 2007

Taylor
Gary gook luck tomorrow/today at Ellen, got the tivo all hooked up.
QOTD I’m not mad at PN, It’s a good wine and deserves to hyped up a lil bit!
September 19, 2007

Orion Slayer
I ususally don’t buy Pinot because of the price, but the wines featured today seem like a great way to go to experience the range of Pinot flavors without busting the bank.

QOTD: This year is my first year experience with wine, so I don’t know what the wine world was like before 2007. To me, Pinot Noir has always been expensive, great wine is being grown and sold everywhere and it’s easy to learn about wines with great blogs like WineLibrary TV!
September 19, 2007

mbannon
It’s not Pinot’s fault everyone went berserk and decided to pay top dollar for every last stinkin’ bottle of the stuff regardless of the quality. I’m not mad at Pinot – I’m mad at Pinot drinkers. Pinot posers. Pinosers. YOU PRICED ME OUT OF MY FAVORITE WINE YOU PINOSERS!!!
September 19, 2007

aheadwithwings
Im not mad at Pinot…Its just how it goes sometimes.
September 19, 2007

Philip
Pig poop? No thanks….but I am willing to ante up the bones for Sea Smoke’s, Kosta’s, Lorings and Pisoni’s of the world. Go back and watch Gary’s episodes on Sea Smoke and Kosta Browne and you will want to try them. But they arent everyday drinkers.
September 19, 2007

TommyBoBo of WI
Glad to hear you’re feeling better, good luck with Ellen!

QOTD: eh,,, not mad, kind of getting tired of pinot,,, like it with the right paring, but it’s not something I long for…. like say,,,,, GETTING SHIPPING BACK TO WISCONSIN!!!! GD IT!
September 19, 2007

Loweeel
Son of Sasha… KNEEL BEFORE SOD!!!
September 19, 2007

Billy G
I’m not mad at the Pinot but drink it less now.
September 19, 2007

Toke-Dawg
QOTD: I’ve actually gotten even a little more into Pinot lately.
September 19, 2007

Karl Laczko
Hey, where’d my comment go?
September 19, 2007

Karl Laczko
Good job I’ve got a decent memory……

Today is Monday????????????????????

Scores – Germany & Italy beat U.S. and New Zealand – what did we win a war for ?!

QOTD – No, not mad, just re-adjusted. At my price range I’ll stick to Chile and Australia, the good French and U.S. P-Ns are typically way over-priced.
September 19, 2007

CW
So you’re saying the German Pinot is missing that ‘je ne se quois’ ? Is the dryness in the way of tastiness ? You know Germans like it Dry. TROCKEN MONSTER !
QOTD: I lived in Oregon before Sideways, and was able to get PN of fantastic QPR in the $12 range. Same wines are now $25-35. Sad I yam, but not mad. I have found suitable replacements in my price range.
September 19, 2007

Alos Diallo
Nahh not really I don’t care there are so many wines that I have not tried that if one goes up in price I can try something else.
September 19, 2007

PaVo
QOTD: I’m not mad per say, it’s a bit annoying when they are overpriced, but like everything you can find some hidden gems. And sometimes it’s worth paying a bit more for something so different!
September 19, 2007

E
I’m not mad at pinot, just not that into it. I don’t mind the offbeat Italian or German entry, but on the whole I’d rather have something else anyway. And this too shall pass.
September 19, 2007

jason
The “pinay” sounds interesting. i don’t really think of italy, especially piedmont when it comes to pinot, but why not. nebbiolo grows well there and they are kinda like cousins. i will have to search it out. you drank 1/25 of a bottle, maybe less? i am sure it develops a bit too as the bottle goes down, i hope.

QOTD: i love pinot. i love burgundy, oregon. i get sad when people despise bordeaux or other such wines. burgundy is an interesting game, almost endless. it is not all “terroir” though. wine making is a major issue too, which is fine. i just think there is so much to explore though. i had a great bottle of “Bourgogne” tonight that was $6 and it was correct. it was a 2005 VV by alain bichot. it was not cosmic, but it had dignity. it just is not like a big back of spicy chips. it is delicate, and there is a time and place for that.
September 19, 2007

ktw
mad at the pinot
September 19, 2007

Bobby B
QOTD: Pinot never impressed me that much. I am glad the fad is going in that dirrection and not with Syrah, Corvina, Cab Franc, and the other little secret wines I like. The real question is, what will the Willamett Guys do when this bubble bursts?
September 19, 2007

John
QOTD: I’ve never had pinot but I intend to try it soon. That said, I was never aware of it being so hip.
September 19, 2007

Elliot Essman
Mad at Pinot? Hey, it’s a grape, not the guy tailgating me.

I’m only mad at Pinot that has been rushed into production. It’s a temperamental grape that requires some TLC. Adding 12% Syrah isn’t the way to go.

When ANOTHER movie comes along popularizing another grape, Pinot will find its level I am sure.
September 19, 2007

Stu
QOTD: I’m not mad at Pinot, BUT, I am getting tired of pinot and shiraz being the only red options at parties.
September 19, 2007

Jonathon M Chicago
QOTD: Yea, I’m a little mad becauce price point too high and I prefer red to white wine and Pinot is usually a good alternative to whites.
See ya on ellen tomorrow GV Rock the house!!!!!!!!!!
September 19, 2007

John Farrin
QOTD:
I’m not mad at PN. It’s just the latest varietal to be priced out of the market by consumers with more money than brains. They’re the ones I’m mad at. This has been going on here in California since the early 1980’s. People who are too lazy to do any studying somehow think that the more expensive a wine is, the better it is. Wineries are a lot like professional atheletes who are offered mega millions by greedy or ignorant owners. Do we expect the atheletes to tell the owners that they really aren’t worth that much any more than we expect the wineries to say,”Even though we know people will pay $75.00 a bottle, we’re only going to charge $35.00″. I know that there are a few that do and I try to seek them out. I’ve found that quite a few of them who do espouse that theory make very good wine because they’re making wine because it’s a passion for them and not just to make a buck. Jumping off soap box now.
September 19, 2007

andrew
I “like the dirt” too, Gary. Also, appreciate the pig-crap and watermelon combo. Makes me thirst and yearn. Yearn and thirst. Love the show, sorry for being a lurker.
September 19, 2007

Mike Miller
QOTD: I’m not mad at Pinot, but I am mad at Sideways. I pretty much only drink red, and Pinot goes well with some foods that would generally go with a white, and thanks to Paul Giamotti it is too expensive.
September 19, 2007

canadian-kid
I enjoy pinot, especially from Burgundy. Im not mad, I aint a hater. I dont think higher end Burgundy has risen any more than Bordeaux, so cant blame sideways for that. maybe the lower price point pinots have felt more of an impact from hollywood. wine prices are going up, like everything else, real estate, art, etc…thats life.
September 19, 2007

melissa vv
QOTD: I wouldn’t say that I’m mad at Pinot exactly, but I do think that the amount of influence Hollywood has on society is ridiculous.
September 19, 2007

Ferrigno
QOTD: NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! can’t be mad at pinot,btw it was AMAZING that you tried german and italian pinot instead of making it just a nz usa thing…
GREAT EPISODE!
September 19, 2007

Danny C
Gary -

Big ups on the “Pinay Juke” and the watermelon trifecta! Good luck on Ellen, and just so you know I’ve only watched Ellen twice: once when Prince was on it and now since you will be on it!

QOTD – I liked Sideways (the movie and the book), I occasionally hate on the Pinot, but like 2Pac said…”I ain’t made at cha.”
September 19, 2007

Neil
Good Sonoma Pinot is hard to beat. Does Pinot make me mad? No. If I want to enjoy a good bottle with dinner and can afford it, why not? Is it an every day red? No, but second growth Bordeau isn’t either.
September 19, 2007

Dave Canada
Glad to see you re-surfaced…..how’s the cold?
Know it out tommorow!
QOTD – Hell no…..it helped out us Merlot lovers
September 19, 2007

Randy
Yo Gary!

QOD: Not mad at any wine, except maybe the crappy White Merlot I had from Kokopelli Winery in Arizona, which tasted like bad White Zin only sweeter.
September 19, 2007

NYCowboy
Pinot does not make me mad, but then again I only tried it after I saw the movie and I do like it.
September 19, 2007

amgryger
QOTD: Not really. I got into wine shortly after Sideways caused price inflation, so in my mind Pinot just costs what it does. Besides which, price inflation is pretty much a fact of life. The cost of my morning bagel went up 15 cents a couple weeks ago.
September 19, 2007

yowens
GV- I’ve had that CastleRock before and found it not too shabby. QOTD: no. because I’ve never been a huge fan of pinot. I feel like now that everyone’s into pinot i should like it but i cant seem to find my niche with pinot. i guess i’ll just need to keep drinking.
September 19, 2007

chenrys
We actually got to try the Castle Rock at the same time you tried it. Very Cool! We like it, too.

QOTD: We weren’t into wines when “Sideways” came out so we didn’t know any better. BUT…I think you can get a better priced zinfandel than a pinot noir because of it.
September 19, 2007

chitown_wino
Mad? Yes, (well not at pinot, I mean how can you be mad at a grape?) I’m a little pissed. I used to be able to buy my favorite Carneros pinot for $10 and now 10 years later I can’t touch it for under $30. I used to drink alot of Pinot Noir. Burgundy, pacific northwest, california, and lately New Zealand all were great buys before that damned movie. At least its now safe to drink Merlot.
September 19, 2007

Lev M
I tried the Pinay the other day. It was very fruity/flowery for the first hour or two that it was open, but then became earthy and funky which was interesting. It goes great with fish and clams actually (probably because its not a heavy hitter)
QOTD: A little mad, but that just makes it that much more special.
September 19, 2007

Plminer
Sideways was so two years ago…
QOTD: No, I’m more pissed at Cali Cabs and Chards, I feel the prices on those guys are getting stupid. That’s why I’ve gone to Europe and am not coming back until things settle down in this country
September 19, 2007

italianwinelover
OMG…Goji Berries my new fav drinking in tea..shame it didn’t stand up
totally going to seek out the “Pinay”

QOTD: NOPE wasn’t too much in love with it to begin with…too much inconsisitancy…one time I’d taste it and it would taste like grape juice…next time it would be awesome (of course different regions)…movie had no influence other than to experiment with more, but didn’t appreciate that the price went up so I backed away cause you can get great value with other grapes. Like whats coming out of Oregon, they seem to have a nice handle on it!
September 19, 2007

Road Warrior
Road Warrior the Lurker is in. QOTD: Can’t be made at Pinot. Can be pissed at some winemakers who claim they can tame it and fall miserably short. Not much latittude with this grape. Like the fruit bomb new world styles coming from Sta. Rita Hills in Santa Barbara County. Still want to try some Sea Smoke after your episode a bit back. The Mark West is getting nice press and at an attractive price
September 19, 2007

Dominus
Love pinot, actually my favorite especially Oregon pinots. Answering Bobby B’s question regarding “what will the Willamette guys do when the bubble bursts?” Well, the rich yuppy Drs and lawyers who have come into the valley riding the Sideways coattails will be weeded out and leave and the likes of Ken Wright, Patty Green, Bergstrom, Domaine Serene, Beaux Freres and other winemakers/wineries will still be around to make great wine.

QOTD: Mad at pinot? Nope, love it, adore it and one must listen to the verbal intercourse between Miles and Maya regarding pinot to really, really appreciate it. A classic scene.

Good luck tomorrow. We’re rooting for you!

Cheers
September 19, 2007

Dominus
Love pinot, actually my favorite especially Oregon pinots. Answering Bobby B’s question regarding “what will the Willamette guys do when the bubble bursts?” Well, the rich yuppy Drs and lawyers who have come into the valley riding the Sideways coattails will be weeded out and leave and the likes of Ken Wright, Patty Green, Bergstrom, Domaine Serene, Beaux Freres and other winemakers/wineries will still be around to make great wine.

QOTD: Mad at pinot? Nope, love it, adore it and one must listen to the verbal intercourse between Miles and Maya regarding pinot to really, really appreciate it. A classic scene.

Good luck tomorrow. We’re rooting for you!

Cheers
September 19, 2007

TROC
I love Pinot Noir. I really don’t ever remember Castle Rock costing $5 bucks. Some have gone up in price, but doubled? I’ve been enjoying some French Pinot’s, Drouhin, Jadot, and others. Would love to try the German and Italian one’s.
September 19, 2007

Kevin Ko-val-chik
QOTD: I’m not a Pinot hata’, I just drink more Merlot now that the prices are low.
September 19, 2007

John K
QOTD: Yes, I’m a little mad. The Pinot name adds several bucks to a decent wine taking many brands from an everyday kind of wine to a special occasion wine. So I drink it less often. Perhaps this will lower demand and hence, prices. Wishful thinking. And the crap stuff is more expensive also. I learned not to bother with the cheap crap stuff. It’s like a cheap crabcake, don’t even bother. Splurge for the good stuff.
September 19, 2007

Jon B.
Thanks for the pretape .QOTD No not mad but honestly I’m not a huge fan of the PN.I’ve got a few in the cellar I’m going to try very soon. Maybe they’ll change my mind. Great show today,thanks Gary and WLTV crew.
September 19, 2007

Harley Stan
Gary, great episode.
QOTD- no I am not mad at Pinot, it made many other quality wines cheap
September 19, 2007

Kevin from Queens
QOTD…Not yet, but i definately will when and if I aquire a taste for it. I’ve tried the Castle Rock and a few others. have yet to be wowed by the varietal.

Should I be mad?
September 19, 2007

SteveW
Great Episode, can’t wait to watch Ellen.
QOTD: I’m mad at Oregon Pinot’s because the quality of these wines has not kept up their rapidly increasing prices. Back in the 90’s I use to drink alot of Oregon Pinot’s but now I drink mostly California (Love Sea Smoke) and New Zealand Pinot’s.
September 19, 2007

Pastafari Pirate
QOTD: naaah, not mad; indifferent. Every Pinot Noir I’ve ever had (except for 1 awesome Burgundy) has underwhelmed me. I generally don’t even bother with Pinots anymore, because they just never seem to have the ‘OOMPH’ that I like in a red. Sort of like the tall Scandanavian blondes that all the other guys just drool over, but don’t do anything for me. Blondes? Whatever. Give me a saucy fiery little Rioja or a sassy spunky Ribera del Duero or a feisty Sangiovese. Yeah, I don’t want a silky wine with a smooth finish. I want a paisano wine who will dance the Lambada with me, baby!
September 19, 2007

Cliff and Darcey
Yup, Gary, I AM mad at Pinot Noir … I used to spend less on amazing Burgundies than I have to spend on more local Pinot Noir, and it is rarely worth it! When it is worth the price, it is REALLY worth it, but I’m sick and tired of spending $25-$40 on mediocre Pinot Noir. Yeah I’m mad … pissed! But hey, whatchagunnadoo!
September 19, 2007

Pastafari Pirate
oops, almost forgot…………. Caw! Caw! Caw! Caw! Caw! Caw!
September 19, 2007

Scott S
Gary, Thanks for this Question of the Day. I love the “Holy Grail” Pinot Noir. I am sad that a great varietal has been caught up in a crappy trend. This so shall pass. When the Benedictine Monks began to pain stakingly document their vineyards in what in now know as Burgunday they were not focused on as passing trend, however due the their passion they produced an unwavering Ledgend. Lets all take a bow in the name of the “Holy Grail”!!!!!!! Pinot is pure Class!!!!
September 19, 2007

Scott S
Whoops sorry , typo—- Burgundy
September 19, 2007

Subby
Ok, so you whine about lurkers not leaving their $.02 But what have I got to add? I’ve been watching for about a month, I’m 15, I can’t even taste wine, I’ve no opinion on how these all these wines taste, or smell, or cost, or their reputations. Nothin’ doing. Of course, that doesn’t mean I don’t find the shows entertaining or the entire concept of wines and wine tasting intriguing. So, seriously, are you going to shove me, and people like me under the category of unresponsive, annoying lurker? If so, hey, give us something to comment on.

P.S. Yeah, I’ve seen the building your palette episode.
September 19, 2007

jcbphd
Enjoy your time with Ellen tomorrow, GV. All of this talk of sod is giving me flashbacks of my excessive sod-laying experiences this past weekend. That is some hard work!

QOTD: How can I be made at PN, when I love it? Sure I wish it were cheaper, more consistent, and easier to figure out which ones will knock my socks off, but that is also part of what draws me to PN. The mystery and the struggle make me crave it all the more. And when I do discover a PN that blows me away (like the Du Mol or Belle Glos) it makes me all giddy inside.
September 19, 2007

Piper
QOTD: I am in love with Pinot Noir, now and forever.
September 19, 2007

Kid Winomite
Sipping on my first P N as we speak.

Mirassou P N for 8 bones and my untrained palet says it rocks so I ain’t mad
September 19, 2007

laposte
QOTD:
Not mad at Pinot but somewhat at consumers who can be so easily manipulated by Hollywood.
September 19, 2007

Martini
Mad. Yes. A little. Many people fail to appreciate the multiplicity of the Noir’s character. Some decry the Syrah-like heavyweight Noir from Cali as un-Pinot Noir or un-Burgundy, or decry Burgundy as too “earthy”, “austere”, or “light”, instead of appreciating how the Noir morphs from place to place (like Riesling) creating a diverse and beautiful population of unique individuals.
September 19, 2007

Martini
Mad. Yes. A little. Many people fail to appreciate the multiplicity of the Noir’s character. Some decry the Syrah-like heavyweight Noir from Cali as un-Pinot Noir or un-Burgundy, or decry Burgundy as too “earthy”, “austere”, or “light”, instead of appreciating how the Noir morphs from place to place (like Riesling) creating a diverse and beautiful population of unique individuals. The Noir exposes our palate and our (ever-changing) style preferences, and then those preferences expose things like our desire for status, respect, (believed) intelligence, among others.
September 19, 2007

christhegreek
Have to start by saying this is the first time i have ever been moved to leave a comment in a forum. What is happening with wltv and the ethos behind it is truly spectacular.
QOTD: Can never be mad with a grape that can show such a varitey of flavours, style and all round fun to be had. Every different bottle will offer a change to what has been experienced b4. Sideways brought a lot of people to wine which can only be a good thing, shame its such a hard job now to get people to try a merlot. More for us I guess
Could not stay a lurker for long
Bringing the thunder from the UK baby
The Greek
September 19, 2007

jimbo rambo
I’m only mad because they left out this line in the movie:
“Oregon pinot is crap. Don’t drink it. It’s over priced unsophisticated swill.”

I truly miss the days when I was the only person on the Pinot isle.
September 19, 2007

J Crazy
QOTD: J Crazy not mad. Not mad at Pinot. Not mad at Noir. J Crazy mad at 1996 Condado De HAZA. Smell like poo. Taste like s*&^.
September 19, 2007

lenny
Ok I give up. What movie made Point’s so popular??? I am not a movie buff, so I am clueless. I prefer books most of the time.
September 19, 2007

winelover4ever
Pinots are really getting out of hands now a days. A little bit mad about the rocketing prices lately, yes I am. The fact is that is hard to find a good and enjoyable pinot for under $30. I’m more concentrated in US pinots since I see producers are focusing in making better and better pinots. This wine is not meant to last for decades, and yes they mature a little in the bottle but not for so long. In other words you can not take advantage of long cellaring, however prices in the US market go up by the days. I have had exceptional pinots from Pisoni, Rochiolli, Littorai, William seylem, Kosta Browne, Siduri…. but look up the prices….. waoooo some of them are sold like a fine bourdeaux…… simply ridiculous ….. why ??? they simply don’t justify the price….The bad side of this…. I love pinots….So I have to keep searching and learning frorm guys like Gary before I get broken….. Jejejeje
September 19, 2007

flippy
QOTD: Not mad at Pinot, no. Not really even mad at people who jumped on the Pinot bandwagon. When I worked in a local wine shop and the craze began, I recommended many Pinot Noirs in a variety of price ranges, being sure to explain the lighter body, earthier, complex flavours, etc. Most people still didn’t get it, or just didn’t like it.

Hope Ellen is/was (?) fantastic!
September 19, 2007

Matt the Lurker
QOTD – not a day goes by that I don’t give my Pinots a beating. Damn Pinot! You were all adopted! Now got to bed without dessert.
September 19, 2007

wannaBconnoisseur
Yes, a little mad at pinot, gotten so pricey for everyday that I find myself buying a lot less of it.
September 19, 2007

Amar K.
QOTD: I’ve never really had pinot noir, so I suppose I can’t be mad at it yet.
September 19, 2007

winelover4ever
Lenny the movie to watch is “Sideways”…… It’s not the greatest movie…. but sure enjoyable ..specially if you watch it drinking some pinot noir…..lol
September 19, 2007

leatherpalate
no i love pinot.
September 19, 2007

Tgatesman
QOTD: I would have to say that I’m a little upset with Pinot noir, but can you really be upset with it…it’s not its fault it is so good!
September 19, 2007

Bigsigar
QOTD: I am not mad at Pinot. How could I be?

Pinot has suffered the same way many great cigar brands have since the boom of the early/mid 90’s. Top notch brands (i.e. Arturo Fuente) of cigars, that before the cigar boom were 2-5 bones a stick jumped to close to 10 bucks a pop. Limits had to be placed by retailers on quantitiy per person and some retailers cashed in by gouging on the prices. Quality became a factor as fly-by-night outfits began making cigars and luring away experienced rollers from the established brands with more pay. Crap brands hit the market at super-premium prices but were total dog rockets (imagine the visual). Then people got fed up with paying the artificially inflated prices for the top brands (and many of the fly by night ones)and the crap brands brought a bad name to cigars in general. The boom ended, the fad died away and things went back to normal, or pretty much so. The prices never came down quite as far as the pre-boom for the established brands, but availability did improve.

I expect the same can be said for wine to some degree. Look at the whole Pouilly-FuissÃ© craze/boom/bust of yesteryear and the Pinot predicament of today.
September 19, 2007

GR8Wine
I am mad, but not at Pinot (it’s not Pinot’s fault). In most wines there’s a rough linear relationship in quality to price point. Sideways created a hole between $10-$20 in Pinot. Pinots under $10 just aren’t very good normally. Any decent wine that would sell for $10 or more has pumped up over $20. Just my observation. I’ve found a few exceptions but my observation seems to hold in most cases.
September 19, 2007

Tom (vtjones)
QOTD: Mad is maybe over the top but it is unfortunate when the media pushes something beyond itself.
September 19, 2007

Michael
QOTD: I think the popularity of pinot noir and the rapidly rising prices has allowed some other wines values to emerge. So I guess I am not really mad.
However, my local wine merchant recently reduced the stock of all their other regions and varietals and quadrupled the size of the pinot noir section.
I used to be able to depend on them for at very least a great selection of italian wines. But, Hollywood is now determining what they stock.
September 19, 2007

Grapedigger
As much as I love good Pinots, I do hate their high prices…It’s rare that one come across a good Pinot for less than 20-25$!!
Cheers.
September 19, 2007

Capt M
Fantastic show. QOTD: Not that I’m mad at Pinot, but I have not been in the mood for Pinot for too long now. Scares me that I don’t crave for Pinot now anymore. 2006 was my Pinot Noir year. Ironically, I more often prefer a Merlot than a Pinot now-a-days. I ough to get back to Pinot one of this days. I do save some bottles of it in my cellar.
September 19, 2007

Ferrigno
SCHPABONGOR!
September 19, 2007

Rani H
QOTD: Am I mad at Pinot? Can’t say that I am. Was drinking Pinot long before the movie came out and will continue to drink it long after. (I prefer Merlot alot more any ways).

Great show GV.

–Rani
September 19, 2007

Vinsant
Love the Pinot with salmon, loathe the increasing prices. Usually easy to find great wine under $10, hard to find a good Pinot under $20.
September 19, 2007

Rice
QOTD: Not mad at the PN… I’m mad at the weak Americans that allow the media (fictitious media of all things) to influence their weak minds. We have freedom of speech in this country yet people allow fictitious beings to dictate their likes and dislikes. Maybe they are part leming and part human?!?! C’MON PEOPLE!!! And I totally agree… we need another movie that will totally trash the outrageous prices back down to earth so we can all move in and scoop up the nice deals

PS… I’m the #1 lurker here… and I’m comin out
September 19, 2007

Dan NYC
Always felt the italian pinot’s were a little wierd. QOTD Not mad just pissed that much of the great pinot from burgundy is too $$ for my wallet.
September 20, 2007

soyhead
Check the following that you are mad at:

_ French for any number of reasons
_ New World for phylloxera
_ Germans for screwing the 40’s
_ Americans for 80’s price Hikes
_ Japanese for Bordeaux as investments
_ Chinese & Russians for 2005
_ Robert Parker for price escalation
_ Sideways for Pinotmania
_ George Bush (if for nothing else making the dollar weak)

Me? No,No,No,No,No,No,No,No, and Most definitely yes (among many other reasons)
September 20, 2007

Ben N.
QOTD: No
September 20, 2007

EthanPSU
QOTD: yes, as a recent college grad, i can’t afford a decent pinot at least whats available in PA.
but i’m moving to israel next week so i’ll be discovering and studying a new, up and coming old old world wine region in the levant.
sorry for my long absence once again Gary… crazy summer finishing school and getting ready for the big move.
September 20, 2007

Big Gulp
Pig poop? Pig poop? That’s a new one for me.
What did you do in a former life to be able to identify that aromatic aspect?
September 20, 2007

Double J
Gary,

How can you do a show on Pinot Noir without 1 feature from Oregon? You’re way off the mark.
September 20, 2007

jahlove
QOTD: What the hell did Pinot Noir do to you? Nothing. The question of the day should be are you mad at Hollywood? Are you mad at the folks who had no idea before Paul Giamatti waxed poetically on the virtues of this fickle and elusive grape? I guess one could be, but why complain about it. Give Pinot a break for a while. There are plenty more unheralded varietals out there. Find something else “profound” so that when the rest of the gang finally catches on, you’re ready to move on.
September 20, 2007

tarheel17
Thanks so much for doing a pinot episode! We’re having a WLTV-sponsored Pinot Noir BLIND taste-off on friday, here in Seattle. You should swing by after your show with Ellen.
September 20, 2007

t_moderne
Good episode on a bad wine. Everyone should move on to Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Gris. Pinot Gris stinks; it tastes like dirty socks. So everyone should give up their allocations of limited production Pinots. Send them to me as I will take them off your hands. They are too expensive. Go buy Sauvignon Blanc – it’s the new Pinot Noir. I guess I’ll just have to live with all that leftover Pinot Noir.
September 20, 2007

Linaca424
I’m new to the wine world so I have to admit that i have never had a pinot. It’s a bit dissapointing to find out that there has been a hike in the prices, but it’s not going to stop me from trying a few – and if i really enjoy Pinot, i’ll continue to purchase it.
September 20, 2007

wildebeest
Dang it, Gary, you’re always telling the Old World folks to leave the room; so, when I hear about vino that tastes like sod, I expect those candy fanatics to be treated the same way.

QOTD: I’m mad only when Pinot makers riding the hype inflate their prices far more than is reasonable. I don’t mind getting killer Merlot at bargain prices though.

Have you recieved my Thundercats yet?
September 20, 2007

onemore
QOTD: Nah, I’m not really mad. I’m just a bit annoyed by some of the under-$30 pinot noirs I’ve tried over the last year or so.

I do remember when I could pick up a tasty pinot on the cheap. Not anymore (though I may have to seek out some of the wines you tried today—and hey, thanks!). All I can ask for these days is a pinot noir under $30 (hell, under $25) that doesn’t taste like a bowl of Froot Loops topped with 5 tsp of sugar, or worse. I don’t think that’s asking for much. Apparently some winemakers disagree, and I’m mad at the less-expensive pinots they’ve produced. I mean, why should I waste $10-25 on an unsatisfying pinot noir when I could buy 1 or 2 bottles of, say, tasty monastrell or *ahem* dolcetto instead?

Eh, pinot noir isn’t something I’ve ever had often anyway. It’s kinda silly for me to complain about pinot price hikes while I pay through the nose for Bordeaux.

Cheapass marketing-ploy bucket = priceless.

Hope you had fun with Ellen!
September 20, 2007

KC Dan
Qotd : Not Me G !!!
September 20, 2007

Bundydb
QOTD: I’m just mad that I have to work this weekend… And every other weekend that college football is being played. And when college baseball season gets here, I’ll be mad cause I’ll have to work a lot of those games as well.
September 20, 2007

ericstir
QOTD: I’ve not tried a Pinot Noir before, but I rushing out to do so. And yes, the raise in price point just because of popularity does make me a bit miffed.
September 20, 2007

Benji
Gary, nice ep.

No, not mad, Pinot isn’t too bad for finding good deals and I don’t drink them that often. It’s the Napa cabs that I feel have really ballooned in price…although that is nothing new. Like you said, when you get into Napa Cabernet you have to expect a different QPR and price range (liked your analogy of paying rent vs. paying rent in NYC…it’s a whole different ballgame!).

Will be missing the broadcast of ELLEN, but looking forward to seeing the video link later this week.
September 20, 2007

Oregon Jim
What a QOTD! Yes, mad that Oregon has 8700 acres of Pinot and that is such a small amount to share with the world! So to get a good Willamette Valley Pinot you are usually spending 35 bones. Experts are predicting another 100% increase over the next 5 to 7 years! How about a 70 dollar bottle! Now that will really make me mad!
September 20, 2007

FrankSinarta'sLoveChild
Hey Gary, how yo doin’?
With the 2004 Meyer Nakel Pinot Noir Ahr, how come there was no joke about German efficiancy with no passion? Especially after you fell in love with the Italian wine? Don’t you love national stereotypes!

Some producers here are making good Nebbiolo so like some others have said I’m not angry, I’ve moved on until the fad dies down.
September 20, 2007

YoungDave
QOTD: I’m not mad at Pinot… but I’m pretty upset at the way the market became completely blown out of proportion since Sideways. I’m angry at those who hardly ever drink wine, but think they know best when they automatically order or buy Pinot, and how that popularity and growth in Pinot purchase has made it nearly impossible to afford a decent new or old world expression of this varietal, and has caused me to completely bypass Pinot on the wracks at my local wine store. At the same time, I do appreciate the potential to find higher quality Merlot from Washington and other hot spots for this recently dogged-on wine…
September 20, 2007

blobic
can’t be mad at Pinot when it’s well made…
September 20, 2007

Chad
QOTD: Not mad at Pinot, it’s what got me excited about wine. No, not from Sideways, but from a wine tasting at Disney’s Food and Wine Festival back in ‘02.
September 20, 2007

See-ming Lee
This comment is meant for your entire vlog. Your tasting notes are very real and truly inspiring. Your spitting action is light years beyond my dad’s. Kudos!

/SML
September 20, 2007

Jayhitek
I like Pinot Noir. I liked it before the movie. But now that it has exploded I like that I have a lot more choices, hate that the prices have shot up..
September 20, 2007

Dr. Dan
QOTD: I’m furious. But, it has forced me to try many other wines, which has been a very good thing (silver lining).
September 20, 2007

CUSE WINO
QOTD- I don’t hate the playa, I hate the game! The price of everything is going up so it is just the way of the wine world.
September 20, 2007

Mrzitro
QOTD: I’m not mad.

Are you mad at McCareins for dropping that pass?
September 20, 2007

Nathan
Glad to hear such an inexpensive PN did well.

QOTD: Yes, because I have no luck with PN. I loved the Seasmoke Southing and Botella, and the Londer, but have yet to find a great Burgundy. I spent $70 on a bottle of Burgundy recommended to me by the staff at a wine shop, and we didn’t even finish it. Is it possible I lean towards the New World with PN? Doubtful. I don’t know, but it seems difficult to find well crafted Pinot. Other than those I mentioned above, the La Crema comes to mind as being memorable. When asked if I’ve had a Burgundy, and I tell my $70 story, I’m told that good Burgundy will cost me $200.00.
September 20, 2007

Jeanne
QOTD : How could anyone be mad at a grape? Oh, maybe you start out a little annoyed – unhappy even – but eventually you come around again. You can’t stay mad at a grape forever. It just wouldn’t be right. And eventually you realize – it was never the grapes fault to begin with.
September 20, 2007

thepiratedoc
Not mad AT pinot. Mad I’d never really sampled it before the movie.

Gary I am so glad I found your site and have to give you major kudos for what you are doing. Loved the Conan clip — Here’s a QOTD for YOU: What is the strangest thing you have ever tasted in order to build your palate? I’m guessing you pazzed on the pig poo. Did you happen to see the “Dirty Jobs” segment on winery dregs recently? Keep up the good work.

No guaranteed wins for the Jets since they don’t play the Raiders this year, sorry.
September 20, 2007

Jeff
nice nice nice Gary
am not mad; but a bit disappointed because:
Pinots being made too big and fruity.
Burgundy not affordable enough.
Oregon not living up to expectations (see reason #1).
but other parts of the world are doing interesting things with Pinot; we will see (and keep drinking white while we wait!)
September 20, 2007

Lawrence Leichtman
Nope, not mad at Pinot. so many different tastes to appreciate. Yeah a bit disappointed by how expensive it is but consider high end Burgundies. Probably 90% of the people who watched Sideways had no clue that Pinot Noir is the grape of Burgundy. Just like they would have little idea that Cheval Blanc is mostly Merlot. It was just a movie not a life-changing event.

By the way I’m just watching Monday episode on Thursday. What happened?
September 20, 2007

Lindsay
I’m just disappointed. I LOVE Pinot. I love fruit, I’m one of those new world people you talk about who developed her extremely amateur palate in central coast California.

And now I can’t get a decent one where I work for less than $20. So I’ve been trying other things — ultimately a good thing!
September 20, 2007

Penney
QOTD: I’m not mad at Pinot Noir. Maybe a little frustrated. It seems like the only bottle that I have REALLY liked is around $40/bottle (DeLoach OFS Pinot Noir, 2003 or 2004 I can’t remember). I liked it so much that that is all I want when it comes to Pinot. I haven’t found another taste like it.
September 20, 2007

Garry Clark
Actually Lawrence, Cheval Blanc is almost unique in that it is mostly Cabernet Franc.
September 20, 2007

akellner
I like Pinot. I also like Merlot — there I said it! I’m a fan of oregon pinot in particular, when I visted my sister-in-law in Eugene we went to some of the smaller producers in the Willamette valley and tasted a WIDE range of pinot fromt he fruity to the smokey. Maybe a tasting of Vosne-Romanee (no, not those, but some in the lower price point) would be an interesting counterpart to this one.
September 20, 2007

sharon
Tastes like sod? I am so there. Love the loamy earth-based flavors/aromas.
QotD: No. Not Pinot the wine. Ask me if I’m mad about false markets, about ‘tulip’ selling frenzies I’ll tell you a different story. I’m more annoyed with people being so foolish. Um human, I mean.
September 20, 2007

Zgray
I like Pinot when it doesn’t have a sour component to it. It’s usually great with pork. But I ain’t mad at it. Great show
September 20, 2007

Susan
Gary-Great Ep!! QOTD: Not me! I don’t get mad or upset over little things. Life is tooooooooooo short for that sort of behavior!!!!
September 20, 2007

Robin C.
QOTD: I don’t know how I feel about Pinot anymore. I used to be mad because so many cheap pinots were bing made, I used to feel that the only good pinot was an over $35.00 pinot, now I don’t even know how a pinot is supposed to taste. I used to think that pinots were a special occasion wine. I used to think that pinots had to have a lot of silk. I guess I’m more open to changing my thoughts about pinots.
September 20, 2007

stewart l
I have always liked pinot’s and enjoy tasting the different varieties from NZ, South Africa, and Chile. I don’t like the recent price tags though- esp. CA and Oregon pinot’s
September 20, 2007

Bonzo
I’m a bit confused, and have been for some time now, about the glasses used in tasting wines. I recall an episode where Gary tasted wines using different wine glasses that were designed for particular varietals. He expressed his amazement that they actually DO affect the nose and taste of wines. Since that time, I have seen Gary use different glasses on different days, and sometimes whips out his “big-ol’-glass” (appears to be a Riedel Sommelier Burgundy)when he wishes to taste ‘really big wines’. First of all, that would seem to give an advantage to wines that are prejudged to be particularly good. Second, this episode (#317) presents tastings of Pinot Noirs; but the glass used for the tasting appears to be one designed for cabs (or ‘red’ wines) and is not the big-ol’-glass which was designed FOR Pinot Noirs. In fact, the Burgundy glass has been used to taste Cabs and several other wines for which it was not designed. It seems to me that either all wines should be tasted with the same glass, or with the same glass as is appropriate to the varietal.

Also, Gary is fond of saying that he doesn’t like chilled wine but prefers room temperature. He justifies that by saying that the wines have better aroma and bloom (paraphased) than when chilled, so obviously temperature has some affect. So, what would Gary’s room temperature be? 70 as in many offices/businesses or 84 as in many Chicago apartments in the winter? Perhaps these two issues are why he sometimes disagrees with Parker or other reviewers whom he obviously respects? I’m not disagreeing with his methods, it would just be nice to know the tasting conditions and why they are not held constant.
September 20, 2007

Chris G
Have always been crazy about Pinot and have always been mad at the price! Along with my bank manager, but I got in to Pinot through Burgundy so am used to (if not happy with) the cost. However, price can force one to try other things and that has been, ultimately, to my advantage. So, mad at Pinot? No, all is forgiven.
September 20, 2007

W Miree
QOTD: No. I’m not mad at Pinot. In a universal sense, I’m exremely happy that there are so many new converts to Pinot Noir. But in a selfish sense, I regret that this new popularity has resulted in dramatically increased prices. On the other hand, Pinot is simply following the path of the other popular varietals, especially the high quality versions, in dramatically increasing prices. Prices of really top New world Pinots have reached the levels of the higher quality Burgundies(Chassagne, Puligny, Charmes, Gevrey, Vougeot, Echezeaux)of just a few vintages ago. Of course, these Burgundies have now reached even higher price levels, but at least have the partial excuse of the weakening dollar. Nevertheless, the overall quality (and breadth of quality)of new world Pinot has risen equally dramatically relative to their prices over the last 7-10 years. Ten years ago, no one would have believed there would be such high quality Pinot from Oregon or California, much less from New Zealand, Germany, Australia, or Italy.

Last week, I conducted a blind tasting of 8 mature top quality California and Oregon Pinots. This tasting group (half of whom are in the trade)started over 30 years ago, and to the person has a preference for Pinot, and especially red Burgundy. Half the wines were guessed to be Premier or Grand Cru Burgundies. This increase in new world quality would probably have taken place eventually, but not in such a surge, but for the increased popularity of the varietal. I certainly cannot build a case for being “mad” at that!
September 20, 2007

Totte
QotD : IÂ´m not mad at Pinot. Not mad about it either. I think the gap between the average Pinots and the terrific ones are huge. Bigger than with any other grape.

Swedish T
September 20, 2007

jj
QoD:
September 20, 2007

Social Project Brian
TagWorld Brian is reborn as Social Brian! http://www.flux.com

Nah, Pinot, I ain’t mad atcha. Don’t hate the playa, hate the game. Pinot was just a pawn on the chessboard. Pinot H8R’s need to take a step back.

2004 Duckhorn Goldeneye Pinot Noir. Heaven on Earth.
September 20, 2007

E. Zimman
QOTD: I’m quite mad they turned Pinot Noir into the “IT” wine, and totally dissed Merlot. I actually really enjoy Merlot. Now I have to deal with snarky comments or looks when I buy Merlot. Now everyone thinks they know more than they do by buying/ordering PN.

Hope ELLEN went well!
September 20, 2007

Irv
QOTD:No, I’m not mad at Pinot! However, I find that too many wine makers are trying to duplicate the taste of what is considered a “good” Pinot because of public demand. Pinot’s can be some of the most elegant wines to drink.
Gary, your Ellen episode was qiute entertaining and informative.
September 20, 2007

rafi schutzer http://www.KosherCuvee.com
Can’t you get a bobble head that actually looks like you?!

I am mad as hell at Pinot Noir (almost as much as I am at your NON-LOOK-A-LIKE bobble head!)
September 20, 2007

rafi schutzer http://www.KosherCuvee.com
Can’t you get a bobble head that actually looks like you?!

I am mad as hell at Pinot Noir (almost as much as I am at your NON-LOOK-A-LIKE bobble head!)

When are you re-tasting the Covenant? (Use a new bottle this time, ha ha ha.)
September 20, 2007

G
Yeah – I really like PN. I am mad about it, because some make pinots which taste like cab sav. Not only the new world, also the old world.
September 20, 2007

Sonnenuhr
QOTD: Pinot Noir can’t help it, and even if I were mad I couldn’t stay mad – because I love Pinot.
September 20, 2007

mcj
QOTD: Yep.
September 20, 2007

KNode
Great job on Ellen! Too bad you couldn’t get her to eat dirt.
September 20, 2007

Dean D.
Just caught the Ellen show! Great job GV!

If only I could get my GF to eat grass clippings with Sauv Blanc. LOL
September 20, 2007

Deano
Gary just watched Ellen good job. She didnt want to eat the dirt though lol. You are getting Big thats how you roll!
September 20, 2007

Ken B.
Gary,

Great show as usual. QOTD: I’ve actually had the Castle Rock and it’s not bad for 10 bones. However, really good Pinot is more like $30 these days.
September 20, 2007

cruster
QOTD: No.
September 20, 2007

John Blue Label
GV,
Not a huge Pinot fan. Not mad at it, just don’t care much about it. Let’s say, indifferent. Would rather spend my time with other varietals.
JW
September 20, 2007

John Blue Label
GV,
Not a huge Pinot fan. Not mad at it, just don’t care much about it. Let’s say, indifferent. Would rather spend my time with other varietals.
JW
September 20, 2007

Derek7877
Iam not mad at pinot because the first time I tried it was after a saw sideways and you now what….I really like it. Here is the kicker…I “still” like merlot!!!!!
September 20, 2007

firstcrush
Can’t wait to try the Pinay. Not mad at Pinot, itself, but annoyed with buying Pinot that reek of Syrah, and taste like it too. Fatiguing. I am much more selective nowadays, opting for cooler climate Pinots to avoid the overblown, overripe, high alcohol Pinots that seem to contain a lot of more of some other grape. The nice thing is that now with Pinot sales being so up and Merlot sales so down, some of my favorite producers are making some ‘knock your socks off’ Merlot, again. Yes, I said Merlot!
September 20, 2007

carnyc
Not made at the Pinot, just at the hype surrounding it. BTW, the Jets, while playing valiantly, are 0-2 and are in need of a QB change. Clemens is ready now! And while Thomas Jones carries the rock pretty well, where is Leon Washington??? He’s the most explosive offensive player they have not wearing #87 and needs more touches.

My Skins are 2-0 for the first time in an eternity!!!
September 20, 2007

Tommy Vernieri
QOTD: I’m not mad a Pinot, the only thing I might be a little upset about is that I’ve had several poorly made Pinots; I’m sure those have become likely since its popularity surge.
September 20, 2007

Shad
I like Pinot Noir, but I am so tired of hearing about it, plus I find them a little too light most of the time. I personally am with you, Gary, for bringing Merlot back.
September 20, 2007

Whipple
I fell in love with Pinot Noir 24 years ago. But it was the 2.79 bottle of Premiat (Hungary?). Is Premiat still around?
September 20, 2007

JonE
QOTD: Can’t hate what yo already loved, although I am as lot poorer nowadays. I might be a little miffed but not much more than that.
September 20, 2007

Cam
QOTD: I’m not mad at Pinot; I love Pinot! What bothers me is that, since I didn’t really get into wine until a few years after the movie came out, I feel sort of weird about saying I like Pinot, because of course people just assume you’re chasing Hollywood trends. :/
September 20, 2007

sky
just opened ch branaire 2001 and its not living up to the standard
….i think i should stick to kermit linch pn from burgundy,,,,,,,,,,………..love ya gary keep bringin the thunder
September 20, 2007

sky
i switched to bordeaux mostly cab and it just didnt hang ….maybe tomorrow after its been open?…
September 20, 2007

Lenny
What pisses me off about PN is that value priced PN’s that I used to be able to buy are now being sourced from other places and the quality is VERY sketchy. Don’t blame the grape, blame the market and those providers that don’t care enough about providing a good product and are cranking out garbage under old names that once were at least palatable.
September 21, 2007

Kristen
“Forest floor, pig crap, and watermelon…?” Yeah that was an amazing nose! Hope Ellen went well- I’ll try and look it up tmrw.

QOTD: Not made at PN, but mad at the producers who jumped at the chance to charge more b/c some PNs are utter crap!
September 21, 2007

Winn
QOTD: i AM mad that pinot noir is so expensive…. particularly german spatburgunder. DAMN YOU PAUL GIAMATTI AND YOUR GREAT ACTING SKILLS!!!!

Gary, I am also mad at you. You are in Jersey, which is Penn State country… WHETHER YOU LIKE IT OR NOT… not rutgers country… Penn State….. seriously though, never a mention of Joe Paterno, the legend, or how we’re going to win the Big 10 this year, or how we’re going to finally beat michigan this weekend!!!! GIVE PENN STATE SOME LOVE OR I AM UN-BADGING YOU!!!!!!!!!

(love the show otherwise)
September 21, 2007

Paul M
Wow, if a wine that compares with a $90 Burgundy is a pass at $24 then Burgundy must be WAY out of control.

QOTD: I am a little frustrated with Pinot because finding solid wines at a reasonable price is so hit or miss that it gets tiresome trying new ones. I have had some great Pinots so I keep at it but lately I just find such a greater hit rate from Bordeaux, Spain, and Italy that I have almost given up on finding an everyday ($10-$15) or even something slightly more special ($15-$25) Pinot to stock up on.
September 21, 2007

Aaron
Hey Gary!!! Diggin’ the show and your message board.

NE Pats = *. Does that mean what I think it means? NE Pats equal A-holes? That’s funny.
September 21, 2007

wayno da wino
YOOOOOO, GARY !!!

Cooool Episode! Those last two Pinots sound
very intriguing! Especially da one wit da
“pig crap” (Mayer Nakel)!

QOTD: Mad at Pinot??? Gary..Gary..How can you
be mad at such a deeeelicious wine?? It has put
a noticable dint in me wallet, but it is well
worth it!!!
September 21, 2007

MtnCharlie
QOTD: Yes and no. Yes, it’s to bad that good Pinot prices keep going up. A local favorite winery, Windy Oaks says they are keeping their prices below the competition at $35 – $55, which is a fair price for the quality they deliver. So, perhaps it is just my general frustration with supply and demand concerning wine not just Pinot Noir.
September 21, 2007

Jim in Atlanta
How could I be mad it pinot? I think it is great. I am mad at the prices after Sideways. I have enjoyed spatburgunders in my visits to southern Germany. Glad you did too. Never had a pinot from Italy, but must try one. Thanks for letting me know they exist.
September 21, 2007

mjhch1
Not mad at Pinot. I love the stuff. Whatever the hell “Sideways” did to make the price go up so much… I can be mad about that.
I’ve been away for a while… missed ya Gary!!
September 21, 2007

Kevin
I’m just mad at it’s dang inconsistency, at least in Burgundy. If I had to list the worst all time values I’ve had, many would be Burgundian pinot noir.
September 22, 2007

bob
hi gary-
great show(s)… re: ne pats, you really should become a fan if you want to be a fan of the team that marches to the soooper bowl. as for cheating, well, i’m pretty sure every team steals signs from across the field.. so what are the pats really guilty of.. i’d say being stupid and adding the camera to the equation. hey, here’s a hot gambling tip for you, when the jets play the pats in ne later this season, bet the OVER.. the pats will be running up the score like never before.
September 23, 2007

SoCal
QOTD: No I am not….I am not as crazy about pinot as others are
September 23, 2007

Badger Ann
QOTD: I’m not mad at Pinot itself, just the fact that it’s so hard to find anything that tastes good for under $30.

Packers are 3-0!
September 24, 2007

Mason
QOTD: I am not mad at Pinot. As a matter of fact, we get along pretty well in most cases. I do think that Hollywood needs to lay off of the wine movies, so I can continue to afford good wines.
September 24, 2007

Marc
I’ve always been a pinot fan, and enjoyed the movie but hate what happened to prices and availability.

Thanks for the shameless plug for ChinaWineTours.com Gary! The very day you did this show, I was at Grace Vineyards in Taigu, China enjoying some of their excellent varietals and introduced them to the Thunder Show. You now have Vayniacs in China! Video coming soon.
September 24, 2007

Russ J
QOTD: I guess I am annoyed that I must now pay more for my favorite PN’s, but that’s life… I mean Hollywood!
September 30, 2007

Peter Wagner
I had the 2006 Castle Rock recently, and was disappointed. I liked the 2005 very much as a low-cost Pinot. I think this is an interesting vintage comparison. Gary, I’d be interested in seeing you compare the 2 vintages.
October 30, 2007

Ashley
Love it, love pinot!! Here is a fun article about Pinot and “Sideways”:

http://www.helium.com/tm/664551/pinot-grape-pinot-pronounced
January 7, 2008

The Original Marc
This video not working for anyone else? All the others work fine for me, but this one stops after 5ish seconds.
January 16, 2008

Lauren
It’s not working for me either…
February 14, 2008

The Original Marc
QOTD: Hooray, it’s fixed!
February 17, 2008

Canadian Chris
QOTD: just getting into pinot, so no probs with me. Mad that I missed the 9 dollar quality pinots, yeap!
July 9, 2008

CBone
QOTD: Not mad, I just don’t see what all the fuss is.
August 20, 2008

Dessert Wine Nerd
Good show. I’ll try a pinot in the future and try to dig it (hopefully). QOTD: Im not mad at Pinot. Although it is the choice of the wineries to set the prices, it was Hollywood that sparked the rage with the movie. Even if I pay $25 for a wine, if Im really happy with it im ok.
April 25, 2009

Bonn Professor
If you like Mayer-Nakel Spätburgunder (pronounced with a long-A, by the way), there are better producers on the Ahr. Check out Thomas Nelles (http://www.weingut-nelles.de). Not sure you can buy them in the States, but they make exceptional wines.