Christmas Wine Tasting Episode

Christmas Wine Tasting Episode – Episode #377

December 24, 2007

The Christmas pack of wine is here, sit back relax and enjoy this very special Thunder Show with Gary Vaynerchuk.

Having trouble viewing this video? Try the Quicktime version.

Comments on this episode(213) Leave a comment ›

“Merry Christmas a year late, Gary and everyone at WLTV! Thanks for an…” by Dessert Wine Nerd
“I bought the Ch de callac a while back, and promised myself I would re…” by Sev
View all 213 ›

Wines tasted in this episode:

2006 Chateau De Callac Graves BlancOther White Bordeaux
2005 Chateau De Lavagnac RougeOther Red Bordeaux
2005 Chateau Moulin De LavaudPomerol
2005 Chateau Callac Prestige RougeGraves/Pessac-Leognan

Links mentioned in todays episode.

Cheese mentioned in todays episode.

Evora

If you’d like additional help with the above item or would just like to know a little bit more, please email Justin Novello ( justin@winelibrary.com ).

213 Responses

December 24, 2007

garyv
1st! Happy Holidays everybody!
December 24, 2007

Candace
Happy Holidays to you too! You are too funny:)
December 24, 2007

Mott
2nd! Happy Holidays too!
December 24, 2007

Greg
Oh boy, I just saw this pop up. Can’t wait to watch it! One of these I will be taking to a friends house tomorrow to enjoy there.
December 24, 2007

Rafaela Giordano
3rd! Merry Xmas!!
December 24, 2007

Pierre Vidal
still with ya G!
December 24, 2007

Claudio Werneck
Happy Holidays!
December 24, 2007

PaulT
merry christmas Gary!!
December 24, 2007

Senator
Merry Christmas everybody!
December 24, 2007

randyshakes
Yeah!!! A Wish list. Merry Christmas Vayniacs!
December 24, 2007

Christopher J
I love the secret pack shows. Merry Christmas Gary! Thanks for the great year of shows.
December 24, 2007

JSH
Merry Christmas to all.
December 24, 2007

Dean
Merry Christmas Gary and also to those who watch this site!
December 24, 2007

LargeFormatFever
Happy X-Mas!!!
December 24, 2007

Sarah Newton
Congratulations Gary on a fabulous 2007

Never underestimate what you have acheived this year and what you alone have done for bringing wine out from its elitist hidey-ho and giving it back to the people.

I wish you all the best for 2008, carry on doing that thing you do! Your friend,

- Sarah Newton
December 24, 2007

Arturo Alvarado
Dear Gary

Best wishes from Finland, unfortunately i cant watch the show right now but i will as soon as the guests leave home. Have a merry christmas and thanks once more for the thunder show.
December 24, 2007

Kale Knowles
Merry Christmas!
December 24, 2007

Jaybird
Happy holidays Gary, Thanks for a great year…can’t wait till 2008
December 24, 2007

MagnumGourmet
Top 20…

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!
December 24, 2007

Ferrigno
happy holidays!
December 24, 2007

Mark Exler
Merry Christmas Gary….another great episode!
December 24, 2007

Greg B
Love it Big G, I just want to wish you and your family a Very Healthy, Happy Holiday!
December 24, 2007

RH
Merry Xmas to all!!
December 24, 2007

Glen DiGirolamo
Where ya flying to?

Merry Christmas Gary!!!!!!
December 24, 2007

Phil G
Merry Christmas everyone!
December 24, 2007

Characterlost
Merry christmas GV… love the show… wish i could have ordered the pack, maybe i’ll move south to portland…
December 24, 2007

ike6116
The white bdaux was MONEY
December 24, 2007

H.E. (Butch) Darnell, Jr.
To Gary V, Mott, and all the Vayniacs:
All the best this holiday season from my family to yours.
December 24, 2007

DannInNH
QOTD: Never have to twist…wife loves you too !
Happy and Healthy Holidays to all and to the personal behind such a wonderful enjoyable show.
December 24, 2007

Fiorentina!
Merry Christmas Gary + Mott + Crew!

QotD – Actually I don’t twist anybody’s arm to watch this…i used to make my Fiance watch it, but she’s into CSI Las Vegas, so I just watch it by myself.

Wishlist Comment – A WL in Los Angeles or Orange County CA
December 24, 2007

Fiorentina!
WishList comment – I’d even go for a WL in San Diego!
December 24, 2007

Greg
Happy Holidays. I couldn’t wait until tomorrow. I had to tear into the wines now. Great show and very very educational. THANKS! Here’s my take on the wines:

2006 Callac Blanc – I definitely picked up on the grass and lemons and even the banana peel. I confused it with pineapple at first, but it is banana. I detect a hint of ethyl acetate (nail polish remover). Creamy smooth on the palate just as Gary described with buttery lemon. Most interesting white I’ve had in a long time.

2005 Lavagnac – YOUNG fresh fruity nose of cherries and raspberries. Nice fresh young fruit attack on the initial taste. I like the woodiness and tannins of this one. Slight earthiness on the roof of my mouth in the mid palate is nice. I wish the fruit hung on for just a little bit longer, but for $9 I’m not complaining.

2005 Moulin de Lavaud – I got cherries meet strawberries on the nose. Soft tannins and medium bodied. I couldn’t get the red pepper out of it. I enjoyed the floral woody spicy finish.

2005 Callac – Nice dark purple color. BIG nose of red plums, anise, and raspberries. You are spot on about the red fruits and roses. What a nice experience. Ends with a tannic dry wood that I like.

Thanks for the experience. Great selections.
December 24, 2007

KVolk
Merry Christmas everyone!!!
December 24, 2007

Larry T.
Happy Holidays Gary.
I love the Thunder Show and tell my friends about it.
They love it too.

Larry T.
December 24, 2007

kevin D
Gary great episode. Thank you for doing the show it has helped my knowledge as a young man trying to get into wines. I enjoy every show, it is a great release between studying in college. Merry christmas to all God is love.
December 24, 2007

Siggi from Iceland
Merry Christmas everyone
QOTD: I tried to get my sister and her boyfriend to watch but well I’m the wivenurd.
December 24, 2007

Dave Canada
Still with you Gary
December 24, 2007

Marc
Merry Christmas GV and Mott et al! The Christmas wine pack is a definite hit here! No twisted arms
December 24, 2007

Sonnenuhr
HaPpY HoLiDaYs!
December 24, 2007

Billr
Another GREAT new addition to my family’s Christmas Eve tradition. We are still drinking and I will fill in the holes later for ya GV but Texas is doing fine tonight. Merry Christmas WLTV, Sasha, GV, Mott and all your families. Thank you for all the wonderful memories you all have given me and my peeps, Billr in Texas…..
December 24, 2007

Bacchus
Merry Christmas everyone!

QOTD: No one, really… Merry Christmas Gary!
December 24, 2007

Dave Canada
Great episode Gary…..
QOTD – I am always telling people to watch…..an given no Xmas pack up here there was little opportunity but I will continue to spread the word!
December 24, 2007

Robin C
QOTD: No arm-twisting required here. A cat in my lap and my husband on his computer multi-tasking.
A friend of ours got the 4-pack – we were at his house last night (and had the Sinister Hand – loved it.) He hasn’t indicated who will drink it with him.
Merry Christmas to you and your family and everyone at Wine Library.
December 24, 2007

Boog
I’m Wit Ya Gary!!!!!
December 24, 2007

jfoobar
QOTD: No arm twisting needed. The wife is upstairs, oblivious.

Merry Christmas.
December 24, 2007

Achilles Mike
That’s what it’s all about Gary-sharing the love. A great, energy filled show. I did not have to twist anyone’s arm to watch it. We have the Graves decanting and passed it around, and wow! what s sensation, what a great choice and what a bargain. Here in So.California it’s really warm still -almost 70 at 4 PM. We`are blessed with the weather and I hope the rest of the Vaniacs are not freezing. We plan to enjoy some wine and cheese, and best of all the 100 pt love of our family. Merry Christmas to everyone.
December 24, 2007

lee
Gary,

the second wine today looks exactly likt the label of SO MANY other wines from bordeaux. why is that? chateau aney looks just like it and so do many others. can you shed some light on this?

Lee
December 24, 2007

CA Jake
Great fun. Wishing everyone the very best wines and no corked bottles.. Happy holidays!
December 24, 2007

Kevin Ko-val-chik
I remember when Fruit Roll-ups jumped the shark. Sad indeed.
December 24, 2007

Araldite
Merry Christmas Gary and everyone else!!!
December 24, 2007

chenrys
Fun to watch…wish we could get wine shipped to us.

QOTD: No arm twisting here.

Merry Christmas!
December 24, 2007

VinOrecul
Vision 2012: Winelibrary Wine Bars in all major cities. Starting with the cities located in states WL cannot ship to.

Seattle Lurkers Holla.

Peace, love and clarity in 2008 everyone!
December 24, 2007

C-Fiddy
Merry Christmas Mott! And you too Gary!
I’m ordering the next pack for sure!
(If I can get a “Link it up Mott” tee to go with it.)

PEACE!
December 24, 2007

Boozer
Merry Christmas Gary, Mott and the entire crew at Wine Library.

So far the Christmas Surprise Pack is great but I think I will take a couple of days to taste through the wines. Make it last so to speak. Really, I love to have the chance to ‘tune’ my wine taste with yours. Without a common frame of reference it can be difficult to understand a description. The food and cheeses for 2008 is great.

Happy New Year, Be safe and be happy.
December 24, 2007

LB in KS
Merry Christmas to all! Enjoy the fam if you are able, and count your blessings…. they are there if you take a moment to look.
My question to you G…. which one of these do I save and pop open while I watch my lowly Chiefs send the lowly Jets packing for the winter? I don’t remember Herm screwing up the Jets this much
December 24, 2007

JeremyQ
Great show again Gary. Am eager now to try the Callac … probably will do it and rewatch this episode when I do.

QOTD: No arm twisting needed here though I am watching this in London (UK) at 1am local time (Christmas day) … am visiting the folks before heading back to NYC later this week.

ps. love the wishlist
Marry Christmas All
December 24, 2007

PiperJS
QOTD: My cat.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You’re the bestest. Thanks for all you give all the time.
p.s. I loved your direction this ep. (”Mott… zoom in now…”) I smell an Oscar.
December 24, 2007

Scott
Hey Gary,

The wines were great! The family had a great time tasting. They don’t often do stuff like that, so it was really fun for them. Now you have a family of Vaniacks, I think.

Merry Christmas,
Scott in NYC
December 24, 2007

TimInFL
Merry Xmas to all you Vaynaics out there…and GV…Thanks for keeping it real.
December 24, 2007

Schwartz
HO HO HO
Happy Holidays
Drink Well
December 24, 2007

AngioRanger
merry x-mas
December 24, 2007

Calicab
QOTD: Who do you think? the wife, who heard the computer and said “Is that vaynerchuk?” and rolled her eyes…
December 24, 2007

BobbyTiger
What could be better. Christmas eve and we’re watching Gary.
Merry Christmas all!!
December 24, 2007

Kristen
I can’t wait to bring the wines back to WI and have them with my friends!! We’ll let you know what we think in January.

In the meantime, Merry Christmas to GV, Mott, Sasha, and all of the WL crew!

QOTD: No one will be forced to participate, if anything, we’re all superpumped!
December 24, 2007

tyson crosbie
merry christmasssss
December 24, 2007

espressokev
i’m with ya… heh, i have to watch your show with headphones since the opening freaked my girlfriend out once. to answer the question of the day though: no one. hell i don’t even drink wine. i just love your show.

happy holidays
December 24, 2007

luvgrapesqueezings
Merry Christmas Everyone!!!!
December 24, 2007

Michael
I’m so jealous that I didn’t buy the pack this time around.

Gary, how about a “pack of the month”. This is just too good to miss out on.

Thanks
- Michael
December 24, 2007

mrzitro
Merry Christmas

Top 65
December 24, 2007

Ben N.
Merry Christmas everybody!
December 24, 2007

Big Nick
I tried to twist my wife’s arm, but she resisted heavily. She thinks I have lost my mind, so as she was sitting here watching Food Network I cranked the volume on the laptop and gave her a little blast of the intro just so that she knows I have truly lost my mind. I was able to introduce two new viewers yesterday and I think they are hooked. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
December 24, 2007

abdrury
Hey no arm-twisting here ’cause I flew this one solo, w/o a Christmas Pack, but I DID try to find some white Bordeaux like you suggested at the beginning–no luck in this one-horse town

Happy Holidays!! I’ll be watching in ‘08!!!!!
December 24, 2007

Metatron
Thanks Gary V, Great fun with the family as always…

QOTD: Actually didn’t have to twist anyone’s arm… all (7 peps) were very open-minded to hear what you had to say and they all had a blast… Everyone can’t wait until next time… Merry Christmas to all from here in South Louisiana!!!

Hacksaw Jim Dugan rules!
December 24, 2007

Todd Smith
One day… maybe… one day… we will have a “Mott, Link it up!” tee shirt.
Thanks for the links Mott. Merry Christmas!
December 24, 2007

Joel M
GV! Keep those 2005 Bordeaux wine suggestions coming.
December 24, 2007

Kyle Saric
first comment ever! I love this show, it’s awesome. Merry Xmas everyone!
December 24, 2007

Zakk Forchilli
Loved tasting with the show. Loved it!!!!!!!
December 24, 2007

mrzitro
QOTD: There was no arm twisting at 11:30 PM on X-mas eve. My wife rolled her eyes and went back to placing all the gifts under the tree. Well wait until she opens her gifts tomorrow, she’ll change her tune….

Dittos VinOrecul…I like the WL wine bars idea too.
December 24, 2007

Bernie Bearnaise
Among the many things that Robert Parker and I have in common is that we cannot receive the Christmas pack here in MD. Thank you for all of the recommendations you have made on your show Sir Vaynerchuk. The 2005 Bordeaux insights into Castillon are much appreciated. Cheese is always a synergistic combination with wine and some crusty bread and someone you love to share it with.

Please give Mott a raise on the first.

To all of the hard working folks of the wine world in places like Bordeaux, Piedmont, Priorat, Mendoza, Barossa, Napa, Walla Walla, Finger Lakes, Alsace, Ribera Del Duero, Loire, Rheingau, Bourgogne, Marlborough, Maipo, Stellenbosch, Valpolicella and Willamette I’d like to say thank you for your efforts and may God bless you everyone.

Peace.
December 24, 2007

Kevin C
No arm twisted needed…but I did email the link to my son who returned from Iraq last month. Seems he’s moved on from copious amounts of cheap beer, and has called three times asking for wine recos so I suggested he start viewing.

Shout out to all our military men and women who won’t be able to spend Christmas at home! Merry Christmas from the VaynerNation!

Merry Christmas and Happy New YEar to one and all!
December 25, 2007

Christopher J
Gary, I have to say thank you for the wine selection. I popped the first two and I love them both. The Lavagnac is an outstanding value to say the least.

The white Callac is AMAZING! Outstanding pick, if I received no other presents for Christmas, it would make my holiday all by itself. Before this show, I was an exclusive red wine drinker, but I am really feeling the whites as of late.

Thanks Gary.

QOTD: My wife, again. Trying to get her into appreciating wine. She loves you and the show, just not a wine person I guess.
December 25, 2007

E
Actually, just me and a glass of the Saint-Lager Brouilly … and yes, for six bucks or four euros or whatever that is these days, it kicks several kinds of ass. I wish I’d brought something over for the rest of the family tonight, I guess they weren’t otherwise in a drinking mood. In fact, for some reason I found myself really wanting some white Bdx or maybe some Sancerre, and it’s probably your fault. Best wishes and happy xmas, all.
December 25, 2007

ScottyB
Thanks Gary for the show. This was my parent’s and sister’s introduction to winelibrary tv, and they got a HUGE kick out of it.

Also, an avowed white white “disliker” was won over by the Graves white.
December 25, 2007

Achilleas
Happy Christmas and a wonderful new year to all the Veyniacs out there from the hot and sunny island of Cyprus.

Health and happiness above all and the joy of wine too.
December 25, 2007

cpd
Great show Gary! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all.
December 25, 2007

AmandaM
So, I didn’t think I’d be able to sample the Christmas pack since I live in Massachusetts and WL can’t ship here, but for Christmas, my boyfriend managed to get the pack shipped to his friend’s place is Rhode Island. It was such a great gift, and I loved tasting along and learning that much more about wines because I could smell and taste the same wines that you were. It was such a special Christmas present because now I get to share those wines with my family(mostly just my brother) but it’s so fantastic.

I love Christmas and this is one of the reasons why.

Merry Christmas Gary. Thanks for helping to make this one special.
December 25, 2007

Characterlost
Merry Christmas Gary… been loving the show… you got me so hooked on wine i am having dinner parties like three times a week so i can try like 6 wines in a night. really wished you shipped to washington
December 25, 2007

Carly
Merry Christmas!

QoTD: Unfortunately, I couldn’t convince my brother or sister (the only other drinkers in the family) to watch with me…plus, I had no Christmas pack

My red-wine-lovin’ brother doesn’t want to watch because it’s a video podcast and he only listens to radio podcasts…how much does he suck??? He says he doesn’t have time to get hooked. What a bum.

My sister only likes malt liquor, but I did get her to try the 2007 Vermonte Sauvignon Blanc that tastea of green bell peppers and she was so excited (she loves weird-tasting things, and to her, that was really weird)! So hopefully, she’ll come wine-side and get away from those horrid 40s.
December 25, 2007

Darlene O.
Ridonculous episode, Gary! Tasted along with you. No arm twisting here. Got home after a Christmas Eve dinner with my son and his family. Hubby and me then set up the laptop on the kitchen island and took about an hour to go through the wines with you, ‘cuz we would stop the tape and do our own commenting as we were tasting!!! TOO MUCH FUN!!! Merry Christmas!!! We are blessed with friends and family in the greatest nation in the world! Thank you, Gary, for sharing your passion for wine with us. We ARE changing the wine world!!!!!!!!!
December 25, 2007

Jason Chu
Merry Christmas Everybody!

QOTD: I tried to get my supervisor to watch it. He got through 1/3 of a show and just bailed.
December 25, 2007

NathanB
QOTD: Went exactly as GV imagined. Had Mom, Dad, and Sister all watching for the first time. No one bailed. Lots of laughs and good times. Cheers and Merry Christmas.
December 25, 2007

Isaac
I didn’t have any wine because i got off work too late and have to work tomorrow, but i made a buddy of mine watch the show..i think he’s hooked!!! haha… Merry Christmas!!!!!!
December 25, 2007

billr
I am back. The show was great as usual. Gary, why not a “Mott (NOT MOM) link it up” shirt? We need to revote on this.

QOTD: My brother-in-law was totally against the wine tasting today. He thought it was a crazy thing to do until he looked up some info on GV and Wine Library and seen the earnings $$$$$$$$$$$ figure and said “hey, something is working here, why not”. I love him but what a turd at times.

Thanks again Sasha, GV, Mott and WLTV for a great year………
December 25, 2007

joel delon
I like enormously this french episode ! bottoms up for christmas and let’s accompany this red bordeaux to the grave !
gary you’re a real bottle gravedigger
joyeux noel from france
December 25, 2007

ramona
Tried to watch last evening several times but the server was tooo busy
Great show wish I could get the packs but unfortunately in PA
Merry Christmas to all
qotd: it’s 56 am in the morning only me is watching
December 25, 2007

David Ziemba
QOTD: Unfortunatly being in Baghdad we cant drink so I didnt twist anyone here on Christmas to watch with me…but thanks Gary…you made my Christmas…
December 25, 2007

David Ziemba
Forgot to thank Mott…. as well as Kevin C for the support to the military…
December 25, 2007

Big Nick
Gary….gonna add another comment here……maybe you can send out an e-mail to those who want it for the wines in the 4 pack next time so those of us who cannot get it shipped can go out and find them. Either that or I am going to have to ship it to another state and then have it shipped here. That is an option here too.
December 25, 2007

Danny C
QOTD: Tried to get my father to watch it…not so much! I loved it though. MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!

Go Mott!

Go Gary!
2008 here we come!

VAYNERATION!
December 25, 2007

Jim in Atlanta
You are so right about us being blessed. QOTD – I mention your show to other wine lovers. I know at least a few who watch frequently. Have a great one.
December 25, 2007

DaRkWiNeBoI
MERRY CHRISTMAS VAYNERNATION!!!
December 25, 2007

Rice
QOTD: My 4 pack is en-route as I type, so no arm twisting to get people here… but, it doesn’t matter cuz the friends are clawing to sample the 4 pack after the holidays blow over and we’ll continue the celebration momentum well into Jan or Feb 2008 with this 4 pack, some cheese and crackers and episode #377.

Best of health to you and yours.
December 25, 2007

Derek
Merry Christmas to you Gary and everyone at WLTV, you guys have made my year very exciting and helpfull…thanx for everything!!!
December 25, 2007

Edwin Nunez
I twisted my younger daughter Isbelle’s arm. She is the kind that likes New Zealand’s Brancott Sauvignon Blanc. Absolutely awful stuff! But with you, and a little bit of me, we will change her wine world!

I loved your ladybug comment. However, after watching The March of the Penguins, we could have been Emperor penguins, the unluckiest animal in all of nature. Watch it and you will prefer to be a dung beetle.
December 25, 2007

Chris Eckert
Idea – Have a gift card that can be down loaded to give with the wine. Something like an instruction sheet of the tasting and an introduction to your website that could be personalized. Merry Christmas and keep up the great work in 2008!!
December 25, 2007

SoCal
Merry Christmas to All!
QOTD: Sorry did not have time to get the 4 pack but watched with the inlaws anyway. However we did do the episode #300 tasting together and no they did not leave. They liked it and will watch WLTV in 2008
December 25, 2007

Chris Bartell
QTOD: Noone’s arm. I woke up early to watch it!

Merry Christmas Gary! Keep the thunder rollin’ for ‘08!
December 25, 2007

Seth L
Gary, great Xmas package and show; nice job covering the whole cheese thing but how about some other additional food pairings for the reds. QOTD – Unfortunately nobody, my wife is a flight attendant and working today but she will be coerced on her return. Thanks for putting some extra cheer in my Christmas!
December 25, 2007

Frank LeFevre
Three months and I still don’t have my wrist band. Oh well. Aka: The Winefather
December 25, 2007

nolongeralurker
Thanks for bringing the thunder of Christmas!

I think WLTV has even bigger and better things in store for 2008. Looking forward to more guests and more cheese
December 25, 2007

Seth
Enjoyed the show as always! Merry Christmas to all!
December 25, 2007

ryang
Sister stayed for it, brother in-law walked out. loved the show though
December 25, 2007

RANDI
Thank you for a great show Gary.
I think I turned a bunch of wine enthusiasts into future Vayniacs today!
Merry Christmas to you and yours!
December 25, 2007

Malarkey
really glad to hear there’s more food matching in store for ‘08. I didn’t ask anyone to watch, perhaps I would have if I’d been able to get the tasting pack… damn shipping laws, they are wrecking my buzz.

merry christmas, happy new year.
December 25, 2007

carnyc
Merry Christmas di Italia GV.

QOTD: Just my girlfriend from Bari who thinks you are completely crazy in a good way.

Thank you for all the love in 2007. I wouldn’t have enjoyed or appreciated or possessed the knowledge of wine that I do now without your dedication and committment to WLTV. Enjoy your holiday with your family and we’ll see you again in 2008. E fino ad allora, ciao!
December 25, 2007

Marshall
Merry XMAS to everyone out there!
December 25, 2007

The Fanjestic
Merry Christmas!
December 25, 2007

e.fremont
Great job Gary and Mott!!!!! Merry Christmas!
December 25, 2007

Anthony L.
Merry Christmas Everyone!

QOTD: My poor wife sat through about 5 minutes before the kids dragged her away.
December 25, 2007

In Vino Veritas
Merry Christmas to all!
December 25, 2007

Deano
Gary Great episode i love it. the 2005 is hot.

QOTD:
-I was watching alone But it is ok i love the episodes!!!
December 25, 2007

joe fragale
Gary thanx for this years free course of wine basic 101. It was a year where i personally learned a lot from you. You are a tremondous salesman and a likeable one. I look forward everyday to watching your show. Keep up the good work.
P.S. my wife is getting upset with you because I keep buying wine. She thinks I am becoming a wino. I told her that there are a lot worse things in life then being a wino.
December 25, 2007

AaronW
Great stuff, keep up the awesome work fellas! Good luck in ‘08!!
December 25, 2007

Dominus
Great, great show as always though I’m a little late to the party.

The white was sublime. That may become my new “house white.”

QOTD: As always, i had to twist my little woman’s arm and she was the usual trooper and followed along with me.

Merry Christmas to you and the entire Vayner Nation and their loved ones.

Cheers!
December 25, 2007

GR8Wine
Gr8 Show GV!
Tasted right along with you and (QOTD) twisted my Mom’s arm to join me.
December 25, 2007

Tom (vtjones)
My family and I gathered for food and fellowship on the 24th and we had a blast tasting along with you. We would taste each wine first and have fun trying to see what we thought of the wine before unpausing you to see what you would say. It was a blast. I would recommend doing more of these types of shows.

Thanks!

Tom
December 25, 2007

Harley Stan
Great show, wishing I would have ordered the pack.
December 25, 2007

dave from Osaka (thunderball)
Merry Christmas to the Vaynerchuk family! Looking forward to a happy and healthy 2008!
December 25, 2007

Steve Repinec
twisted my wife’s arm to watch, see likes the show but does not watch it as often as me (on iTunes podcast)
December 25, 2007

Shadowbird
QOTD: No one’s arm but my own.
December 25, 2007

Colin
GV – Happy Everything bro! Thanks for the show…
December 25, 2007

Peter T.
Gary,

I just waited till the wife and kids went to sleep, then I catch THE CHRISTMAS THUNDER SHOW…

PLUS, purchased six bottles of the 2005 Chateau De Lavagnac Rouge a couple weeks back, love it!!! What a great QPR, and a tasty treat!

Lastly… mark my words… Pennington will be tossing for the Ravens next year… AND COLES retires a JET… they organization makes sure of it!

PT
December 25, 2007

The Doc
Gary – to you and your extended family, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Most importantly as you, and I will stress, good health and happiness to you and everyone you know. It may sound cliche but JOY TO ALL, MAY GOD BLESS EVERYONE. Life is great so embrace, and yes I am not drunk (maybe just a little) Here is to many more great episodes. Don’t blow up too much, and in a nineties sort of way, keep it real in 2008…………………………….
December 25, 2007

Martin
Buon Natale! Ha ha, I got my mother to watch the beginning of the show!
December 25, 2007

JLee
Got my two younger brothers to watch the entire show along with few past episodes. One of them is only 15 and asked why anyone would enjoy a drink that smells like a sewer? hmmm….I wasn’t sure how to answer that….
December 25, 2007

mikemc
Gary,

Haven’t watched today’s episode yet – away in TN at in-laws…just wanted to wish you and yours a Happy Holidays. Bought the Christmas pack and looking forward to doing the tasting along with you (even though it may be a few days late).

Mike
December 25, 2007

David Dadekian
Happy Holidays, Gary. Thanks very much for the wishlist. That’s great.

QOTD: I don’t have to twist my wife’s arm, though she did have to step away for a bit with some pregnancy illness. But all’s good now!
December 26, 2007

Owen
Gary-

Tons of friends and family walked by and wondered why I was watching a crazy man talk about wine. My best friend turned me onto WLTV, and now I guess you could call me a Vayniac. Merry Christmas! Sis bought me a 2005 Bordeaux while she was in France, btw. Can’t WAIT to get back home and crack it open.
December 26, 2007

Neil
Gary, great ideas for 2005 bordeaux. I had about given up on the vintage because of the prices of my usual producers.

Happy holidays!
December 26, 2007

JennQ
Merry Christmas Gary! Thanks for the great X’mas pack!
December 26, 2007

Tatum Korin
Gary, I have been intimated to leave a comment because of my lack of wine knowledge but because I have been watching the thunder show I have become so much more confident. It’s crazy to think you are my age and basically have a PhD in wine appreciation. I am so impressed-not that you need my approval.

Here are my requests:
1) Can you taste “The Show” by Joel Gott and friends?
2) Where is your parent’s wine shore in Jersey? I am from L.A. but my husband and family are from Haddonfield. Heard of it?!

Happy Holidays! Great job! Keep it up!!!

Tatum
December 26, 2007

BobM
Hey, Gary-

So far, we’ve only tasted the fist two wines. There weren’t enough wine drinkers to open all four. So I’m saving the rest of the episode for the next opportunity to open the last two wines.

The Graves was really spectacular. Tremendous flavors and bouquet, with a long finish. It was probably the best Graves I’ve ever had. So much personality! The Chateau de Lavagnac was enjoyable and certainly fits well in the gallery of $9 wines that I’d enjoy with a meal. The other dinner guests had never heard of you but got a kick out of the episode, even though they initially thought I was crazy for insisting they watch it. They also raved about the Graves.

Hope you had a great holiday. I know your store had a crazy week.
December 26, 2007

Pardus
Am alone at the computer today. Everyone else went back to work.
December 26, 2007

HeadWino
QOTD: No twisting arms here. Had my wife and 20 year old son watch with me. We planned it that way. My son is showing REAL promise as a wine drinker.

Great choice on the bordeaux’…. had never tried before because of the traditional high price but showing us the value frenchy’s was perfect. The Lavaud was my personal favorite.
December 26, 2007

Jeffrey Rodriguez
QOTD: I didn’t have to twist any arms. I got together a group to watch. We had myself, sister, mother, father, aunt, uncle, cousin, grandmother, grandfather and a family friend.
The show was great! I guess I’m officially out of lurkdom and in the Vaynernation.
December 26, 2007

rmgroves
GV: Not just cheese but how about integrating different chocolate tastings!
December 26, 2007

Calle SikstrÃ¶m
Merry Christmas GV. Too bad you can’t ship overseas. I would have liked to be part of the tasting. Hope I will be able to order some T-shirts soon. And yes, you should make a “Mott, link it up!” T-shirt.
December 26, 2007

grace
i didn’t receive my wine, yet. my sis and bro-in-law will gather to do the tasting new year’s eve.
December 26, 2007

Grasshopper
Sensei,

First I hope you and your family had a great Christmas and Mrs. Hopper and I want to thank you for all that you do for us! Your encouragment on Family/Friends/Love ones and the important things in life mean a lot to us and really makes the show and your support special!

I was not able to watch this EP yesterday because of Holiday celebrations but truely enjoyed the show and have just loaded up my shopping cart with 4 each of the Moulin De Lavaud, De Callac Graves and De Callac Prestige Rouge. Really look forward to trying them and refering back to this EP. Thansk for all of the jewels you have uncovered during 2007!!

Great belly bump with Mott…:)

QOTD – was not able to participate but really wish I would have and certainly will in the future if at all possible….I should have twisted my own arm!!

God Bless you Gary Vay-ner-chuk!! Thank you for changing my wine world!!
December 26, 2007

Magoo
Gar,

One of your best shows; really enjoyed it.

I don’t have to twist my kids arms to watch, they like the show as well. My wife didn’t watch, but she was in the room and got a little smooch during ‘Gary says’.

Happy Holidays!!
December 26, 2007

wayno da wino
Whaaaz Zuuuuuuuup, Geee !!?!!
Happy, Healthy Holidays to Everybody at WLTV!!!!!!!
QOTD: Nobody I know needs their “arm twisted” to watch
WLTV!! We all Looooooooove da Show!!!!!!
December 26, 2007

Lee W
put the arm on my brother in law. He is hooked
December 26, 2007

K J EMT
Great show, we (with a little bit of YOU) got some friends of ours hooked on the thunder show! We did the Christmas show with the Christmas pack and it was wonderful, our friends didn’t know that an internet wine tasting was the plan, they LOVED it, and the wine too..Merry Christmas Gary and happy New Year!!!!
December 26, 2007

sobojosh
Hope everyone had a great, safe holiday! I think I got something wine related from almost every family member this year. My girlfriends grandma gave me a 1.5L of White Zin! haha oh well she tried
December 26, 2007

Susan
Gary-You KNOW I am still a HUGE fan of WLTV!!! I have been watching since April 2006!!!!
Keep up the great work!!!
December 26, 2007

KennyPetersenII
Merry Christmas, Still would have liked a LINK it UP MOTT T-Shirt for Christmas!!!
December 26, 2007

VinOrecul
Mott, don’t give up just yet.

The Mottster Hoodie with the “Link it up!” will make every vayniac envious!
December 26, 2007

Kyle Davis
QOTD: Got the aunt and uncle….My uncle kinda just drifted away and spaced out….but my aunt was laughing at the ranting. Well done.

DUDE did you hear the Theme Song yet?

Happy New Year

Kyle
December 26, 2007

Ryan M.
Merry Christmas Gary!
December 26, 2007

Irv
Happy Holidays,Merry Christmas, Festivus or whatever you are celebrating to all who watch WLTV. Gary, we really don;t have to twist anyone’s arm to watch your show. Your emphasis on family, friends and what is important in life hits the right nerve for all of us. Plus the perspectives that you have provided on the world of wine consumption have been enlightening. Thank you!
December 26, 2007

BryanJ
Great show. We twisted the arms of 8 family members on Christmas day. I even ran out and bought a decanter for the Callac. Only my wife and I had seen your show before and the audience wasn’t very tech-savvy. But, it was a big hit. Maybe even a couple future Vayniacs in the crowd. Who knows?

Thanks for a good time with some good wines.
December 26, 2007

thefaamakesmedrink
Anybody else notice how you never see Mott and George Clooney together at the same time? Hmmmmmm…
December 26, 2007

JeffC
Happy Holidays back atcha. QOTD: No arm twisting on this end. Really enjoyed the show. Are you planning a New Years Tasting show?? And whats the deal on the Mott Link It Up Tee?
December 26, 2007

Corrado
Hey, Gary, here’s question for ya:

Describe the differences between nose/aroma and bouquet. I was using them interchangably until I read/saw/heard they’re not really describing the same thing.

I think you should do more shows like this, but base at least one per month around one of the Friday-offered “Free Shipping” wines to allow more folks to participate.
December 26, 2007

JeffWalnuts
Great episode, we had our family watch the show all together, (no arm twisting required) and drank the wine all day on Christmas! Very excited about the 2005 Bordeauxz, and have purchased 5 or 6 of the bottles from the xmas tasting show! Thanks Gary.
December 26, 2007

Social Project Brian
Great episode. I didn’t buy the xmas pack, because I’m still waiting for an opportunity to do the Thanksgiving Pack that I bought. (Been busy!).

Link It Up, Mott – I agree. That should be a T-Shirt! In fact, I’ve created a petition for Vayniacs to sign: http://www.petitiononline.com/bri1970/petition.html

Gary, THAT’s something for Mott to link up in the next episode.
December 26, 2007

Kim Schroeder
Loved the Christmas pack. Sat down with mother and father in law. Had them watch a couple of your past episodes and then we had the wine tasting with you at the helm. Great fun on Christmas Eve and got you two new fans!
December 26, 2007

Ant'ny
Happy Holidays!!! Saw your billboards on I-78 West just off the NJ Turnpike. I was totally stoked! Who is the “other” Gary? There is a yellow billboard out there near one of yours.
December 26, 2007

HO
great christmas pack I had about 35 people over and and 10 of us when off and watched the show it was great, very funny and informative. All together we consumed about 20 bottles that day and several of my buddies commented that you should be on CNBC’s show “big idea”
Great time do it again some time I’m hooked
scott homan
December 26, 2007

Monstrose
Great show! Good value from Bordeaux is always worth tuning in for (no arm twisting necessary).
December 26, 2007

Grape Expectations
Happy Holidays. A little late, but you know what they say.

This was a wonderful show. I really enjoyed it. I would love to have tasted along with you but that’s not currently possible (shipping). However, I’m hoping the next time you do a “pack” to have it shipped to my brother’s in California and go down there and taste along.

Thanks for the “wish list”. It’s a nice feature.

I hope everyone out there has a wonderful time celebrating whatever it is that you celebrate.
December 26, 2007

avanagee
QOTD: no arm-twisting necessary! even my two boys enjoy the sniffy-sniff. MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!
December 26, 2007

Mikie C
Hey G – Great show! Theatrics to begin and end, as well as real serious stuff in the middle. You mentioned balance, G. Hey this was pure symmetry =-)
Thanks for sharing so much of yourself – my life is richer for it.

I’m coming your way from Philly for the Christmas pack wines on Friday – save some for me, ok?

MC
December 26, 2007

Mikie C
Hey G – Great show! Theatrics to begin and end, as well as some real solid stuff in the middle. You mentioned balance – hey this was pure symmetry!

Thanks for everything – I’m enjoying the ride =-)

MC
December 27, 2007

DARREL LAS VEGAS
I think you bought to much BORDEAUX !
Merry Chritmas?
December 27, 2007

DARREL LAS VEGAS
SLOW DOWN! I know its your 4 pack !
But I think your trying to hard to admit it SUCKS!
December 27, 2007

DARREL LAS VEGAS
SLOW DOWN! I know its your 4 pack !
But I think your trying to hard to admit it NOT that GOOD !(sorry word press!)
December 27, 2007

TWofPasadena
Gary,

Watched this episode with my bro yesterday and he was laughing his ass off. It was his first time watching and he’s in.
I didn’t crack open my Christmas pack though because all of my family was to hung over from Christmas Eve dinner. Bunch of lightweights.
December 27, 2007

Scott Anderson
DUDE! I am (like Jesus said) with you ALWAYS!
December 27, 2007

Flavio
Gary – it was great to see you on Saturday at the store (thanks for the help and tips). Ended up walking out with almost 5 cases (2 mixed).

Thank you for the great Christmas pack. I hadn’t had a white Bordeaux in years and thoroughly enjoyed getting reacquainted. The Moulin de Lavaud was a great surprise and the Callac rouge was pretty darn good too. No scores for those last two?

QOTD: Got the family together on the 25th and had to do quite a bit of convincing and arm twisting (wife, in-laws, her 3 sisters and their respective husbands/boyfriends, 10 altogether). The pack was just the right amount for the tasting and everyone loved the Bordeaux experience. Had lots of great WL cheese with it and a whole leg of Jamon Serrano (one of those that come on the wooden rack). In summary, an incredible evening. Thank you from the 10 of us, from the bottom of our hearts… I’m sure I managed to, at least, get a couple of new lurkers roaming around.
December 27, 2007

Eric Bergen
Due to shipping problems (did you know FedEx Residential does not deliver on Mondays? Even the Monday beforeChristmas?????) we have not gotten our four-pack yet, but we are saving the episode to watch and taste along – probably on New Year’s now!
December 27, 2007

Chippewamike
QOTD: My daughter Gracie and she loves the Rant and the Sniffy Sniff
December 27, 2007

Fredhead
Loved the show – great as usual. My wife and I watched together. Thought the Lavaud was the best of the reds. Still have the white to try. Keep doing the packs.
December 27, 2007

KNode
I still haven’t cracked the 4-pack because the family is really small and my husband and I are the only drinkers (I think if we drank all 4 bottles we’d end up in the ER!). But I am really looking forward to them; especially the “old world” Bordeuaxs because I will finally be able to grasp the concept of what makes them different.
December 27, 2007

GrapeStuff
Great ep GV. Hope you and your family are having a GREAT and THUUUUNNNDDEEERRRROOOOUUUSSS Holidays! Cheers.
December 27, 2007

Ryan
I want link it up Mott t shirts
December 27, 2007

Elliot Essman
No arm twisting – watching alone.
December 28, 2007

YoungDave
QOTD: I think I’ve officially made a die-hard Vayniac out of my room mate. Fantastic. Merry Christmas, my good man!
December 28, 2007

Jon B Lodi
We had a couple of friends over for your “taste-along” and had a GREAT time. We’re looking forward to doing it again in a month or so.

I’m always trying to get people to understand what a corked wine is really like. We were completely with you on your descriptions of most of the wines, except the Lavagnac, which was obviously corked. It was very useful to have everyone hear what the wine SHOULD have tasted like.

OK, I’m off to blog about our fun experience…
December 28, 2007

NADINE
Ha ha, nobody twisted my arm to view your shows, actually if my memory serves me right, you did actually as I recall you were self promoting yourself, lol. To put my word in there since on the topic of good valued wines … for under ten Canadian dollars, around 8 some dollars, it’s not super freaking fantastic like a good aged wine, but I think it’s pretty darn good for everyday or weekly basis, you probably tried it already, it’s: MALBEC 2006 (100% Malbec), Vin de Mendoza / Wine of Mendoza, Argentine / Argentina, Vin Rouge / Red Wine, produit de l’Argentine / Argentina’s product – FINCA FLICHMAN – yep pretty good, and it’s 13.5% alc/vol, 750 ml/bottle, I think it would go pretty well with your steak, it also has some vanilla to it, http://www.flichman.com.ar Well, if I didn’t get to say it, Happy belated Christmas, Hannukah, New Year, best wishes for 2008, etc. Keep it up Gary !
December 28, 2007

Chris Davis
Chris from CT. Purchased the pack and tasted along with about 8 other people. They loved it! They want more! I have some pictures to send your way.
December 28, 2007

John Hanna
Nice show GV! We had a couple of party poopers but most of my family really liked the show and I think they will be watching more.

Even though I did not have that cheese I thought you were right on with the flavors of the first wine. After being open a couple days open it picks up more lime for me. I rate this a 87. I like it but I still think I can find similar or better wines like this here in the northwest for a lower price.

I thought you were totally off your rocker when I first tasted the reds. I was thinking 80-85 point wines. The Lavagnac smelled like movie theater popcorn and to me tasted exactly like raw elk venison. No one else that I was with picked this up but if you have ever butchered a whole elk I’m sure you it would be obvious. I liked but not loved the third and fourth wines my first try.

I got back to these wines two and now three days later. WOW! A huge difference for me! The Lavagnac smells like graham cracker and mixed berry jam with the taste of some very nice light cranberry, strawberry, and cherry flavors turning to sour cherry on the finish. 88+ pts

The Moulin De Lavaud is my favorite of the bunch. The subtle complexity of the nose is amazing. It really smells like some wild forest mushroom I smelled once but can’t put a name on it right now. The taste is like going up on the hill to pick some wild cherries with Mr. Kayvonfar (while he is hollering to scare away any bears) and then going to the river with your stash of cherries to do some early summer trout fishing. You start eating the cherries frantically and they dribble down your chin on to the basalt river rocks and it so good you start licking the rocks. Black cherry slathered river rocks. Ok now maybe I’m off my rocker now but I really
like this wine. I did not find any 2×4 in the salad. 93+ pts.

What? where is the rainbow? Well maybe a little rainbow but I get it more on the finish. What? Kit-Kat in Jam? Strawberry and Rose? I wish I had your nose GV! I get some road tar but it is a pretty good wine. 89 pts.

How will these wines taste in ten years gary? Will any of them hold up?

QOTD: I tried to get everyone to try the wines but I did lose a couple from the start. The arm twisting did work on some though.

Keep up the good work Gary. I will try to post more comments in 2008.
December 28, 2007

CHATrBox
The only arm-twisting necessary was my own seeing as how it is the holidays and I’ve been MIA for the past week. Between family, friends, snowboarding, and the self-induced food/wine coma I’ve been in it’s been difficult to get to the computer.

Not to cry it up too much, but if I could have ordered the Christmas pack to Washington State then, and only then would I have been 100% committed to watching the show Christmas eve. Unfortunately there’s no love for WA out of Jersey!

Lady bugs? Really?
December 28, 2007

J Crazy
Merry Holidays Gary. Couldn’t get the wine over here in Japan but had a wonderful Christmas with my wife and some close friends.
December 29, 2007

Karl Laczko
Bordeaux heavy episode, sounds nice, but so far these holidays I’ve kept away from that region.

QOTD – Nobody’s, I just watched a few days later!
December 29, 2007

kenny
All I want for christmas is a “Mott Link It Up” t-shirt!
I am drafting any one who will listen and watch.
Merry New Year and Happy Christmas.
December 30, 2007

Moose
Thanks for the Christmas pack GV. We did our family xmas yesterday. no arms were twisted as we’re all loyal vayniacs (sp?)… I even got the dead deer + cherries t-shirt for christmas… my wife said it screams sexy.

We joined you for thanksgiving, now for Christmas. GV, welcome to the family. It’s officially reached the status of tradition.
December 30, 2007

wannaBconnoisseur
At least you’re not partial to French wines GV!
December 31, 2007

Dan-o
No arm twisiting necessary. My wife and kids know that I am a Vayniac! They toss a little bit of guilt at me from time to time because I hunker down with head phones to watch the show.

I could not participate in the Christmas pack because I live in MA, bu don’t hold it against me (not a native).

All the best for a happy and healthy 2008!
December 31, 2007

Saubrey
Great as always! Hope your holidays were safe and happy!
December 31, 2007

Scott
Sorry for the late comment, but to get schedules to work out, we had christmas this weekend.
Six of us sniffy-sniffed and tasted the wines and then listened to each segment to compare our notes with yours. I told everyone that if you did not say you tasted white peaches all day on the white Graves I would stop watching the show. You left me with egg on my face and now I’m going to have to come up with a loophole so I can keep watching.
Great wines, lots of fun.
Thanks GV.
January 1, 2008

John B
Gary, thanks for the christmas pack. We’ve only had a chance to open the Chateau Moulin De Lavaud (last night) and it was quite good.

A little late, but happy holidays man! I’m looking forward to seeing what WLTV has in store for 08!
January 2, 2008

Pastafari Pirate
QOTD: ummm, nobody. Sorry. Nevertheless….. LINK IT UP, MOTT!!
January 4, 2008

Jeff Cleveland
QOTD: Unfortunately I wasn’t able to order the Christmas pack though I loved the idea. I’m in retail so I’m just watching this episode on January 4. Oh well, somebody’s got to do it.
January 5, 2008

Rhonda
QOTD: My fiance! We watched during halftime of the Steelers game, I needed a glass of wine as a life long Steelers fan. Thanks again for doing this it is RADOOL!!! I can’t wait for the next pack!
January 8, 2008

MtnCharlie
QOTD: Just getting caught up today. Just watching by myself But, my family had an awesome Christmas dinner. It was my wife and kids, my parents and my wife’s grandmother. Prime rib and a 1997 ZD Napa cabernet.
January 27, 2008

Sev
Watching with my girlfriend, who now thinks you are the greatest thing on the internet. Wish I had gotten the Christmas pack, but maybe next year. Thanks for everything Gary, Mott, and everyone else who makes the Thundershow happen. It definitely is something that makes me smile.
February 13, 2008

Valerie
QOTD: Didn’t twist any arms, I was sick with strep throat. Just now finished tasting the wines and really enjoyed the white.
March 9, 2008

Laura Wineland
Greetings GV from the members of Madison, WI’s W.A.S.T.E.D wine-tasting group. Here’s the tally from our 10-person Christmas-in-March Extravaganza:
We loved them all, but if we had to pick favorites:
#1: 5 of us
#2: 2, excellent value!
#3: 2 (our experts)
#4: 1

Thanks for the fabulous experience. We are now all craving Kit-Kats smothered in raspberry jam!
March 9, 2008

Kristen
Yay!!!! Thanks GV, we just did the tasting (and I’m part of the “experts” of the WASTED group)! The wines were awesome! And it was cool- I loved the white…I got a definite coconut taste on the mouthfeel! Thanks for the great wines!
March 15, 2008

Scott
with ya
June 24, 2008

Sev
I bought the Ch de callac a while back, and promised myself I would rewatch this episode when I opened it up. I love this wine! I just tried a rather pricy Sancerre, and I definitely like this a lot more. Going to check if it is still in stock, right now!
January 2, 2009

Dessert Wine Nerd
Merry Christmas a year late, Gary and everyone at WLTV! Thanks for another great episode even though the damn wine laws wouldnt allow me to do this with you even IF I caught this show a year ago. QOTD: No one, since I watched it by myself, though I dont think if I would have done with with my parents or friends they would have minded your wild antics.