Laid Back And Tired And When You Are Tired What Do You Drink? Xarel-lo, Of Course! – Episode #423

March 7, 2008

Twitter This Share on Facebook Email This

Gary Vaynerchuk tries to stay awake and talks about 3/29 and about Xarel-Lo.

Having trouble viewing this video? Try the Quicktime version.

Comments on this episode(160) Leave a comment ›

  • “QOTD: No, never have tried one. Dont recall ever seeing one either but…” by JeffC
  • “Yo Gee, never knew dat Xarel-lo existed !!??!
    Gonna have to try it so…” by wayno da wino
  • View all 160 ›

Wines tasted in this episode:

2006 Castell Roig Xarel-loOther Spanish White Wine play review at cork'd

Links mentioned in todays episode.

160 Responses

  1. March 7, 2008

    SS Chris

    This is my first 1st!!!!!

  2. March 7, 2008

    Stephen

    Sportin’ the t-shirt today, eh?

  3. March 7, 2008

    ValerieM

    QOTD: 1) Never even heard of Xarel-lo. Can’t wait to try it with crab legs, some day. 2) Not making it to WL on 3/29. :(

  4. March 7, 2008

    underivy

    QOTD: I’ve never had one. Sounds yummy though. I’ll have to remember to pick one up in my next order.

    QOTD2: I’m too far away to be able to go. I’ll send some thunder instead (COD).

  5. March 7, 2008

    Tom T.

    QOTD – yes I have had had a few Xarel-lo wines and also liked them a lot.
    QOTD2 – will try to make the party.

  6. March 7, 2008

    dank

    top-10, yea for sure..

  7. March 7, 2008

    Harley Stan

    top ten !!!!

  8. March 7, 2008

    Augustus

    top ten, too!

  9. March 7, 2008

    JonK

    Uh….. top ten?

    Yay?

  10. March 7, 2008

    hawkeyeoeno

    top ten, maybe, please….?

  11. March 7, 2008

    David Dickinson

    Top 1 (last one). Have a great weekend everyone!

  12. March 7, 2008

    Stan Vasily

    Sounds like a great value, I will pick some and give it a try.

  13. March 7, 2008

    Kevin Owen

    Glad to have you back on the couch.

  14. March 7, 2008

    Marshall

    QOTD: No and No

  15. March 7, 2008

    SS Chris

    QOTD #1: I’ve never even heard of Xarel-lo…so, NO!!

    QOTD #2: I’m coming…and I AM the Thunder!!!! :)

  16. March 7, 2008

    crank

    I’m in.

    QsOTD: No and I wish.

  17. March 7, 2008

    Tim Vining

    wow, top 20!!!

  18. March 7, 2008

    laurie in VT

    Another enlightening episode, thank you.
    I do, however, fully expect Mott to get his t-shirt! Before he’s old enough to retire, preferably! : )

    Q’sOTD: uh-uh and nope.

  19. March 7, 2008

    TheDumbPhase

    QOTD:

    Yes & Yes

  20. March 7, 2008

    Panosh

    QOTD: No & No
    Wish I could

  21. March 7, 2008

    Hido53

    QOTD: No (but I absolutely will seek it out!) & unfortunately not

  22. March 7, 2008

    JerseyGirl turned CNY vayniac

    QOTD:
    1-I’ve read about it in The Wine Bible, but have never tried it or seen it at tastings or in stores.
    2-Really really wish I could make it to the crazy-awesome event! Sounds like it’ll be amazing! Too bad I have a business trip that week!

  23. March 7, 2008

    Flamenco Girl

    I’ve actually has Xarel-Lo before. It was in a blend with another grape, but I can’t remember what off of the top of my head. I do remember it being tasty. Won’t be making it to your party. I’m sure it will be fun.

  24. March 7, 2008

    Karl

    QOTD #1 : Never even heard about Xarel-lo. And nothing available here at the SAQ (Montreal).
    QOTD #2 : Way to far for me…616 km from my place !

  25. March 7, 2008

    SoCal

    QOTD: No….I have not…..and no I can’t but I am coming in April but you will be gone :( but mott will be there :)

  26. March 7, 2008

    Kristen

    Awesome show! Thanks for Laid Back Friday!

    QOTD1: Never heard of it before, but I think it’ll be right up my alley!
    QOTD2: No! :,( It was a bit outta my price range for the tickets, rental car, and hotel. I’m thinking about making a pilgrimage to the Wine Lib in August though…

    And if I was there on 3/29, I’d *so* be bringing the Thunder!

  27. March 7, 2008

    VinoVixen

    QOTD: never have had Xarel-lo but just ordered some to try! Will not be making the party…take lots of pics

  28. March 7, 2008

    Cephalopunk

    QOTD: Yes, I have had Xarel-lo before; it’s awesome. You can find Xarel-lo from a DO called Alella in Spain under the local name Pansa Blanc – it has a little fatness, and is perfect for shellfish. I push the Marques de Alella at my tapas bar quite a bit. This is the grape that makes Cava unique. It can have a little pine needles on the nose and a great acidity. Segura Viudas is another good producer of Xarel-lo (from the Penedes or Catalunya.)

    QOTD 2: Maybe. I have to work all day, but maybe I can swap – it doesn’t help that this is my ‘money night’ as a waiter.

  29. March 7, 2008

    Palmer

    QOTD: I have had some Xarel’lo – on my day trip to Penedes last fall. Albet i Noya is my favorite producer over there and I think Can Feixes had a nice one too.

    Unfortunately can’t make it all the way to the right coast for 3/29, but I’m sending some friends your way…

  30. March 7, 2008

    EvanR

    QOTD: two no’s for me

  31. March 7, 2008

    Obama_Man

    I’ll be at WL on 3/29, is there anything happening in NYC afterwards?

    Never had one, but will surely seek one out!

  32. March 7, 2008

    Jeffrey

    %comments%

  33. March 7, 2008

    Neil

    QOTD 1: No
    QOTD 2: No
    QOTD 3: Thunder? Always.

  34. March 7, 2008

    Dr T from N. Carolina

    QOTD 1 — only in Cava
    QOTD 2 — alas, no

  35. March 7, 2008

    Fangorn81

    QOTD 1: No, never even seen it available, I’ll look next time.

    QOTD 2: No, maybe my dad will stop in!

    This is one of the best “phoned in” episodes I’ve seen. Woo!

  36. March 7, 2008

    Scott EJ

    qotd 1. I’m with Mott and have never heard of Xarel-lo. It’s now on my list w/Kosher wines, though.

    qotd 2. Would love to experience the Xanadu that is WL….but, will not be there. Please do a taping throughout the day, that would be awesome and would certainly put a flame under those who are on the fence to make it next time.

  37. March 7, 2008

    Dave Canada

    Never had a Xerelo……..
    I am so there for March 29th!!!!!
    Bringing serious Canadian THUNDER!!!!!! Watch out!!!

  38. March 7, 2008

    portland guy

    This was an episode?

  39. March 7, 2008

    Karl Laczko

    Xarel-lo????
    SQOTD – Nope, not heard of..
    Gary, I’m always going outside of the box…..and have you seen how big that box is??
    QOTD – Nope, not coming, you’ve already asked that on an earlier show, and I’m still not in the area…..sad……oh well…… :)

  40. March 7, 2008

    jason

    QOTD: never have heard of it.
    paty – ” if i could, i surely would, stand on the rock that moses stood”

  41. March 7, 2008

    Erica37

    QOTD: Never even heard of Xarl-Lo but now I gots to seek it out! And I wish I was coming to the Wine Library partay – but unfortunately my travel budget does not allow me to rock it. Pout…

  42. March 7, 2008

    Erica37

    I also wish I could spell… Xarel-lo. My bad.

  43. March 7, 2008

    Linderelli

    Short and sweet. QOTD: never had a Xarel-Lo but I do love Cava. D-lish. Sorry won’t be making it out to NJ for the Wine Lib fiasco. . . . the AW clique is awaiting your arrival on the West Coast for Taste Washington. We’ll see you in April.

  44. March 7, 2008

    KVolk

    QOTD: nope but thanks for the Z word………

  45. March 7, 2008

    JMAC

    Great show! Always bring THUNDER!

  46. March 7, 2008

    Nigel

    If I could, I would. But 3000 miles is a long way! Still If I did come I would bring a bottle of Frankenwein from Horst Sauer.

  47. March 7, 2008

    Doc Johnson

    Never heard of xarel-lo. sounds pretty awesome and will be watching for it.

    Wish my schedule would let me come out 3/29, but have an awesome time everybody!

  48. March 7, 2008

    musicmanryan

    Geez–I wish I could be there for what sounds like the greatest rager of the 21st Century, but I cannot justify the trip from Iowa to my wife. ;(

    I just added the Castell Roig to my wishlist. It sounds refreshing and delicious!

  49. March 7, 2008

    Scott S.

    Gary, the format of the show now has really taken an upward swing. Xarel-Lo, amazing you presented this. I suspect most of our group would have not heard of this wine. As I metioned in an earlier post I recently completed and passed the Exam for WSET Level 3 Advance certification in Wine and Spirits. I only know of this based on my studies. The Thunder Show has really transformed to great education. Hats off! and Thumbs up! Great Show.

  50. March 7, 2008

    Amir

    QOTD : No i have not had Xarel-lo. To answer question 2, I wish I could come but I live in Dubai. If you’re planning something in the summer, I could hopefully stop by.

  51. March 7, 2008

    Syrahhhhhhhhh

    QOTD:1 Never heard of it and now that I have I will hunt it down.
    QOTD:2 I wish. But, I do have my ticket to see you at Taste Washington in April and I have plans to make the trip to the mecca from Bainbridge Island and see you in August.

  52. March 7, 2008

    Chris in Tulsa

    Love starting out my weekend with a Laid Back Friday episode!
    QOTD 1: Never even heard of it and I read alot of wine books. Will add it along with the Kosher wines on my “Wines to try” list.
    QOTD 2: No but I wish!

  53. March 7, 2008

    charlie berg

    Answer to QOTD: Xarel-lo…rhymes with Lemoncello, sounds delicious, Gary thanks for the intro. I’m gonna try it. I’m scoping out airline tx.–it would be great to be there…

  54. March 7, 2008

    GottaGoDrink

    Q #1- Nope

    Q #2- No can do. Have a great time!

  55. March 7, 2008

    Sev

    QOTD1: No I have never tried xarel-lo, and have never heard of it. Sounds awesome though, I love the laser acidity!

    QOTD2: I am really working hard to come, but still not sure. Going to do my best!

  56. March 7, 2008

    Rani Haykal

    Great Show!!!

    QOTD: Nope, never even heard of xare-lo varietal, but definitely seek out for future consumption.

    No, Unfortunately I will not be able to make it on 3/29. I wish it was still 3/22 cuz then I would have definitely made it. But I do not have to be there to continue bringing the thunder cuz I bring it night and day no matter what.

    –Rani

  57. March 7, 2008

    Utah

    Tried it? I haven’t heard of it! But it sounds right up my alley. I love a nice clean tasting white in the summertime, and I’ve been digging spain in a major way.

    And, of course, in for the 29th, definitely. North Jersey, no excuses!

  58. March 7, 2008

    DavidB

    Wow – I thought your head was going to explode! Nice! QOTD: #1 – no i have never had one but will seek something along those line sout soon.
    QOTD: #2 – Nope, but wish like heck I could get a flight out there for some of the fun, maybe next year…

  59. March 7, 2008

    billyg

    QsOTD: No and No. Unless I had one as a house wine in Barcelona and didn’t know it.

  60. March 7, 2008

    Siggi From Iceland

    QOTD: Yeah I have had Xarel-lo from Torres, called Nerola which is a mix of Xarel-lo and Garnacha Blanca. Never clean Xarel-lo tho. And no:( sorry Gary not now, but someday I will make the trip to NJ to see your store.

  61. March 7, 2008

    brorjace

    I’ve had Xarel-Lo, but not by itself. In cava of course, and a few other blends.

    Would like to come, stuck in the plains of illinois though.

  62. March 7, 2008

    Marc

    QOTD: 1. Nope 2. Nope (but I wish I could!)

  63. March 7, 2008

    Dave

    never heard of it, but I have hear of Xango (http://www.xango.com/). Apparently it’s sold using the pyramid scheme/multilevel marketing…

  64. March 7, 2008

    MattUD

    1. Nope, I plan on looking for it though.
    2. Yes, I plan on being there, and how can you not bring the thunder..isn’t that the whole point?

  65. March 7, 2008

    JonE

    Welcome back to the laid back. Great choice,I think Castell Roig is a great producer.

    QOTD: Yes I’ve had Xarel-lo. Mostly by way of Cava.

    QOTD2: Crying in my coffee I can’t make it.

  66. March 7, 2008

    RichE

    QOTD:
    NO: I’ve never had a Xarel-lo. Thanks GV for the info
    Yes: Making a road trip to WL on 3/29.
    – I’m bringing (2) additional part-time Vaniac’s and some THUNDER.

  67. March 7, 2008

    shawnandlu

    Xerel-lo, as a matter of fact my wife and I drank a case last summer. There is a little wine shop near our condo that sells unusual wines. I was walking by and the guy who works there told me I had to try it. The one I had was a Basque wine. I figured what the heck they sure as hell know how to cook so they must drink good wines. We loved it and went back and bought the rest of the case. The one we had showed a little sweetness, but not too much with some great flavors. And oh my, did it go great with Spanish food!

  68. March 7, 2008

    Dan A

    Never had xarel-lo, but will be looking for it for sure! Sorry, can’t make it on the 29th…

    I’m having the controvertial Mike Weir right now… I totally agree on the crazy tannins and get the concrete dust aspect! I’ll be trying the 20-some hour decanting to see… Already opening up after 3hrs decanting

    Cheers!

  69. March 7, 2008

    Anthony L.

    No never tried Xerol before and Yes I will be attending the party on 3/29

  70. March 7, 2008

    pearl

    gary i think mott needs a night off or a raise. he looked pretty beat last night when i saw him picking up my net order last night.

  71. March 7, 2008

    grape expectations

    QOTD Part the first: No, I haven’t. Never even heard of it before this episode. But now I’ll be on the lookout.
    QOTD Part the second: No, but I really wish I was . . . See you at Taste Washington, though.

  72. March 7, 2008

    kaybee

    Never heard of it before, thanks, will try to find.

    QoTd
    Can’t come on March 29th but it sounds like fun!

  73. March 7, 2008

    Ben F

    Great week of shows GV I never even heard of Xarel-Lo, so no i never had one…. I am going to try like heck to get down to Mecca on the 29th… There are some major things going on in my life so it is tough to give a definite answer now… I would be coming from Reading PA 2 hours away…

  74. March 7, 2008

    Tooch

    hey gary -

    never had a Xarel-Lo before, will be ordering some to give it a try.

    should be there on 3/29 with the rest of the Latuchie family. 3-4 of us total I think. not sure if we’ll do the restaurant after 3pm, may just head back to Edison for some bagels and lox (the Latuchie favorite).

  75. March 7, 2008

    Withnail

    QsOTD: No and no. (Urging friends in NYC to attend.)

  76. March 7, 2008

    E

    Q1: No, unless you’re counting Cava, but I loved the Lorenzon ribolla gialla if that’s any consolation.
    Q2: I can’t, I have my own charity wine shindig to throw!

  77. March 7, 2008

    ChrisR

    QOTD: I’m coming out from Tucson, AZ to the Dirty Jerz on 3/29 … to attend a wedding :( Guess where else in Jersey I’d rather be that day? Yup, at the fantastical WineLibrary mecca :(

  78. March 7, 2008

    Bill & Wendy Wilcox

    I’ve never heard of Xarel-Lo, no surprise. But, Wendy has never even heard of Xarel-Lo, BIG surprise. However, we are sitting back with a Chardonnay (K) by Viña Luis Felipe Edwards Ltda. Its a 2006 Terra Vega Chardonnay, Bin No 921 from Central Valley, Chile… peaches, long plate, some acidity, a little sweet. Dynamite with our local Quebec cheese of the evening… a creamy, slightly salty, “Fou Du Roy” (Kings Jester) made for raw cow’s milk.

    Looks very good for Wendy and I to be there for the 29 March. I have set Friday and Monday aside as travel days. Saturday, WL and all our Vayner nation friends to-be and Sunday to poke around NJ and points North.

    If you can book Wendy and I for the after WL restaurant that would be fantastic.

    We will now start the search for an interesting Canadian wine to share with all… hopefully something no one out side of Quebec ever tried.

    I guess we could used a recommendation on a nearby Motel.

    That’s it. Fun episode!

    Wendy and Bill

  79. March 7, 2008

    pete c

    Nyet!, Da!, Da!

  80. March 7, 2008

    xtrmtk

    QOTD1: Nope, never had a Xarel Lo, it’s going on my to-do list.

    QOTD2: I wish, but I’m doing a winery tour in Argentina that week.

  81. March 7, 2008

    Nathan

    QOTD: Never even heard of Xarel-lo before today. I would love to come to the wine library but unfortunately im too far away and my vacation is for the week prior.

  82. March 7, 2008

    mrzitro

    Top 85
    QOTD: no. no.

  83. March 7, 2008

    Chippewamike

    QOTD 1: Never even heard of Xarel-Lo but will seek it out this weekend.

    QOTD 2: Can’t be there–NCAA regional final tics here in Detroit!

    Have a great weekend and thanks for a fabulous show.

  84. March 7, 2008

    JC

    QOTD:1)No, sounds good though.2)Maybe, can’t commit,but I’ll definitely stop by the store Saturday.

  85. March 7, 2008

    jaye

    Soooo, is an hour-long drive considered out-of-town enough to get in on the Basilicos thing? Would love to join if space available for me. Making this my birthday present since my birthday is on 3/30.

  86. March 7, 2008

    mastertchris

    Nope never heard of it, but will add it to my list.
    Not gonna make it on the 29th, pretty long haul from the bayou down here. Hope to stop by with my thunder during my late July road trip though.
    I want to see Mott’s tees linked up soon!

  87. March 7, 2008

    Rob D

    Showin’ some love for Flair!! Love it!

    Thanks man!

  88. March 7, 2008

    C-Lo

    Nice show GV. My grandfather was Catalan, so I’m excited to try this wine in his honor (which leads to the QOTD: no I haven’t tried it). Wish I could come on March 29, but I have prior commitments in Michigan and Atlanta that weekend. Just promise you’ll do another event soon! Keep it real.

  89. March 7, 2008

    Taylor

    loving the the episode!
    QOTD I havent had a xarel-lo, but i am trying to expand my white wine palate, I would really like yo make it to the party and most likely will and i am deff bringing the THUNDER wether I’m there or not!

  90. March 7, 2008

    tuscanbob

    Great show…thought you were going to fire that glass of wine right through my screen.

    I’ve had Xarel-lo but only the bubbly…spanish cava rocks and is a reeeeedonkulus value compared to champagne. I have not had any still Xarel-lo yet but certainly will. Love albarinos and rieslings so it sounds like it’s up my alley.

    The 29th sounds like a blast but I just can’t swing it….too busy bro.

  91. March 7, 2008

    ChezJosh

    Q1: Does it count if it’s in the form of cava and blended with other grapes? If so, yes. If not, no.

    Q2: Sorry, Gary.

  92. March 8, 2008

    nougat

    Yes, I ain’t never not had a Xarelo (No). I am definitely going to try hard to not miss and maybe even make it to the event on 3/29 that I am looking forward to attempting to be at (Maybe).

  93. March 8, 2008

    Fred

    QOTD:Have a ball, people!

    Nice weekend.:)

  94. March 8, 2008

    J Crazy

    Can’t get out stateside for the bash but will definitely have a few glasses on the day and be there in spirit (inebriated spirit).

    Xarel-lo and me are down when it’s in Cava but haven’t had it as a still wine. Must search it out and expand my palate.

  95. March 8, 2008

    Marc

    QOTD1: Yes!! I’ve tried Xarel.lo before! it’s from my beloved homeland Catalunya!! :) (I just feel a little nostalgic and also proud when I see you presenting Catalan wines…)
    There is an organic wine producer, Albet i Noya, which has a 100% Xarel.lo and a Xarel.lo-Chardonnay blend. Also I’ve tried it in cava (although I’m not a big fan of sparkling).

    QOTD2: I’d love to come, but NJ is a bit far from SoCal (also, having a 6-month old baby makes traveling a bit difficult :S)

    Hugs from Irvine and thanks thanks thanks thanks thanks… 999,999 thanks for the show!!!

  96. March 8, 2008

    Yoni Rabkin

    QOTD1: nope.
    QOTD2: …nope.

  97. March 8, 2008

    OregonMike

    QOTD- Haven’t even heard of it, and I even worked at a Spanish restaurant for awhile!
    Out of curiousity, is it grown anywhere outside of Spain, or is that the only place to get the X hook-up?

  98. March 8, 2008

    Craig Rost

    I have not even heard of Xarel-Lo. I am sorry I can’t make it. I am starting a new job on Monday.

  99. March 8, 2008

    Medo

    Very good show! I had some Xarel-Lo as I went down to Spain last year. Good stuff, but prefered the Verdejo’s and Albarino’s to Xarel-Lo.

    #2 No, unfortunately not… NJ is a bit toooo far away from Frankfurt, Germany.. even there are direct flights th NY.

  100. March 8, 2008

    BruceP

    I have not had a Xarrel-lo before. Sounds good though. Unfortunately I will not be at the big WLTV bash. Too far to come from California, and I travel too much for work already. hope everyone has a great time. The Vayniac parties here in SF have always been good fun.

  101. March 8, 2008

    Ryan

    if that’s u tired, i’d hate 2 C U with energy
    1=no
    2=no

  102. March 8, 2008

    Katherine

    1: Never heard of it. Don’t think I can use it in Scrabble, either… it has a hyphen and is a foreign word.
    2: Sorry, can’t come. Vivian sends her regards.

  103. March 8, 2008

    YoungDave

    QOTD 1: Only in Cava
    QOTD 2: If it weren’t 3000 miles away, you KNOW I’d be there. See you on the west coast soon enough and BEST with the Vayniac bash!

  104. March 8, 2008

    Michael DeFino

    I have had Xarello quite a few times and have had it in a blend with Chardonay. Great wine!!!!!

  105. March 8, 2008

    Sharon

    Hope you’re having fun at SXSW!
    QOTD1: Nope, but it sounds excellent! I’m up to 46 varietals.
    QOTD2: Yup! We already booked hotel and yours truly is driving!

  106. March 8, 2008

    MrJCG1

    Gary,

    Fun show.

    QOTD1: Have not tried one. Will definitely pick one up.

    QOTD2: Will definitely be there on the 22nd….errrr 28th….errr 29th. Yeah, that’s the ticket.

    BTW: If you need any help with your Fantasy Draft, let me know. I was the CDM/USA Today’s $20,000 winner in 2001. Here’s my tip of the day for you…Hanley Ramirez…Good? Absolutely…Top 5 pick as touted by several mags? No way.

  107. March 8, 2008

    redfrog

    QOTD: I am there……. Hopefully, rolling deep, car pooling of course, but the Thunder will be in tow!!!!!

    Never the Xarel-Lo, but I will give it a test drive.

  108. March 8, 2008

    LarryTheWineGuy

    I Have enjoyed Many Xarellos With Shellfish…Great Crisp Grape…. You forgot to mention that most people have tasted Xarello in some form as it is one of the 3 basic grapes in Spanish Cavas even the crappy Freixnet. Cavas or Spanish Sparklers are made from Xarello, Parallada and Macabeo. I think Ruedas should be next and taste some Nice Sauvignon Blanc Like Verdejos…also very Fish Friendly!!

  109. March 8, 2008

    Martin

    That’s double no for me, maybe next year?

  110. March 8, 2008

    J-Pipes

    QOTD: Only if I can figure out how to get safely back across the border ;)

  111. March 8, 2008

    Scoot70

    1) Never had it, but will try it….
    2) Wish I could be there but can’t.

    My QOTD- Who cleans up your wine spillage?

  112. March 8, 2008

    Dominick Mack

    I will most definitely be there on 3/29!

  113. March 8, 2008

    Bill

    1. not yet but looking forward to it.
    2. cannot make it; I’ll be in Northern Italy.

  114. March 8, 2008

    Steve B

    QOTD #1: No.
    QOTD #2: Yes! and Yes!

  115. March 8, 2008

    Jim in Atlanta

    1. I believe I have had one because I have gone to a lot of Spanish wine tastings. And I enjoy Cava.
    2. Sorry I can’t make it. Sounds like great fun.

  116. March 8, 2008

    Sassodoro

    QOTD1. Yep, I have had it, but not many.

    QOTD2. I wish I could come, but I can’t make it. Have a great time!

  117. March 8, 2008

    half century

    Qotd; never heard of it but it’s on order
    Qotd; absolutely!!!

  118. March 8, 2008

    Rajiv A

    QOTD1: YES!!!! I’ve had that exact wine at a store tasting (pton corkscrew) a month ago. My notes were also pretty close to yours! Which is a HUGE encouragement for me in developing my palate:

    CastellRoig Xarel-lo 2006:
    NOSE: Good fruit, warm stones, some yeast (the winemaker said they ferment for 6 months), some ripe pear, slight apricot.
    PALATE: Clean, crisp, slightly sweet, but with excellent balancing acidity. Light body, nervoux acidity. Focused. Clean, fresh lemon finish. Long. $16. 85pts.

    I got STONES and APRICOT just like the V-man himself!

    QOTD2: Look out GV. Look out Vayniacs. A massive Princeton contingent may show up!!!

  119. March 8, 2008

    thefanjestic

    Qotd: Nevef even heard of this wine until this episode! And I love that, because it makes me feel like I haven’t even scratched the surface of wines! I don’t want to go into reruns on varietals just yet! Thanks GV!

  120. March 8, 2008

    Dean D.

    QOTD: never had xarel-lo before. Never even heard of it before. Now I’m off on a search to see if I can source this locally in BC.

  121. March 8, 2008

    Surekat

    QOTD1: nope, but will put it on my “to drink” list.

    QOTD2: nope, and i can’t even pretend to put it on my “to do” list.

  122. March 8, 2008

    Robin C

    QOTD: First time to hear of Xarel-lo and will look for it if I can remember the spelling. Just picked up a Panarroz Tinto and a Can Blau (carignon, syrah and grenache). Looking forward to trying them.

  123. March 8, 2008

    NADINE

    Hey Gary,

    You know I love Spain and I love sea food so just the other day I made a home made paella sort of, lol It wasn’t exactly the same but we had Argentinian white wine and now that I know the white is good as well, especially this particular Xarel-Lo one …. will definately seek it out, thanks for bringing it to our attention, have a great weekend :)

  124. March 8, 2008

    Dan Mc

    Haven’t tried any Xarel-lo yet, but have heard of it. Looking forward to it.

    Sorry I don’t have the money to fly up to the mecca for March 29th, wish I could!

    Loved the energy on today’s show!

  125. March 8, 2008

    amgryger

    QOTD: Only in cava.

    I will be coming on 3-29, but I am not sure if i will be there for Basilicos.

  126. March 8, 2008

    LauraG

    QOTD 1 – Only in Cava, but it’s on the list now.

    QOTD 2 – Hmmm… I’ve got a boatload of frequent fliers, and am becoming SO tempted…

  127. March 8, 2008

    Achilleas in Cyprus

    QOTD1: Nope, never had a Xarel-lo

    QOTD2: If you weren’t 5500 miles or so away, then I would definitely be there. Hope all goes well – wil be there in spirit if not in person.

  128. March 8, 2008

    Susan

    Gary & Mott- QOTD# 1: no; #2 would like to but no. Getting ready to start new job………………………………….. :)

  129. March 8, 2008

    Lisa Poplawski

    Led here from Brian Solis’ post on you and social media from his PR 2.0 site http://www.briansolis.com/index.htm. Brilliant show!! and even more brilliant concept, energy and use of social media. Just wanted to say what an inspiration this show is for niche industry social media. Thank you!! Already have my dad following!

  130. March 9, 2008

    lynelle

    never

  131. March 9, 2008

    Matt

    QOTD: Xarel-lo? Never even heard of it before this show but i will be seeking it out. Isn’t that what its all about?

    QOTD deux: unfortunatley, not this time. Having a big dinner party here in big-D that night. But i’ll be serving WL wines all night and wishing I was there!

  132. March 9, 2008

    Rajiv A

    Gary,

    There is definitely a contingent coming from Princeton. As of now it could be 5 peeps, or 25 peeps. It would be AWESOME if we could come to the 3-5 tasting. Either way, we’ll be representin’.

    -Rajiv

  133. March 9, 2008

    Joel M

    Never had the grape, unfortunately. Sounds refreshing. Yes, I am coming. Will be trying to bring others with me from upstate NY, Albany area.

  134. March 9, 2008

    Kirk (AKA: slave2thevine)

    QOTD: I actually had this very wine about a month ago at a tasting here in Maine. As for my attempt to come to the 29th…things are not looking like this will happen. There was a recent loss in my family that is going to require all of my spare change saved up to make this trip that will reroute me to Orlando for a funeral instead.

  135. March 9, 2008

    Kdawg

    I’ve had cava’s, but I’ve never had a pure Xarel-lo on it’s own. I’ll definitely check to see if my store has any

    as far as the 29th, not gonna be there cause the chicago crew is representing with the judgement of chicago tasting at LFF’s :)

  136. March 9, 2008

    Danny C

    QOTD:

    No to the Xarel-Lo

    And unfortunately no to 3/29…gonna be out of town.

  137. March 9, 2008

    Eric Gardner

    Glad to see Castell Roig again. Got a few bottles after seeing it on an earlier WLTV episode. Great stuff. There are so many Cavas, and such a huge difference in their quality, that it’s nice to get some help picking. When they’re good, they’re very very good, and when they’re bad…

  138. March 9, 2008

    Grapedigger

    Fun episode! Never had a Xarel-lo! Our wine monopole in Quebec (SAQ) does not carry this variety!! Next time I visit the US I’ll try to fetch one. Cheers

  139. March 9, 2008

    SeaBass

    Marking the 29th in my calendar. Looking forward to the first road trip to the Wine Library! Will be coming up from exit 8a. Giddyup!

  140. March 9, 2008

    JayZee

    QOTD: 1) Nope, I’ve never even heard of Xarel-lo. I definitely will have to try it though. Come to think of it, since I was in Barcelona last summer, perhaps I *did* try it – I just can’t recall. 2) Nope, I’ll be flying over to Geneva Switzerland on business that day. I’ll be with you all in spirit and I REALLY wanted to be there with you all. Major bummer!!! 3) I will bring the Thunder in spirit. :-)

  141. March 9, 2008

    agentorange

    QOTD 1: No. (we will though…)

    QOTD 2: No. (Wish we could…)

  142. March 9, 2008

    Brad -73-

    never had a xarel-lo
    I did have my first cab franc today though. (wine noob)

    before WLTV I’d walk in and grab a RED sutter or gallo.
    did’nt really matter.
    after WLTV I’m bouncing around the store like a pinball
    trying all kinds of wine.
    thanks gary

    3-29-08
    YES!
    Coming down from She-boy-gan, (sheboygan,WI)
    to visit the Vay-ner-chuk!

  143. March 10, 2008

    Jason Bonds

    Haven’t had a xarel-lo.
    Trying to work out a way to get out for the tasting; juggling the schedule.

  144. March 10, 2008

    jp

    thanks G ill seek this one out and give it a sniffy snif, whirl, and woo-bah

  145. March 10, 2008

    Chris D

    QOTD – never heard of it and sounds tricky to say. You keep pulling out new varietals on us, thanks for that !
    QOTD2 – I don’t think so but it sounds like a lot of fun….and I could squeeze in a trip to see my parents….hmmmm

  146. March 10, 2008

    Mr.Ambassador

    Following the great advice to sample new varieties whenever possible; haven’t tried a Xarel-Lo yet.

    Really wish I could take the time off work and visit Wine Library (any plans on opening a west coast branch?).

    Cheers!

  147. March 10, 2008

    Keith L

    Looking forward to trying this one

  148. March 10, 2008

    Kevin Carpenter

    yeah, never even heard of it..it’s my next buy for sure

  149. March 10, 2008

    Ryan D

    QotD: No yes and absolutely!!

  150. March 10, 2008

    Sam Paes

    QOTD #1:I had xerello, once or twice.
    QOTD #2:Nope, not flying from Brazil on that day :-(

  151. March 10, 2008

    Andy & Edie

    Never even heard of Xarel-lo, but we are fans of Sancerre so it sounds like it’s worth seeking out. Wish we could go to your shindig but it’s tax season and Edie’s a CPA so we don’t do much until after April 15th. Sounds like fun though!

  152. March 10, 2008

    Lindsey

    I have had xarel-lo, but never 100% in a non-sparkler. It´d be great to see you feature txakoli from the Basque Country.

    03.29 – wish I could :(

  153. March 10, 2008

    jwhi

    the plans are set: will definately attend the big event on the 29th. bringing 3 special guests along, staying the night, and gonna live it up! We’ll be trekking in from down south (South Jersey.)

  154. March 10, 2008

    SaraMHCRU

    never heard of it but now i’d love to try it!

    definitely going to attempt to make it to the party, but not sure yet.

  155. March 10, 2008

    donna marie

    Have had Cava, but not a still Xarel-lo. Definitely worth seeking out. Can make the 3/29 party after 1:00 pm (have to work) hopefully if there’s parking, I will bring some thunder if the party’s still going on.

  156. March 10, 2008

    MtnCharlie

    QOTD1: I have not had Xarel-lo. It’s now on my list!
    QOTD2: Sorry, not going to be able to make it on the 29th.

  157. March 10, 2008

    DARREL LAS VEGAS

    Never had Xarel-Lo (hard to find out here in VEGAS)

    Lets try PORTUGAL next, those funky port grapes make some great wines.

  158. March 10, 2008

    Glen... winecrazy.com

    Never had one of those.

    But I will now..!!!

    :)

  159. March 10, 2008

    wayno da wino

    Yo Gee, never knew dat Xarel-lo existed !!??!
    Gonna have to try it sometime!! Moooochooo Thanx for da Ongoing
    Education on the different Wine Varietals!!!

    QOTD: Would Loooove to be there with Y’all, but unfortunately gonna
    be tied up here in California with several things in da “fire”…….
    Will be there in “Spirit”, though…….. :)

  160. March 10, 2008

    JeffC

    QOTD: No, never have tried one. Dont recall ever seeing one either but will seek out and try. March 29th, sorry, no. I will be there is in mind and spirit though and you can bet I will be tasting some wine that day.

    Thanks again, another great show.