The Thunder Returns And 3 Wines Get Put To The Test

The Thunder Returns And 3 Wines Get Put To The Test – Episode #426

March 19, 2008

Gary Vaynerchuk returns and tries 3 wines and has a lot to talk about and keeps MOTT very busy with lots of “link it ups.”

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Comments on this episode(698) Leave a comment ›

“QOTD: Kuehn-Schiele, 2004 Alsace, Gewurztraminer. I think it had an ar…” by richardvinifera
“Welcome back Gary ( funny me saying this since its 9 months or so old …” by Dessert Wine Nerd
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Wines tasted in this episode:

2005 Luna Freakout ReserveNapa White Meritage
Hedges Columbia Red CmsWashington Red Meritage
2001 Bodegas Balcona Partal 1Other Spanish Red Wine

Links mentioned in todays episode.

698 Responses

March 19, 2008

Andy & Edie
Welcome Back Gary!
March 19, 2008

dank
welcome back to your comfortable and well-deserved chair/spot-light..
March 19, 2008

musicmanryan
New episode–yeah!!!

Now I can turn that frown upside-down!
March 19, 2008

Fangorn81
CMS!! Finally a wine I have had already! Can’t wait to see what you think…

IF THIS WILL EVER LOAD!

Ok, wait, it is working!
March 19, 2008

NeutralAngel
Welcome back Gary!!
March 19, 2008

jp
Welcome back gman- we all missed you
had to say this- TOP10!
looking forward to lots of updates from your travels
now go hug everybody!
March 19, 2008

Ian
Yes! It’s back!
March 19, 2008

BlahGeeTsa
Love it. Welcome back from France!
March 19, 2008

KW
Good to have you back!
March 19, 2008

jason
top 10
good to see you back
March 19, 2008

Achilles Mike
We missed you big time. More thunder!!!
March 19, 2008

Hinrgman
GV great to have you back
March 19, 2008

Bigsigar
Well, my Jedi-powers must be on the fritz, ’cause as much as I willed the Force to have my name come out of that envelope….

Glad to see you back! Great show.

QOTD: The Ercavio (red) that a friend reccommended from WL. Brought the thunder BIG TIME, especially for 8 bones. Tasty!
March 19, 2008

Ozzybeef
QOTD: Patricia Green Pinot – brought the thunder…Had a bottle last night playing music with my father in law. Had a great time! Thanks for the tip.
March 19, 2008

purplejuicebruce
QOTD … yesterday was my birthday and I had a bottle of Barossa Valley
Layer Cake Shiraz and yes it brought the thunder
March 19, 2008

jaredlevy
Gary, great episode today. Def brought the thunder.

QOTD: Ravenswood Zen of Zins 2004(?), yesterday.
March 19, 2008

David Dadekian
QOTD: The last wine I had was a Schlink Haus Nahe Spatlese 2005. It started out great, but wow was the finish awkward (way too much grapefruit) so I’d say it was a pazzzz.
March 19, 2008

Andy & Edie
Purplejuicebruce, I also just had the Layer Cake, that’s crazy!! It is really good isn’t it. So glad to have you back Gary. Looks like you’re excited to be back too. Great episode!!
March 19, 2008

TeelaJBrown
Man you are on fire today!

QOTD: last wine I had was a 2005 Wall Cellars Cab. Only a little thunder on the first glass, but after a couple of hours decanting, I was a happy little Vayniac.
March 19, 2008

David Kaye
QOTD: The last wine I had was the Sprucewood Shores Estate Pinot Noir 2005 from Lake Erie North Shore (Ontario, Canada). It definitely brought the thunder.
March 19, 2008

Fred
Gary…last night I had two glasses of Charles Creek Miradero Merlot 2002…very nice..just a hint of Oak Monstor..very nice..slept very well….would love a new wrist band….

Fred in ORYGUN
March 19, 2008

Malphas
QotD: The last wine I had was a bottle of sake with a friend. I think it brought the thunder because of the good company and good food that was served with it. It was the kind of wine that puts a good moment into a great experience.
March 19, 2008

rollo
This is like christmas: finaly a new episode… welcome back.
March 19, 2008

Chris S
Finally, I am caught up with the show and you are back! The two shows without you were alright but definitely not as good as the Thunder Show.

QOTD: I last had a 2004 Golden Kaan Shiraz, last Friday. It was a little bit too light and weak for me, but the overall flavor profile reminded me of a Chipotle burrito and that was cool. I just wish it was stronger. A pazzzzz from me.

I, for one, wouldn’t be up in arms about seeing the points scoring go. Not that I hate them, but in the end they’re pretty meaningless like you’ve said. Either way, the show rocks and I’m glad you’re back, Gary V!
March 19, 2008

Randy
Gary,

Long time no watch! Love the energy, but man, I worry about you bursting into flame sometimes…

QOTD: Last wine I had from the Sonoma barrel tasting weekend was Kaz Winery’s “Trixie’s Secret” using the Nebbiolo Rosa grape. Made like a red (i.e. on skins, etc.) but doesn’t get any darker than a pink wine. Tasted nice, better than some traditional pinks I’ve had in the last year. Gets me in the mood for the sum-sum-summertime to come.

Rock on brother!
March 19, 2008

Fangorn81
QOTD: La Vieille Ferme – Cotes du Ventoux (2005-06?) Yes, totally brought the thunder for the price – $8!! I had this yesterday with a friend and even got him to throw out some flavors he was getting: mushrooms, copper, green pepper, dirty fruit, great stuff, evolved well and had a good lingering finish…

It wasn’t the best thing ever but I am DEFINITELY gonna get more at that price!
March 19, 2008

Bob W.
GV – GREAT show!! Glad you’re back!

QOTD: Had a glass of a local (S. IL) wine last nite: BlueSky Niagara
March 19, 2008

Chris S
I forgot to mention that I’m pretty psyched about the wine packs. I had already planned for April 1st to be a good day but that’ll make it even better.
March 19, 2008

musicmanryan
Now that I have watched the episode I will answer the QOTD–

Sonoma Cutrer Chardonnay I think it was the Sonoma Coast

It was drinkable, but not a whole lot of thunder…

Great episode! Looking forward to April Fools’ Tasting!
March 19, 2008

Ryan D
QotD: Tamaya Pink Goat Syrah Rose 2006. It did bring a little bit of thunder. Relatively complex flavors, still not as dry as I wanted but the recommendation of the wine store guy was a good one.
March 19, 2008

drew
Welcome back GV.
March 19, 2008

JLaRosee
QOTD: Bootleg Southern Red: waxy, off-kilter, finished that tastes like strawberry vomit and compost. And get this, the second drink was worse. Completely undrinkable. Sorry, Bootleg!
March 19, 2008

DaveJ
QOTD: Remo Farina Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2005. I had this at a nice Italian restaurant and enjoyed it very much. I like some of the Valpolicella’s made using the ripasso method. It was around mid $30’s at the restaurant so I’m guessing you could probably buy for approx $15 – $20?? Have you done any of the ripasso Valpolicella’s for WLTV? I have a Romano Dal Forno I’m saving for a special occasion.

Love the show and watch everyday even though I confess to lurker status most of the time.
March 19, 2008

brent
QOTD: Willakenzie Estate Pinot Gris ‘06. Somewhere in between thunder and pazz… haven’t had enough Pinot gris from Willamette to judge QPR. (around 18$)
March 19, 2008

J-Pipes
QOTD: 2006 Yvon Mau Vin de Pays du Comte Tolosan
And it brought… well, like a 90% chance of showers, but I wouldn’t say it brought “the THUNDER” But ’s allright…

ya know… I still don’t have that new wristband….. Can I, can I, pleeeease?
March 19, 2008

Freddy the mustache
Gary, -(lurking mode off)- last night it was Torremoron tempranillo an estate bottled 2006 from Ribera del Duero. Going to see if it got better overnight… -(lurking mode on)
March 19, 2008

steve-o
following santagaryvee!!

no good tho, I live in MA. Hope I can still get a new wristy out of it (my first ed. is trashed)

QOTD:RELAX reisling….just a fun off dry thing. not remarkable.

OH and word up to hedges, I worked just around the corner from them…REPRESENT RED MOUNTAIN!
March 19, 2008

Dr T from N. Carolina
Welcome back — next time leave a note onhow long you’ll be gone so we don’t have to guess!

QOTD — 2005 Gulfi Cerasuolo di Vittoria, $13.98/86 pts. Not a great QPR, but I think the perfect balance of this red would make it a great intoductory wine for novices
March 19, 2008

Colin Devroe
I don’t want to see you with no comments, or not enough anyway, and so this is me – commenting, that I’m glad you’re back – and glad that you’re able to get a lot of stuff up and going again. Nice!!
March 19, 2008

elmattador
It’s funny you’re doing the FREAKOUT cause i see that a tasting i’m going to is going to have it there. Will watch the episode when i get home from work. Glad to see you back!!
March 19, 2008

billyg
QOTD: My homemade Shiraz (Washington fruit). Give it 82 points but a great QPR.
March 19, 2008

Carolyn
Welcome Back!!

QOTD – Robert Sinskey Pinot Blanc. It totally brought the thunder!!

Here’s a wine request for you – Ferrante Golden Bunches from the Grand River Valley. You shouldn’t have to look too far….It must still be in your office (or Ian’s)……!!!!!
March 19, 2008

NeutralAngel
QOTD: 2004 Chateau D’Aiguilhe Querre. I decanted half the bottle for a couple of hours before enjoying it last night… Not bad, but definitely too oaky for my taste. I’m surprised it wasn’t too oaky for you, Gary! The other half of the bottle sat open over night, and I just poured a glass of it… much better than last night, but still quite oaky. This wine is a pass for me right now, but I have another bottle, and look forward to seeing how it has changed a few more years down the road.
March 19, 2008

lawschooldrunk
welcome back! we missed you!
March 19, 2008

Adam Altman
QOTD – 2005 Wrongo Dongo Jumilla

It was very forward and delicious and had a very interesting dried fruit component. It was nothing spectacular and a bit simple but for 7$ it was well worth it.
March 19, 2008

Erica37
GV – I’m not even a lurker and I don’t have a wrist band! What up with that, huh?

QOTD: I shared a bottle of Skylite Cellars 2005 Big Red Hiney with the Big Bear, Zeb Walter. Normally Big Bear isn’t a fan of the vino – and he LOVED this wine so it totally brought the thunder in one respect… but then for me, not so much. A mild rain storm for me…
March 19, 2008

Tooch
QOTD: The last wine I had was Domaine Les Hautes Noelles – Muscadet Cotes de Grandlieu 2004. Was wondering around a BevMo yesterday and decided to pick out something I’d never heard of before. Solid wine, if I had to rate it, I’d got with a 86.

Glad to have you back on the show!
March 19, 2008

WPROC
Dos Cabezas 2004 Red from Southern AZ. It brought it and was very impressive.
March 19, 2008

KVolk
Gary V in the HOUSE!!!! Good to see you again and bringing the Thunder!!

QOTD: I was able to try a white and red from the Rhone valley with Lunch today. Neither to exciting but just finding them in a restaurant here was staggering to say the least.
March 19, 2008

on the lake
qotd: louis jadot chateau st jacque moulin a vent
March 19, 2008

JimChem
Monday I had a Albarino by Salneval. It was outstanding at $12. Tanzer gave it an 88 and I agree.

Jim

BTW – Hedges has been a long time favorite of mine.
March 19, 2008

StephRN
I’ve been lurking so I thought I’d comment and say ‘hi’. The last thing I had was Red Truck. Honestly, I bought it because I liked the label. Isn’t that sad?
March 19, 2008

DaveyDonut
Nice to have you back…

QOTD: 2005 Enzo Boglietti Barbera d’Alba Roscaleto. No, it didn’t bring the thunder…

3/17/2008 rated 88 points: Decanted two and a half hours. Color is very dark purple with some ruby, similar to their Dolcetto Tiglineri. Nose is showing some dark fruit, tree bark, and fennel seed. Mouthfeel is very modern, showing lots of dark fruit. Finish is fairly short and showing quite a bit of the generic fruit, and some bark, with light dryness and light tannins. This is fairly delicious, though not complex and definitely way too modern for my palate. Tastes like it came from California, not Piedmonte… I am a fan of Boglietti’s Dolcettos, but the Barbera has gotten a bit too new world for me. Fairly disappointing, and definitely not worth the $25. However, it is all about perspective. If I thought this was a $15 wine from California I’d have said it was quite good. Blind, there’s no way I’d have guessed what it is.

David
March 19, 2008

JonE
Welcome back Cotter!! I really wanted a wine called ‘Freakout’ to do well. It seems like rooting for the Cubs.

QOTD: Cartlidge & Brown Dancing Crow Vineyard S.Blanc….zzzz. And a delicious little Cigales rose called Fuente del Conde. That wasn’t really thunder more like heat lightning.
March 19, 2008

StephRN
Oh, hey, since I’m a confessed lurker, do I get a wristband?
March 19, 2008

Fibonacci
Cartlidge & Brown Syrah. It was good.
March 19, 2008

David Eldred
QOTD: berberana shiraz/tempernillo blend… pretty good
March 19, 2008

Clifford
Great to have you back Gary! Thanks for curing my WLTV withdrawal symptoms.
March 19, 2008

Kev and Ams
QOTD: It was a Helix Pomatia and it was pretty damn good.
March 19, 2008

BobbyTiger
Welcome back Gary…….. Always sipping while I’m watching………..Enjoying a Pont du Rhone, Cotes du Rhone, 2006 French blend. Inexpensive. Fairly good sniff, strong mid palate, but not much on the front or back. 87? No thunder here….one more bottle in the chest, then it’s history.
March 19, 2008

KAllardNYC
Last night I popped and poured Yard Dog from Red Head. Mostly a PV with Merlot and Cab. Nice nose, fruit forward and a bit of spice. Green, red fruit and mocha on the palate. Some oak but not a monster. Good QPR at 10 bones.
March 19, 2008

Paul C
Latest Wine, Chateau Meyney 2005, today.

It is absolutely beautiful, nice blackberry fruit, good acidity,
nice soft tannin and long leather notes on that tanin. Pure soft blackberry
and cassis fruit. Delicous. 90+/100

Cheers,

Paul C.
March 19, 2008

E
French Cab Franc for WBW? Hell, I don’t need an excuse to crack that, but I don’t have a blog. Ah well, maybe I’ll post something anyway.

QOD: 2006 Tormaresca Neprica from Puglia, a 40-30-30 blend of Negroamaro and Primitivo with something called Cabernet Sauvignon (what’s that doing in Puglia?) Hence the cheesy name. It wasn’t exciting, but it was decent and serviceable and very reasonably priced ($9). A little like Hedges CMS! And it’s imported by Chateau Ste Michelle, so I guess that makes it a Salice Salentino alla Walla Walla.
March 19, 2008

Deano
Gary it is great to have you back in the thunder saddle. Good episode. Too bad i didnt get picked to come blend with you

QOTD:
-I believe it was called xs red and it was a cab from napa
-It was pretty good for the QPR
March 19, 2008

Neil
QOTD: 2005 Chateau Clos Chaumont. Good QPR and not too bad for a Bordeaux I’ve never heard of. A little closed on the nose but I did get some nice red fruit, medium bodied with a dry sour cherry finish.
March 19, 2008

Kenneth A
A few days ago I had the Ercavio Roble 2005 Tempranillo that you tasted on #260 and it brought some thunder for me. I got blackberries and currants mostly and really dug the long finish.
March 19, 2008

Chuck
QOTD – 2004 Baron Philippe de Rothschild Merlot. Still half a bottle sitting on the counter since Saturday, so no, not so much thunder.

Welcome back GV.
March 19, 2008

Syrahhhhhhhhh
bout time you got yo ass back in the saddle.

Last wine was 2005 Dunham Trutina, and it was like a little black cloud hanging over me in an otherwise blue sky, so just a tiny bit of thunder.
March 19, 2008

Len
Great show…glad to see you back and energetic. QOTD The last bottle I had was about 43 days ago (Fat-Tuesday) Gave up wine for Lent…it was a 1998 Ornellaia…and it brought the Thunder and then some.

Lurker-Len

GV…thanks again for taking the time responding to my e-mail and trying to help me solve the problem with my wine-cellar…. especially with all that you do…traveling…the business..bringing the thunder through WLTV and the events. Don’t know where you find the time to answer e-mails but a big Thanks for the responses.
March 19, 2008

rascoagogo
Ilsey Vineyards 2004 Seis Primas was great–a cab, malbec, merlot blend

2006 Dynamite Chardonnay. Meh.

It was great meeting you @ SXSW @the Cork & Co. party!
March 19, 2008

Daniel Sandoval
Great show! Welcome back Gary. I am sad to say that the last wine I had was a Yellow Tail Shiraz / Grenace Blend, I live in town where we don’t get many good wines under $20 and I am on a budget. I really bought it because I have never had a Grenace and wanted to build my pal, but it was disapointing, all fake fruit, and not much else.
March 19, 2008

Chris
QOTD: Four Vines 2005 “Dusi Vineyard” Zinfandel, Paso Robles. Very nice. Had it at their tasting room. Didn’t buy it, but I did buy their “Biker” Zin. Their Naked Chard was good too.
March 19, 2008

lawschooldrunk
QOTD: mt hermon white- blend of chardonnay(,zinfindel?) and cab franc

it did not bring the thunder and was a pazz but there was nice popcorn and it was 2.99 for a half-bottle
March 19, 2008

CORSkier
Welcome back GV!

QOTD: Bogle Phantom. I thought it brought a good little bit of thunder. I’ll probably stick with my Bogle PS if I’m going down that alley again, but it went well with the rotisseried (is that a word?) tri-tip.
March 19, 2008

ev
GV:Mott=======Conan:Andy Richter========Johnny Carson:Ed McMahon.
March 19, 2008

Skye
Good to have you back, Gary!

QOTD: Chateau De Cabriac 05 Corbieres( around $13 CAN I think…). It was pretty good – lots of floral flavors and aromas. It tasted better the next day.
March 19, 2008

sobojosh
Just got back from a tasting by Small Vineyards (Importer) it was rocking.

2007 Fior d’Arancio Spumante

Nose: orange and Tangerine blossom.

Mouth; Clementine, and tangerine for days. This has a nice mild sweetness to it that perfects the balance. I wish the whole world could try this wine.

Good luck finding it. 900 cases
March 19, 2008

DrDan
QOTD: 2003 Bel Lago Chardonnay from Michigan. Much better the first day, but drinking yesterday (second day), it was not as good. Then again, it didn’t really bring the T the first day either. I’m really in the mood for some thunder, though. So, this weekend I’ll open up some favorites to soothe my bruised sensibilities.
March 19, 2008

Terrance
Gary! I live in Japan but I went ahead and put in an order for both secret packs. Will it ship? Please keep a lookout for my order (Terrance Young). I’ll pay the shipping if need be. Credit card number 2459… kidding about the number of course.

QOTD: C’est le Printemps Crozes-Hermitage 2005 (Red)
Upon opening was almost frizzante- weird but good. After a day or two brought along a Thai rice flavor. Those of you who love the Thai know what I’m talking about. Elegant, good fruit, with a nice Rhone Syrah funkiness.
March 19, 2008

Dave Canada
Great to have you back Gary….
QOTD – 1999 Castelgiocondo Brunello……..I rated it 91 PTS…..the nose and palate were great but the finish was short….a PAZ for me……
ON the flipside, I had a 1996 Beaucastel that rocked it out!!!!
March 19, 2008

Glazer
QOTD: Vavasour Sauvignon Blanc, and yes it definitly brought the Thunder.
March 19, 2008

David Dickinson
Enjoying a Menage a Trois (California Red Table Wine) as I watch the Thunder Show. It’s a nice blend – 88 points. Nice for $13.
March 19, 2008

andolink
Last wine was 1997 Pavie Macquin (St. Emilion, Bordeaux) and it was very nice on the palate, outstanding nose. I’d give it 90+.

Andy
March 19, 2008

Sue Z.
Welcome back Gary. Last wine was a Bandol. Liked it better the next day with food;-)
March 19, 2008

cameron w
Welcome back!

QOTD: Domaine de Fontsainte Rouge 2005. Thunder like an August Nebraska storm. Actually, it was quite a nice change after a series of big CA Petit Sirahs and Zins. Great structure with well balanced fruit and acidity.
March 19, 2008

Ruapehu
Great show GV. You seem like a new man after your trip! QOTD… Duca Bortini Salice Salentino. Brought real thunder at dinner, maybe more tomorrow. Â£10. in UK. Nice
March 19, 2008

Kirk (AKA: slave2thevine)
QOTD: Awwww….Gary, do I have to type this twice? I hate it when a producer doesn’t bring the thunder…but I had the 2006 BergstrÃ¶m Chardonnay…and it was a pazzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz (with 30 Z’s for the cost). It was better than the first time I tasted it…but it’s not a wine I will be buying again without tasting….which is hard to say because I really do love so many of Josh BergstrÃ¶m’s wines. Great show…and glad to have you back.
March 19, 2008

Shuf
QOTD: The last wine I had was Mas de la Barben from your last secret pack. I open one bottle at a time while watching part of the show.
March 19, 2008

Harley Stan
Gary, welcome back. Great show today looks like you had fun taping it, I am glad you didn’t hang it up at 400. Cool to see you try the Freakout, I have two bottles siting in wait and I am looking forward to opening one up.
QOTD- Jacques 2005 bordeaux sauvignon semillon. I really enjoyed this bottle. I had it chilled the first night but at day 5 it was still really good at room temp almost better that the first taste. I normally don’t have a bottle around that long after opening it. I am a firm believer in the vacu-vin.
March 19, 2008

DerekH
QOTD Chateau Sainte-Eulalie Minervois La Liviniere 2005. From South-West France and, yes, it brings the thunder!
March 19, 2008

John Sawyer
Stick to your guns give up the scoring for good- it’s too R Parker.

QOTD: Isole e Olena Cepparello 2003. For what is supposed to be one of Italy’s greatest ever wines a reluctant pass (maybe too young??)…

Nice to see you back.
March 19, 2008

Mike
Gary, love the show. (closet Vayniak here, finally coming out)

QOTD: Last night, a 2005 Ridge Geyserville (40th Anniversary bottling). – I’m a 25 year Ridge fan. Most years I prefer the Lytton Springs but not in 2005. Had the Lytton a few weeks back and thought it was good but nothing to get excited about (perhaps not even up to par for the vineyard). Went to dinner last night and spied the Geyserville so I took it for a spin with my veal parm. VERY nice. Smooth blackerry fruit, finished a little hot at first but improved after decanting and breathing for 30 minutes. Paul Draper has produced a wonderful anniversary edition. You need to check it out.
March 19, 2008

shawnandlu
Gary, I thought you went into some wine witness protection program for panning some winery and then they put the hit out. Welcome back.

QOTD: Quinta Dos Quatro Ventos 2005 and it was a huge disappointment. The 2004 was excellent but this one had those bitter back end tannins that just are not pleasant. I saved half the bottle for the next night and it didn’t get any better. Out of desperation I chugged some of my wife’s Kim Crawford straight out of the bottle to get the taste out of my mouth, oh well.
March 19, 2008

JC
QOTD: Evil Cab Sav not to bad for 7 bones
March 19, 2008

Don R
QOTD Cavit Collection Pinot Grigio.
It’s not the same without you. Welcome Back!
March 19, 2008

T. Reasoner
QOTD – last night was at a wine tasting class at the local community college. tasted 8 wines and the last one did bring the thunder it was a 2006 Domaine Zind Humbrecht Gewurztraminer from Alsace and it was a solid effort with a look of dark gold a bouqet of lillikoi fruit and a bone dry finish that brought the thunder!
March 19, 2008

xtrmtrk
QOTD: Barbera d’Alba ‘05 Giacomo Conterno. Went beautifully with Holly Smith’s rabbit at Cafe Juanita in Kirkland, WA.
March 19, 2008

CindyW
Glad to have you back, GaryV.

QOTD: I’ve been sipping at a 2005 Cougar Crest viognier for the last couple of days. It’s a very buttery (perhaps oakey?), floral, rich white wine.
March 19, 2008

thisIslandEarth
Welcome back! We missed ya.

I just had IMHO a great QPR Italian wine – reminded me of a French S. Rhone too.
It was 2004 Sella & Mosca Cannonau di Sardegna Riserva at only $8.99!
One of the best under $10 wines I’ve had.
March 19, 2008

chenrys
Sooo glad you’re back. Missed you, Gary.
Enjoyed the show and will look for those wines. Wish we could get shipping but alas, we live in a legislatively challenged state.

QOTD: 2006 Restoration Old Vine Red from Portugal. Not too bad.
March 19, 2008

topkho
Sauternes, 2006, chateau guignard, it was pretty good, thick and syrupy. It did bring the thunder…
March 19, 2008

Greg B
Big G, Nice to have you back man! I was going thru GV withdrawals. Ready for the NCAA Tourny Bro.

QOTD: 2004 Panarroz Jumilla. Agree with RP @ 90 Pts. Thunder has been brought.
March 19, 2008

Craig Owen
QOTD: I’m not even sure! I tasted so many wines last night, it was Chateauneuf-du-Pape night with my tasting group, but we had lots of off-theme wines as well!

I think my actual last wine was the ‘05 Seghesio Old Vines Zin, a 1/2 bottle that I brought as an extra little goody. And yes it certainly brought the thunder. But not quite as much thunder as some of the other wines that people brought… including an ‘03 Pegau CdP, an ‘05 Clos de l’Oratoire des Papes CdP, an ‘05 Finca Dofi Priorat, and an ‘85 Warre Vintage Port… wow what a night.
March 19, 2008

Matthew R
QOTD: 2003 Tenuta Friggiali Rosso di Montalcino Not a bad wine. For $24 bucks I wouldn’t say quite bringing the thunder, but not bad!
March 19, 2008

Mitchell
QOTD: last wine i had was pillar box red 2005. it brought the TUNDER!
March 19, 2008

JordanW
QOTD: 2005 Bodega Catena Zapata Malbec… definitely brought the thunder. Suited my palate exactly… chocolate, plums, jammy reduction sauce, pepper, and blueberries. Dark as ink. Very yummy.
March 19, 2008

Dominick Mack
Just finished off a two-day bottle of 2004 Calistoga Cellars Napa Cab.
March 19, 2008

SAYLE
QOTD: Les Pagodes de Cos. 2002 Saint Estephe.- AMAZING….one of my top 5 best wines ever.
March 19, 2008

kris miller
QOTD: last wine i had was, Las Rocas Garnacha out of spain… and it brought some massive thunder, sniffy-sniff busted out some roast beef / au jus flavor on me…

definitely recommend it

ps. my days are better now that you are back and i can have a glass of wine watching the thunder show daily again.
March 19, 2008

laurie in VT
The montages (not sure that’s a word) were fun, but welcome back! I had the Freakout last week, so it was way fun to have you taste that today. I thought the limited nose was due to my limited experience, but maybe I know more than I thought!?

QOTD: Last Friday the Vermont crew had our first ‘Third Thirsty Thursday’ tasting (close enough- work and kid schedules…) with 4 Oregon Pinots (Erath 05, Patricia Green Croft 06, Ken Wright Elton 05, Owen Roe Sharecroppers 06) and one French (Domaine Drouhin 04). The Patty Green brought the thunder for me, the Owen Roe for the hub.
March 19, 2008

brorjace
The last wine I had was a Prum 2004 Spatlese, I wanna say Wehlener Sonneheur. Real tasty, could have easily lasted another 10 years. Pretty much perfection in a bottle.

Also, welcome back gary, good to see your enthusiasm again!
March 19, 2008

KJlost
Welcome back Gary, we missed ya.

QOTD: It was a 2006 CdR at $10.99 I picked up at a local store. I can’t recall the name of it though. As you might have guessed, it was unremarkable.
March 19, 2008

Orion
Good to have you back, Gary.

QotD: Well, right now I’m drinking the 2003 Domaine Chapelle St-Joseph Vacqueyras. I’ve been into the RhÃ´nes lately. I’m liking it, probably in the mid-high eighties point-wise.
March 19, 2008

Chris Bartell
The last wine I had was a Yellow Tail Reserve Chardonnay. It was such a pass that I didn’t even finish my glass. Sometimes I have absolutely no idea what my parents are thinking when they buy wine for a dinner party.
March 19, 2008

Lurker1000
If any one should watch WLTV for the first time this would be the show to watch. whow… Gary, you rule with 100 miles an hour! How can you talk so fast?
QOTD – I realy liked the Casalferro 2001 super tuscan I shared with a good friend this evening. Burned tire, italian spices and lots of black fruits. youmihh!!!
March 19, 2008

Darkcyde13
The last wine I had was Pellee Island 2002 Reserve Pinot Noir and I wouldn’t say it brought the thunder but I also can’t call it a pass. I am kind of on the fence with this one.
March 19, 2008

ChardonBob
QOTD – The last wine I had was a 2004 Muir Hanna Pinot Noir. Interesting wine with lots of spice and acidity but not a thunder wine.
March 19, 2008

Area51
QOTD; 2007 Bodega Catena Zapata TorrontÃ©s Alamos
very nice floral aspects. enjoyable. $8 super QPR
March 19, 2008

laposte
QOTD:
2001 Chateau Haut-Vigneau Pessac-Leognan. A nice table wine with acceptable QPR.
March 19, 2008

Omallley
Good to see you’re back!

QOTD: Homemade vino (Pinot Grigio) that I enjoy quite a bit…but the last commercial wine I had was a 2004 Errazuriz Max Reserva Cab Sauv. For the price, I would say it brought the thunder…mildly? Certainly not a PAZ though.
March 19, 2008

Plminer
Welcome back GV!
QOTD: 2003 A. Rafaneli Zin, holy crap was this good!
March 19, 2008

Tom L
QOTD – Only because of you my friend – Ash Hollow 2006 Gewurztraminer from Columbia Valley. It brought the thunder. Now send my my wristband!

BTW, I’m devestated! I can’t come to the blending even though you picked my name tonight. It figures that I finally win something but have to be at trial. Maybe I’ll get to finally meet you on March 29th.

Thunder on, Gary and welcome back.
March 19, 2008

Rhonda
So excited you are back and SO excited about the new secret packs! I love twitter and I am following santagary.

QOTD: I had the 2005 NORA a couple of nights ago. It is starting to warm up here in AZ so I will be breaking into more whites. I really liked it!
March 19, 2008

rodzilla
QTOD: Red Diamond Shiraz (2004) It was pretty good for 8 bones. Stopped at Trader Joes last week and just grabbed a bunch of random bottles of wine, this one was pretty good.
March 19, 2008

KenP
QOTD: an Arbois, Poulsard 2005, vinifiÃ© par StÃ©phane Tissot, 13% Beautiful wine. Didn’t bring Thunder but Spring Rain!
March 19, 2008

Kristen
GaryVeeeee!!!! Nice to see you taping new episodes! I’ve been getting my WLTV fix by watching old episodes, so it’s great to have you back in the hot seat and with so much energy!!!

QOTD: You’ll be proud of me- I found an $8.99 (cheaper for us Barriques workers) Swiss wine. It’s the 2005 Dubaril Chasselas Romand. A bit frizzante and had a nice nose. Picture a freshly mown lawn with cut up white peaches, lemons, and some white flowers. Pretty similar tastes, although it’s evolving and I’m noticing Gruyere or Emmentaler-like creaminess. No home run, but an amazing QPR for Swiss wine.

PS- Can you tell us about France? Where did you go, what’d you taste?
March 19, 2008

John Blue Label
Five Vintners Cab 2003. Didn’t bring the thunder, but was “serviceable”
March 19, 2008

Dean D.
QOTD: Last wine I had was at a friends house, and I was served Charles Shaw Charonnay…that’s right…2 buck chuck. Thunder was NOT brought, but lunch was almost brought up
March 19, 2008

Little Jonny H
YESZZZ! GV is back, and in classic style! I felt like and addict the last few days; I’ve been scrapin’ by on other blogs just waiting for Gary to return from France. I loved the selection, am pumped about the April 1st packs, and wish the dollar would stop plummeting!!!

QOTD: Ashamedly, I just consumed some Sutter Home 2005 Merlot (actually a new brand for me). I should say that I didn’t purchase the bottle (to redeem myself). To start it had decent flavors dominated by red fruit (fairly one-dimensional), but then collapsed after about 2 hours of air time. Over the course of 10 minutes it went from an 79 point wine to a 65. Intriguing!
March 19, 2008

Bob F
qoftd: Marques de Carceres, Crianza 2004, Rioja. – It’s not a Thunder Buster but, I’d use it with food when normally pairing with pinot noir. Really works for me, especially at 11 bones.

Welcome back! You were missed!!
March 19, 2008

DC Devil
Gary, the CMS is NOT a Meritage. Syrah isn’t a Meritage grape.
March 19, 2008

Daithin
Welcome back, Gary!

QOTD: Finally got around to seeing how bad the Beaujolais Nouveau really was. It really was.
March 19, 2008

EllenKF
QOTD:
Last night I opened a bottle of Drop Dead Red from Kestrel Winery Washington(Yakima). Someone gave it to me. Its a NV. I opened it to throw into a beef gravy I was making for a roast, not expecting anything. It was surprisingly good, and so it definitely brought it! Juicy fruit(not the gum) flavors and full bodied, with some umami depth to it.
March 19, 2008

EvanR
QOTD: 04 Mastantuono Syrah… It was pretty good, kind of awkward though. It was a little overly citrus, like someone punched you in the mouth with an orange. And it also had a strong bacon fat component… Anyway it was alright, but not worth getting again.

Hey, even though I’m not really a lurker anymore, can I really get a wristband for posting today? Haha, that would be awesome…
March 19, 2008

BenF
Ok GV… Glad you are back… but i am no Lurker anymore.. I am faitfull since Nov of 07… and I have no wristband…. QOTD on thursday night i had a 20 bone Chardonnay HARTFORD 4 HEARTS… I say it was good but PAZZZ for the price….
One thing i had about two weeks ago that got me going was a 2006 soave, Anselmi IGT, that was very good… And I am not a white wine guy….
March 19, 2008

Brad -73-
I hope i can pick up the secret 2 pack when I visit WLTV in 10 days.
Being in WI-stupid shipping laws and all.

QOTD: box of thunder.
I was apprehensive picking up a box of wine, but after tasting it and seeing your review
of the BANDIT Pinot Grigio I’m gald I did.
Checked their website too, I love that they too are committed to changing the wine world.-the tetra paks and the old school 1L jugs.
March 19, 2008

Karl B
QOTD – Gary, the last wine that I had I was so disappointed. It was a 2002 Chateau Montfort Lussan out of Languedoc. I bought it in Germany a couple of years ago and held onto it. It displayed serious vineyard errors, over-pruning and early harvesting, leading to seriously heavy vegetal flavors and a grapefruit citrus finish on a red wine – dreadful, just dreadful.

Prior to that I had a Jurancon moellueux, which I absolutely adore. I hope that you had some Jurancon in your visit to France and some better luck with Langeudoc than I had.

Karl B.
March 19, 2008

Eli2Tyree
chatteau de callac 05 bordeaux – third bottle I have had. loved it the first time – great nose, thought it was a good QPR 89+ this time tasted a little thin and a little hot. decanted 3 hours. could have used more. still love to smell it!
March 19, 2008

Chrisfs
Verasol Granacha 2004 Campo De Borja. It’s a good red wine running at $8.75. It’s become my ‘regular’ wine.
March 19, 2008

randyshakes
QOTD: Believe it or not, I had Partal tonight with dinner. I really thought it was very good. I tasted a little blueberry action and a little vanilla on the end.
OK give me my wristband.
March 19, 2008

Andrew Vitale
Last wine I had was last night[3.18] and it was the 2003 Falesco Montiano IGT (100% Merlot from Lazio, Italy). It definitely brought the thunde! It was big and ready to drink right out of the bottle. Huge woody forest scents, earthy and creamy and redunkulous with the Chicken Parmesan we ate with it. When you doing my Dunn Howell Mountain Tasting??? Good to see you back.
March 19, 2008

Rick from Alabama
QOTD – 2006 Layer Cake Primitivo – This wine sucked so bad it made my cat go hide in the laundry room. This was a big pass. This has a smell like the gummy stuff in a sticky rat trap or last years football shoulder pads. You want to to try it because it’s different and you remeber that girl at the end of the season under the bleaschers, but unlike her it was a total bust.
March 19, 2008

John Farrin
Good to have you back!

QOTD: Wanted to have an inexpensive Tuesday night wine with my steak so I pulled out a bottle of 2003 Columbia Crest Grand Estates Syrah that I bought on sale for $5.40. Gave it 4 hours of air and it got super nice for the price. I enjoyed both the aromatics and flavor profile (not a fruit bomb)way more than I should have for $5 and change. I’m going to have the rest of it tonight with some pasta.
March 19, 2008

jbailey
The last wine I had was David Bruce Petite Syrah, in Austin during SXSW. It was very fruity, reminded me of a beaujalous noveau. The table liked it, but I was a little disappointed
March 19, 2008

mccains
Good to have you back GV!

The last wine I had was a 2003 Collier Falls Zinfandel Private Reserve and I have to say, it didn’t bring the thunder as much as I had hoped.
March 19, 2008

TennLee
QOTD: Martini & Rossi Asti. Pretty good. Very, very, very, very sweet. Company loved it.
March 19, 2008

jp
Damn! you had to ask that TODAY? oh well, last wine i had was 2004 Red Bicyclette Merlot(I know- don’t say it). Overall, not an outstanding wine, but it was just fine with that big-assed New York style pizza we had last night.
Good to have you back, Gary
March 19, 2008

Thanks to our Vets!
QOTD: Vila Mendoza Bonarda, 2004. I liked it, especially for $8. I’ll be looking for more Argentine wines for sure, especially bonardas.
March 19, 2008

Lee W
Vincent Arroyo Cab from Napa, rocked last night
March 19, 2008

John
Gary,
I am surprised at the acidity in the Freakout, Luna’s wines seem flabby to me. I will have to search for this wine. The CMS is always one of my favorite wines.
March 19, 2008

Rob
QOTD: Last wine I had was Casillero Del Diablo Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, decent cheep wine, not too bad but if it wasn’t for the CKC budget I’d say PAZ
March 19, 2008

Chris G
QOTD: Touriga Nacional (Vinho Nacional Estremadura 2004. Got it through Tesco’s as a brandd product so not too specific on the information. Liked it a whole lot! Love this grape generally..tasted alot like Advocaat (is that egg nog in the states??)
Glad you’re back
March 19, 2008

Rick D
Last wine was Caves de Papes Le Closiers Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2004, definitely brought the thunder. My wife and I loved it. I need to buy more and let it age to follow the maturation.
March 19, 2008

Withnail
QOTD: 2006 Kenwood Sonoma County Chardonnay.
Nice, light, smooth. Pretty tasty overall.
March 19, 2008

John
Last wine 2005 Conundrum for me PASS!
March 19, 2008

ray-ray
Hello, Mr. GV Welcome Back with a fresh episode…. Yes another lurker outed. I was turned on to the VAYNERNATION by my Wine Sciences Professor at University…He thinks you’re a bit nutty in the tasting department but Kudos to him for spreading the THUNDER…. Absolutely, fallen in love with the site, your passion for wine and total lack of pretense. I’m sooooo hooked I’ve started watching all the back episodes up to Ish # 143 much to the dismay of some term papers I have in the midst

QOTD: 2005 Sangiovese Sandhill Estate Vineyard Small Lot Program… Nice bouquet of ripe strawberries with hint of cinnamon, maybe a little twizzler action in there for good measure. Great mouth feel with strong red berry flavor with a hint of the shroom. Yes, my friends looked at me like a moron, but hey MR V says trust my palate and I got a hint of dried porcini, so I threw it out there. Solid wine part of an even better evening. I’d say it definitely brought the THUNDER!!!! Though maybe not the rain that follows…Thanx for breaking down the barriers MR V…. Add one more to the VAYNERNATION, oh and Wine world you have no idea what’s running up on You…….
March 19, 2008

kaybee
Glad you’re back GV!
QoTd
2005 Columbia Crest H3 Cabernet
Yeah, it brings the thunder! Earthy, brown spice, berry plummy, nice structure,a nice long finish.
March 19, 2008

Antony
Marques de Costal 2004 Crianza Cab/Merlot.
March 19, 2008

SteveW
Welcome back Gary, it seemed like you were gone for a long time.
QOTD: I was on a ski trip this past weekend in Utah, we drank alot
of wine but the last bottle we opened was a 2004 CLIO from Spain.
It was by far the best bottle that we tasted on the trip, RP gave it
95 points and I would agree with that.
March 19, 2008

Harold
QOTD: 2005 Domaine des Blagueurs Syrah-Sirrah. It was good but not thunderrific.
March 19, 2008

Robert C from Folsom Prison
Last wine – too many last sat night my big 40 B-day!!
Masque resturant El Doraldo Hills Ca. 5 course paired with wines from all accross the world with names & have never heard of, special dinner by chef.
All wine pairings & food were fenominal. Tuna Tar Tar & Sweetbreads were to die for. But I did request vintage port at the end. Was served a flight of Dows (little hazey at this point): 1985, 1990, 1994, 1997 & 2000.
Glad to have you back GV!
March 19, 2008

WeisGuy
Had a 2005 Bogle Old Vine Zinfandel last night, and it, unfortunately, did not bring any thunder.
March 19, 2008

espressokev
it was two christmases ago and i can’t remember what it’s name was. All i can remember is that it was a white wine and i liked it.
March 19, 2008

Hugh
QOTD: I had a 2001 Rioja Riserva in Vail 6 days ago, but cant remember the name!!! It was yummy though…
March 19, 2008

Erik Klumpp
Alamos Torrontes. It by no means brought the thunder, but it was a fun wine to drink. And its good to have you back.
March 19, 2008

Jens
QOTD: Pio Cesare, Barolo 1996. Excellent wine, perfect to drink now.
Good episode, but to bad about the wines from sw France getting so expensive, because of the weak $
March 19, 2008

mgbrisbane
2001 Tofanelli Charbono – F bomb-y up front, good body, went well with the pasta and tomato sauce. Too New World for my taste, wife loves it, so there’s a little thunder in the house
March 19, 2008

Christopher J
I am embarrased to say that I have not had a glass of wine in a long time (maybe a week or so). The last wine I had was the 2003 Mas De La Barben La Danseuse from the secret pack. It was good, not outstanding but very solid.

I am so happy you are back Gary!!
March 19, 2008

Senator
QOTD: Drinking the 2007 Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc while watching your show. Bringing the thunder? Maybe a slight rumble or two. I like it very much as a quaffing wine, but “thunder” might be a little strong for this one.

Thanks in advance for agreeing to taste the ‘04 Saint Jean Du Barroux L’oligocene. I went ahead and bought a six pack because I was afraid it would sell out, but I haven’t tried it yet.
March 19, 2008

Birm
Welcome back Gary!!! Waypoint To Kalon was the last bottle I had…i felt it was quite thunderous!
March 19, 2008

Sev
Welcome back! Nice show, always nice to get a taste of GARY V.

QOTD: The last wine I had was the Byron Chardonnay Santa Maria Valley 2005. I have to admit the 93 WS rating, and the relatively low price point (only $18 at moraswines.com) attracted me to this wine. Not sure if it deserves a 93, but it is pretty darn good. Better after about an hour open actually.
March 19, 2008

BringTheNose
GARY V BACK IN THE HIZZOUSE!

Every time I watch an episode I get this sudden hankering for vino!
March 19, 2008

Robert Howells
The wine I am enjoying at this moment is the Columbia Crest Grand Estates Cabernet Sauvignon. It is bringing the thunder and is an awesome QPR go to wine. I am very glad that you are back Gary. You really need to get yourself cloned for when you go out of town.
March 19, 2008

Karen
Coincidentally (not) the last wine I had was the 06 Castell-Roig Xarel-lo, and it did, indeed, bring da thunder.
March 19, 2008

Byron Chen
QOTD Inama Vin Soave Soave Classico 06—-ok- didn’t bring the real thunder
March 19, 2008

MBGFLA
Last wine I had was right now: ‘06 Mulderbosch Sauv Blanc purchased 12/06 from WL. 88 pts non blind, good but not worth $$$ MBPAZZZZ.
March 19, 2008

Jack Armstrong
QOTD: Last wine I had: Justin “Isosceles” 2005. I didn’t count on it being very good since it had bled out the side of the cork a little (must have been left in too much heat or something), and I was right. It had traces of great quality but was too vinegar-flavored. Usually Isosceles is pretty good, if not the best value, so I’m going to give them the benefit of the doubt and blame the heat.

I didn’t get past the first glass.
March 19, 2008

BringTheNose
FREAKOUT!!

Uuuuh, Gary, I think you got your tunes mixed up: you started singing “Brick House” by the Commodores; I believe you meant to sing “Uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuhhh FREAK-OUT!!” by Chic.

I won’t tell….
March 19, 2008

GoldensGirl
I know that many Vaniacs are trying more interesting wines than I am, but to make you happy GV, I’ll answer your question. The last wine I drank was a 2005 Red Diamond Cab. Worked okay for me, although I preferred it when I added a bit of Merlot I had on hand. I guess I’m one of those fruit-bomb types. The Red Diamond was a little bland for me.
Good to have you back!
March 19, 2008

Moselman
Last wine was actually tasted over five evenings. Picked up a 2005 De Bortoli Petit Verdot which is a wine I’d never tried (ok, never heard of b4 WLTV), so I’ll let you guess why I had to buy it, Gary. Anyway, first night only had a small bit, as the nose and taste was pretty much of lacquer. Had to get better, I thought. Second night was definitely better, but still disappointing. After that, each night improved, so that by the end of the bottle I was thinking I was actually picking up some plum nuances, something new for me. Cost, near as I can remember was $Cdn 16 plus or minus $2. So the experience was just interesting enough for me not to wish I had the money back, but I’ll definitely look for a different brand for another try at PV.

Have to run upstairs now and pull out a bottle of Lo Tengo Torrontes and some eggs for an omelet, show them both a bit of warmth. Tried a bottle of the Lo Tengo at bro’s about a month ago, and we were underwhelmed, but this bottle was in the house before that.
March 19, 2008

bourdoh
Lurker Alert! Welcome back GV, the skies were too calm without the Thunder Show.

QOTD: 2005 Egoista Tinto Red from Portugal. It didn’t bring the thunder like Zeus, but it was damn good for a $7 bottle. So far Portugal hasn’t disappointed., but I’m still looking for that Carm you tasted a couple weeks ago.
March 19, 2008

amgryger
Welcome Back!

QOTD: Last wine I had was the Marc Ollivier 2006 La Pepie Cot, a Vin De Pays Du Jardin Malbec. I wouldn’t say it brought the thunder for me the way that Ollivier’s Clos Des Briords does, but it’s definitely a fun little offbeat wine.
March 19, 2008

FJDR
Welcome back. I had the same thought as Bring The Nose about your “Freak – Out” song – you seemed to be signing it to the tune of “Brick House”.

Anyway, QOTD: I just finished a 2006 Virginia Barbera Reserve from Barboursville Vineyards. Yes, in my opinion it brought the thunder, but I almost always like Barbera.
March 19, 2008

ScottEJ
Welcome back, G!! We mizzed ya.

Glad you pppped the Partal as I picked it blind from WL a few weeks back. Looks like I won’t be disappointed.

QOTD: Dry Creek Chenin Blanc on Sun.- pazzz. Zero thunder. Not even a raindrop.
March 19, 2008

Joel M
Welcome back Gary. Been drinking a bottle of 2003 Spencer Roloson Tempranillo.
March 19, 2008

Eric
Welcome back! I’m very interested to hear more about what we can expect from Euro-based prices in the near future. More on that, please.

QOTD: Sipacha Garnacha. 2005, I think. It brought a tiny bit of thunder. But, to be honest, not enough.
March 19, 2008

Utah
The last wine I had was the Colonia Las Liebres Bonarda that you tasted on a laid back friday, at the super low low $5 price point. After working 12 hours, it hit the spot.

But before that was an Ercavio Blanco which I really dug, it definitely brought the thunder (also stayed on budget for $8 a bottle).

As for the wristbands, I asked for one in the comment on my order the last time you brought them out, but got no love? I’d comment more .. but my wrists are cold, so very, very cold, GV.
March 19, 2008

normanzo
QTD: Last wine I had was the 2006 Ferrari-Carrano Sauvignon Blanc –yes, even though you gave it a pass in a previous review. I thought I’d like a slightly oaky Sauvignon Blanc, but no. I have a Murphy-Goode sauvignon blanc (I very much enjoyed the M-G sauvignon blanc way back in the mid-90’s, so I wanted to try again). After that, I’ll look to France to see what they have for Sauvignon B.
March 19, 2008

Black Rolf
Volpaia Chianti Classico with some good old fashioned spaghetti and meat balls. The thunder was definitely in the house.
March 19, 2008

Neil
QOTD: Today I’m drinking the 2006 Estancia Chardonnay. It does’nt bring the thunder like their 2005 Cabernet, but it’s totally serviceable. Actually drinks more like a Pinot Gris. Give it 86. At 10.50 its an O.K. value, not a recommend, but not an avoid either.
And welcome back Gary. As psyched to have you back as you are to be back.
I hope I get my secret pack in time for the tasting!
March 19, 2008

DX
Bacchus Ciu Ciu

very thundery
March 19, 2008

mastertchris
Welcome back my friend!
I am now enjoying Riondo Prosecco. My first Prosecco ever tasting. I can see my self entertaining plenty with this flowing. I had better snatch more of this up, since you priced it so reasonably.
March 19, 2008

Kdawg
QOTD: the last wine I had from my own personal stash was the 05 Jadot Cote de Beaune Villages and it was a serious pazzzzzzzzzzzzzzz. The last one I had today was a 2000 Scavino Corale which was opened at my store. It wasn’t a pazz, but it wasn’t a big thumbs up either, it was just good
March 19, 2008

DirtWineKen
Sooooooooooooo nice having you back!!

QOTD: This is easy as I am drinking it during this episode. It’s Pillar Box Red 2006. a shiraz-cabernet-merlot blend from someplace in Austrailia that I’ve never heard of. Usually, I’m not a great fan of wines from down under; but the QPR on this one is really attractive. It needs some cellaring (yes, I know it’s a cheapie), I think, because the second day (today) it’s much, much better. The oak is Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay in the background, like I’m likin’ it.
March 19, 2008

Jay
QOTD: We opened a 2006 Toulouse Vineyard Pinot Noir from Phillips Hill Estate with our neighbors and it brought the Thunder! Hard to find and had to have it shipped in from California in order to give it a whirl. Wow, were you cranked up today…awesome show…look forward to hearing about France!
March 19, 2008

Rani Haykal
Great Show!!!
Glad to have ya back.

QOTD: I actually had two wines last night, the 2006 Darioush Viogner which always brings the thunder in my book but is kinda pricey, and the 2003 ChÃ¢teau Clos Haut-Peyraguey Sauternes which for my first sauternes was quite incredible especially for the price point. Only reason I still drink the darioush viogner is because after visiting their winery, I was completely blown away by the people there that I dont mind spending that little bit extra on their wines.

–RH
March 19, 2008

Marshall
QOTD:I’m drinking it right now it’s a Egly-Ouriet “Les Vignes De Vrigny” Premier cru Champagne and it’s amazing. An apple an cinnamon explosion.
March 19, 2008

adoub
im drinking the columbia crest grand estates cabernet, 2004. it’s ok. it tastes and smells exactly like a package of those individually wrapped, bite-sized chocolates your grandparents have lying around their house. that would probably make it a huge pass if it didnt remind me of my grandparents. theyre the best. long time viewer, first time poster. do i get a wristband??
March 19, 2008

Susan
I had Perrini Primitivo at the Little Owl restaurant. Brought the thunder and was organic too.
March 19, 2008

drift
Just tried the new sonoma coast release of kosta browne. Brought some thunder. Not worth the $60 I paid to have it shipped here but a good wine. A little too hot. Thanks for coming back GV. Dont stopp scoring, -D
March 19, 2008

wrc105
2005 Casa Nuestra (Napa Valley) Merlot, it was for our dinner club, the theme was food from movies, so I brought a Merlot…luckily noone kicked me out or left when I pulled the bottle out of my wine tote. I enjoyed it, and it was even better the following night.
March 19, 2008

ianchudson
Welcome Back Gary!

QOTD: Wellington Vineyard 2002 Reserve Syrah – Loved this wine so much I had to call the vineyard’s wine library to beg for more!
March 19, 2008

Tommy Vernieri
QOTD: I had the 2005 Rhone Rebel CÃ´tes du Ventoux GSM on Monday (and finished it off today). It was alright, didn’t bring the thunder, not something I would buy again but I enjoyed drinking it.
March 19, 2008

Jprva
QOTD: Rondel Brut La Pura Raza. It brought some serious thunder for 8 bones. Can I have a wrist band now? This would make all three for me!
March 19, 2008

crank
QOTD: King Estate Pinot Gris 2006. It was good, not thunderific. The Domaine version of the King Estate DEFINITELY brings the thunder.
March 19, 2008

TommyBoBo of WI
QOTD: 2002 Pichon Baron and followed it up with a Doisy-Vedrines Sauterne 2001

Welcome Back!! I’m “crushed” you didn’t pick my name,,, how many cases did it take to get in the envelope??
March 19, 2008

Jeffrey
Bizarely – the last wine I had was the Freakout..I dug it for $17
March 19, 2008

Jeremy Q
Welcome back Gary !
QOTD: 2004 Haut Brisson …. couldnt help but try it after watching it on here, scored it 90pts and then ordered a couple more
March 19, 2008

Palmer
QOTD: Neil Ellis Pinotage Stellenbosch 2006. This was a VaynerPAZZZZZ, but it was really interesting, because it’s the first time I’ve really tasted tobacco in wine. And it was IN YOUR FACE with TOBACCO. On the nose and the palate, just straight Beech Nut chewing tobacco, really obnoxiously. Almost couldn’t finish the glass, but now I want to go buy a bottle so that I can make my friends taste it and train their palates…
March 19, 2008

Jeff
GV, welcome back!

QOTD- Ruffino Chianti 2006… Pazzzzzzzzzz! Heck, I wouldn’t even water my houseplants with this crap!

-Jeff
March 19, 2008

OmarG
QOTD: 2005 Douro Carm from Portugal! Brought the thunder big time!!

From Domenica (the wife): 2004 Chinon Les Chiens-Chiens: Very different! Reminded me of something burning on my grandfather’s farm in Southern Italy…very nostalgic…not sure I’d want to do it again! But fun the first time.
March 19, 2008

Mike G
I am a (former I guess) lurker who is a member of the CKCs so the last wine I had was this $6 2005 Laboure-Roi Petit Bistro Chardonnay. Looking forward to TTT tomorrow and picking up a mystery pack.
March 19, 2008

Collin H
QOTD – Viader, the proprietary red. Certainly not an everyday wine but a fantastic product from and great Napa family. The thunder was delivered.
March 19, 2008

Susan
Gary- Are you REALLY BACK??? WOW!!!!!!
March 19, 2008

Susan
WELCOME BACK GARY!!!
March 19, 2008

SKN
Favorite Line of the Day: “Be a little Mr. Wizard on my ass”

QOTD: Indiana Champaign, er, Sparkling Wine from the Easely Winery here in downtown Indianapolis. And yes, it brought the thunder for me!

Glad you’re back!
March 19, 2008

Blantonious
Good to see you back. The last wine that I had and I’m still having was a 2005 Pascual Toso from Argentina a Cabernet and I would say it did not bring the thunder like I had hoped. Although it was nice to have while watching the Thunder Show. I believe it was a $10 bottle if my memory serves me well.
March 19, 2008

Dan Mc
Great episode! Looking forward to santaGV.

QOTD: 2006 Domaine Sainte Leocadie Minervois Fernand Averoux (your recommendation.) Very interesting, definitely enjoyed the experience, although overall I’d call it a pazz.
March 19, 2008

Jeremy L
2006 Ortman Family Cuvee Eddy
THIS WINE BRINGS THE THUNDER!
March 19, 2008

TWalk
2005 Mas de Bressards Syrah/Grenache…..and it was packing some ummmph….
March 19, 2008

Wayne
2004 Conn Creek Cabernet Franc. Thunder paired with grilled filet steak – on its own it was nothing to shout about.
March 19, 2008

Dominus
He’s baaaaaack! Glad to see you all pumped up. I needed it.

QOTD: ‘06 Witness Tree Chainsaw Pinot from Oregon and it brought the thunder! Very nice wine.
March 19, 2008

Eric Gardner
Glad you’re back and on fire, GV. QOTD: 2006 Pago de los Capellanes Joven Ribera del Duero. Good thunder for 15 bones. Liked the 2005 better, but the 06 Pago Joven is a great house wine. Before that got into 2006 Ãlvaro Castro, DÃ£o from Portugal. BIG THUNDER also good price. Becoming a big Portugal red fan.

I’m waiting for a shipment of Pol Roger NV Brut from a small store in new jersey where that crazy guy has a video blog. A STEAL AT 26 bones. I live in LA where is sells for over 30. I’m planning to load up on a lot of Euro wine now, especially the Champagne, before the price goes way up.
March 19, 2008

nodoubt
Are you ever gonna activate your lurker IP blocker?
March 19, 2008

Woody
2006 Jacob Creek Chardonnay. Was actually pretty good. I usually stick with reds but am trying to expand my palate. Also recently tried an 02 Chateau ste Michelle Chardonnay that I though completely missed the mark. Definately a paz on that one.
March 19, 2008

Wine Not?
Glad you’re back, Gary….we all missed you!

QOTD: Muga Rioja in a wine bar in Detroit….recommended by the server and it was a big one! Yummmmmmmm…..
March 19, 2008

Dr. Mike
QOTD: 2005 Black Bart’s Stage Coach Syrah, definately solid juice.
March 19, 2008

Anna
Whoa. I need to catch my breath after watching today’s show! A little energy, Gary? Loved it as always!
QOTD: Hay Shed Hill Margaret River 2004 Chardonnay. Thunder? Not so much – but still yummy.
March 19, 2008

jfoobar
2006 Leth Gruner Veltliner Wagram. It brought the thunder with a lowercase “t.” Nice structure, solid typicity, the best (and cheapest) from a Gruve tasting I attended last Saturday.
March 19, 2008

torquey
QOTD: 2006 Domaine Terlato & Chapoutier Shiraz – Viognier brought *serious* thunder.

Welcome back Gary, and thanks for all the wine at the SXSW Cork&Co party!

How about an episode on garagista wines?
March 19, 2008

Robin C
Nice show. Good to have you back.
QOTD: I’m drinking it now – Porter Creek 2004 Carignane Angeli Old Vine (Alexander Valley)- $16.00 retail. Dusty, vermouth (?)- like nose, tastes like raspberry, dried figs, rose petal, herbal-minty, reminds me of Campari (that aperitif that was so popular at one time). Very smooth. We’re really loving it. We had it without food. It worked out fine.
March 19, 2008

Araldite
QOTD: Chalone Valley 2005 Chardonnay. Quite good. Very interesting how the sugar dances around the sides of your tongue but not over sweet.
March 19, 2008

Ari M
2005 Spy Valley GewÃ¼rztraminer from New Zealand

Did it bring the thunder? eh.
March 19, 2008

David L
A white wine from Bordeaux, it was one of the worst wines I have had lately.
March 19, 2008

Rice
QoTD: 2006 Bitch from down under + 2005 Peacock Ridge fruit bomb + a dud BV cab…. yes… 3 bottles amongst the 3 of us celebrating family from Hawaii last nite. *hick*

Welcome back.
March 19, 2008

jared
Last bottle I had was Murrieta’s Well Zarzuela 2003. Mild thunder was brought into my mouth, and I was satisfied with the free bottle I took home from work.

Welcome back GV
March 19, 2008

squizzy
QOTD: 2006 Echelon pinot noir. Blech. Major pazzzzzzzzzz.
March 19, 2008

EricB
QOTD: 2005 Ercavio Tempranillo Roble Mas Que Vinos
serious Pazzzzz
over-extracted, tannic, and completely boring.
March 19, 2008

David
The 95 Rutherford Hill Reserve Cabâ€¦brought the thunder. Was not confident based upon the cork and the initial sour nose, but after getting a little air, it rocked. Chicago Third Thursday in 22 hours!
March 19, 2008

Glenn
Gary, Welcome back, I was starting to go through withdrawls not having the thunder to top my evening off with.
QOTD: 2005 Earthquake Zin from Lodi, and yes it brought the thunder. 15.9% alcohol but was held in check by the beautiful and powerful fruit. Definately need to pair it with a huge rare rib eye steak marinated in a horseradish sauce though.
March 19, 2008

Jx
QOTD: I had the 2006 Guillaume Gros El Nino Loco Cotes Du Luberon (from free.winelibrary a few weeks ago) and LOVED it. Seriously GV, this wine confirmed that I am still a NEW world fan. Great wine, definitely brought the thunder.
March 19, 2008

Obama_Man
Had the Leeuwin Ausi Riesling I picked up from free.winelibrary.com. It’s great, has a very grapefruit-esque taste to it… add a little grass, lime, and rubber and BAM.

Great ep, GV, awesome to have you back!
March 19, 2008

thefanjestic
Qotd – McMyers Price Grenache 2005 – holly cow was it good! But if you don’t like fruit bombs – run for cover!!

GV – Man it’s great to have you back!!!
March 19, 2008

Kazi
QOTD: Cameron Hughes Lot 60 Cabernet. It brought the thunder.
March 19, 2008

Heather
Pedroncelli 2005 Mother Clone Vineyards Zinfandel

I had a small taste, but with my cold right now, I can’t be sure if it is bringing the thunder or not!
March 19, 2008

Boog
QOTD: The last wine I had was the Tokaji from the Secret 4-pack and it was awesome!
March 19, 2008

Dave Brooklyn
Sauvion 2006 Saumur-Champigny. It was a pazz.
March 19, 2008

Paul
Great to have you back on the show, bringing the thunder.
We were drinking Yalumba Barossa Shiraz for dinner, and it brought the thunder. At 12 bones was a good qpr. Keep up the good work.
March 19, 2008

james murphy
QOTD: 2006 Qupe Bien Nacido. Really good. It would have been even better at last year’s price!
March 19, 2008

Aaron_J
AOTD: Kim Crawford 2007 Marlborough Sauv Blanc. Not bad.

Shout out to the Vayernation: Hi everybody! Happy Wednesday.
March 19, 2008

Mike Nally
Great to have you back Gary. Go Green!
March 19, 2008

Phil G
Welcome back…

QOTD – I had a red from Croatia – something my brother-in-law picked up. I couldn’t read the label since it as written in the cyrillic alphabet.
March 19, 2008

Matty J
Crios Malbec–thunder and lightning
March 19, 2008

peter
Well I tried to buy the secret wine pack. I’m pretty sure you can ship to Michigan now. But I only base that on the fact that I’ve gotten wine through the mail many times. I’m not sure if winelibrary plays by a different set of rules.
March 19, 2008

Gp
Gary, if you are gonna ditch scores and rely on tasting notes, it would be interesting if you had your own “scoring” beyond tasting notes. Change the wine world completely. Thunderous, Solid, Meh, and Pazzz might be good scores to assign. Not that it matters to me, none of the wines that you have are available here, darn LCBO.

QOTD: Rene Mure 2006 Gewurtztraminer – Score: Solid
March 19, 2008

Hall
QOTD: 2004 Dehesa de Rubiales “Alaia” Prieto Picudo (Spanish). And, while doing some racking today, some of my own 2007 chenin blanc. It’s coming right along.
March 19, 2008

MrJCG1
QOTD: Had Tortollini soup yesterday and paired it with a Balthasar Kess Hattenheimer Schutzenhaus 2005 Reisling. Very very nice.
March 19, 2008

jseeds
welcome back!
qotd: domaine les hautes noelles: muscadet cotes de grandlieu = serious thunder, serious value.
March 19, 2008

farrelley
QOTD: White Zinfandel from Franzia (box). Gary V… You need to do some boxed wine. Let’s have a wine in a box day!
March 19, 2008

JamesN.
QOTD; 2006 Alamos Malbec, A good fruity quaff, but no thunder, had it with corned beef, a so so match.
March 19, 2008

Machine
QOTD: Peachy Canyon Old School House Zin 2003. It’s bringing some thunder, but at 30 US bones it’s far from inexpensive. Took a break from my search for values under $12 to get something my girlfriend was interested in. Solid bottle of wine, but probably not changing my life.

QOTD cont’d: Trevor Jones Jonesy Aged Tawny Port. Boggles my mind how something aged an average of 46 years that can be enjoyed night after night after night can roll in under 9 bones (paid $8.79). This brings me some serious thunder for the money. These prices cannot be a long term outcome in my estimation…
March 19, 2008

David Harris
An Australia Shiraz/grenache blend. It was horribly boring.
March 19, 2008

Michelle Moye
Hi Gary,
L’Ecole 2005 Merlot – it was pretty good after decanting.
March 19, 2008

Orville B
Welcome Back

2002 Arrowood Cab… Not bad. 20 CDN bones a little high….
March 19, 2008

Brian Johnson
QOTD: 2004 Ovene Solomon Hills Vineyard Pinot Noir; brought serious thunder.

first time posting, been watching for a while.
March 19, 2008

1kailuaboy
QOTD- Vacationing in BC Canada by way of Hawaii. Visited Okanagan Spirits, left with Old Italian Prune (plum) brandy & Taboo Absinthe. Arrowleaf Cellars, small-extremely knowledgeable, friendly and great QPR. Gray Monk Estate Winery, excellent Odyssey Pinot Gris and yummy NV Odyssey III Port. Mt. Boucherie, friendly staff and great QPR. Lastly, Quail’s Gate Estate Winery, my favorites were: 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2004 Family Reserve Merlot, and 2006 Botrytis Affected Optima. MY FAVORITE- 2006 Botrytis Affected Optima, have had great Sauternes. No mistaking this is not one, VERY DIFFERENT (LIGHTER-CRISPER) BUT STILL GREAT FOR WHAT IT IS (DRINK NOW)!
Thunder Idea – Gary, do a show on wines of this area!!!
March 19, 2008

spyder47
WB Gary. Boy, so much pent up energy! You could probably pay for a good portion of the WL electric bill if you could channel that energy.

QOTD: Tonight I had a ‘05 Clos LaChance Syrah that was quite nice.
March 19, 2008

Eric & Dash
Welcome back Gary, its good to see you.

QOTD: Cantina Zaccagnini, Montepulciano d’Abruzzo (and we drank it with you.) It brought the Thunder.

Cheers.
March 19, 2008

Dr. J
QOTD: Juan Gil 2005 Monastrell and it certainly did bring some serious thunder with a nice little QPR.
March 19, 2008

Dash
QOTD: Cantina Zaccagnini Montepulciano d’Abruzzo.

I think it brought the thunder because of the moment! We had a great meal with lamb chops and great cheese, and the wine was able to hold up no matter what. I think that is exactly what we needed tonight!

Welcome back to the thunder show Gary!
March 19, 2008

GR8wine
SOO good to have you back GV.
I was beginning to suffer from WWS (WLTV Withdrawal Syndrome).
QOTD: 2006 Can Blau from Montsant. Although a different blend, it tastes similar to your description of the Partal. At $15 it’s a good deal.
March 19, 2008

John Cabot
The last wine I had was a Castle Rock 06 Mendocino Pinot Noir, and at 12 U.S. Bones, I rocked. Beautiful rose petal, pure, delicate cherry, raspberry, all up in your grill piece, with a nice bright finish that goes on for days. Well not for days, but long.
March 19, 2008

Katherine
OK, GV. Miss Vivian is distraught about her lack of wristbands. She feels that since she contributed to a couple of episodes that she deserves a wristband, even though she will have to grow into it. She is continuing to expand her pal. You’ll be pleased to know that Miss Vivian is jazzed about PICKLES!!! We gave her a slice of a good dill pickle and we couldn’t pry it out of her little fists, she loved the taste of it so much!
March 19, 2008

Tuch
QOTD 2006 Mud House Sauvignon Blanc ; not bad, but not up to the Mahi standard.
March 19, 2008

Katherine
Oh I forgot, GO BULLDOGS! I’m a Drake alum! I’m so pumped for my Bulldogs I can hardly stand it!
March 19, 2008

SoCal
QOTD: 1988 Chateau La Pointe, Pazzzz past its prime
March 19, 2008

Steve S
QTOD: We’re watching during dinner with a bottle of Onix a Spanish Rhone blend(50%Grenache 50% Carinena)
March 19, 2008

cpd
‘05 Murphy’s Law Red (Columbia Valley). Purchased this on a WL email suggestion and (as usual) it did not disappoint. Welcome back, GV.
March 19, 2008

BW
QOTD : 2005 La Spinetta Pin – for me, it brought the Thunder. Smooth & soft tannins, medium bodied, well balanced, raspberries & hint of tobacco, something else in flavor profile – I can’t put my finger on what it was – but it was intriguing…..
March 19, 2008

J Crazy
Last wine I had was the Philippe Jambon: Le Franche. It only brought the thunder after a couple of days being opened. I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Jambon and he had an interesting comment about non sulphited wines and biodynamic wines: they change more-so than other wines over a period of hours and days. After opening it it was quite rotten tomato acid-esque but on the third day it really opened up with it’s strawberry, pepper watermelon fruit and the acidity was much more pleasant.
So here’s my question back to you GV: Have you ever tried a wine over the course of a couple weeks to more than a month. If you haven’t PLEASE PLEASE grab a few bottles (try to make one of them either Jambon, Olivier Riviere, Guy Jullien, Patrick Meyer, or Gerome Joulet) and taste the wines once a week over the course of a month.
March 19, 2008

MacNPhish
QOTD: Pepperwood Pinot, yes I know it’s cheap as hell. But we bought an assload before we started to learn about all the alternatives to “everyday” wine. No thunder was brought, not even a slight rain sprinkle.

Welcome back Gary!
March 19, 2008

Randy C
QOTD: Red Knot Shiraz – McLaren Vale 2006. Nothing Special, didn’t bring the thunder.
March 19, 2008

Courtney M
QOTD: Giordano Piemonte, and it definitely brought the thunder to dinner.
March 19, 2008

RonC
Good show.

QOTD: 2001 E. Guigal Chateauneuf-du-pape and it brought the thunder.
March 19, 2008

Jesse Goldberg
QOTD: Last Wine I had was Chateau De Lavagnac Rouge 2005 from your holiday pack. It’s been resting in my cooler for a few months now… decided to cork it tonight.
March 19, 2008

Bernie Gehret
Ch.St.Georges 375ml, 2005 St.Emilion. Here’s my review on cellartracker.com

“violets and oak on the nose, decanted (375 ml bottle) for less than an hour but was amazingly drinkable despite the young age. Balanced, long finish. When I asked Eva what the wine comprised of, she said simply: “good stuff” (marzipan). Amazingly good value for $16 (half bottle), probably drinkable now because of the smaller bottle. Wine celebrity equivalent = Tom Hanks (not flashy, but better performance than you expect).”
March 19, 2008

BGreen
I’m drinking Le Tengo, an Argentina Malbec right now, a little fruitier than the last Arg Malbec I had but over all pleased. Thank you GV for turning me on to these wines. Good to see you back!!!!!!!!!!!!!
March 19, 2008

Chris in Tulsa
QOTD: Chateau Soucherie 2004 Anjou Rouge. Pazzz. You have really gotten me into Cab Franc but this just didn’t have any thunder.

GARY PLEASE I’M DYING TO GET A WRISTBAND. GOING TO A HUGE WINE TASTING HERE IN OKLAHOMA CALLED THE PHILBROOK WINE EXPERIENCE. BIGGEST FUND RAISER EVENT IN THE STATE WITH OVER 50 WINERIES! WANNA SHOW THE THUNDER THERE!
March 19, 2008

StevoVino
QOTD: 2004 Herons Flight Sangiovese. NZ$50 bones, had it last night for my good friends birthday – it was his wine, and I would give it 89+. A little thunder, but probably needs a couple more years. At $50 I would have to give it a pazzz for now.

Good to have you back GV

BOOM!
March 19, 2008

LarryTheWineGuy
Last Wine I was Finishing As I Watched This Episode was 2002 Stella Maris Columbia Valley Red Blend Cab 51% Merlot, And about 5% Malbec. Once it aerated I enjoyed the Lamb Fat Gamey Aromas, Expresso, Chocolate Notes. On The Palate Nice Mid-Palate Black Cherry, Plum, finishing with a Medium to Firm Tannin Grip and Some Dark Chocolate aftertones. Finish was a little short and the Wine lacked a little Depth. QPR..not their I think Spectator Gave it 89..and I think they are in the Ballpark but for the Money I would rather spend it on a Wine that brought a little more Thunder. Great to have you back GV
March 19, 2008

JeffH.
QOTD: Enjoyed a 2004 Gran Familia Rioja with dinner this evening. A little
bit of thunder after an hour or so of air.
March 19, 2008

Paulo
QOTD: Argiolas Costera Cannonau di Sardegna 2005 – brings the thunder on a week day. Great QPR
March 19, 2008

ChrisH
Good to have you back Gary! If any of those folks can’t be at the tasting feel free to reach out to me haha I’m pumped about the Vayniac Wine project as well as the new mystery packs!

QOTD: I shared a bottle of Barth Rene Roemerberg Gewurztraminer with my lovely girlfriend this weekend. She is more into wine with some residual sugars so this seemed like a good compromise. It was a bit sweet for me, but the refreshing fruit both on the nose and the immediate pallet made it decent for me. She enjoyed the sweet finish and I think she definitely enjoyed it more than I did. I would rate it solid.
March 20, 2008

JW Park
QOTD: Chateau de Mignot 2003 and it was o.k. but a little bit too sweet to me.
March 20, 2008

TWofPasadena
QOTD: 2005 Rombauer Zin. As always, delicious.
March 20, 2008

Evan
QOTD – 2005 Rosenblum Lyon’s Reserve. I like most of the Rosenblum Zins, and I liked this one too, but it wasn’t good enough to justify the $45 price tag. A little over the top in both fruit and oak.
March 20, 2008

Deborah Green
Each evening after work, I read my mail, have a little snacky snack, a glass of wine, and watch the Thunder Show. Tonight, I finished a bottle of wine that I sampled out around town today(I am a wine rep in Reno) The Talley Rincon Pinot Noir was perfect with my pretzels as I watched your “return episode.”
We missed you, Gary…welcome home!
If I order a two-pack will you include a wrist band??? It’s a deal.
Cheers!
Deborah
March 20, 2008

ecola
QOTD: Chateau Villa Bel-Air 2000, it rocked. You brought the thunder today dude.
March 20, 2008

Romerito
Good to have you back.
QOTD: Today I had a Seghesio 06 Sonoma Zinfandel. Not to much thunder…
March 20, 2008

thecobalt9
Great to have you back GV! Can’t wait to hear about the France highlights, sad about our poor dollar…

QOTD: 2003 Koine Primitivo de Manduria. Absolutely delicious, inexpensive primitivo that beats the pants off of many Cali Zins.
March 20, 2008

Smith MBA
QOTD: 2006 Benziger Sauvignon Blanc MacLeod Family Vineyards
March 20, 2008

Fred
QOTD: Marques de Caceres RIOJA Reserva 2001 in the middle of a Thunder Storm. Now lets bump the comments counter by ONE
March 20, 2008

John D.
The Thunder is back!! Hope your travels went well Gary.

QOTD: 2005 Carro Tinto, Yecla (Murcia) Spain, 50% Monastrell, 20% Syrah, 20% Tempranillo, 10% Merlot. Really nice little wine for only $9.99. Had it with steak. Lovely.
March 20, 2008

Justin L Ove
QOTD: 2005 Alcance carmenere Maule Valley, Chile. For 11 bones this wine kicked my ACE. Great wine, I’ll be buying it again.
Good to see you again Gary, I can’t wait to hear about the wines you tried on your trip!
March 20, 2008

JM
Col Di Sasso 2006
Cabernet S./Sangiovese

Good for 8.50…but probably a pass…
March 20, 2008

BobM
Welcome back, Garry. I think for many of us, you’ve become a regular part of our daily lives, something that we look forward to,

QOTD: I just finished a bottle of 2005 Vale de Bomfim Douro Reserva, which at $8.00 a bottle is a pretty good value, and I probably wouldn’t have tried it if you hadn’t pushed me to expand my palate.
March 20, 2008

CRZYWinemaker
Welcome back to the T-show GaryVee ~ Great EP, glad you reviewed the Hedges CMS, it definitely is a work horse.
Qotd: Last wine I had is a friends wine from a brand new winery in Washington State,Alia Cellars, 2005 Syrah by John Olsen. I belong to a tasting group of fellow winemakers and in a double blind tasting of 9 Syrah wines(Wa,Ca,France), the Alia Cellars beat out some of Washingtons best, McCrea Cellars, K Syrah, DeLilles Doyenne to mention a few. Good stuff, but only produced about 50 cases which is pretty much sold out. See you at Taste, Wa ~ Max
March 20, 2008

Vinsant
2004 L’Ecole Syrah Columbia Valley-mucho thunder
March 20, 2008

Andrew H.
QOTD: 2005 Sibaritismo Tempranillo. This wine brought very little thunder if any . However, was very fun to try.
March 20, 2008

Dillon
QOTD: I’m 15 so I’ve never had any wine but I had some grape juice today and it didn’t bring thunder but there were some static shocks. Not bad stuff, Welch’s knows what’s up.
March 20, 2008

manonthemoon
Owen Roe 2005 Ex Umbris Syrah

This wine brought Major Thunder with its amazing fruit forwardness, but the smokiness and complexity to round out this nice offering. Lurker out.
March 20, 2008

foulmouthpoet
villa monteleone valpolicella classico superiore… amazing. smells like a poop and tastes like a tomato leaf. what more could you ask for? awesome. most definitely brought the thizunder! get some.
March 20, 2008

H-Why
Nice to have you back…

QOTD: Panarroz Jumilla 2006 – great QPR at $7 – jalepeno pepper, black pepper, firm tannins
March 20, 2008

Oklahoma Michael
QOTD- Black Pig Ribera del Duero Ps. drinking it right now. Thunder Brought. Welcome back Gary Great episode!!
March 20, 2008

Chateau_Plonk
Thorn Clark Shotfire Bordeaux blend from Barossa. No acidity, zero tannin, smokey oak, cloyingly rich fruit. I had no desire to finish the glass. Absolute crap. No thunder. 92 points WS though!
March 20, 2008

JWard
QOTD: 2005 Chateau de Seguin Bordeaux. Brought structured, restrained thunder. Green bell peppers, black pepper, a little tomato on the nose. Moderate fruit, pepper, and some friendly oak on the palate. Long dry finish. Well worth the $10 at Trader Joes.

Nice to have you back!
March 20, 2008

nas
Lurker stepping into the light…

QOTD: Stormhoek 2006 Sauvignon blanc. I’ve been tasting a disproportionate amount of reds lately and thought I would try something different. Both the nose and taste are dominated by the smell/taste of a hair “perm”, as in the chemicals used. It wasn’t terrible, but I wouldn’t purchase it again for the price (~15$)
March 20, 2008

BPlague
Fetzer Gewurtztraminer nothing mind blowing but a good drink.
March 20, 2008

Scott
EXCELLENT SHOW! It’s so good to have you back.

QOTD: 2006 Cousino-Macul Merlot. I really liked it when I first opened it, but had to reaseal it then I’ve been home on spring break–yesterday it was getting a little funky. Definitely a good buy for $10 though, and very widely available.
March 20, 2008

vivaitalia
Loving the energy baby! Can’t wait to seek out that last wine, it sounds incredible. QOTD: right now i’m drinking the 2005 Marques de Casa Concha merlot and it is rocking! This is the first Chilean wine i’ve had that I enjoy and this kicks the crap out of any merlot i’ve had for under twenty bucks. Last night I had the 2003 Longwood reserve shiraz from McClaren Vale which absolutely blew my mind, I couldn’t beleive how balanced it was. Can’t wait to get my hands on the secret pack.
March 20, 2008

eastbayrich
Last weekend I finally opened up the Dry Furmint from the secret pack. It was the first white wine I’d had in months and I was pleasantly surprised. Borderline over-sweet for my palate, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. Thanks for the pick GV!!
March 20, 2008

Thomas G
Ken Forrester Sauvignon Blanc. It brings the thunder!
March 20, 2008

Keith
QOTD: Pewsey Vale Riesling, from Eden Valley Australia. Paid $11 or $12. Did not bring the thunder, very lifeless. I much prefer anything from Washington, even the $6-7 grocery store versions.
March 20, 2008

Rachel
Last wine? One of my favorites, the Sofia Blanc de Blancs. It was a ‘pass’ this time because it doesn’t pair well with barley stew and cornbread. I had no beer though, and I wanted something effervescent to cut through the stew. It was the only thing I had…

The Partal sounds amazing. I really need to work on training my pallet. Thanks for the reviews~
March 20, 2008

Billyd
Great show Gary. Last wine Chateau Haut Brisson 2004 “silk” there was thunder in the house.
March 20, 2008

RickD
Le Sensuel from the anniversary pack. interesting up front – but turned a bit funky on the finish – ‘rusty axe hits a root” flavors. A pazzzz ( but we liked ‘the muscle’ better).
March 20, 2008

MagnumGourmet
QOTD – a glass of yellow tail syrah at my grandparents house for St Patrick’s day dinner. Have to say that it was somewhat uninspiring.
March 20, 2008

Dave H
House-carbonated Banyuls (don’t know the original producer) as the last course of the pairing at Momofuku Ko monday night. (Against McDonald’s-style fried apple pie with miso sauce and sour cream ice cream.) Brilliant as a pairing–pitch perfect match on the flavors with the carbonation to make it taste dry and assertive enough to stand up to a damn rich and, in the end, very classic apple pie. (Is carbonated Banyuls a good idea on its own? Probably not–it really needs a foil with a lot of spice and sweetness to knock it back into balance.)

Which capped off quite an awesome long weekend for restaurant wine pairings. Went to Chicago for a friend’s blowout birthday tasting menu at Avenues, which featured killer wine pairings throughout (at least until a rather disjointed late harvest Viognier from Australia). Four in a row–2005 Zind-Humbrecht Pinot D’Alcase, Do Ferriero “Cepas Vellas” Albarino (forgot the vintage), 2001 “Burlenburg” Pinot Noir from Marcel Deiss, and 2002 “Pagos Viejos” Rioja from Artadi–were each precise and beautiful wines, bordering on spectacular. Some of the best wines I’ve ever had with a tasting menu pairing, but I suspect they may have been bumped up as the birthday boy is a major friend of the house. Another wine from the trip that deserves serious props was the 2003 “Verdus” S. Rhone blend from the Cotes de Thongue in the Languedoc, which was a ridiculously serious wine to get a 1/4 L carafe of for $13 at Avec.

Most thunder-bringing wine of the (long) weekend, however, was the Scholium Project Sauvignon Blanc that’s the centerpiece of the pairing at Ko. I believe this is the cuvee called “the prince in his caves”–a *skin-contact fermented*, yes, like a red wine, Sauvignon Blanc with piercing and explosive floral, fruit and honey notes on the nose (like, just a *ridonculous* nose), and beautifully integrated nutty oak (just a touch) and acidity on the palate. Totally phenomenal, genre-busting wine that you HAVE to bring on WLTV.

(Ok, so now the last wines I’ve had were a couple I had with dinner, but back when I *started* this comment the most recent was the sparkling Banyuls!)
March 20, 2008

Stephen J
QOTD – 2005 northern Sonoma Dry Creek Valley Merlot, great color, tight one dimensional nose, fruity but kinda flat from start to finish, also poor tannin structure, gonna go 84 pts.
March 20, 2008

Manytrees
Sorry, Gary. I am fifteen. Can’t drink wine.
But you are still bringing the thunder! Crazily!
March 20, 2008

Phil M'Glassup
Very good food and wine weekend. Complimenting the delightful culinary creations of the remarkable BabsHoney was an incredible 2000 Arcadian Bien Nacido Pino whose blood orange, red berry and spice tea flavors married beautifully with BabsHoney’s slightly peppery pork chop and onion coulis preparation. Sunday saw thelipsmackingly refreshing 2006Merlin Macon la Roche Vineusse, a finecompanion for a fish dinner, a nd a sure go-to wine as the weather gets hotter.
All brought thunder, lightning, sun, wind and rain. Oenologically, meterologically winners all.
March 20, 2008

rimarfish
Welcome back Gary! Nice to see you you again with all that energy…
QOTD: Tonight i had a Perrin & Fils Gigondas 2004 La Gille…spectacular…the typical grenache profile of the Rhone region showed up here beautifully, with lots of red fruits and spicyness.
March 20, 2008

Old Vines Jim
QOTD: embarassing… Barefoot Zinfandel. I bought it on a bargain hunt at Trader Joe’s a year ago. I’ve had zero luck with every bottle I bought in that mixed case, and this last bottle was lingering on my wine shelf because I knew it would suck. I opened it a few nights ago because I wanted wine with my steak dinner, but I was very congested from allergies and/or a cold so I didn’t want to waste a decent bottle.
March 20, 2008

The Atomic Punk
Yalumba MGS Handpicked; though a bit pricey I gave into the power of the candied fruits which gave way to lively acidity , then breaking into deep dark berry flavors and a wave of spice… a winner despite the $$
March 20, 2008

MikeZ
Welcome back Gary. Dude you were amped!
QOTD: Peter Lehman, AUS Cab 2004. A good drop.
March 20, 2008

Isaac
QOTD: Last wine i drank was: Teute Cisa Asinari Dei Marchesi Di Gresy – La Serra Moscato D’Asti…. This thing, to me, brought serious thunder to me!!! It’s a frizante, low in alcohol, and great flavor…This is currently my favorite wine….it’s AWESOME!
March 20, 2008

OSCAR FALCON
Nice that you’re back…

QOTD: last Wine I tasted- 2002 Chateau Le Giron-PremiÃ¨res cÃ´tes de Bordeaux.

It DID bring the Thunder, specially with the meal we had:Jabugo Ham and chocolate, cilantro cream and blueberries for garnish. It’s light tanic and very aromatic, tastes of aged beef and cherries. I loved it.
March 20, 2008

SDJoe99
Welcome back GV, Last Vino was Cain Cuvee NV4..bringin the thunder!
March 20, 2008

Patrick
QOTD: I opened a Vecchia Cantina Bianco Vergine from Valdichiana. Major paazzzz!! It had a nice citrus, tropical, and tree fruit nose. The taste however, had a canned vinegar artichoke/sweat funkyness to it. Not recommended.
March 20, 2008

Nathan H
qotd: Luccio Moscato. I liked it.
March 20, 2008

Andrew
Good to see you back Gary and AWESOME TO SEE YOU HOSTING WINE BLOGGING WEDNESDAY

QOTD: Graham’s Late Bottled Vintage Port 2000 – good!

Andrew
March 20, 2008

Hamid
QOTD: 2004 Barton&Guestier Chateauneuf du Pape, and it rocked my house.
March 20, 2008

A Mango
QOTD: 2006 Selaks Marlborough Chardonnay. Enjoyable, tastes like a chard, wouldn’t go as far as to say it brings teh thunder. Priced circa 11 bones in Denmark, not bad.
March 20, 2008

Ferenc Illesy
Great show, welcome back Gary!

QoTD – Ella Valley Vineyards EverRed 2004 and it was somewhat of a pass (way too much black pepper to be really enjoyable)
March 20, 2008

Oregon Jim
Very excited to have you in the Hot Seat again, also thanks to all the boys who kept the seat warm for you. Mott, nice job with the broom -”sweep it up Mott!”

I really like the Hedges Red Mtn 3 Vineyard Red. You hit the nail on the head with the CMS in my Pal’s opinion.

I had my last bottle of Lindeman’s 2000 Pyrus Cab tonight with a little piece of Filet. Got it for under 8 bones and I haven’t seen it’s QPR rival period. Let it breath for a day or so, and while it’s not Bond, it is a ripping good steak washer downer. I don’t even know if they are continuing the product in the US anymore.

Those of us that commented on the under 100 day should all get the new wrist band, or a new car (hey Oprah gave out 200 cars). Anyway we all know that we are a special breed. – we are proud to be among the few, the bored. It could dang near become a pathetically weak movement or something.
March 20, 2008

Oregon Jim
And another thing – Actually just wanted you to reach 300 today. Hey, We are so pumped to have you come out to Washington which is right above Oregone! I hope to come up and shake your hand, but don’t know if your handlers will let the unwashed close enough I am going to try anyway. I will try to remember to wash.
March 20, 2008

medo
Welcome back Mr. V

QOTD:I had after some great Brandy de Jerez and Rum’s a 2004 Hungerford Hill Orange Shiraz/Viognier and it brought the thunder!
March 20, 2008

l
QOTD: 2005 Chateau de Tracy pouilly fume. It was a pretty good expression of the variety.
March 20, 2008

dawei
Good question. I’m always forgetting what wines I drink. Like the snow under sunny skies. I’m digging it as I drink, talking about it, getting in deep, appreciating the progression of the bottle, life. And then, after a few days, it’s progressed straight out of my mind. Looking at labels in the store- have I had that? Some stick around, stones on the soggy grass, but most melt away.

Gary, you have the show to keep live action tasting notes for you. What about other times? On the job? At restaurants? Who’s got a good system to remember their thoughts as they taste? I’ve never been much of one for reading with a pen…
March 20, 2008

DavidJaeger
QOTD: The last wine I had was a 2003 Darien Crianza, it was ok but far from great costs about 12 euro. Good to see you back Gary!!
March 20, 2008

Toby
Nice to have some winelibrary-TV to watch again!
(Please: more champagne and port shows)

Q.O.T.D.: Yesterday I actually didn’t have wine – I was at a local rum-tasting
There were some very nice ones, but also some very indifferent ones. The Bristol Long Pond was very nice, and the Ron Zacapa 25y. was a very pleasant finish.
March 20, 2008

MW_DM,IA
Welcome back, exciting show!
The other day a friend of mine thanked me for linking her up to the vegetarian food pairing episode. She said she loves your energy and has started watching semi-regularly for entertainment as well as informational purposes, and has started trying new wines. I encouraged her to trust her palate and to find some different things she likes. We’ll see how it goes.

QOTD: Last I bought was some $5 Cali Shiraz that was in the middle of the aisle. Gorgeous purple color, plummy and berryrific nose, peppery and plummy taste. Last I drank was a fruit wine a friend’s family made, smelled and tasted like blackberries, pretty simple but very delicious.
March 20, 2008

Carilius Maximus
…so there there We were. Pulling pallets off the truck and low and behold…we got a case of “THE LAYER CAKE”. Pretty good. $14.99. @ T.J’s. This is a really good “cocktail red” as I call them. Nice black fruit meets chocolate/ hazelnut.
It did Not hold up to the chips and salsa…but you know what…It did not need to. This is warm weather red. Very soft tannins with some new oak, but without the heavy back end structure of what you would expect from a
more serious effort. (whatever that means)Meal friendly… not so much. Friend friendly for sure!!
March 20, 2008

YoungDave
QOTD: Well, between work (a decent Italian restaurant with a crappy wine list, where I only work 1 day per week) and at home tonight, although I didn’t drink much, I tasted a few things, so here they are:
BENZINGER CAB: Solid, but over-priced run-of-the-mill, middle-of-the-road Cali cab (tasted at work, not purchased)
BOUVET BRUT: Nice persistent, small bubbles and good acidity, but narrow flavor profile, a bit too chalky (tasted at work, not purchased)
BARAHONDA 2006 (YECLA) MONASTRELL: Nice fruit reduction flavors and some tar/ hot stones for under 9 U.S. bones, but WAY too hot at 15% alc. without the fruit to support it
WINDSOR 2005 CHARDONNAY: I’m glad I got this on clearance at the grocery store for 10 bones because when the OAK MONSTER and the VANILLA VILLAIN teamed up together in this wine they conquered my palate, and would’ve unfairly taken over my wallet as well at the suggested retail of $16. A woody PAZZZZ!
March 20, 2008

Fred
QOTD: Last night- 2000, Chateau de Cranne, Premieres Cotes de Bordeaux, by Michel Lacoste.

At the price of about 18 USD, it worths its tickets. Big tannin structure, supple texture, full body, heavy finish, and obvious chilly pepper flavor in the classic Bordeaux flavor profile. The problems are the slightly weak and confusing mid-palate and the small showup of the vanilla shadow of that oak monster…

That chilly peper factore rocked. Me and my wife couldn’t help sneezing while sniff the wine…Whatever, the heavy weight and the nice complexity delighted me. Yeah, not bad.:)

I guess there might be an abnormal percent of Malbec in it…And, I will check it out later.:)

Good day, people!
March 20, 2008

DavidJaeger
Good to have you back gary!! Great stuff yet again.
QOTD: My last wine was a Darien Crianza 2003, it was ok but far from great costs about 12 euro (at about 18 us dollar, a pazzz)!
March 20, 2008

Sharon
Hi Gary! So nice to see you back in the saddle. The last wine I had was at a tasting on Saturday – but before that was 2003 ChamarrÃ© JuranÃ§on Tradition, a dessert wine: Wild fruit concoction of bananas, melon, tangerine, frozen OJ concentrate, candied pineapple. Good acidity and finish.
March 20, 2008

bob c
Gary, glad to have you back……QOTD: 2003 Chateau Sissan Red Bordeaux.For 10 bones.. not too bad.
March 20, 2008

e.fremont
Great to have you back. QOTD; J Schram 1999, It was great.
March 20, 2008

Danny C
Last wine I had was…

Domaine Weinbach “Theo” Riesling from the Alsace…and yes it did bring the THUNDER, good fruit, dry finish!
March 20, 2008

Anthony L.
Wow! So much thunder in this show that I feel overwhelmed. But seriously, great to have you back doing live shows.

QOTD: Espelt Saulo, 2005, Spain, Blend of Gernacha and Carinena. Because this is so affordable, it has become one of my everyday wines. Definitely brings the thunder on the everyday scale.
March 20, 2008

dmg
QOTD: The last wine was 2007 Marquis Philips Holly’s Blend. I think this will be a great summer drinker!
March 20, 2008

Brad
QOTD: Last wine I had was Hayman & Hill’s 2006 Pinot Noir. Not as much floral character as the ‘05 so I was expecting more thunder, but still appreciated on a random night. Welcome back, Gary!
March 20, 2008

Zev
Baron Herzog Russian River Chardonnay 2000 (It’s a Kosher wine)

I thought it was a nice medium bodies chardonnay, a bit pricey at $25, but I enjoyed it.
March 20, 2008

Jacob S
Great show…very enthusiastic!
QOTD: Pommier Chablis 1er Cru ‘Cote de Lechet’ 05…definitely brought some thunder.
March 20, 2008

joel delon
high energy after travelling abroad ! the vayniac’s community is ready for new episodes…
QOTD : had very recently a 100 % Carignan coming from Languedoc (private winery) Not enough concentrated to me and showed the bad characteristic of this varietal
March 20, 2008

mikeyrad
last wine was a greek red starting with an x (forgot the name) at a restaurant. Maybe not great, but for $21 a bottle at a NY restaurant, it brought relative thunder.
March 20, 2008

Trish-da'-Dish
I had the 2005 Cardiff Cabernet Sauvignon….this morning! About 4 oz. was left over in my glass from last night. Too little to save, and too much to throw out, so I enjoyed the dregs

It is a very simple “school night wine,” well-balanced, mellow, good body. It has no complexity, and no finish, but it tastes great. I don’t know how to explain it, but it made me go out and buy a CASE (the first case of any wine I’ve ever bought!), and guess what the per-bottle case price is? $3.50 each.

So, yes, it brings the THUNDER, ba-by!!!!!!

-Trish-da-Dish
March 20, 2008

FTBoomer
Welcome back GV

Last wine was Menage e trios. My current weekday goto.

How do I get the latest wristband. I have the others and need the new one.

Mott, hook me up.

GV, still no shout-out for the wonderful Bern’s dinner.
March 20, 2008

Allan
last wine I had was an entry level Tempranello blend that was so bad I barely survived the sniffy sniff. The first taste – ugh – so down the sink it went – man I hate entry level wines from companies that just pump out the juice with considering what the crap tastes like!!
March 20, 2008

Adam J
QOTD: Chateau Barrail Chevrol, Fronsac 2005. I’d say it brought some thunder, I am trying to introduce my pal to more tannic wines lately and it did that for sure.
Just wanted to say that my computer has been crashed for a couple weeks and I have been going to the local Library to watch the thunder show! Respect!
March 20, 2008

Kevin C.
Friend brought a bottle of 2006 Coppola Black Label Claret that was served with some nice thick cut prime rib, baked sweet potatoes and okra/tomtaoes. Certainly nothing to shout about, but servicable and held up well with the dinner. Good food, bottle of wine and friends over for dinner…life at its finest
March 20, 2008

Karen
Welcome back Gary! QOTD: Last wine I had was from the last secret pack. Thanks for bringing the thunder back!
March 20, 2008

Svante Adermark
QOTD: Castillo de Molina, Reserva 2006, Cabernet Sauvignon, finished it last Sunday. I recommend people trying it, somewhat oaky, but well integrated and cost me around $12.
March 20, 2008

Richard
I’m not big on whites, but last night I was in the mood for something cool and refreshing so I opened a bottle of the Cantina di Pitigliano Vermentino Toscana from, you guessed it, WL. I was NOT disappointed.

Welcome back, Gary.
March 20, 2008

Trucbinouche
Bonjour Gary,

Welcome back! It was a Bric del Salto Sottimano Dolcetto d’Alba 2006.
I bought this wine a couple of weeks ago, it was in the Italian release from the Cellier magazine. I have to say the tannins were really firm after about three hours of decanting they really mellowed down alot more approchable.

Thanks again,

Trucbinouche
March 20, 2008

Marcus Mendelson
Last wine was from some 5 liter box, but it was out of the Languedoc and was loaded with cranberries yet dark like a malbec. Great for the QPR and an enjoyable table wine.
March 20, 2008

italianwinelover
WELCOME BACK!!!! sure missed ya!
Great efforts while you were gone from everyone!

QOTD: Falesco, Umbria Merlot…enjoyed it very much!!! Would buy again and again! Totally brings the thunder!

Interesting combo in the Freakout have to seek that one out!
March 20, 2008

LennyR
Welcome back, GV!!!

QOTD: Las Rocas (Grenache) from Spain. A steal for $8.99!
March 20, 2008

Fingerlaker
2004 LongPoint Zin
was fair.. good value at free…
March 20, 2008

Senor Sangria
Hey Garry,

Great to have you back and see that energy again!

QOTD: Marco Real Tempranillo; It did bring the thunder after we let it breath for about 1 hour.
March 20, 2008

Wednesday
‘98 Chat Les Trois Croix (Bordeaux) had structure, but it didn’t deliver. Maybe it will by tonight.

Good to see you back, Gary.
March 20, 2008

KNode
QOTD: The last wine that I had was the Chateau Ste. Michelle Riesling because I was at a steakhouse and I wanted to test Gary’s theory of a sweet Riesling with steak. He was so right! It was absolutely a perfect pairing, and it definately brought the thunder!
March 20, 2008

Orion Slayer
Welcome back, Gary! It’s sort of a return to Wine Library TV for me too. I’ve been so busy with my wine blog that I haven’t been watching as many episodes of the Thunder Show. I really miss it.

QOTD: The last wine I tried was a 2005 San Quirico Vernacchia. I had never had a wine made from this grape so I wanted to try something new. It really “brought the thunder” because it was crisp, dry and had a hint of almonds. This would have gone great with food, but I couldn’t wait to try it after buying it last night, so I sipped it while watching American Idol.
March 20, 2008

Alfredhayes
Welcome back!

QOTD: Adriatic Cast Montepulciano. It was pure blueberries from start to finish. Totally loved it.
March 20, 2008

Pete
QOTD: I had a Malbec, but I don’t remember who made it. It tasted a lot like a strong cheese, and then as I let it sit, that mellowed out and became pretty decent. Overall, I’d pazz on it, but it was worth trying a new thing.
March 20, 2008

DavidB
So good to have you back – was almost in stated of deptression each day w/o the thunder show!

QOTD: Rhone Rebel GMS – started off a little weak but got much better as time passed and by the second day (yes I drink my wine over a two day period) it was so much better. I would not give it a pazz, esp considering the cost, but does it bring the THUNDER? Not so much, but a good everyday wine and for the cost, maybe a lower case “thunder”:)
March 20, 2008

terry
LAST WINE HAY GARY. MISS YOU…yes i am the super luker.
Question of the day,I tried something very different last time. It was a ASTI Spumatage by Martini Rosso ( couldn’t find others). THen i was really shocked by how similar this wine is to some icewine. Really amazingly good as a desert wine though a bit too straight foward.
SHOULD DO AN EPOSIDE ON ASTI…THEY DESERVE THE THOUNDER.
(should also talk about Muscato Bianco..cool grape)
March 20, 2008

spaetm
QOTD: Last wine was a Louis Jadot Beaujolais Villages 2006. Not terrible, but I felt rather run of the mill.

Love having you back.
March 20, 2008

Jason
QOTD: Last wine I had was Paradocx Barn Red. It comes in a paint can, so to me that’s some thunder.
March 20, 2008

BK
QOTD – Ken Wright Pinot Noir – and it brought serious thunder.

Great to have you back GV
March 20, 2008

salvatore
Our last wine was Morelli Moscato D’Asti; by Dezzani. A sweet wine with citris and honey flavors with low 5% alcohol. Nice desert wine or light seafood dishes….should pair well with lobster, scallops etc.

Try it out for Easter !!

This was a must have for our family……..since we are the Morelli’s from Massachusetts.

Great to see you back Santa Gary !
March 20, 2008

Tom
QOTD: AMANCAYA MALBEC-CABERNET SAUVIGNON – 2006
a little bit of thunder…..
March 20, 2008

Tom
Welcome back Gary — nice to have you back — lots of people missed you. How about a show on Argentine Malbecs?? Lots of great stuff coming out with the 2006 releases…..would love to see you taste the Clos de los Siete, among others.
March 20, 2008

Cliff A
Welcome back Gary.

QOTD: With a grilled strip steak 3/19’s dinner a 2005 Glaetzer Wallace Shiraz/Grenache and yes, “it brought the thunder”! An excellent wine by Ben Glaetzer and not your “father’s Aussie fruitbomb” after decanting.
March 20, 2008

RichE
GV,
Thanks for the THUNDER

QOTD:
My last Wine of the Day was a Rosenblum Petite Syrah…yummmmmm
March 20, 2008

Dr. G
Hey Gary – glad you’re back in the hot seat. . .we’ve been missing you around here.

Tried quite a few new wines this past weekend (at our Friday wine gathering, on my own here at the house and at a dinner/wine party put on by good friends). Had a range of wines, but nothing really brought the thunder. The two that stood out from this weekend were:
1.) a 2005 Ambiente from Argentina that, for me, was a major pazz; and ,
2.) a 2005 Bogle Petite Sirah that at least rumbled a little (good price, great color, what I thought was red currant on the nose, and some interesting flavors once you got past the oak).
March 20, 2008

RieslingRon
Welcome back Gary.

QOTD: An 01 Allegrini Palazzo della Torre. This is a ripasso valpolicella that I enjoyed very much.
March 20, 2008

Lawain
2004 Mary Hill Sangiovese-awesome…thanks Garyvee…
March 20, 2008

Snogging
QOTD – Mahi Savignon Blanc!
March 20, 2008

SaraMHCRU
welcome back! qotd: last wine I had was the la tendance from the secret 4 pack. I enjoyed it a lot, but I’ve been drinking a 6 dollar rose lately that brings about the same amount of thunder, so I’ve gotta say the $20 rose is unfortunately a pass for me.
March 20, 2008

Porter
QOTD: Mauro Vannucci Il Sasso Carmignano 2005. It’s pretty good, a bit tight, I’m giving it 24 hours to open up and see how it does then.
March 20, 2008

Taylor
Great to have you back Gary!
QOTD The Partal that featured in the show today, I liked it a lot, with it we had a filet topped with peppered brie, parsnip puree, onion con fit.
March 20, 2008

LauraG
QOTD: Los Zorros Tempranillo. It brought MASSIVE thunder!!
March 20, 2008

Sassodoro
QOTD. Last wine was 2006 Altos Las Hormigas Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina. Also had some 1999 Vina Urbezo (70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Tempranillo) from Carinena, Spain, leftover from the night before. Both were “serviceable” and decent value, but neither were especially thunderous.

BTW, on at least one of the collage-shows of the last couple days, I would have left a comment, but no comment button appeared.
March 20, 2008

Lawrence Leichtman
Great to have you back GV. Had a Bracco Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2003 last night at an Italian restaurant and it did bring the thunder. Finally got a wine that everyone at the table liked and decent QPR.
March 20, 2008

mcj
QOTD: Michel Redde 2004 Sancerre Les Tuileres – I wouldn’t say it brought the thunder, but it was very nice.
March 20, 2008

Carly
SOOO happy to have you back! I love your energy. It’s so contagious!

QOTD: Last night, my boyfriend and I had two rosÃ©s. I only remember the name of one of them, so that will be my last wine : Pink Goat Syrah RosÃ© (Chile) –> I think it was a 2006 or 2007. It was really great to just drink! Lower acidity and alcohol than the other one we had, but as a result didn’t go as well with our spicy thai food. The other rosÃ©’s citrus and strawberry fruit plus the acidity was not so good on its own, but with the food kicked butt!

We never would have thought to try rosÃ© if not for your emphatic mantra: try new things! Thanks, GV!
March 20, 2008

Donna Marie
QOTD: The Mahi Sauvignon Blanc–with scallops—Awesome–even on its own. I need more.
March 20, 2008

Jeff
great show Gary!
had a Vine Cliff 95 Cab that had sat in my cellar since I visited the winery in 98…….
it was ready; it was spectacular with Irish Beef Stew on St. Pat’s day!
how do you keep your teeth white with all the tasting?? just curious.
March 20, 2008

Jeff
agree about the Mahi Sav Blanc; but is is definitely a NZ flavor profile; not like a sancerre…….
March 20, 2008

Ricky B.
QOTD- Last wine I had was the 04 Domaine Ferrand Chateauneuf du Pape, it did bring the thunder, all the 04 Chateauneufs I have tried so far are drinking wonderfully.
March 20, 2008

Chris
Lurker here, first time post: Chateau de Lancyre Rose. I thought it was awesome. And I really have not had a lot of rose.
March 20, 2008

JerseyGirl turned CNY vayniac
QOTD: Flying Penguin Cabernet Franc Ice Wine, and it BROUGHT the thunder baby!
March 20, 2008

MtnCharlie
Welcome back Gary!

QOTD: We had five wines with friends recently:
1992 Russian River white table wine. (Was way past its prime. Not bad, but we didn’t drink it).
1997 Cronin Central Coast Pinot Noir. (Again way past, but we drank some of that).
2006 Vermentino. I cannot remember the producer. (Serviceable, had it with enchiladas)
2 Gewurztraminers, One from Claiborne & Churchill and the other I cannot remember. Both fairly dry.
Really only the wines that stood out as interesting were the Vermentino and the Claiborne & Churchill Gewurztraminer.
March 20, 2008

CW
QOTD: A QPR heavyweight Loosen Dr L @ $8.
March 20, 2008

EmZeeGee
Okay, this lurker is coming out to post.

Unfortunately, the last wine we drank was brought to our house as gift, and it wasn’t bad, but definitely no thunder either. A good “cooking wine.” It was a Smoking Loon Syrah. We’re going to a tasting tonight and have high hopes, however.

Thanks for the fun and interesting shows, Gary!
March 20, 2008

Jason Bonds
Gary,

2 nights ago I had the Ferrari Carano 2005 Siena Sangiovese and thought it was pretty good. Not mind blowing.

Thanks for trying the Partal on the show; as I mentioned I thought it would be a good wine for all to try.

Later,

JB
March 20, 2008

Juztin
I recently had a Cotes du Rhone white blend (5 diff grapes) and it brought serious thunder. It was only $32 in a restaurant, so probably half that in stores. I never thought to drink white Cotes du Rhones but I’m glad I did.
March 20, 2008

Tom T.
2002 Mazzei Serrata Di Belguardo, yes it brought the thunder.
March 20, 2008

Martin
Had the 2005 Pillar Box Red while watching the Formula One Grand Prix of Australia. So much fun!
March 20, 2008

wayno da wino
Da THUNDER is back in da Hizzy, YEEEEEEAAAAAAH !!!!!
Gee, Ya got me bouncin’ off da walls……..

QOTD: Ravenswood – Big River – Zinfandel 1996….. it was a bit
“faded/tired” to say da least…..PAAAAAAAAAAZZZZZZZZZZZ !!!!
March 20, 2008

Ken F
Last wine was a Rutherford Ranch cab Napa Valley 2004 and yes it was very good. I think is is going to be difficult to find a 2004 cab from Napa that is not going to be good.
March 20, 2008

Scott A
Glad to see you review another Washington wine! However, the price point you gave for Hedges CMS is a little out of date. It now goes for $12 retail, but you can find it for less. You ought to give Hedges Three Vineyards a try ($22). These are some of the best values offered by a Red Mountain winery.
March 20, 2008

Joe S
QOTD: It as a beautiful day in Denver, about 60 degrees and we had a 2005 Shepherds Ridge SB and it was great sipping wine in the sun on the back porch.
March 20, 2008

Patrick L
QOTD Bogel old vine Zin……Did not bring the thunder lacked any complexity….Nice to have you back GV see you on 3-29

Pat
March 20, 2008

SS Chris
QOTD: 2001 Buoncristiani OPC Napa Claret….this was the first “case purchase” after I started watching WLTV (actually my 1st case purchase EVER). You actually didn’t taste this on WLTV, but sent out a video email where you tasted it. And yes, this wine definitely brings the THUNDER!! I’m down to 7 of these babies. Thanks for the good REC!

and…..Welcome Back!!!
March 20, 2008

SS Chris
One more thing…just an FYI that I also posted on the Forum, but not sure you saw it….Paul Mengden (one of the names you pulled for the Vayniac Blending) is Paul M….you know him….he had the Gary Bobblehead made!!
March 20, 2008

*/^_^\*
oh good…i was starting to have withdrawals

qotd: 04 bellevue peycharneau (sp) bordeaux superior. well balanced and elegant. opened up after 1 day uncorkd. not incredibly complex.
March 20, 2008

elliottf
QOTD: Chateau de Seguin 2005 Bordeaux – for being under $10 I’d certainly say it brought the thunder!

Glad you’re back, Gary!
March 20, 2008

Colin
GV – Welcome back! QOTD = 2003 Guigal Crozes-Hermitage. Thunderous.
March 20, 2008

Trevor M.
Hey Gary, last wine I had was a 2005 Briar Creek Vintner’s Select Napa Cab… a buddy of mine sent me a few bottles… never had it before. Did it bring the THUNDER???

It was decent… but not may fav.

- trevor
March 20, 2008

stewart l
glad to have you back!
Qotd-Deloach 2005 forgotten vines zin-88 score 24 bones -pazz
March 20, 2008

Simon D
WooHoo a new show! And a great one too. Had some of the Freakout a few weeks back and was really suprised!

QOTD: some 2005 grenache (don’t recall the name right now) I picked up at the grocery store last night. It was a’ight…definitely not as good as the 2004 Menguante Garnacha Seleccion from the secret 4 pack.
March 20, 2008

JeffC
Hey welcome back Gary. Good to see you in the drivers seat.
QOTD: I mentioned this one in a separate email to you recently. 2005 Villa Sorono Pinot Noir. For $7.99, good QPR. Hey how about a wristband?
March 20, 2008

Carlitos
QOTD. The last wine I had was the 1996 Drei Donna – Notturno in Fa Maggiore, Sangiovese from the Forli region in Emilia Romagna. It was a nice drink, silky and with plenty of nice sour cherry, though probably should have been drunk a couple of years back.
March 20, 2008

Anthony
Sadly, I think the last wine that I had was from the last secret pack you had on the show.
March 20, 2008

HeadWino
QOTD: Last wine, 2 nights ago: Leocadie Les Clauses 2005. Great Value Index score. Earlier GV recommendation. Way to go.
March 20, 2008

Dom
Last wine I had was the Rosso by Sportoletti 2006. It was a pass. hollow mid palette and really short finish. Fruit at the beginning was good, but faded quickly.
March 20, 2008

Susan
Gary-Following Santa GavyVee now!!!!!!
March 20, 2008

Susan
Mott- NO caffeine for Gary from now on!!! Energy?!?!?!?- Gary- you make the energizer bunny look like a sloth!!!!!!!!!!
March 20, 2008

John
QOTD: the last wine I had was a Greek wine; Skouras 2004 Megas Oenos. It brought the thunder with a blend of Aghiorgitiko (Saint George) 80% and Cabernet Sauvignon 20%.
March 20, 2008

NYSE wine
QOD. Had a bottle of Simi Chardonnay last night with dinner. It was standard for Simi.
March 20, 2008

MonkuWino
QOTD – 2005 Twisted Oak *%#&@! red blend, and yes it brought the thunder!
March 20, 2008

Jason
Anselmo Mendes Andreza Loureiro(2006)

Brought serious thunder for a seriously small price ($9.99 at WL)
March 20, 2008

Susan
Gary & Mott-QOTD: Last wine I had DID BRING THE THUNDER!!! I am going link this one up ALL BY MYSELF, HINT, HINT!!! Here is the link to my notes on the 2001 Campo Viejo Tempranillo Reserva:
http://tv.winelibrary.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=15740
March 20, 2008

Matt N.
Last wine I drank was the ‘04 L’ecole No.41 Cabernet. I have had this before but as always this wine brought serious thunder to the table, great pure fruit, well-integrated oak and a relatively long finish. Not terribly cheap at around 25-30 bucks but well worth it to me (and better than anything out of Cali in that price point)
March 20, 2008

Matt N.
Also, just FYI that CMS was a 2006, don’t think it was mentioned or listed, but it was visible on the bottle. To me not as good as the 2005 but certainly worth a taste at the price point.
March 20, 2008

Bundydb
QOTD: With a lot of searching (and a lot of luck) I was able to get my hands on 1/2 a case of Phillip Hills ‘05 Pinot Noir. Very Good Stuff!!!!

Glad you are back in the saddle!!

I know Thursdays are the big thing now, but my friends and family always get together on Wed&Sun to eat and taste different wines. And it’s usually only one or the other, not both in one week for me at least… Happy to see all these projects popping up though!! Lots of fun stuff to do out there now days : )
March 20, 2008

James H
The last wine I had was a 2004 La Chablisienne Vieilles Vignes Chablis. Kinda neat. It wasn’t stellar, but it was sort of a flinty-citrus flavour profile. Definitely worth a try. I also had a malbec last night that rocked the manure notes. I was pretty surprised to find those notes, and that I didn’t mind them at all.
March 20, 2008

Charles Stoffel
I agree with Scott A’s comment earlier. The Three Vineyards is great. Hedges makes some very good wine the is priced right. I am going out to the Walla Walla and Red Mountain areas this fall and look forward to visiting some great Washington State wineries.
QOTD: 2004 Reininger Helix Pomatia (Washington State) and it was thumbs up!
March 20, 2008

RJ
QOTD: Campofiorin Masi Veronese i.g.t. 2004 thunder to the max, I don’t get to drink nice wine too often as I am university student so it’s nice when family comes to town to feed wine me.
March 20, 2008

Andy
2005 Domaine de la Janasse Cotes du Rhone, pretty darn decent actually. I found a lot of under $20 Southern Rhone wines to be worth drinking, but I haven’t found many worth drinking more than once. I guess it just seems like there’s so many different ones.
March 20, 2008

chippewamike
QOTD: 05 Frank Family Zin–awesome.

Welcome back. Enjoy the games today. Go Spartans and Go Irish.
March 20, 2008

Dijon9955
OK long time lurker here, finally got off my ass to post something. Sorry it took so long Gary.

The last wine I had was the 2003 Wein & Sektgut Thielen Merlen Fettgarten Riesling Spatlese. On the sniffy sniff you thought it would be sweet and desert but was all most dry. Great acidity and went with the Thai food perfectly, Drunken noodles with chicken and Panang curry with tofu.
March 20, 2008

pearl
behrens&hitchcock 04 petit syrah – awesome stuff
March 20, 2008

BargePlus
QOTD: Last night I had a 2005 Le Clos du Pech Laurie from Domaine des Maels, directly on the Canal du Midi in the Minervois area of Languedoc. A blend of Syrah and Grenache.

It didn’t bring the “stand on the armrests of your chair and jump up & down” thunder, but more like the “bounce in your seat” thunder.

PS: The armbands on this show looked exceptionally good.
March 20, 2008

Mott T Hoople
last wine: d’arenberg high trellace shiraz and yes, it brought the thunder.
March 20, 2008

Jayhitek
Can’t remember the name. Spanish Red. My neighbor gave it to me a few weeks ago when we had him over for dinner. Cracked it and drank it. Pretty good.
March 20, 2008

joebot
Good to see you back at home!! QOTD= Last wine tried, Tilia 2006 Mendoza Malbec, and I’d say it was at good Qpr at 12$ and it brought some thunder ( 88 points ). Argnentina is putting out some great wines lately!

Joe
March 20, 2008

Mike Calmus
Nice to have you back Gary.
QOTD: I had an Argentinian Melbac (2006, I think?) the other day. It wasn’t bad.
March 20, 2008

sunny k
gary great episode

2006 soave pasqua

little thunder sunny k
March 20, 2008

John P
Glad you are back!!
QOTD: Meadowlark Red 2005 Talk about a great wine from NAPA.
Most good stuff from NAPA is way over this price(30 bones).
You gave it a high rating and justly deserved.
March 20, 2008

Scottie P
Folly Hill 2005 Cab. It was average but above average when paired with Chocolate.
March 20, 2008

JtotheMorris
By far the most intense show I’ve ever watched. Gary must be chugging 4 mountain dews chased with a briefcase full of yellow jackets before taping! Good to see the supreme wine-o back online and ready to amp it up again. Great show…..still waiting on my wristband. -Jeff
March 20, 2008

bigmay
QOTD: 2004 Dominio de Tares Bierzo Albares. Gave it a whirl at a local Neapolitan pizza place on half price wine night because I’d never had a MencÃa-based wine before. It was a little rough out of the bottle but opened nicely during the meal and was great with the Diavola – Salami, pepperocini, olives, fresh mozzarella, crushed San Marzano tomatoes, cracked red pepper, and basil. Yum.

We’re so stoked here in the Twin Cities for the first Third Thursday event tonight!
March 20, 2008

Corey
Hey Gary,

I’ve been watching the show for about 6 months and this is my first comment – so I was a lurker but no more. My last wine was a 2006 Barton and Guestier Beaujolais. It wasn’t bad but didn’t bring the thunder. It was heavily tannic and out of balance. I’m also a member of the CKC’s representing Purdue!!

Glad to see you’re back.
March 20, 2008

Devin P
I have to reveal something that might get me banned from WLTV, but I’m not really a wine drinker… The last wine I think I had was $4-a-jug Royal Red, like 6 months ago.

Can I still watch?
March 20, 2008

edub707
2005 olivier leflaive St Aubin 1er cru en remilly… Not Florida in the summer thunder, but it Made it rain.
March 20, 2008

Barrel Monkey
QOTD: Ostatu 2006 White Rioja. $14

I’d say it was pretty good and clean, relatively dry with good acidity. However if it weren’t for the cheeses I was pairing it with, I’d have been bored. I still haven’t found a white wine (except sauternes!) that really held my interest the way some red wines do. But I’m looking! The last tasting with friends, we had 4 whites.
March 20, 2008

Bal H.
Paul Jaboulet Hermitage La Chappelle 1990. It brought the Thunder but was shared by 6 of us!!!
March 20, 2008

Craig
QOTD: John Phelps 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon. As soon as I poured the first glass, the aroma literally filled the room. Someone sitting 10 ft away said, “Boy, that smells good”. I could have smelled the wine all day.
March 20, 2008

susan s.
WOW, that Matt guy sure is cute…..send me a free case of champagne, quick.
March 20, 2008

George from NEPA
Altesino Rosso de Altesino 2004 was the last wine I had. Not too bad, still new to wine so I really dont have much to compare it to
March 20, 2008

RnD
QOTD: 2004 Dry Creek Mariner Meritage – plenty of Thunder baby!!!!
March 20, 2008

Jason T
QOTD: last wine was Zonin 2005 Valpolicella Classico purchased from the winery near Verona…serious thunder for a relatively low price of 8 Euro…gotta love the Baby Amarone!
March 20, 2008

Michael Mohammadi
Hey GV – I made my first visit to the Wine Library last Friday (from Baltimore) not knowing you weren’t in town!! That cheese shop is out of this world and overall I love the layout of the store. I took a glance in the “cellar” area and even picked up a 2003 ViÃ±edos de PÃ¡ganos Rioja El Puntido from in there (as well as a few other things I found on the shelves!). Great stuff man, guess I’ll have to make another pilgrimage in the near future.

Great show – I feel your pain on the weakness of the US Dollar – my November wine trip to Europe is going to cost an arm and a leg – perhaps it’s time to head out to Napa instead!

QOTD: 2006 Altos Las Hormigas Bonarda Colonia las Liebres which was purchased from the Wine Library following your review – great QPR, I gave it an 86 on par with your 87.
March 20, 2008

chenin
Hi Gary, sorry about the QOTD but I won’t tell you because I don’t want to get this winery promoted in the US. Don’t even know if it’s available, but it’s a good QPR white Burgundy. Yes, correct there is such a thing… but at the current exchange-rate should be close to 22 $ in the US.

Still tremendous pineapple, caramel, walnut and a salty minerality on the palate. Ah well.
March 20, 2008

Michael Y
qotd forgot the name, but it was a cheap ‘05 bordeaux. not bad
March 20, 2008

VinoVixen
Welcome back GV.
QOTD: Tyrus Evan 2005 Walla Walla Syrah. Unfortunately, it brought more alcohol than thunder! I am hoping it has mellowed out so I can have a sippy sip when I get home today
March 20, 2008

Karl
Welcome back Gary, nice episode, good energy.

QOTD : Clos de Nouys demi-sec Vouvray 2006, fantastic ! I love chenin blanc.
March 20, 2008

legend
qotd-chevalier d’aymon 2005-unoaked bordeaux-simple ,easy drinking style-looking forward to easter with chateau montrose 1994
March 20, 2008

Loweeel
last wine I had — Donati 2003 Meritage from Paicines. It was definitely a “2nd Day” wine.
March 20, 2008

Karl Laczko
Hi Hary, nice to have you back and looking so refreshed.

QOTD – Last wine, and still currently drinking it, is the Cremisan Vin Nouveau 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, from Israel (although technically it’s the Palestinian territories, near Bethlehem). Not a pazz, but not that Thunderous either – raspberry nose, very fruity and a hint of sweetness. Really smooth mouthfeel, and more raspberry. Very little dryness or acidity – it’s reasonable as a simple wine, there’s no complexity, just lots of fruit.
March 20, 2008

Karl Laczko
Who the hell’s Hary?
March 20, 2008

NC Carl
Nobilo Sov. Blanc, last night when I rolled in at 10pm. My finacee had left me a half glass from her girls night. Have to say, good nose, worth the 8.50 just for the smell.
March 20, 2008

GrapeStuff
Welcome back, GV! Looks like I will be getting to join in on the blending for the Vayniac Cab!! VERY STOKED!

Great to see the Thunder show back in action.
March 20, 2008

Zk
Great show, lots of good energy!! The last wine that I had was CARPENÃˆ MALVOLTI PROSECCO DI CONEGLIANO CUVÃ‰E BRUT. For me it brought the thinder at just over $13 Canadian and a nice sweet dry balance. Great to have you back.
March 20, 2008

WineFellow
Gary Vee must have just put down a couple of shots of espresso, he was amped. Nice work today, bummer none of the wines rocked.

QOTD: 2005/2006 Syrah by Montes Alpha. I love the 2005 and tasted it next to the 2006, similar but the 2005 was much better. The 2005 always rocks it, south-of-the-border style.
March 20, 2008

Jeff R
QOTD: I cant remember who made it or what year it was. I randomly picked up a german gewurztraminer. Im sure you can tell it was a pazzzzz since i dont remember who made it. it was like drinking crappy apple juice.

btw i want a wristband!
March 20, 2008

Christine
The last wine I had was the Chateau Dereszla Dry Tokaji you reviewed sometime in the last 25-40 episodes. I brought it with me to a dinner party and managed to impress a Polish dinner guest who was certain that there are no good Hungarian wines.
March 20, 2008

Cheri
QOTD: Last night I had Indian Wells Riesling, from Chateau St. Michelle, and watched John Adams on HBO. Good times……Glad you are back Gary!!! Missed you!
March 20, 2008

Andy
A nice little wine which was a Spanish Rose (2006 Navarra Old Vine ) 100% Garnacha ,,, about $12 maybe a little thunder but a paasssss….
March 20, 2008

Valentin
QOD: VINA TARAPACA, GRAN RESERVA MERLOT, 2005, MAIPO VALLEY, CHILE. Brought some serious thunder taking the price (special discount) of about 9$ into account. I bought it in Switzerland.
March 20, 2008

Saftig
QOTD: Sparkling shiraz. I know. Odd. Don’t ask. What was I thinking.
Great show, though.
March 20, 2008

yowens
GV- Welcome back and great show, I have that Luna you tasted and am now very excited to give it a sniffy sniff. QOTD: Pierre a Feu Sav Blanc from the Loire
March 20, 2008

Scott EJ
Wow…almost 500 posts? Someone certainly made some friends as SXSW.

I better learn to be quicker on my draw.
March 20, 2008

Doc Johnson
Just had some 2006 Chateau Dereszla Dry Tokaji this afternoon in a mini celebration
March 20, 2008

daverdude
Poor Mott
All this linking up and still NO T SHIRT ?

Just Finished a 2004 I Greppi greppicola (94 point) $50
An Excellent Spanish Red

SANTACHUCK (lol)
March 20, 2008

Elijah
Itsas Mendi Bizkaiko Txakolina
2005 vintage
Varietal: Hondarrabi Zuri
Basque region of Spain

This wine is currently bringing the thunder to my palate. A little New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc-like in the nose. Some cruciferous vegetables and lemon cream in the nose. Nice acidity. Getting ready to try it with some mahi mahi and coconut-lime rice pilaf.
March 20, 2008

daverdude
WHOOPS make that I Greppi “GRPPICAIA”
You know who snooty these wltv members can get about Grammar (lol)
March 20, 2008

latraviata
QOTD: Today I had a Red Bicyclette Merlot 2005 and it was OK but did not bring the thunder.
March 20, 2008

jason
i have had a few bottles in the past week. the two of any consequence was a 05 savigny les beaunes by bichot. it was OK. not as spun as the 05 chorey les beaunes from jadot. same level, similar price, no comparison.

i did open a bottle of 04 les ormes de pez and it was doing alright. quiet honorable. everyone gave it a 89, so that can be a good unit a measure for the 90 +. it was good, real good. if that is an 89, i am in business then.
March 20, 2008

GrapeStuff
Oh, and QOTD: Fetish Wines The Watcher
March 20, 2008

Big D
Welcome back Gary!

QOTD: I had a 2002 Beringer Cab from the Quarry Vineyard. I knew it might not be a hugely popular wine so just my wife and I tried it….MAJOR PAZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ!
Parker gave it 88 points but the only use I can envision for this wine is as a small part of a blend. Very vegetal, mineral, strong bitter tannins, just a mess and not enjoyable at all.
March 20, 2008

AtlantaJack
GV: I had a Caymus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
I didn’t just bring the thunder, it brought the perfect storm! Loved it! 80 bones but worth every cent.
March 20, 2008

Mark Fitzpatrick
Last wine I had was a little Organic Cabernet Sauvignon from Argentina: 2007 Santa Julia.

For $9 bones, actually not bad — but that’s coming from my pathetic, untrained pal.

Today’s show ROCKED!!!
March 20, 2008

dtmmedia
I had a 2005 MacMurray Ranch Central Coast Pinot Noir.
March 20, 2008

Flavio
QOTD: Argionals Turriga 1993 – It was a lot more mature than I expected – had lost the tannin and the power / “robustness” that are characteristic of this top shelf Sardinian Cannonau (Grenache). Although I still enjoyed its elegance (they’re very well made wines), I gave it a Pazzz based on what I paid.
March 20, 2008

jack
qotd: 2004 german riesling, good stuff!

Dr. BÃ¼rklin-Wolf Riesling QualitÃ¤tswein Trocken Pfalz Wachenheimer RechbÃ¤chel 2004
March 20, 2008

Mike L
QOTD: Last wine I had was the Vino de Eyzaguirre 2004 Cabernet Savignon. It was OK, best of all it was super cheap so for the price point, it brought some noticeable thunder.

Welcome back to the Thunder Show, Gary!!!
March 20, 2008

Neil
I guess all of the exuberance displayed in this show burnt Gary V out for Thursday 3-20-08.
March 20, 2008

Joe Ferrara
Hey Gary,
I’m glad you are back. The last wine I drank was a 2005 Ch. Ronan I picked up at WL a few weeks ago. It brought the thunder for me. I enjoyed it so much it only made it through dinner. Usually it takes me two days to finish a bottle since my wife only drinks desert wines. This was one of those wines that makes me glad I buy things without reviews or ratings, it gives me a chance to be really, pleasantly surprised every now and then.

See you March 29th!
March 20, 2008

DARREL LAS VEGAS
QOTD: CASTANO Monastrell 2006 (drinking as I type).

Try this on your show 10 bones! It will “rock your wine world”
March 20, 2008

MattUD
QOTD: The last wine I had was the Fantinel Tesis Pinot Grigio 2005 which I bought from the wine library, and I thought it was pretty good, definatly enjoyed it. Glad to have you back Gary!
March 20, 2008

Bob D
QOTD: 2006 Buehler Vineyards Zinfandel. Just got done reviewing it on corkd: http://corkd.com/wine/view/53830-2006_Buehler_Vineyards_Zinfandel

It brought *some* thunder. I gave it 88 points.
March 20, 2008

Dave from VA
QOTD: Williamsburg Winery James River White blend, pazz on the thunder, but drinkable.
March 20, 2008

misswinegirl
QOTD: Braganini Reserve Sauvignon blanc…Glad you are back!!!
March 20, 2008

Mandy
Brigaldara Valpolicella Classico 2005, $15

Was pretty good. Kind of overwhelming and pungent really, on the sweet, ripe side. I tend to like “wierd” wines over fruity, but still, this kicks more booty then alot of wines at the same price.
March 20, 2008

Tranquility Jones
2001 Chateau Lascombes that I had on the beach in Bora Bora. Brought it in my suitcase. Decanted in a pitcher I ‘borrowed.’ When the wine was gone, I stuck a message in the empty bottle that read, “Send More.” Then I corked it up and set it afloat back to Bordeaux. Or the nearest liquor store would work… so check the beach, Gary.
March 20, 2008

C-Lo
Fun show GV, good to have you back. The last wine I had was (gag!) a Kendall Jackson chardonnay at an ocean side restaurant in Florida last Thursday – it was the only wine on the menu! But drink it we did – the whole carafe. Ah, the things you’ll do with your friends…keep it real.
March 20, 2008

David
QOTD: Le Grande Pinot Noir 2006, very tasty especially when on sale for 8 bones!
March 20, 2008

NathanN
Nice to see you again GV!

QOTD: Altos de Luzon 2004 and it was pretty good.
March 20, 2008

C.L. Fornari
The last wine I had was an Elyse zin – 2004 Howell Mountain and it DID bring the thunder, thank you very much. I loved it.
March 20, 2008

Jaybird
QOTD: 2004 Tignanello it was awesome and so was the setting (Las Vegas Mirage)
March 20, 2008

NB_SPAZZ
QOTD: Most recent = W & J Graham’s 10 Year Tawny Port, and it came close to bringing the thunder after a great dinner with 10 friends and a sampling of three wines from the Willamette Valley, Oregon.
March 20, 2008

Kelly
QOTD: The wine I’m drinking right now with my mom is Columbia Crest 2 Vines 2006 Gewurtztraminer.
March 20, 2008

Larry P
Gar…popped the Argentinian torrontes( don’t know if I spelled that right)that I tried at the Wine Lib this past Saturday and yes…oh yes.. it brought the thunder. Great QPR!! Good to have you back man!
March 20, 2008

Doug
QTOD: STELLA MONTEPULCIANO not too bad, no thunder, but not a pazzzzz either
March 20, 2008

phermented1
QOTD: 2003 Chateau Ferriere – Stellar bottle! Purchased for $15. Should have picked up more.
March 20, 2008

ramona
qotd 2005 weingut stadt krems. High acid but good
March 20, 2008

David Masi
Glad your back…2005 Perrin & Fils Vacqueyras les christins and it went great with the lambchops!
March 20, 2008

Jizzess
QOTD: A yummy 2003 La Loggia Italian Barolo (I only know this because I bought 2 bottles of it). It’s 12 bucks (bones) at Trader Joes and I enjoyed the tobacco notes and berries, two of my favorite flavors in a wine. It’s super light bodied but packs flavor. I’d say it brings some thunder, actually. Quite a bit o’ thunder.
March 20, 2008

RobRx
2005 Justin Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles. It seems to me that Justin must keep all their good fruit for Isosceles which is excellent most years. This was an adequate Cab, OK fruit, tannins in balance. Probably could do better for the price though. No thunder, maybe a cloudy day.
March 20, 2008

wyldshaman
Montes Classic Series Merlot 2005 – Pass But its funny how after a glass or two it tastes ok….
March 20, 2008

Karen
I’ve just learned about your site (immediate bookmark), and have enjoyed a few recent episodes over a glass of Jose Gaspar Ye Mystic Red 2005. Background on the campy name for those unfamiliar: Jose Gaspar is a legendary pirate celebrated in the Tampa Bay area of Florida and lends his name to various Gasparilla events held from January through March (for example, http://www.gasparillapiratefest.com/). The wine bottle sports a front label with a pirate ship and a parrot, and the back label notes are written as a pirate proclamation. Yargh, mateys!

The wine itself is actually a careÃ±ena from Spain and a bit tannic yet still quaffable red. Outside of Tampa and the season, it’s probably a bit pricey at $12–but then again, Jose was a pirate.
March 20, 2008

Bruce Ornstein
The last wine I had was Seavey 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon. It did bring the thunder. I rate it 94 points. Welcome back Gary. I am no longer a lurker.
March 20, 2008

yourfrienddownunder
It has been so long since I have left a comment that I have devolved to lurkerhood. Sorry Garry.

Chandon Sparkling Shiraz (Yarra Valley, Australia, $17). I love a good sparkling shiraz and while this one is not nearly the best I have had, it was worth the money.
March 20, 2008

pawncop
The last wine was part of an tasting experiment for me.

I tried a heavily oaked Chardonnay – Toasted Head 2005 and then tried an unoaked Chardonnay – Penfolds Thomas Hyland Chardonnay 2006 South Australia to try and determine the difference in flavors, arouma’s and mouth feel. I much prefer the Penfolds, but can see a place for the Toasted Head depending on the food.

Thank’s for your time and welcome back
March 20, 2008

Stefan T
QOTD: Christian Moueix Merlot 2005

Great company made a solid wine that much better. Recommended.

Good to have you back Gary.
March 20, 2008

Kevin Envik
Gehringer brothers 2006 riesling… this wine rocked my socks off for 15cad.
March 20, 2008

Lois and Greg
Black box cab at a wine tasting (actually a Riedel glass/wine tasting). OK for a party.
March 20, 2008

Grapedigger
Welcome back G.
Last Saturday I had 4 wines that brought serious thunder, 2 of which were your suggestions:
-Started with a very nice German Riesling from Mosel: 2005 St. Urbans-Hof Piesporter Riesling Kabinett
Then 2 extremely contrasting wines neck to neck:
-La Coudraye Yannick Amirault Bourgueil 2005
-Amisfield 2005 Pinot Noir (to contrast with the cab franc above)
- for dessert, a delicious Canadian lates harvest Vidal: Inniskillin Select Late Harvest Vidal Ontario 2006
I loved all 4. 90 pts + across the board. Cheers
March 20, 2008

ryang
last wine i drank was 2004 Schild Estate Shiraz Ben Schild Reserve and I would say yes it brought the thunder. one I got it for a great price and two it was great with some burgers on the grill. im finding that i love shiraz with a good cookout. big fat juicy burger, onion, lettuce, tomato, some BBQ chips. all great with shiraz for me!!!
March 20, 2008

Chad B.
Welcome back! This episode brought serious thunder; like a storm that rolls in at the end of a scorching summer day!

QOTD: Chateau Ste Michelle 2006 Riesling. A mediocre wine in my opinion.
March 20, 2008

kenny
GV is back! Had 2 today. Ballast Stone petite verdot, I like and my wife so-so. No.2 was Gascon Malbec, I say new world and ok for the money, my important half gives a thumbs up.
March 20, 2008

Tristan Roy
Gary – great meeting you at SXSW!

QOTD: L’Aventure
March 20, 2008

Meloyellow
Last wine I had was the 2005 Carm Douro. Thanks for the recommendation Gary!!! Such a great value.
March 20, 2008

tuscanbob
Good to have you back. Tonight I finished off an excellent chianti riserva from Villa Caffaggio. Bought this wine because it’s made in Panzano in Chianti and we visited there on a market day…totally cool scene. Met that crazy butcher Dario Cecchini who cranks tunes and recites Dante as he’s wrapping up an insanely good val de chiani steak.
March 20, 2008

T. Holland
Great to see you back.

QOTD: Had my first Oregon Pinot Gris (can’t remember the winery), but had it w/ a Panko Ginger Crusted Salmon- great pairing. Overall, have not been drinking too much wine as my wife is preggy again & don’t want to throw it in her face (as she enjoys the vino too).
March 20, 2008

BobMac
QotD: Iâ€™m drinking some 2005 R.H. Phillips Viognier that I got from the Wine Library.

http://winelibrary.com/reviewwine.asp?item=8049

It didnâ€™t bring it yesterday, but Iâ€™m digginâ€™ it today.
March 20, 2008

nougat
2005 Veramonte Chardonnay Reserve (Chile). It brought a little thunder to the table – 88 points worth.
Looking forward to hearing about what’s up in the south of France. I love the wines from southern Rhone, Cahors, Madiran…
March 20, 2008

SacramentoCharlie
QOTD:2005 Chateau Coucheroy – white bordeaux
March 20, 2008

Achilleas in Cyprus
Way cool episode!

QOTD: 2005 Matero from Tsangarrides Winery in Lemona, Paphos, Cyprus.
Beautifully smooth and really enjoyable.
March 20, 2008

Juicy Jesse
QOTD: An ‘04 Quinta do Crasto Reserva (Douro) – and YES, it brought the THUNDER! Welcome back, GV!!
March 21, 2008

Panosh
QOTD: Reance Cab 1997 Really Great.
March 21, 2008

Jeff Hirsch
Columbia Crest Vineyard 10 Red Wine, 2005

Columbia Crest is one of the largest wineries in Washington and one of the best. What makes them so good is that they produce a very large amount of wine at various price points delivering excellent quality across the board. Whether you are buying their “Two Vines” selections for $6-8 or the Grand Estate for $9-12 or a Reserve wine for $22-35 you will always get a well made wine with good varietal character and finesse. My biggest complaint is that some of their wines can taste “over oaked” and therefore not my favorite to match with food. Tonight we tried the new Two Vines Vinyard 10 Red Wine. This is a blend of predominantly Syrah, Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon. The color is a deep ruby red with purple tones. On the nose there is the smell of sweet strawberries, black cherries and some toasted coconut. This is a fruit forward New World wine with a medium body and a smooth mouthfeel. The flavors are mainly ripe plum, blackberry and a hint of spice and toasty oak. The tannins appear low and well submurged. This is a smooth sipper that should appeal to any New World junky who is looking for an inexpensive everyday wine. This wine is available in the Seattle area for about $7. Good.

Posted by J. Alan Hirsch
March 21, 2008

AndrewB
QOTD: The last wine I had was one you gave 91+ points. The 2005 Carm Douro and it Rocked! I have been reccomending it across the board as a go-to wine to pair with steak and something that can blow you away for under $20. Good call.
March 21, 2008

JimmyH
Bridlewood Central Coast Reserve Arabesque 2005 (a yummy Syrah blend)– very enjoyable!
March 21, 2008

downtnmark
QOTD: 2001 Ridge Home Ranch (Meritage) brought major thunder (you can forget about all those Z’s!). But then, I bought it because I knew it would. This wine is soooo smooth right now.

Thanks for the show, Interesting wines that you tasted today.
March 21, 2008

Tim
QOTD: LAMURA Nero d’Avola
March 21, 2008

Tim
QOTD: LAMURA Nero d’Avola and it rocked. My first Nero, and I never had heard of it before WLTV, thanks Gary, and welcome back!
March 21, 2008

Hotshot162
Great to see back, Gary!!

QOTD: 2004 Leoville Barton…it didn’t blew me away, but very well structure wine. I like it.
March 21, 2008

Siggi from Iceland
QOTD: It was a Bava Muscato DÂ´Asti, very well made and I had it with sweet sour meatballs, very good combo.
March 21, 2008

Jim Kledis
Hey Gary, so good to have you back. I hate to admit what the last wine I had was. I was making some risotto and needed some white wine. I didn’t think I had any and then remembered the gag gift that I was given at our Company Christmas party – we played the game where you pick the gifts and open them in front of everyone – anyhoo – I picked a book published in the 80’s – on SEX – and with it came the cheap wine to get us in the mood – OK so the wine was Fish Eye Chardonnay. The risotto was pretty good. Enough said. Thanks Gary for getting me to trust my PAL – I am a new Vanyack – however you spell it – love the show and wish I live closer to Wine Library TV – I am in IOWA! Lot of wineries popping up in Iowa if you didn’t know it. Iowa used to have a lot of wineries.
March 21, 2008

Miguel C.L.
Meia Pipa from terras do sado = good QPR, and modest thunder.
March 21, 2008

Ohio Bruce
‘05 Bogle Petite Syrah with “grandma’s recipe” meatloaf that my wife prepared fabulously as a favorite comfort food. Definitely brought the thunder, stood up well to the sweet ketchup topping and excellent QPR.
March 21, 2008

Steve B
QOTD: A “Vinifity” red blend from Forgeron Cellars in Walla Walla. And yes indeed it brought the thunder.

That was a while ago. I gave up all alcohol for Lent.
March 21, 2008

MattE
QOTD: Last wine was a Sileni Malborough Sauvignon Blanc. Pretty decent, lots of pineapple, good acidity. Nice with meatballs w/pineapple, carrots & green peppers.
March 21, 2008

Bill M
Welcome Back!
I had several wines yesterday (in a tasting) but the one that stood out was the 2003 Kenwood Artist Series. It was tasting great!
March 21, 2008

Mike Harbeson
Welcome back.
QOTD: 2005 Veramonte Pinot Noir
March 21, 2008

LI Brad
QOTD: Last wine I had was a 2005 Drouhin Montagny while out for lunch Wednesday. It was a nice example of an inexpensive wine from a great vintage being quite nice to drink. It went very nicely with the crispy trout I was eating.

BTW, my first post though I’ve been lurking for several months and generally watch on my ipod while commuting to work on the train.

Welcome back Gary!
March 21, 2008

mrzitro
QOTD: Last wine I just had was the Chateau Bolaire Bordeaux 2004. A wonderful blend of 39% Petit Verdot, 34% Merlot, & 27% Cab Sauv
March 21, 2008

BSwanson
Last wine: Altos Las Hormigas Bonarda Mendoza Colonia Las Liebres
For under 10 bones, it definitely brought the thunder.
March 21, 2008

Harry
I was drinking a Clos des Menut, Bordeaux, which despite being open on my kitchen counter for five days, still brought the thunder.
March 21, 2008

hb
Welcome back Gary!!!

QOTD: Last wine I had was last night with dinner at home and it was a 2004 Marietta Cab. Sav. It brought the thunder to my husband and I!
March 21, 2008

Justin Viger
Nice to have another real show. Not that the filler episodes were bad.

Question of the Day: 2004 Chateau Haut Perthus Bergerac and it did not bring the thunder.
March 21, 2008

Kristen
Rock on GV! Keep rampin up the energy!
QOTD: Indaba Chard- Good QPR chard- I am diggin the SA wines lately- great valued every day wines that give respect to true varietal characteristics.
March 21, 2008

Gene S.
ok, Gary, you’ve finally dragged me out from lurker status..
I’ve finally caught up to the huge backlog of shows, so I can comment on them in a more reasonable amount of time. Hopefully I can keep up and remain ‘delurked’.

QOTD answer: 2005 Geyser Peak Cabernet… it didn’t bring the thunder for me, especially for the price.
March 21, 2008

Johnny Utah
Ramos Pinto 2000 LBV Port last night…23 Bones…beautiful silky texture, well balanced (the heat was contained), nice raisons and baking spices…definitely has aging potential, but is drinking nicely…good stuff!

Welcome back GV!
March 21, 2008

BruceP
QOTD: 2004 Walter Hansel 3 rows Pinot Noir.
March 21, 2008

Jameus
Glad to have you back GV!

QOTD: Rosemount Estate HILL OF GOLD Mudgee Cabernet Sauvignon 2003. Saw if for under 10 bones at Meijer of all places. It was decent… nothing mind blowing but for under 10 it was a perfect snag for a weeknight wine imo.
March 21, 2008

B-727
QotD is something “everyone should be able to answer”. Wow and yet duh. If you can’t answer that, your license to watch the show should be revoked.
Last nite: Mt Eden 1992 CabSav.
Speaking of license taken away, my wife presents it blind and I say 1995 Bordeaux. My drinking license should be revoked.
March 21, 2008

Andy
Hey Gary …good show! Happy Spring (with fabreze!)
finished off last night 2003 Shotfire Ridge barossa I had away for a couple of years and it really really improved from the last time I had it… Delicious!!! I have a couple more bottles but wish I had more.
March 21, 2008

mateo21
QOTD: Optimus from Swedish Hill Vineyards, NYS!!! It indeed brought the thunder!
March 21, 2008

davebw
Last wine was the 2006 Arido Malbec, from Mendoza in Argentina. $8 a bottle, bit of a fruit bomb, but really good QPR.
March 21, 2008

Joshua E.
Great show Gary…good to have you back.

Your kosher wine show persuaded me to go and buy one and try it, and you know, it wasn’t that bad. In fact, it was darn good. Thanks for getting me to think outside the box.

QOTD: It was a Golan Sion Creek Red ‘06
March 21, 2008

Mr.Ambassador
Great to see ya back in the saddle again.

QOTD – Last wine I had was the 2005 Dusted Valley Vintners “H3 Horse Heaven Hills Syrah”. I had several bottles and need to start making room in the wine shelves for the new releases shipping/arriving soon. Wine was nice, brought some thunder but price is a touch high.
March 21, 2008

KennyMac
Great to have you back, Gary. I missed my (almost) daily Thunder fix. QOTD: The last wine I has was last night; a Riesling from a small Naramata, BC winery called Joie, who make some excellent whites (if you ever come up here try their “A Noble Blend”). Off-dry, and very nice with the spicy mango butter chicken we had for dinner. Good wine, although I think their aforementioned A Noble Blend brings a lot more in the Thunder department.
March 21, 2008

boegemann
Welcome back!

QOTD: 2004 Byron Bien Nacido Pinot Noir; if an explosion of cherries, barnyard, and a little meat translates into thunder, then yes… I’d say it brought it in a big way!
March 21, 2008

grant
QOD: 2003 Alma Negra Mendoza Malbec/Bonarda. For me, it did not bring the thunder. Extremely dry and over oaked. Though I was looking for something different and this one fit the bill to be sure. Great packaging though. Could kill a rhino with the dense bottle.

~G~
March 21, 2008

Russ J
QOTD: 2006 Fagiano Rosso Red Pheasant, a 50/50 blend of Barbera and Dolcetto from Piedmont. Really pretty good and only $6!
March 21, 2008

Snkypete
QOTD : Luna Di Luna Chard/PG Blend. Simple ’school night’ white that is inexpensive.
March 21, 2008

agentorange
QOTD: Pierre Sparr 2006 Riesling from Alsace. Rumblings of a little thunder off in the distance.
March 21, 2008

CuriousInStLouis
2006 von Hovel Oberemmeler Hutte Riesling Spatlese

Scents of grapefruit and oranges on the nose. A strong, but not sour, taste of grapefruit to start that tails off in a flavor that tastes exactly like lemon flavored tea.
March 21, 2008

Blake
QOTD: Little Penguin Pinot Noir

GREAT TO SEE YOU BACK!
March 21, 2008

charlie berg
Answer to QOTD: 2005 7 Deadly Zins, Zinfandel, Lodi, Cal. I can’t say it brought the thunder at all. The nose showed some interesting creamy, coconuty raspberry, but the pal turned into an awkward bitter-chocolate-trying-to-be-a-green-bell-pepper kind of feel. And great to see you back, Gary. Really great. Super great.
March 21, 2008

Derek Jensen
QOTD: Louis Bernard Cotes-du-Rhone-Villages. 70% Grenache & 30% Syrah. And I thought it was excellent.
March 21, 2008

SGoodwin
Phew…you’re back.

QOTD: Con Class 2006, Rueda White. Awesome QPR!
March 21, 2008

ScottG
Happy to the Thunder back again. Too bad you weren’t into the CMS. Hedges has been one of my favorites over the years.
March 21, 2008

ScottG
QOTD: 2007 Viu Manent Malbec from Chile. Lots of funk on the nose, but a really tasty wine, especially for under $6.
March 21, 2008

Jeffrey Fredrick
QotD: Pepperwood Grove Pinto Grigio

http://www.donsebastianiandsons.com/threeloosescrews/pepperwoodgrove/pinotgrigio.php

Bought this at Safeway on sale for $5. Wine isn’t bad, just boring. Lack of acidity, lack of aromatics. Fine to buy a generic light white for some group event but not something I’d choose to drink. Pass.

(Their $5 Pinot Noir otoh was a good value.)
March 21, 2008

cpeiss
I’m a lurker and love the show. QOTD 2004 Navarro Correas Alegoria Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina – Brought the Thunder!
March 21, 2008

crista
phoque rouge 2006
crista says pass
jason doesn’t – so cheap but still has something to taste! bought it for the name though…Do a review of it!!
March 21, 2008

spmyke
This lurker’s out!

QOTD: Pillar Box Red 2006.
March 22, 2008

RonD
Last wine I had was a Rivers Edge Pinot from the Oregon Umpqua Valley 2002 and 36 Red – tastes like milk chocolate (From Chandler Reach). Both had the THUNDER, check ‘em out!
March 22, 2008

Ryan
a southern rhone, chateau de nages or something… It brought thunder
March 22, 2008

Janet Cox
Last wine was Heartland Shiraz 2004, good but not thunderously so.
March 22, 2008

Dana
Chateau Lafayette Reneau (Finger Lakes) 2006 dry riesling very good
March 23, 2008

The Original Marc
QOTD: Croix Du Mayne Cahors. Pazzz.
March 23, 2008

Jim in Atlanta
QOTD – Las Rocas Garnacha 2004. It was very good for the price.
March 23, 2008

Derek
Good to have you back gary,

QOTD: Carm 2006, you know this stuff rocks Gary!!!
March 23, 2008

Bernie Bearnaise
Whoa Gary BAYBEE,

March Madness has me behind on my WLTV so I’m playing catch up. A little Ritalin might help…..I’ve had the Hedges CMS and agree it’s a good everyday wine however we pay about $14 for it around here in MD wine shops. It might lose its status on your QPR at our price. Your score is invaluable to me Gary so don’t leave us out there in the Wine Wilderness without a score as that would be uncivilized. (Sir Charles Right Guard commercial)

Thanks to you and the dynamics of the value of our currency the US Dollar I’m voting Spain/Portugal as the best QPR available from Europe. I had a bottle of Ribero del Duero in a 2005 called Vivir, Vivir. It was about 14 bones and it brought the thunder! Kudos to Aurelio Cabestrero at Grapes of Spain who continues to import nice selections from Spain in all price categories.
March 23, 2008

Jason
QOTD: Novelty Hill 2004 Semillion, bringing the thunder, with a Greek Feast.
March 23, 2008

quocvo
Wow, what a steroid pumped episode. Welcome back Gary, we missed you.

QOTD: 2006 Ca’ Del Solo Muscat. It was very nice with a complex nose of melons and wet stone. It is pleasantly clean and refreshing without the sweetness of most Muscat, but with all the fragrance and flavor. I like it a lot.
March 23, 2008

JoshL
Picked up CMS… going to give it a whirl tonight. Woot!
March 23, 2008

Chip
Gary, I love your show…I’m new to wine and have learned a lot from watching your show. Thanks.

QOTD: The last wine I had was a 1998 Gran Oristan La Mancha Gran Reserva. It didn’t bring the thunder, but it was decent and a great QPR…especially since I found it in my wine stores closeout bin for $5!
March 23, 2008

Grant
I’m a lurker. I usually get your podcast so I don’t get a chance to comment!

QOTD – last wine that I had was at the sterling winery outside of napa, did the wine tour and loved ALL of their wines! Specifically, the Sterling Pinot Gris. It was amazing. If anyone gets a chance to check out sterling, I’d highly suggest it.
March 23, 2008

BryanJ
Kunde Sauv Blanc with some awesome sushi while on vaca in Jupiter FL. Thunderous.

Also- the people at the table next to us were total Vayniacs. Had to laugh when we overheard them talking about Gary. The thunder is spreading in Florida.
March 24, 2008

HuskerJamie
The tokai from the last secret 4-pack, it brought some early spring thunder.
March 24, 2008

Iron Man
QOTD: 2006 Petalos Bierzo $20 – good
2006 Copain L’Hiver syrah $16 – liked it but pazz
2006 La Posta Cocina Blend $14 – good but should be cheaper
2006 Carro $8 – pazz, liked it in the past though
2005 Moncayo Veraton $35 – good but 2 notches below the stellar 2004…pazz
March 24, 2008

eyezonwine
ShotfireRidge Barossa Shiraz 2006 #57 from wine spec. top 100. It is the best ‘06 I have had, and at 20 bones I like waht the wine is doing. Great structure, sweet fruit and yummy vanilla right on through to the finish.
March 24, 2008

randy rawlings
Phillips Hills Pinot Noir 2006
March 24, 2008

Andrew Bohi
I’m a little bit late to this comment party but I’m stoked your back Gary!

The last wine I had was the “Piping Shrike 2006 Shiraz” it was on Friday night with a bunch of friends during a great snowboarding vacation. I say that because the environment may have clouded my judgement. In my opinion it definitely brough the thunder especially on the nose. Being new to wine I was stoked to pick up something randomly that turned out so well.
March 24, 2008

Keith L
QOTD: Gamba Old Vines Zin, Russian River, 2005. Wonderful jammy and smooth
March 25, 2008

ChezJosh
Tamellini Soave! It was delicious, balanced, and a fine match for the halibut I cooked.
March 25, 2008

Paul S. from NH
Toad Hollow, Erik’s the Red. Our school-night, QPR wine. Brings the thunder! Much better and more interesting than the CMS- which I had recently and was underwhelmed. Nearly the same price point. You have to taste it Gary. It also falls into the category of a great alternative to supermarket wines, but is also widely available, unlike many of the other wines on the show that I just can’t find easily.
March 25, 2008

Sangio
Sebastiani 2000 Sonoma County Cab. Drank it because I kept passing over it and drinking other wines. It did not bring the thunder, but was still quite good. It was clear it had been sitting around a little to long. Good but tired.
March 25, 2008

Justin G
Thank god you’re back gary!

QOTD: I had this red zin call “raider power”… not good.
March 25, 2008

tarheel17
QOTD: Zolo Torrontes 2007

First ever 2007. First ever Torrontes. And it brought the thunder! Whaddya know.

I would never have picked it up if not for your ep the other day on Argentinian Torrontes – Thanks!!
March 26, 2008

Mike W
Columbia Crest Merlot – This is always a good go to wine for me and my friends.
March 26, 2008

Barrelmonkey
http://questionsoftaste.blogspot.com/2008/03/wine-blogging-wednesday.html

(my Wine Blogging Wednesday entry)

Here’s the text:

In honor of Gary Vaynerchuk’s request for WBW 44, I chose a cab franc from a region I have not tried before, at a higher price point than I’m used to, and with more age on it than any wine I’ve had before.

1996 JÃ¶el Taluau St.-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil, Vieilles Vignes, 12.5%, $35 at the Princeton Corkscrew.

This is an extraordinary wine.

When the longish cork was halfway out, I caught a whiff of vinegar and panicked. Fortunately there was no such smell after the cork was out. An unmistakeable tone of green pyrazine wafted from the neck of the bottle, giving me pause. The green bell-pepper tone was not something I enjoyed in the two Cab Francs I’ve had before, and I was hoping that this wine would be pyrazine-free.

Anyhow, I went ahead with double-decanting, observing a nice ring of fine sediment around the bottom of the bottle. Some hints of Salvadorean tamales and stewed bell peppers emerged. Even with the greenness, it smelled delicious. Like a delicate stew broth. I was torn: On one hand, I didn’t like the green tones. On the other – my mouth was watering!

First Tasting, 40 minutes after decanting:

The color is a lovely peachy-orange-purple, which shows textbook signs of age at the rim and in the body. Very much what I’d expect from Michael Broadbent’s color charts.

(Aside: N1-N4 refer to four different ways of smelling (”nosing”) the wine. N1 is gentle, extended sniff of the still wine surface. N2 is a deep inhalation above the still surface. N3 is a gentle sniff after a swirl. N4 is a deep inhalation after a swirl. )

N1 evokes mint, cut wood, bell-peppers, and hints of tobacco, all with an undertone of ripe fruit. N2 suggests olives and wood, with some fruit. N3 mostly reveals pyrazine, with some menthol tones. Although there are earthy tones in the nose, there is no “barnyard” – this is a clean wine.

On the palate this wine is completely captivating. Dry and medium-bodied with beautiful, refreshing acidity and a gripping tannin structure that suggests several more years of life. The midpalate has spicy suggestions of sweet jalapeno candy, which transitions into a somewhat bitter finish, all the while framed with flutterings of unmistakeably ripe fruit. A 91-point wine.
As I tasted a second time, the nose revealed cinnamon and herbal tones, with woody strawberries and raspberries.

Second Tasting, 80 minutes after decanting:

The aromas have bloomed into a bouquet of finely stewed bell peppers/jalapenos seamlessly interwoven with black raspberries (N1). Some volatile acidity is present, with hints of BBQ-sauce sweetness, and slight carmelization (N2). So RIPE! Yet with none of the raisiny characteristics that bother me about over-ripened wines. Ripened to such perfection that the pyrazines don’t bother me. N3: Iâ€™m drooling. Lusciously gentle yet clear fruit blooms voluminously on the midpalate. Unique yet… strangely comforting. Reminds me of the first time I played an ivory-keyed piano – it seemed warmer to the touch, immediately set my fingertips at each. The feel was so beautiful, and strangely familiar. There are also hints of dusty earth, but so clean! Grass, pomegranates, warm hillsides drenched in sunlight, clear tones of Black raspberry, plum, warm rocks in the sun, I donâ€™t want to stop smelling this. N4: A little earth, some charred/tobacco tones.

Palate: SO MUCH FRUIT! Charming cassis acidity, rich green, brown wood tones, hints of malt on the midpalate (but totally dry). The acidity has many shades to it â€“ itâ€™s not so much a razor, as a multifaceted gem rolling around on your tongue! In context of the wine’s flavor structure, the acidity is the bridge between initially warmer fruit tones (strawberries, black raspberries) and a brief but crytal-clear cassis tone in the midpalate. Suggestions of orange and spice, a little bitterness on the finish, but I LOVE it! Itâ€™s like bitter cinnamon tea, or bitter green tea â€“ a rich bitterness. Perfectly elegant tannins. True finesse. Hard not to swallow this – like imbibing a deep-blue petaled flower of exquisite beauty and aroma. Mild tertiary scents of roasting chicken skins, basil, cloves. On the latter part of the midpalate – a soft but distinct spiciness.

This wine is focused and intense. After opening up for a bit, it has completely won me over. Extraordinary. 97-RA. Pairing: I feel it would be a crime to pair anything with this wine except some clean water and neutral bread. The wine is a complete experience in itself.
March 26, 2008

Joe Giampapa
This episode brought so much thunder that the God of Thunder Thor was in the house. When you really bring the thunder you should have a Thor figure on the set.
March 26, 2008

ZJK
QOTD: 2004 Hermanhoff Norton —> PASS+
March 26, 2008

Metal Dave
QOTD:

Sogrape Callibriga 2003. PazZzZzZzZ
Had a wine last month in Portugal called Callibriga made by Casa Fererrinha – though this was the same when I ordered it, but it wasn’t. Decent fruit, but NO tannin whatsoever. Exactly what I don’t like about some Portuguese wines. Plus it was â‚¬15 at trade prices!! Not worth more than â‚¬7.
March 26, 2008

Steven Haught
The last wine I had was a 2003 Schrader Double Diamond Cabernet, and it definitely brought the thunder.
March 27, 2008

Tim
QOTD – 2005 Cartlidge and Browne Cabernet Sauvignon. At 11$ it brought the thunder. I’ve had more expensive wines that weren’t as good.
March 27, 2008

DanM
QOTD: 2005 Step Rd – Chard
March 27, 2008

Rory Lynch
TERRA VALENTINE 2006 RUSSIAN RIVER PINOT NOIR, currently sippy sipping here at the winery http://www.terravalentine.com
March 28, 2008

Josh in Burgundy
Bringing the Thunda!

QOTD: 1997 Castello di Ama Chianti Classico and 2005 Domaine de Ladoucette Pouilly Fume. Phenomenal wines shared with some phenomenal people.
March 29, 2008

Dan A
1998 ChÃ¢tau de Beaucastel, and it brought the Thunder!
March 29, 2008

Dan-o
Great to have you back!
I am catching up on some episodes while drinking a 2003 Henry’s Drive Shiraz from Australia. It is a very good wine!
March 29, 2008

judi
glad you are back…hope to see you in Seattle. last wine was a vin santo
March 30, 2008

wannaBconnoisseur
Q-Nippozzano Chianti Rufina, 2004, very good!!
March 30, 2008

Greybeard
A WBW 44 post should be going up on http://www.reignofterroir.com on Tuesday evening, 1st April (no joke!) on French Cabernet Franc by yours truly – nice choice VaynerMeister, I enjoyed drinking the Bourgueil!
March 30, 2008

linda vanzee
Chateau Grand Traverse Late Harvest Riesling Michigan 2006. My hubby & I absolutely love it. Brings the best thunder – we now compare all Rieslings to it!
March 31, 2008

KenP
Greybeard is correct! http://www.reignofterroir.com is coming to the WBW party!
April 1, 2008

Lar
My Cabernet Franc wine blogging wednesday post is up.

Must say, really enjoyed it, hadn’t had a Cab. Franc before and it was a real challenge trying to actually find one. Glad I did, it was a lovely VdP du Jardin de la France.

Lar
April 1, 2008

Nicolas Ritoux
(WBW 44 posting)

Thanks for the Cab Franc challenge! I’m a big fan of Cabs Franc from the Loire Valley.

I chose a 2003 Chinon from Alain Lorieux. Here’s my blog entry: http://www.vulusu.ca/archives/359

Also, I started an article in Vinismo about that wine. Feel free to add to it if you want.
http://vinismo.com/en/2003_Alain_Lorieux_Chinon
April 1, 2008

Rachel
Domaine Laureau ‘Clos Fremur’ 2006, Loire Valley
Cab Franc/Cab Sauvignon

Pretty, shiny red label. Spanking good wine. Loads of minerals and crushed stone, spices, and smooth Cab Franc goodness. Light body with plenty of flavor and nothing too green or under-ripe, thank you very much! Delicious, and organic too. Mmmm.
April 2, 2008

Denise and Lenny
Gary, here is our tasting for the WBW 44 event! Great choice!
April 2, 2008

Denise and Lenny
Just posted our WBW for # 44!
April 2, 2008

Amy sbwineadvocate
Hi Gary

Big fan of good cab franc. Here’s my post

http://www.westcoastwinecountryadventures.com/2008/04/wbw-how-old-world-cab-franc-reminds-me.html
West Coast Wine Country Adventures WBW Post
April 2, 2008

Pamela
Enobytes bringing the thunder to WBW #44: Regarding Cabernet, Can we be Franc?
http://enobytes.org/wine_blog/2008/04/02/wbw-44-regarding-cabernet-can-we-be-franc/
April 2, 2008

Gabriella Opaz
Hey Gary,

Thanks for hosting! Here is our contribution with a 2004 Augustus from Cellars Puig i Roca in D.O. Penedes. Sure, it may not be French, but it was the best we could find in our little pueblo in Spain

http://www.catavino.net/2008/04/02/wbw44-cabernet-franc/

Cheers!
April 2, 2008

Taster B
WBW #44 Post: I’m bummed I couldn’t find any other French Cab Franc!

http://smellslikegrape.blogspot.com/2008/04/wbw-44-loire-lovefestor-not.html
April 2, 2008

Sonadora
Thank you for hosting Gary, my WBW #44 Cab Franc post can be found here: http://wannabewino.blogspot.com/2008/04/wbw-44-french-cabernet-franc.html
April 2, 2008

Alex
Here’s my WBW contribution: http://eatingleeds.co.uk/2008/04/wbw44-french-cabernet-franc.html

It was fantastic – shame my photography doesn’t live up to the wine!
April 2, 2008

Wicker Parker
Chinon, you crazy diamond! Or rather, not Chinon: I posted on the Thierry Germain Saumur Champigny 2005, a negociant bottling, and the phenomenal, biodynamically grown Domaine de Chateau Gaillard Saumur 2004.

http://wickerparker.blogspot.com/2008/04/for-wbw-44-french-cabernet-franc.html
April 2, 2008

Tim
Hi Gary,

Thanks for hosting Wine Blogging Wednesday #44. I’ve reviewed two Cab Francs from Loire Valley. My contribution has been posted here:
http://cheapwineratings.com/2008/04/02/french-cabernet-franc-for-wine-blogging-wednesday/

Cheers!
April 2, 2008

Wine Biz Radio
Wine Biz Radio: WBW#44 – French Cab Franc…

What goes best with French Cab Franc? Kaz and Randy do! Take a listen as they review the Charles Joguet 2003 Chinon Clos du ChÃªne Vert. As an added bonus, while they let the wine breathe,
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April 2, 2008

Randy
Gary! Man of a thousand video outlets!

From Sonoma to you, my friend: http://winebizradio.com/articles/winebizradio-20080402-wbw44/

Thanks for hosting WBW, and we’ll be seeing you!
April 2, 2008

Kori
Thanks for hosting, Gary! My WBW #44 French Cab Franc post can be found here:
http://winepeeps.com/2008/04/02/wine-blogging-wednesday-44-french-cabernet-franc/

I look forward to watching you bring the thunder to the WBW roundup.
April 2, 2008

Michael Mohammadi
GaryV: Again, great theme.

My post can be found here: http://foodandwineblog.com/?p=371
Wine Blogging Wednesday: Gary Vay-ner-chuk and Ca-ber-net Franc!
Wine: 2005 Manoir de la TÃªte Saumur Bagatelle

Cheers!
April 2, 2008

1WineDude
My contribution to the Wine Blogging Wednesday madness:
http://1winedude.blogspot.com/2008/04/may-i-be-franc-with-you-wbw-44-french.html

Cheers!
April 2, 2008

Penelope
Here’s another WBW post
http://coralmustang.blogspot.com/

Keep the Thunder coming and I’ll see you on Twitter!
The Mustang Winemaker
April 2, 2008

Andrew
My humble little entry to WBW – http://www.spittoon.biz/domaine_de_lengarran_2005_vdp.html

Many thanks
April 2, 2008

farley
Gary, here’s my WBW 44 post:

http://www.behindthevines.com/wine-blogging-wednesday-44-french-cab-franc

Cheers!
April 2, 2008

Dr. Debs
Gary: Here’s my WBW post

http://goodwineunder20.blogspot.com/2008/04/wine-blogging-wednesday-44-french.html

Thanks for a great theme.
April 2, 2008

Dr. Debs
Trying again, Gary. Thanks for a great theme, and here’s my submission:

http://goodwineunder20.blogspot.com/2008/04/wine-blogging-wednesday-44-french.html
April 2, 2008

MadWino
Hey Gary,

Here is my contribution for WBW#44 – http://mywineinfo.blogspot.com/2008/03/wbw44-cabernet-france-from-france.html

Cheers.
April 2, 2008

Dr Vino’s wine blog » Blog Archive » Loire red p0rn - 2005 tasting great - Baudry, Puzelat, Breton extravaganza - WBW 44
[...] reason for these speed reviews today was at the suggestion of Garyvee, who holds the rotating chair for Wine Blogging Wednesday this month and picked the excellent [...]
April 2, 2008

Dr. Vino
http://drvino.com/2008/04/02/loire-red-p0rn-2005-tasting-great-baudry-puzelat-breton-extravaganza-wbw-44/

another entry for WBW 44
April 2, 2008

Diane Letulle
Hey, Gary, I’m a West Orange gal who loves the Wine Library! Got this Chinon from your shelves…wrote my post before I saw you review the same wine. Thanks for opening up our palates to this very different wine. Here’s my post: http://loveswine.blogspot.com/2008/04/wbw-44-french-cabernet-franc.html
April 2, 2008

Sharon
Hello Gary – Here is my WBW #44 entry:
http://bloviatrix.wordpress.com/2008/04/02/wine-blogging-wednesday-44-french-cabernet-franc/
April 2, 2008

Joe
Thanks Gary!

http://joeswine.blogspot.com/2008/04/wbw-44-2004-bernard-baudry-chinon.html
April 2, 2008

Gary
Iâ€™m in. Quite a story.

http://www.vinotrip.com/2008/04/02/wbw-44-the-last-chinon/
April 2, 2008

David McDuff
Evening Gary,

Here’s the link to my WBW post:

http://mcduffwine.blogspot.com/2008/04/wbw-44-french-cabernet-franc.html

Thanks for hosting.
April 2, 2008

Marta Strickland
Linking it up over at my blog:
http://recentlyconsumed.com/2008/04/02/wbw-french-cabernet-franc/
April 2, 2008

Catherine
Thanks Gary for hosting! It is funny, my wbw43 wine was also a Chinon!

Here is my contribution:
http://manageyourcellar.blogspot.com/2008/04/wbw-44-can-chinon-wines-age.html
April 2, 2008

Andrew
Gary,
Thanks for hosting WBW #44. Here is my post.

http://rougeandblanc.blogspot.com/2008/04/wbw-44-french-cabernet-franc.html
April 2, 2008

Jesse Porter
Yo Vaynes—

We’re up, we’re good, we’re blogged, we’re photogged:

http://youngwinosofla.com/?p=228

Thanks for hosting!—

The Young Winos
April 3, 2008

Alder Yarrow
Hey Gary,

Here’s my WBW entry:

http://www.vinography.com/archives/2008/04/2005_domaine_de_chateau_gailla.html

Cheers!
April 3, 2008

Oregon Jim
Really good words tonite Gary! Thanks for being fresh and impassioned!

I Don’t have a wine blog. I did open an 05 Domaine De La Chanteleuserie from Bourgueil tonight in honor of the Cab Franc fest Gary has created. So, not that I am an expert, but here are my notes :

Color deep garnet, very dark and opulent looking. Did not get a chance to let this bottle breathe, but the nose is of a freshly opened sack of chemical lawn fertilizer. Another sniff and I think it’s Scotts Turfbuilder III. After a while that has gone away a bit and given way to some nice cassis and frozen peas. The dryness is huge! This thing has what seems like massive tannins, however it is a bit hollow in the midpalate. It does have a long finish and is very expressive of a place. No stinkyness, very clean, but intense almost like a hot pepper sauce on the finish. This wine has real character. 90 points.
April 3, 2008

Remy
I’m late, but here is my entry for Wine Blogging Wednesday 44.

http://winecase.wordpress.com/2008/04/03/wine-blogging-wednesday-thursday-44-chinon-theleme-2003-alain-lorieux/

Enjoyed the theme thoroughly. And the thunder.

Cheers!
April 4, 2008

Jack at Fork & Bottle
Sorry for being late. Still celebrating that NEW YORK RANGERSSSSS! shutout of the Isle-landers.

Here’s our page: http://www.forkandbottle.com/wine/wblogwed/charles_jouget_chinon.htm

1999 Charles Joguet Clos du ChÃªne Vert
April 4, 2008

missalyse
Stag’s Leap Karia Chardonnay… I liked it but there’s definately better for the price (ah branding)
April 6, 2008

Tyler
Sorry for the late link but here is my WBW #44.

Wine Blogging Wednesday #44 French Cabernet Franc

Cheers
April 6, 2008

Tim
Here’s my entry: http://winecast.net/2008/04/02/wbw-44-french-cabernet-franc/

Let me know if you need help writing up the summary… it looks huge.

Cheers,
–
Tim from Winecast
April 10, 2008

melissa jo
catching some older episodes + finally coming out of lurkerville to answer the qotd. i’m drinking 2004 Mas Carlot Cuvee Tradition Syrah-Grenache right now and the thunder is def being brought.
April 14, 2008

ValerieM
QOTD: Drank 2005 Blackstone Zinfandel…didn’t bring the thunder, but it was a gift, so I won’t be purchasing this one!
April 22, 2008

David
Gary, I don’t want to be labeled a lurker. I’m just behind in watching because I’ve been moving.

QOTD: On the night I moved into my new place, I celebrated with a bottle of Torley Fortuna. It is a Hungarian sparkling white, and it brought serious thunder!!
May 28, 2008

JacobS
QoTD: A question that at N00b like me can answer. I had the Estancia Chardonnay 2006 and it did bring the thunder, especially since I hated Chardonnay before and now I’ll give it a shot again.

Great show. Thanks for encouraging us to try new things.
June 2, 2008

Paul V
Gary!

I’m no lurker. Ok. I am.
Discovered you on Hulu by accident a week ago or so and have gone through a lot of the archive really enjoying your show. Wine is such a neat experience.

The wine I had last (finished the bottle seconds ago) is a Bordeaux from the Bernardo Winery here in San Diego CA. It’s not bad, I enjoyed it. Coffee and Tea are my expertise and I’m starting to learn the intricacies of vino.

Since starting to watch your show I’ve really discovered that the white wines are really good. I thought I only enjoyed reds but I’m starting to realize I’m a fan of the Sov. Blanc, the Riesling, etc. It’s pretty cool. I also tried by first red Zin which was totally crazy. (Orfila wineries in Escondido).

THanks for all of your hard work. Keep it up.
September 9, 2008

Wine Review - CMS Red - A Good Time With Wine
[...] have had this wine before. It was reviewed in Episode 426 of @GaryVee’s Thunder Show, from The Wine Library. I had seen bottle this in our local Publix [...]
January 5, 2009

nnothing
qotd: panarroz 2006 gsm blend definitely brings the thunder for me, especially under 10 bones, but i like spanish fruit bombs…
January 9, 2009

Dessert Wine Nerd
Welcome back Gary ( funny me saying this since its 9 months or so old and Im watching several episodes a day to catch up. To me you never really left. ANYWAY….), I hope you had a great time in France. QOTD: If you want to be as technical as possible, just a cheap Cavit merlot. Put it in some ground beef to season a hamburger. I know its nothing spectacular but even a cheap red wine can add some flavor to a sauce or meatballs/meatloaf.
October 25, 2009

richardvinifera
QOTD: Kuehn-Schiele, 2004 Alsace, Gewurztraminer. I think it had an artificial cork, and had a bit of age on it. Golden colour, medium/sweet. A big too much residual sugar for me, but this it was my first gewurz, so i’ll have to try an off-dry or dry one!