Australian Wines On The Thunder Show, These Should Bring The Thunder!

Australian Wines On The Thunder Show, These Should Bring The Thunder! – Episode #433

March 31, 2008

Gary tries 4 wines from down under and talks about the unfair bashing he has given these wines at times and explains why.

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Comments on this episode(343) Leave a comment ›

“Gary,

First, I appreciate your mea-culpa on big aussie wines. I lo…” by David Vogel
“Gary,
First, I appreciate your mea-culpa on big aussie wines. I lo…” by David Vogel
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Wines tasted in this episode:

2005 Water Wheel Shiraz BendigoAustralian Shiraz/Syrah
2005 Boarding Pass ShirazAustralian Shiraz/Syrah
2006 Mitolo Gam ShirazAustralian Shiraz/Syrah
2006 Glaetzer AnaperennaAustralian Red Meritage

343 Responses

March 31, 2008

DT
Top 5?
March 31, 2008

Brandon T.
can Gary please choose an excellent model to slather bunches of petit verdot grapes all over her bum while they laugh and recite poems with superb sexuality?
March 31, 2008

rajiv a
top 5?
Thanks for the party Gary!!!
March 31, 2008

dank
aussies.. love it!
March 31, 2008

David Dickinson
Top 5. Way Down Under!
March 31, 2008

Dan
Great show!

Are you guys gonna post the show from the 29th? Or did you and I missed it??
March 31, 2008

GrapeStuff
Top 10 – nice, looking forward to this ep!
March 31, 2008

MarioD
Top 10?
March 31, 2008

Anthony L.
So Very pscyhed for the Quarterly Vayniac Parties. Can’t wait. Want an awesome idea.
March 31, 2008

Fingerlaker
cant wait for the secret packs tomorrow..
March 31, 2008

cma82
Top 10! I’m the best..whoo hoo!
March 31, 2008

Snkypete
Thank you for the party GV! Very psyched as well for the Quarterly ‘pick your crap up’ events – that would be great!

I brought the Water Wheel Saturday to Basilica’s – found it locally a few weeks back (but your pricing is better!) Might have to purchase a few more now.
March 31, 2008

Sean
First time posting and a fairly new Vayniac. Got my secret pack for tomorrow…really excited about it.
March 31, 2008

dank
Annaperenna used to be called Godolphin btw for those interested
March 31, 2008

*/^_^\*
who was farting?
March 31, 2008

Dr T from N. Carolina
I was a bit more impressed with the Boarding Pass than you (although not by much). Just a reminder, before you go off exploring the Great Plains you did say you would visit North Carolina this summer. Any update on that?

QOTD — If I still followed baseball like I did 1968-80, I’d still be a Yankees fan! (what can I say? We got WPIX on cable in the 60s and 70s)
March 31, 2008

Brad
QOTD: Go Yanks (even though they got rained out today)!
March 31, 2008

Brook
Gary V,
Great show! Hope to see at the wine tasting in seattle washington.
Take good care, Brook
March 31, 2008

AZTrojan
QOTD: DBacks all the way!
March 31, 2008

sobojosh
yay thunder
March 31, 2008

GrapeStuff
I have two of these wines in the cellar (the Water Wheel and the Mitolo), and I really agree with your take on these wines (and the package for the Boarding Pass really is ingenius, but other than that sort of meh). I think the Water Wheel wines really deliver on the nose – (their Memsie blend REALLY does so as well, which includes Malbec and really provides an interesting angle to the blend) – I think Water Wheel delivers some of the best Aussie QPRs out there. Always a definite crowd pleaser.

The 2005 Mitolo GAM is one of my favorite Aussie wines (and was one of my favorite reds last year), with Two Hands probably being my favorite all around Aussie producer. I really look forward to trying the 2006. I find these wines really do well with a few years on them. “I feel like I’m chewing it”…so true with these GAM wines, and I really appreciate that in these heavy hitters.

Great ep GV, really enjoyed this. Thanks for bringing THE THUNDER FROM DOWN UNDER.

QOTD: Gonna grab a water wheel and celebrate the first pitch!
March 31, 2008

TeelaJBrown
Go Cubbies! It’s gotta happen sometime…right?
March 31, 2008

John Farrin
I’m surprised at myself for being continually amazed by your charisma. Actually, it’s like people who have eaten my food several times and still act surprised that they’re loving it. “Why are you surprised”, I think. They’ve always liked my food, so why are they surprised. I’ve certainly watched you long enough to anticipate great shows from you, so why am I SURPRISED?

QOTD: SF Giants are going nowhere this year so I’m going to say Tiger. No, not THE Tigers, Tiger, as in Woods
March 31, 2008

Fingerlaker
qotd: left work early to catch the NYY game…
DAMN RAIN!!!
March 31, 2008

Utah
Great episode, great party! Thanks again for that, GV, and I’d definitely look forward to coming down quarterly (though probably more often than that) for some kind of event/party, even if it isn’t as big as this one was.

QOTD: Meet the Mets, meet the Mets; come on out and greet the Mets! Watching it right now!

Can’t wait to see the show that was done on Saturday! Post it up Mott?
March 31, 2008

David Dadekian
QOTD: Red Sox fan, so kind of a planless opening day today. And as a true 37 year old Sox fan I never anticipate anything until Sept. Ha!
March 31, 2008

Shawn Dougherty
Lets go Buffalo !!! – Mets looking good – nice wines today will try the $30 one!
March 31, 2008

Brian Russ
QOTD: GO TRIBE!!
March 31, 2008

Lawrence Leichtman
Had the Mitolo recently and loved it and someone else paid for it as well. Have had the Glaetzer in the past and tried two vintages and didn’t like either one. Have tried several of their wines and just find them over the top with no body to them. Baseball to me is meh and I played in HS and college but it has become boring to watch and with the juiced up players little integrity either.
March 31, 2008

Scott EJ
I just picked up a couple of the Mitolo’s from your FS special last week and it looks like a good grab. I’m on the fence about the Anaperenna (fka Godolphin). Wondering how it will smooth out over the next few years? For 50+ bones, an experiment I’m not sure is worth the wait and space on the rack. Thanks for the heads-up.

QOTD: Watching the Cubbies duke it out with the Brew Crew in the damp weather of Wrigley. Fukudome gets the 1st hit of the season for the boys. Hopefully a sign of good things to come w/him.
March 31, 2008

Warren R.
Great show. I’ve tasted the first three wines you tried and agree 100%. Mitolo G.A.M. is a great wine for the price! QOTD: has to be the Cubs.
March 31, 2008

kallardnyc
I had the Water Wheel in my hand on Sat. but put it back. I have some Boarding Pass in the cellar and now I guess is a good reason to pop and pour to compare notes.

I got home about a half hour ago from Yankee Stadium where I watched puddles form.
March 31, 2008

argenvino
QOTD: The Amazin Mets baby!
March 31, 2008

SKN
If you make a middle America tour, you MUST stop in Indianapolis. We’ll show you the Thunder here!

Looking forward to tomorrow’s tasting!
March 31, 2008

Lb in KS
Hey GV…..I DOUBLE DOG DARE you to come to the midwest…. i’m just sayin
March 31, 2008

Jaybird
I am a big fan of Glaetzer, I love the 2005 Godolphin which is now the Anaperenna…I am looking forward to trying the 2006 soon.

Go Yankees, but please no bone-head moves like bringing in Clemens this year…
March 31, 2008

Dom
I’m jealous about the big tasting. I would have loved to have been there! It is just impossible during hockey season. I hope you do have another tasting in the summer. Gooo Blue Jays!!!
March 31, 2008

VinoVixen
I loved the Boarding Pass Label, pure ingenious. But was very disappointed on the palate! I thought it was WAY out of balance…the alcohol just killed everything else. I have not been a huge lover or Oz reds…but I have found to love a few Shiraz from the Margaret River region.
QOTD: What are u talking about??? wink wink!
March 31, 2008

Paul C
Hey, liked the show.

Paul C.
March 31, 2008

Marshall
I forgot what the question of the day was?
March 31, 2008

Loweeel
GV — The Oliverhill PS definitely brings the thunder. Too bad you stuck to Shiraz, that would have pwn3d them all!
March 31, 2008

Phocion
Gary,

FREAKIN’ AWESOME time on Saturday!!! Thanks again! I’m definitely coming for the next one as well whenever that may be.

- Tim
March 31, 2008

Rob
QOTD: The Detroit Tigers all the way, almost had it a couple years ago but this year is our year.
March 31, 2008

Erik Klumpp
With Aaron Cook healthy the Rockies are going to repeat, that’s right I said it, the rockies are going to repeat… Good show. Enjoyed the variety of wines you chose today.
March 31, 2008

Sonnenuhr
Good show – had a nice Aussie cab last night – ‘99 Maxwell Lime Cave. Always interesting to see how these wines age. Looking forward to trying the Mitolo GAM and the Waterwheel….
March 31, 2008

Sam Paes
I can get Mitolo here in Brazil!!!
uh hu!!!
March 31, 2008

laurie in VT
Two more wines to add to my ‘try this’ list. My friends love Shiraz(Syrah), but so far most are just nothing special to me. I will keep trying…
QOTD: I was born into the Red Sox Nation… otherwise I don’t follow baseball – soccer, instead: UEFA Champion’s league, just finished the round of sixteen, Barcelona’s still looking good! : )
March 31, 2008

TWalk
Tampa Bay Baby!!!
March 31, 2008

David
Great show – can’t wait to try the Water Wheel and the Mitolo.

QOTD: Boston Red Sox is my team…but it’s OK because I grew up in Mass.
March 31, 2008

Kristen
Good show today. Hope I can find the Waterwheel. And you should definitely make a trip out to Madison, WI- we have football and a lot of wine-lovers. And I’d love it if you set up another date during the summer for a Vayniac party- I’d love to come see the Wine Lib before I leave for France!

QOTD: Born in Boston, so I’m a Red Sox fan by default.
March 31, 2008

shawnandlu
Hi Gary and Mott.
QOTD…The Padres.

Can I just say, as a first time poster (im the lu of shawnandlu), that your show is slowing seducing me into the world of the “sniffy-sniff”. I, like many other female counterparts, have lost my man to wine library tv. Coming over to the dark side I resisted at first, but the more I watch the more enthralled I am by your bizarre, yet fascinating, communication style. It’s almost like you have so much to say and your brain is spinning so fast in your head that you almost can’t move your mouth fast enough or use as many odd references enough to get it all out there.
Oddly enough, I understand most of the time exactly what you are talking about. Since being sucked in to your void, I am now actually sniffy-sniffing like crazy every wine I try and it does add a new element that i love to general boozing…i mean tasting.
Here’s to you Gary…thanks for changing the wine world. And you too, Mott. Champions.

HAPPY BASEBALL!!!
March 31, 2008

Rani Haykal
Great Show!!!

QOTD: Unfortunately no plans for opening day, but I’m a Houstonian…..so ’stros all the way!.

–RH
March 31, 2008

Harley Stan
Great show as always, I wish I could have been there for the weekend party.
QOTD- Go Rockies
March 31, 2008

LogansRunRx
headed to the store… lookin’ for the Mitolo… gonna get out on the dance floor ;o)
glad we broke the 90+ ceiling today, it’s been awhile!
have personally, intentionally passed over the Boarding Pass a few times at the store now — figured was TOO gimickey. glad i went with my gut on that one.

QOTD: gotta go with the home team – Astros
March 31, 2008

David Dickinson
Not a baseball fan (at least MLB). Go Huskers – #15 in NCAA but just beat #13 Texas 2 of 3 this weekend.

Thanks for your honest assessment of why you have liked and then turned away from the Australian Shiraz’s. Always appreciate your honest and candid opinions.

I have 2 Boarding Pass bottles in the cellar. Bought them because of a Jay Miller’s high praise. I’ll have to go home and open one to compare to your notes.
March 31, 2008

Plminer
Off the Shiraz thing for a long time now, maybe I’ll give it another shot.
QOTD: TIGERS TIGERS TIGERS TIGERS TIGERS TIGERS TIGERS TIGERS TIGERS TIGERS TIGERS TIGERS TIGERS TIGERS TIGERS TIGERS TIGERS TIGERS TIGERS TIGERS TIGERS!!!
March 31, 2008

Chad Olson
Twins baby!!!

GV, if you do a Mid-west tour and you don’t come to Minneapolis we will seriously hunt you down. All that MN nice crap will be thrown out the window!
March 31, 2008

Corey
Go Cubbies! I’m about to go to my Wine Appreciation class (gotta love being a senior about to graduate) and then I’ll be back to watch more ball.
March 31, 2008

flynbrian
Hey Gary good show. I tried the Boarding Pass 2 weeks ago and was disapointed myself, I’m a pilot and the label just pulled me in. I did an overnight in Newark last night and this morning on the way to the airport I saw your billboard in front of the Holiday Inn. Very cool!
March 31, 2008

Malphas
QotD: I don’t follow sports as much as your average WLTV viewer, if at all. But hey, WrestleMania was kinda fun, wasn’t it?
March 31, 2008

Dan Mc
Awesome show today, loved the first 7 mins! Keep it up GV, very sad that I couldn’t make the 29th
March 31, 2008

Micha
Thanks for the auralian monstershow, Gary. I don’t think you were wrong, bashing a crowd of faceless, unrefinded fruitbombs in the past. They are out there in masses. If it comes to serious australian producers, we can fall in love again and get the real thunder. No Question about that.
March 31, 2008

Kev and Ams
QOTD: Oakland A’s!
March 31, 2008

purplejuicebruce
I try to open a bottle every day.
March 31, 2008

JonE
G-MAN!!!! Mitolo is actually a partnership between Frank&Simone Mitolo and Ben Glaetzer (he is in fact the winemaker)-does this get me a shout out. As crazy as it sounds I have found more distinction and character in most of the Mitolo stuff versus the straight Glaetzer stuff.

QOTD: Go Yankees!
March 31, 2008

Ed Salonia
Saturday was fun. Looking forward for the quarterly events…

Good show today GV.

QOTD… NYY! too bad they were rained out today. We’ll see what happens tomorrow.
March 31, 2008

thecobalt9
stop being so mean to mott!

and give the man a shirt
March 31, 2008

daverdude
OHHHHHH

Australian Shiraz “HEY”
This is Prime Daverdude Territory
Should be interesting to compare ?

I’am ordering a Few Myself
But Iam not a Big Mitolo Fan
Well see ?
March 31, 2008

Bota Bag
Ummmm…..who cares about baseball. But if I have to….the Mariners.
March 31, 2008

A. Kohli
QOTD: Just trying to stay dry today. B’more Orioles!
March 31, 2008

CoolHandLuke
DODGERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Dodger Blue Baby!!! Think Blue!!!!!!

No plans. Just got back from a week long trip to San Francisco to visit the bro and sis n law. Great show. I love a solid Aussie Shiraz. Wine Library should go on a road trip. Maybe hit all the baseball parks. Come out to Dodger stadium and do a show at Chavez Ravine.
March 31, 2008

evolvingmonkey
I haven’t gotten around to tasting Boarding Pass yet so I was excited to see it on your round table. I don’t normally drink new world fruit bombs when I drink alone so I mainly stock up on new world staple varietals to serve guests. A lot of the times I buy these wines based on critic/customer tasting notes and serve them without having tasted them myself. Maybe I’ll open a bottle alone this weekend and post another comment. No, I’m not going to just pour it down the drain just because you don’t like it! But I really have to give these fruit bombs some credit… because when I leave them in a decanter or in a glass overnight, the next day I smell candied fruit and jam everywhere in my room all day long and it’s really quite lovely. I really do want to try the Mitolo though.

I’m super excited about tomorrow! But I would probably have to hold out until later this week or this weekend to taste along with you.

Oh, and yeah I’m looking forward to this summer because I will be in NYC/NJ more often and I will actually be able to pick up my orders and visit WL for the first time. I’m going to put a small cooling unit in my friend’s place in new york so I can stock for the summer. I would definitely go to a get-together if you were to host one this summer.

QOTD: I’m sorry, I just can’t get excited about baseball. Don’t hate me.
March 31, 2008

amgryger
Had a great time on Saturday. Thanks again to Gary and the WL Staff for making things happen.

QOTD: No plans for opening day.
March 31, 2008

Duffy
Hi Gary

QOTD:No opening day for me over here in Germany!

Thanks for a cool show!
March 31, 2008

BruceP
QOTD: Giants. 50 years in SF without a title. Gonna be a looooong season I fear.
March 31, 2008

caitlin hill
Hey Gary!

Good to see you embracing my wine, dammit!
I thought the wines you picked for that meal at SXSW were really nice!

Cheers mate!
CAitlin
March 31, 2008

Little Jonny H
Middle America is where it’s at, GV! Come by Columbus on a saturday and you’ll get lost in a wave of scarlet and gray, SERIOUSLY! I loved the content today… value-priced wines are brining the thunder for those of us who don’t roll deep in the pockets!

QOTD: The Tribe is gonna take it all the way this year!! Our pitching may be off to a rocky start on opening day, but the offense is firing on all 9 cylinders to hide any flaws!!
March 31, 2008

Carolyn
Tribe wins the opener – and it didn’t snow!!

Thanks for a RADOOL time this weekend. KUDOS to you and the WL Crew!~
March 31, 2008

Senor Sangria
Hey Gary!

QOTD: Yankees

You guys killed it on Saturday great event. I didn’t know you were filming a live episode. I’m bummed we missed it. We’ll have to hit up the next live event you perform.

Cheers!
March 31, 2008

RichE
Loved the Show…………AGAIN
I’m looking forward to tasting the Water Whell Shirazzzzzzz

QOTD:
A Stinking Gloomy Opening Day ** RAINED OUT ****

YANKEES !
YANKEES !YANKEES !
YANKEES !YANKEES !YANKEES !
YANKEES !YANKEES !YANKEES !YANKEES !
YANKEES !YANKEES !YANKEES !YANKEES !YANKEES !
March 31, 2008

Sharon
We bought a bottle of that Water Wheel on Saturday! The Bosox already had their opening (2) games in Japan and split. I hope your fantasy baseball draft thing went well(?)!
March 31, 2008

KVolk
QOTD: The first real day of Spring is Opening Day!!! It’s always about the Houston Astros for me though I will cheer for the Red Sox now and again.

I will definitely be looking for the Water Wheel………
March 31, 2008

Orion Slayer
Balance. Drink some Bordeaux…drink some fruit-bomb Aussie!!!

QOTD: Gary, the only opening day I’m interested happens in the fall. People talk baseball and I hear crickets.
March 31, 2008

Brad -73-
i had the water wheel at Basilico’s.
great wine

Mid-West tour would be awesome.
Be the interloper and invade Milwaukee and turn Beer Town USA
on it’s ear.

Looking forward to tomorrow’s episode.
While I was in the WL Hizzy I picked up a secret pack.
1 Wisconsinite joining the april fool’s secret 2 pack tasting.

woot

QOTD: Go Brewers
March 31, 2008

DonnaWat
Oh them dang Tigers. By the time I left my desk & got in my car, they lost it in the 11th inning. I can’t help rooting for them & I know they were in the Series….but it all seems like a dream.
March 31, 2008

NEWino
You must come to Lincoln NE if you are serious about the Midwest College FBall tour. Stumbled on to you a couple of weeks ago and now I’m hooked, even bought the 2pack for tomorrow and my wife might actually try it. She hates you less and less each time I make her watch.

QOTD : Royals and Rockies – because no one else is close to where I live.
March 31, 2008

GKepps
Great show. i tried the boarding pass last friday and was also underwhelmed. i love the big fruit bombs. i’m rooting for the cleveland tribe. btw, come to cleveland on your middle america tour.
March 31, 2008

Kev and Ams
BTW Gary, I saw the chalkboard today. Who Likes things? Who doesn’t like things?! =)
March 31, 2008

Joel M
Yankees all the way. If the young pitchers step up could be a championship year.
March 31, 2008

Moselman
Hey, Gary;

Who’s this Anna Perinea? She related to AngelPie?

QOTD: Baseball april-aug = yawn!!!!
Check back in september and we’ll see if there’s anything to get excited about.
Not much since Reggie. And Rolly…
March 31, 2008

Christopher A. Ball
QOTD: Cubs all the way.
March 31, 2008

MARKSHARKY
what did Gary say? “in the words of Mastur what?”
March 31, 2008

T. Reasoner
Gary come to maui we would love to have you out to drink some wine!

QOTD – Go Tigers!
March 31, 2008

Paul GassÃ©e
Gary:

We’d love to have you on our sports talk show, in the upcoming weeks, if your busy schedule allows for it.

Our program, aptly called Your Sports NightCap (www.yoursportsnightcap.com), combines our love for sports with a lounge atmosphere.

My Co-Host, Neil, is from Long Island, and has covered your Jets closely for the past two seasons…

Please let us know if you’d be amenable to coming on…

Many thanks!

We’re big fans of your work, energy, and positive disruption you’re bringing about in the wine industry.

Keep up the great work!

Cheers,

Paul
March 31, 2008

DON
GREAT OUT, WAS THAT YOU OUR MOTT THAT CUT THE CHEESE DURING THE DISCUSSION WITH THE BOARDING PASS SHIRAZ??
March 31, 2008

SteveW
Great show, I’ll have to try the Mitolo.
QOTD: I’m spending spring break with my family in Florida, otherwise
I would be at Safeco Field watching my team the SEATTLE MARINERS.
March 31, 2008

Kevin M
RED SOX!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
March 31, 2008

Neil
Out here in SF – the season opener was against the Dodgers in LA and they beat us 5 to 0. It’s going to be a tough year for the SF Giants. Go Giants!
March 31, 2008

JordanW
QOTD: Opening Day for what? This is Canada… hockey is all that matters.
March 31, 2008

loretta
Red Sox to repeat.

You are the best Gary.

Yankees suck..
March 31, 2008

DavidM
QOTD: Brewers. I like them almost as much as the Packers.
March 31, 2008

Jonathan Fingas
So very glad to hear that there are some sophisticated Aussie wines. I would hate to think that it was all fruit bombs, since there are no doubt many down under who appreciate subtlety (including a few who run vineyards).

Gonna have to pick one up next time I’m wine shopping – that Water Wheel seems like a good blend, especially for the price.
March 31, 2008

DAVe A
Good tasting. thanks. Will try these brands – already lover Aussie wines.
Middle America tour? There isn’t anything there, tell him, Mott!
QOTD: sorry, don’t watch sports. I do sports – mountain biking, hiking, touring, exploring – watching someone else have fun on TV is boring to me. smile.

Sure loved your show – again. Tomorrow is SECRET PACK day – got ‘em, introducing new friends to WineLibrary TV… should be fun. Any clues on what I should put into bowls? Grass? Dirt? hahahaha.

DA
March 31, 2008

Barry
You know what? I drink wine only occasionally, and I certainly don’t have anything near a sophisticated palate. I found this site through Tim Ferriss’s site, and I watch simply because Gary is friggin’ hilarious. I don’t know what the hell he’s talking about (you know what I mean) but I am thoroughly entertained. This is my new favorite TV show.
March 31, 2008

cameron w
I’m waiting for you to do an Australian episode where you taste a Pirramimma Petit Verdot. Good episode though:)

QOTD – I’ll be working as always. I’ll have to root for the Mariners – it’s my wife’s team.
March 31, 2008

John Blue Label
Nice Show GV.
Love the Aussies. Great spirit, great allies, great vino, good prices.
QOTD: Once a Yankee fan, always a Yankee fan.
Hope to make the next party! Give us a few months notice, if you can.
JWB
March 31, 2008

Andrew H.
Gary, great episode! I am very enthusiastic about Australian wines right now and I’m very glad you did this episode.

QOTD: you know my Tiger’s are wining it all this year. DETROIT!!!!
March 31, 2008

Chris
R-E-D S-O-X!
I love finding wines like that Water Wheel and always appreciate Gary finding us some nice QPRs
March 31, 2008

brian
great show, have 3 04 mitolo waiting to try and will search out the 06……….is it time for the blue jays in 08?,,,,,,keep up the good work, really appreciate the insite and reviews
March 31, 2008

Dale Cruse
Great show my brother and a great time this weekend!

QOTD: Watching my Yanks get rained out. It’s hard being a Yanks fan in Boston.
March 31, 2008

ianchudson
Great show again! You said you needed to visit the midwest. Come tour Missouri and taste some wine, could be interesting.

QOTD: Go Cards!
March 31, 2008

Daniel
Great show today Gary! Definitely going to seek out the Water Wheel.
March 31, 2008

Andrew
Hey Gary

Nice Show. Water Wheel had always been a firm value favourite. The Bendigo region offers a lot of love, try Balgownie for some old school Australian reds. The ‘Boarding Pass’ was always going to be rubbish. Who makes it? Where’s it from? It’s main feature is a stupid label designed for the export market and it’s a wine you could not buy in Australia – and I don’t trust them!

QOTD: WHat’s opening day?

Cheers
Andrew
March 31, 2008

Syrahhhhhhhhh
Somebody should do a clip show of Gary pronouncing wines with his own made up accents and spellings.

I like how you tried to seem genuine about liking Aussy wines in the beginning of the showâ€”c’mon, we know you by nowâ€”and then really being genuinely surprised by the Mitolo.

Or is that Mitiolioio e i e i oh

Go Padregiantabraveriners!
March 31, 2008

Jennifer
QOTD: Go Yankees!
I had the Boarding Pass Shiraz a month or so ago too. I thought the same thing. Thought it was tight all around- gypped!
March 31, 2008

Tony Vette
QOTD: This opening day I’ll be drying out as the NY Yankees final home opening at the old stadium has been rained out.

NY YANKEES all the way!
March 31, 2008

pete c
Go METS!
March 31, 2008

SarahB
Great show!

I love how you’re “coming back” to the fruit bombs. Some wine people can be so pretentious…only drinking “serious” terrior driven wines even though I think they secretly like the “slutty” fruit forward wines. I just recently “came back” to oaky, buttery Chardonnay, albeit in small doses.

QOTD: Definitely the Sox.

Dale….I hope you have a valid excuse for being a Yankees fan.
March 31, 2008

manonthemoon
Way to bring the thunder.

QOTD: No doubt about it, this is the amazings year to bring to take shea out with a bang
March 31, 2008

RonC
Really enjoyed this episode.

QOTD: Mets will win it all !!!
March 31, 2008

mark
yep..boarding pass..not that great..packaging sells it..they do have a reserve i havent tasted yet….Mitolo is on my buy list..GO WHITE SOX !
March 31, 2008

NB_SPAZZ
QOTD: Would like to see the Yankees beat da Mets in a subway series, just like in 2000.
March 31, 2008

OmarG
Great party….great show…

“It is HIGH, IT IS FAR, IT IS GOOONE!!”

The plan was to watch the yanks..on the high def….maybe tomorrow!
Go Yanks!
March 31, 2008

AlanH
Good show Gary. Go White Sox! and whoever plays the Cubs.
March 31, 2008

hb
Sounds like some great tasting wines today Gary! I’ll be seeking out the Water Wheel Shiraz!

QOTD: Opening day for what??
March 31, 2008

hb
Ooops! Now after reading other comments, I see you mean opening day for the MLB! I’m not a fan of any team, but my hubbie is a long time Royals fan.
March 31, 2008

Tom
Gary, great episode — I am over a lot of the big Aussies –just too much candy and alcohol — they are similar to drinking martinis in the sense that they aren’t really food friendly — they step on the toes of everything except big rare pieces of meat (which are great every so often) — that being said, I do stock up on Mitolo every year for the last 6 years…..good call.

Thanks for the show. Wish I had been able to attend on Saturday. Next time.
March 31, 2008

Pete
GO BRAVES
March 31, 2008

Antonio TouriÃ±o
Great ep GV. Loved the packaging of the Boarding pass. Will have to try it just for the package… Maybe I’ll like it. hehe.
March 31, 2008

J-Pipes
I heart Austrailian wines. Thanks for giving them a shot.
QOTD: May the team with the cutest asses in their uniforms win!!!!!
March 31, 2008

wrc105
Hey Gary,

Thanks for hosting the open house, I had a good time enjoyed everything that was available to tasty-taste.

I am going to be keeping my eyes on the Phillies.

-W
March 31, 2008

Meg C
Gary — why do I love you so? B/c you are so damn funny.

Can’t wait to cruise down to K&L and check out some Waterwheel.

Go Giants!! (even though SF fans could give a shiz about sports)…..
March 31, 2008

Ben G.
We had to square-dance in high school, and have a yearly polka competition! Great show Gary.
March 31, 2008

Marshall Weldon
Gary,
Glad to hear that you like big, fruity wines. I think a lot of us do.
I don’t think I’ve seen any of these wines locally. Keep up the good work.
Marshall
March 31, 2008

Tom L
Gary – You nailed the Boarding Pass. I was very disappointed with it as well. Cute marketing — pass on the wine. I would have given the Water Wheel an 88. But that is my palate. Great finally meeting you on Saturday!

QOTD: Too bad the Yankees were rained out.
March 31, 2008

normanzo
Nice change-up show, with the Aussies showing well.

On the WL gatherings in Jersey…once-a-quarter sounds good to me. However, you really should do something on the other side of Manhattan –Brooklyn is ready and waiting!
March 31, 2008

Palmer
QOTD: sitting at work in my orange sweater and blue shirt, mets hat on my desk, reveling in an opening day win which featured a solid first outing from Johan Santana and a huge day from David Wright. LET’S GO METS!!!
March 31, 2008

Andy
Great Ep G ,,, enjoy the down under vino (love the fruit bombs)

Love the Brewers , alot of young great players but our piching needs help..
March 31, 2008

Matthew Hale
Good show. My wine isnt really into wine too much. She has been pretty disapointed in a lot of the wines that we have had. I think I might try some of these kinds of wines to see if it will help her attitude about wine a little bit.

QOTD: I think the Cubs have a real good chance to win it all this year. I know John Kruk agrees with me. They had a great game today even though they lost. Fukudome had a big three run home run. They are going to be fun to watch this year.
March 31, 2008

Tony
….Gooooooooo Yankeeeeessss!
March 31, 2008

DaveyDonut
Cool! I’m drinking this 2005 Water Wheel Shiraz Bendigo as we speak! Just opened it an hour ago… I am beginning to wonder about the pricing of wines you put on the show, though… according to wine-searcher, your price on this wine yesterday was $12.50… now that it’s on the show, it’s $14? Did it go up because you were going to do it on the show? Is it really just a coincidence? I’ve actually noticed this a couple times now (pointed them out before, too). Just curious. I just picked mine up locally for $12.71. This is probably the second Australian Shiraz I’ve enjoyed in the last year (key word, enjoyed… I’ve had several dozen). My note:

Decanted one hour. Color is very dark with ruby and purple. Nose is heavy and rich, showing ham, candied cherries, tropical flavored skittles, smooth oak, with just a hint of basil. Pretty intense and yummy. Wow, VERY creamy on the mouth feel, showing oak and dark fruit. Taste the rainbow! Finishes with tons of skittles and a hit of alcohol, then going to some fatty ham. Considering this is 15%, the alcohol isn’t too bad. Pretty decent, for a fruit bomb. I’m not going to go crazy over this, but I can see a lot of people really enjoying this one. I’ll probably pick up a few bottles for when “they” are over. 87 Points

QOTD: Really not much of a baseball fan, but I’ve always loved the Oakland A’s. I have no plan for opening day though, and will probably watch about 5 baseball games all year.

David
March 31, 2008

Tom Marusak
Gary, a friend turned me on to you show last week. Now I can’t stop watching. (And I have a lot of episodes to catch up on.) Fortunately for me, I put a wine and alcohol content blocker on our company’s 250 computer terminals (including my own), so I can’t spend the entire day watching your archive episodes. I must admit, I’m leaving the office earlier than usual though.

Keep on changing the wine world!

Tom Marusak
March 31, 2008

Justin Viger
I have nothing to say but how can I say no that beautiful face.
March 31, 2008

Justin Viger
opps. missed the work “to”. Should be:

“I have nothing to say but how can I say no to that beautiful face.”
March 31, 2008

barrelmonkey
QOTD: As sad as it is… I don’t really follow baseball. I’ve had a mild Detroit Tigers flame since high school (one of my friends was a rabid fan) but other than that… not the yankees?

I also have a soft spot for Aussie Shiraz – it’s what got me started on wine. I quickly moved to France when I realized the Shiraz that got me hooked was not representative of AU – it was a more restrained, classic bordeaux dryness, if a little fruit-bomby on the midpalate. Still… I have one Shiraz left from those days – 05 Mr. Riggs, the Gaffer – that I plan to pop in the next few months to see how my palate has evolved.
March 31, 2008

Justin Viger
Oh my. Then I spell the word “word” wrong.
March 31, 2008

rob in indy
sorry I haven’t been watching recently.. I promise I will do better..
March 31, 2008

Ben F
Much Love GV, once again great event over the weekend.. Also great idea on the pick up thing at WL… now i really want the water wheel..

QOTD: I am not that big a baseball fan but i am a homer so I gues the Phillies…
March 31, 2008

thefanjestic
Ahh Mitolo…I keep wanting to try and I never do – that’s an escaping wine for me, because I always think I’ll buy it and then at the last minute – I don’t.

Qotd: Royals or the Cubs.
March 31, 2008

David W
I’m a fan of earthy wines but my palette has evolved that way. My cell has some duckhorn and more new world style cabs. Haven’t tried many fruit bombs recently that I have liked but feel like I should give it a go. My wife prefers fruit bombs if they are well made.
March 31, 2008

Withnail
Good ep! QOTD: Tigers.
March 31, 2008

Brent R
After drinking Cote Du Rhone and CdP wines for a while, I tried some thunder from down under that surprised me.

Flinders Run Shiraz 2005 is incredible … 95 points Jay Miller for $27.
… and the biggest bargain of all is Penfold Koonunga Hill Shiraz Cabernet 2004 rated 92 points JM for $7.98!

Kilikanoon Killerman’s Run Cabernet 2005 is also a nice change.
March 31, 2008

BrianKC
Gary, you gotta come to KC. Best BBQ in the world, although you’ll have to come up with pairings to go with hickory-smoked brisket and burnt end sammichs!
March 31, 2008

Eric
QOTD: Phillies, Phillies, Phillies.

Thanks for a great show.
March 31, 2008

Kelly
The Braves are BACK! This is the year for another World Series win in Atlanta. Thanks for broadening the perspective on the “fruit bombs”. Enjoyed this episode a great deal and learned something (as usual).
March 31, 2008

FJDR
QOTD: Phils. I doubt they’ll win it all, but there’s always hope.
March 31, 2008

JC
Saturday’s event was very cool, really good people, and the Heineken girl was a doll … QOTD: Mets all the way!
March 31, 2008

TommyBoBo of WI
MAN!! was going to Lurk out of this one,,, then that look at the very end and a stern, “Leave a comment.” Scared me……

Going to see the Twins Sat at home,,, not opener, but damn close,,, and seeing we are getting another 4 inches today,,, glad they are in a dome!
March 31, 2008

Vino Uomo
Great show, these well balanced shiraz’s are fun, to many arent though.

QOTD : Tigers!!!
March 31, 2008

Anthony L.
QOTD: Die Hard Yankee fan. Always pulling for the Bronx Bombers.
March 31, 2008

Brandon B
Go Tribe!!!
March 31, 2008

Stefan T
QOTD: Who knows, maybe the Jays will get their act together and break .500 this year.
March 31, 2008

KenP
Good, solid ep.
My only comment would be that seldom does my immediate vinous community delight in the ’same’ flavor profiles. I participate in a number of tasting groups and folks are always bringing different things. You often talk of “trying new things” as though there were not hundreds of your viewers who already do, and on a daily basis! So, in my case Aussie wines, with a very few exceptions, just don’t cut it, are ‘food challenged’, and turn my guests sloppy after a glass or two!
Funny side note: Robert Parker publishes something called the Hedonist’s Gazette. It is an occasion to eat, drink, and enjoy a little horse play. At the end of each issue is written, and I quote “Note to readers… The abbreviated, spontaneous, and visceral tasting notes and numerical ratings in this section should not be confused with professional, structured tasting notes from specific peer group tastings or cellar tastings. [...] In short, focus, so critical in a professional tasting without food or other distractions, is clearly on a different level in such ‘fun gatherings.’-RP”

Ridiculous utterance, in my view. Especially the idea of ‘other distractions’! A TV camera? Mott? The birds in your office? Diana Ross or Kanye West on the radio? I think your approach is radical precisely because you are willing to take on such pomposity as RP’s. “Changing the wine world” must, in part, mean freeing ‘tasting’ from Parker’s pseudo-science.
March 31, 2008

Tyler
This is going to be the Tampa Bay Rays’ year. The AL East is officially on notice.
March 31, 2008

Phil G
The 26-Time World Champion New York Yankees will begin their journey to number 27 tomorrow, and I will be rooting for them the whole way…
March 31, 2008

No92
AAAaaaaaahhhh, finally a wine that I have had the pleasure of trying, and lucky me, The Mitolo! Thanks for the wristband (4 wine secretpack), pic on the way. A friend picked up the Mitolo for me this summer b/c of the rating. I opened it for no reason what so ever. My girlfriend was like, meh, and I didn’t really really enjoy it until the 2nd day. Thanks for all the hard work GV.

QOTD: Cub’s blew it in the 10th, it’s going to be a long season.
March 31, 2008

E
Yes, it IS time for you to come out to the Midwest. Why should the coasts have all the fun? Lincoln, Omaha, Des Moines, whatever’s within driving distance.

Aussie shiraz … meh. I used to like it more than I do, but eventually it got to be like trying to drink a campfire. I have a few older ones around to see what becomes of them though, and there have been a few that haven’t turned out that bad.
March 31, 2008

RnD
I’ve always liked the Aussie Shiraz, the Mitolo definitely kicks it!!! I’ll be checking out the Water Wheel as well.

QOTD: Gotta stick with my Tribe!!! They held off the Sox this afternoon, so the season is starting off in the right direction.

Great Show.
March 31, 2008

Craig Rost
Phillies. Ryan Howard is the MAN!!!!!!
March 31, 2008

Matthew
Great ep.

NATIONALS!
March 31, 2008

ChinonRouge
I’ll have to check out the ‘06 Mitolo. I am not usually a New World Shiraz drinker, but I’ll give the Mitolo a try.
March 31, 2008

Greg B
Big G, Love the EP my friend. Shiraz in the Heezee. Love it. Best one I’ve had is the Octavius.

QOTD: Don’t be misled by the Bears Helmet. I’m born and raised in Los Angeles, but I adopted the Chicago Bears as my team in 1984. Having said that, the Dodgers looked great on Opening Day. Whatched as I worked. Go Big Blue!
March 31, 2008

Mogen David
Yes, Nebraska is in the Midwest. Would love to have Gary pay a visit on the Midwest tour. We are thankful to WL and to favorable shipping laws that makes it possible to get many wines not available locally.
March 31, 2008

Jason
TIGERS BABY!!!
March 31, 2008

CellarDweller
A little disappointing that the Anaperenna didn’t show that well. I’m a big fan of the Amon-Ra, and even the Godolphin from Glaetzer, and was hoping the rest of the lineup would be strong, tooâ€¦

Then again, I root for the Cubs, so I’m a fan of underdogs and lost causes. Good episodeâ€”It’s been a while since I’ve been able to watch, and I realize how much I’ve missed the show. Thanks, Gary!
March 31, 2008

EvanR
I’m not really in to baseball…
March 31, 2008

MooMan
G-V, Lovin the show. Keep it up.

QOTD – Sad, Sad, Sad. The plauge of the goat, DL, zip code etc… takes its toll on Chicago once again. It’s ok. It don’t phase us. CUBS ALL THE WAY!

MM
March 31, 2008

DirtWineKen
Great show, my friend. I checked the cellar and (being an old world guy) I only have a few bottles of aussie shiraz down there like Jasper Hill and d’Arenberg and such; will pick up a couple of these, too (need to expand the old palate).

QOTD: I first got interested in baseball when I was about eight years old and there was this team in NY with guys like: Mantle, Berra, Richardson, Ford, Larsen, Skowron, Howard … you get the picture. GO YANKEES!!!!
March 31, 2008

Glenn
Great show Gary, I love the big Australian Shiraz’s. I was kind of disappointed on your review of the Boarding Pass though as I have that and a First Class Boarding Pass in my wine cabinet and have been saving them. But, like you preach, we all have our own pallet and when I do decide to open them, I will have an open mind. Have recently been buying Rhone wines to contrast the syrah/shiraz wines from France and Australia. I have seen the Waterwheel and Mitolo locally so that excites me.
QOTD: Watching my SD Padres vs Astros right now (3rd inning and we have a 1-0 lead) drinking a Perrin Reserve Cotes Du Rhone.
March 31, 2008

JamesN.
GV
Great episode,
QOTD The Indians, good year last year, lost the opener, but this is where I live and I have to be true to the home town team.
March 31, 2008

jett-boy
Free the Grapes….
I want to buy Wine from Gary and WLTV but can’t….WTF!!!!
All Vayniacs should check out this website…

http://www.freethegrapes.org/about_us.html

Free the Grapes…cj
March 31, 2008

life's too short...
mmm, gotta disagree with you on the BP. It’s simple, true, but it’s delish, bro. But then, I like most of the “R” series stuff. Apparently, there’s a high end “First Class” BP, as well. But Mitolo, in general, kills. I think their Jester Shiraz and Cab are nice lower end choices, too, to be honest.
March 31, 2008

espressokev
QOTD: Baseball? Oh, you mean that sport they play until football season starts?
March 31, 2008

RieslingRon
I’ve been a Yankee fan since I was a kid growing up in New Rochelle,NY. I remember seeing Joe D., Scooter, MM and others in my times at the Stadium.
Too bad today’s opener was PP. Should be an interesting season.

Looking forward to finding some of those over the top Australian fruit bombs.
March 31, 2008

T. Holland
As a relatively new wine drinker, I love a good fruit bomb. Have enjoyed several of the wines from Kilikanoon, and I still think that Little Penguin is a great QPR for an “everyday wine.”

Have really been working hard to NOT buy Aussie wines lately to expand my pallate. It has been working: had an Aglianico at “Blue Hill at Stone Barns”… Unbelievable and like nothing else I had ever had. One of the people we were out with, who was even more of a wine newbie than me, was blown away & kept saying, “I didn’t know wine could taste like a cigar, but be so delicious.”

QOTD: Go Sox! (the Red Sox that is)
March 31, 2008

Ben Janssen South Australia
Garry….
Australian Shiraz… As someone who is one the ground the selection was rather boaring. Mate you Americans need to open up on your selection of Aussie Shiraz. Infact consult with Aussies first what to drink on an Aussie show!
March 31, 2008

Smith MBA
MLB TV baby. Can watch the Mets from DC.
March 31, 2008

Sergio
CUBS!!!! Thats my team. Dont diss them.
March 31, 2008

familydoc
QOTD: Seattle Mariners are my team!
March 31, 2008

Grapedigger
Ausi Rules..Great show G..Cheers
March 31, 2008

bob c
Well, really pulling for three teams…the Twins(parent club for our rochester red wings), Mets, (anybody but the yankees)..and gotta root for those Cubbies!!
March 31, 2008

Happyskunk
Tonight I’m drinking Yellow Tail. $6.12. The first glass starts at 83pts and by the time you finish the bottle 90pts+
March 31, 2008

Robin C
I have to get back into shirazes.
QOTD: I don’t know when opening day is, but I’d be glad to celebrate it.
March 31, 2008

PAWINEGUY
Have you ever had Australian Zinfandel? I have Hently Farm at my store. But I haven’t had it.

When are you coming to Philly Gary?
March 31, 2008

Happyskunk
Hey I’m from Idaho. Come visit me and I’ll take you fishing.
March 31, 2008

Vinsant
ANGELS!!!!!!
March 31, 2008

zac weiss
Mets, cause I’ve got too much grief for the yanks.
March 31, 2008

ogobogo
haha, great episode. I loved the ‘leave a comment’ slip in. And ya, really fun, especially at the beginning.
March 31, 2008

Senator
QOTD: Who cares? As long as it’s baseball, I’m watching!
March 31, 2008

tuscanbob
I was driving around to sales calls listening to the action on XM radio. I’m hooked on that Home Plate station. I’m a die hard Yankee fan but I don’t like their chances much this year. The champ will come out of the AL Central…either the Indians or the Tigers. They’ll both score a ton of runs. I’ll favor the Indians just a bit due to their bullpen.
March 31, 2008

nickelbudget
great episode…balance is the key
March 31, 2008

Billyd
Great show and energy GV. I saw gv.com and it was raining.. Over here on the other side its been 68 to 70 ish beautiful beach weather. Maybe you should do some remotes from the other coast.

Go G I ANTS.
March 31, 2008

Nicolas
GV,

Can’t do Australian Shiraz. To much Alcohol for me. You got me intrigued by that Mitolo though. I might have to try that.

QOTD: No baseball in this house, just wines and kids…
March 31, 2008

brorjace
Cubs! Fukodome seems to be the real deal, just need the other bats to help out.

Good show, I’m a little down on Shiraz, at least the over the top kind. But, seems like you found some goodies.
April 1, 2008

Dennis
QOTD: Go Chicago Cubs! Living in Alaska the Cubs play @ 10:05 AM local time so I don’t get to watch many live broadcasts during the work week.
April 1, 2008

EllenKF
Go Cubs Go,
Go Cubs Go,
Hey Chicago, what do you say?
The Cubs are going to win(or lose!) today.

Thank you Fukodome, for making this loss a little fun.
April 1, 2008

IPv6Freely
OK! BLUE JAYS! LETS! PLAY! BALL!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qjdqEo2NiWM

Jays are gonna win it all this year!
April 1, 2008

jkersley
i love when that little drip of red lovelyness rolls down the white labels…

KC Royals
April 1, 2008

Newman
Great show. I’ve been lurking for a couple weeks, figured it was about time to leave a comment. I gotta say the “person from sophomore English class” comment might have been the best thing I’ve ever heard, even on wine library.

As for question of the day, as a Canadian, I’m afraid I care a lot more about the NHL playoffs starting than opening day of baseball, so I’m cheering for the Canucks.
April 1, 2008

J Crazy
QOTD: I’m rooting for America!! YEAH!

Need to get me some Ozzy Shirazz.
April 1, 2008

vivaitalia
Wow! Are you kidding me? I had the first two completely opposite. The Water Wheel tasted like watered down kool-aid to me and I loved the boarding pass. It was silky smooth hedonistic fruity pleasure. I decanted it for four hours though. I think that makes a big difference with these new world wines. They taste very hot and sharp at first but after letting them breathe for a long time they balance out and the fruit becomes very pure.
April 1, 2008

jason
good to see some serious ozzy wines. will need to try to find some,
qotd: ? dunno. not a huge fan of baseball. i am going to berlin though!
April 1, 2008

Rhonda
QOTD: Go Diamondbacks!!!! The fiance is all Yankees, but I like my babybacks.

I just picked up some Water Wheel a few weeks ago, can’t wait to try it!
April 1, 2008

Origin
Too bad I found this too late to do the secret packs! Guess I’ll just have to make my own..
April 1, 2008

damien
indians, can you drink wine with peanuts? or cracker jacks?
April 1, 2008

Four20
Since when did Gary get a bobble head of himself?

Epic!
April 1, 2008

Rick
Go TIGERS (they got a chance this year).

Did you still have the red-laser-one-eye-oak-monster from SXSW?
April 1, 2008

Dodger Blue
QOTD: Dodgers!!!! What more you need to know? Go~~ Dodgers!!
April 1, 2008

Black Rolf
Ben Glaetzer used to be the winemaker for Mitolo and might still be. That guy makes some amazing wines. Amon Ra was the shiz. Get it if you can.
QOTD: I’m in Vancouver so we are too busy hoping and praying our hockey team makes the playoffs to be watching baseball…things are getting a little hectic for us.
April 1, 2008

Davis
Great show – nice to see some good Aussie wines getting a run. I’ve enjoyed the water wheel in the past, always good value.
QOTD: Go Hawks! (Aussie rules)
April 1, 2008

Michael R.
Dodgers! This is finally going to be the year that we win more than one game in the playoffs…
April 1, 2008

MattyO
great show mott and gary!

i don’t believe i have had anything from the aussie’s. i have not had wine in probably 2 months or more due to the fact that the economy is in the crapper and my hours at work are going down. (sorry, CKC) i would love to try some more wines, but i can’t afford it. but at least i have the thunder show! i can dream can’t i?!?!

great stuff, keep it rockin mott and gary!
April 1, 2008

tarany
QOTD: CUBS in ‘08!
April 1, 2008

spmyke
Red Sox!
April 1, 2008

medo
Great great show Gary! I’m in that over-the-top Oz Shiraz thing since a long time and love the Mitolo GAM nearly every year. A must buy from OZ. Thanks for this show.
April 1, 2008

Chrisfs
If I say “Opening Day for What?” will I still be allowed to watch Wine LibraryTV?

I got the two pack and am very excited about tasting it.
April 1, 2008

dtazzman
Great show Gary. I have actually tried the water wheel and found the alcohol to be very strong towards the end, but very good overall. Keep up the great work.
April 1, 2008

Isaac
Great show! I’m having issues finding some of these wines where i live but hoping to find something soon.
April 1, 2008

YoungDave
QOTD: I grew up in Rhode Island… in a Yankee household. My Dad, God bless him, has been a Yankee fan for life, so I respect that, especially because when he became a fan they were an “Italian” team. I RI, however, nearly everyone is a Red Sox fan, as were all of my friends, especially after I went to school and lived in Boston for 2 years. Now I’m out here in LA, where the Dodgers supposedly reign, and I really wanted to get to their game this past weekend against the Sox, but deep down in my heart I have a soft spot for the Yankees to do well… only because I know how happy I know it makes my Dad. Apparently their game with the Blue Jays was postponed, but when they do play I have to root for the ol’ pin stripes. Here’s to you, Dad.
April 1, 2008

Justin L Ove
Opening Day? For what? Oh, yeah right-
GO EXPOS!
I tried the Rustenberg the other day after watching your show. WOW what great wine! I’ll be drinking that again for opening day. Much love.
April 1, 2008

Joel Smith
hey gary liked the Australian show. I got my ticket to your taste washington session. can’t wait to meet up for that and go to the after party. been talking around on the message board want to see if i can pull off a live online stream of the event w/ justin.tv lemme know what you think.
April 1, 2008

salvatore
9 Minutes of chili thunder before we get to the meat !!!!!!!!!!!!

I think you need to arm Mott with an air horn to signal; on with the show!
April 1, 2008

Roberto
Hi Gary,

Definitely the MITOLO… we had a bottle over dinner 2 months ago and we were literally (all six of us) liking the glass, no kidding. I bought 3 cases, think about it, this is a steal at $40 or so….

best,

Roberto from Costa Rica
April 1, 2008

Anthony L.
BTW, the bus on Saturday was hardcore. You could have road across country in that bad boy….In any case it was a beautiful day and an easy walk
April 1, 2008

Leonard Libitz
Yankees Yankees Yankees….
April 1, 2008

Mattie
Go Tigers Go!
April 1, 2008

Chippewamike
QOTD: T-I-G-E-R-S

Great show!
April 1, 2008

Von P
With out a doubt, gotta hit middle america. start slow like central pa. only a 3 hour drive to a penn state game, gary! this is your second invite and i’m hosting a as usual ridunculous tailgait party. You pick the game. I had a wonderful time at WL on sat. and basilicos rocked. thanks again for the horspitality.
qotd: Go Cardinals! It may be a long year.
April 1, 2008

BobMac
QotD: SF Giants. Although you and I both know they ain’t goin’ anywhere this year without Barry.
April 1, 2008

Sev
Great show, wish i could have made it this past weekend. But it sounds like the party rocked!

QOTD: Whitesox all the way!
April 1, 2008

Ryan D
QotD: I am actually going to the Yankees game tonight.
April 1, 2008

John
Finally, you taste a wine that I have access to. Not only access, but have in my wine rack waiting to be tried. Not sure if I have the same vintage, but at least I know it is the same winery – Waterwheel. I’m looking forward to trying it this weekend and will definitely refer back to this episode to see if I recognize any of the same flavors/aromas. If the Waterwheel is as good as I hope it is, I’ll add it to my repeat buy list. Try Craneford – we can get it here in Alabama for less than $20.

QOTD: Now that Barry is no longer with the Giants I can return to rooting for my all time favorite team. Also hoping that the Braves return to prominence.
April 1, 2008

grant
Yankees rain out on opening day?! How depressing!
I must say, people here in Charlotte love their fruit bombs. I believe we sell all four of those Aussie’s at the wine bar I work at. Interesting to see what you think of them. Looking forward to the secret pack tasting today.
Hope there is no April fool’s joke in the works…

~G~
April 1, 2008

wannaBconnoisseur
Great show!!

Q- Cincinnati Reds!!!!!!!!!!!
April 1, 2008

italianwinelover
QOTD: GO WHITE SOX!!!
April 1, 2008

mike
nice episode…i love th “godolphin/now annaperenna” but i have to say i recently decanted a bottle of the ‘04 for dinner, but ended up going out and didn’t drink it until the next night and it was outstanding…this wine NEEDS time! haven’t tried the 06, but if it’s anything like the 06 amon-ra…

QOTD: not watching baseball
April 1, 2008

Jameus
Thanks for cranking out the content for us GV and MOTT! I started my wine adventure in the land down under a few years back and have since tried SO many diff wines from as many places as possible. I know I don’t gravitate towards the aussie juice nearly as much as I did, however when the mood is right, the food is right they DO have something really nice to offer! Thanks for giving me a couple new names to seek out

QOTD: Don’t care really… never watched nor will watch baseball. Don’t find it very exciting to be honest.
April 1, 2008

BobbyTiger
Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz…………..Wake me when it’s over. I tend to watch a sport that is exciting. GO CAPS!!!!!!!
April 1, 2008

jonnyA
i just know that i won’t be rooting for the brew crew for the next couple weeks. their wine is miller lite and high life out here. go cubbies.
April 1, 2008

Rob Hagman
Great call on the Water Wheel, Gary. It’s good stuff and a great value. Now I’ve got to get out there and find it again or cough up on the shipping from you. Either way thanks for reminding me about this one.

Another one that tops my list: West Cape Howe (Western AU) Shiraz Viognier.

Merlot,
Rob
http://www.robswinereview.com
April 1, 2008

BW
QOTD : Colorado Rockies !

Very interesting show today – liked learning your history
April 1, 2008

winolee
QOTD – Da Bears! still waiting for the same glory and fun that Jim Mc Mahon and Refrigerator Perry brought!

GV – I have been lurking, but decided to chime in with the comments. Even though you ranted for 9 mins prior to tasting, I appreciated that it was about imparting some wisdom regarding the evolvement of Aussie fruit bombs. The personal history just made it more interesting. Loved this show!
April 1, 2008

Donna Marie
Glad you gave the Aussie’s a second look. I enjoy a big fruit bomb every so often.

QOTD: Planned on watching some of the Yankee game on TV–unfortunate rain-out which might also be the case this evening. Miss Torre and his crew, but willing to keep an open mind with Girardi, as you did with the down under wines on today’s show. Had some fun at the WLTV Bash on Saturday.
April 1, 2008

Bill
Hey Gary – great show!! STILL want you to put some of these on the show when they have TEN years on them, minimun, BUT at least your reviews of Aussie stuff were a bit more BALANCED this time. I know all 4 wines and totally agree with your ratings in each case. The boarding pass is exactly the sort of wine that gives Australian Shiraz a bad name, and is – as we like to call it back home – basically “bat’s piss”. Bendigo is one of the areas in central Victoria that is making AWESOME wine now, and along with Heathcote this is the area to watch in the next 10 years or so.
I think you will find in TEN years the Glaetzer will begin to shine, but I sure wish you had – as I have said before – some early-mid 90’s shirazes on the program. THEN you might TRULY get it with these ‘fruit bombs’!!
April 1, 2008

Pete W.
QOTD: Go Twins!
April 1, 2008

luvgrapesqueezings
Good ep GV! Do the pickled green tomatoes suck or are they good? QOTD: BoSox all the way baby!!!
April 1, 2008

mcj
QOTD: I don’t really care about baseball, so I’ll just go with the underdogs. Tampa Bay Devil Rays to win it all – you heard it here first.
April 1, 2008

Scottie P
Good show! I just wanted say Thanks again for the 29th Party! It was a ton of Fun! My wife and I enjoyed and appreciated every minute of it!
I will send in a wrist band photo soon.

You’re the best GV!
April 1, 2008

dz
Dodgers and A’s (watched both games last week from Japan at 3AM). Death to the Padres. Baseball is to football what a complex Bordeaux is to a Barossa Shiraz.
April 1, 2008

Tim
Thanks for bringing the THUNDER from Australia! Running out to see if I can find the Mitolo and Water Wheel. I appreciate your words at the beginning, although I have never met a Barossa that I liked.
April 1, 2008

LauraG
GREAT SHOW! Ton-o-Thunder.
QOTD: The Giants. God help me.
April 1, 2008

DavidB
Loved the EP, been away for a few shows so it was nice to come back to a good!
QOTD: I love the A’s, going way back to the powerhouse team of the 70’s. They were grandparents team (my mom is a SF Giants fan) and the first major league team I ever saw play live – took my Grandma after Gpa passed away. Funny story, Gma sat there the whole game with her score book, marking down the players hits, runs, errors, the whole works! Loved that day and will always have a spot for the A’s in my heart.
April 1, 2008

JeffC
If I have to choose, being originally from NY, I would have to say the Yankees.

Great show GV. I enjoyed the intro today. Good discussion. Hey when will we be seeing some videos and pictures from the March 29th event?
April 1, 2008

Colin
GV – Solid show. QOTD – Working! And watching you!
April 1, 2008

yowens
That Mitolo sounds awesome. QOTD: The buccos! going for the record this year (16 straight losing seasons).
April 1, 2008

MannyPants
Enjoyed the show GV. Looking for the Bravos to return to glory this year although the 0-2 start doesn’t bode well.
April 1, 2008

Cesare
Nice episode. Another great Waterwheel wine is their Memsie.
I saw the boarding pass in the store and I almost bought it because it looked cool, glad I didn’t.
Q: Yankees
April 1, 2008

BargePlus
For the first time in a long time, I actually watched my beloved San Francisco Giants play their season opener. Unfortunately, it went about as well as expected: No Pitching as Barry Zito continues to struggle with being unable to justify his $126M salary AND no hitting – about as much “pop” as some 6-year old T-ballers. Looks like it will be a long year; maybe even a long few years. Buy hey, you can’t be a fair-weather fan!!!!! Go Giants!!!!!
April 1, 2008

Saftig
Love those Aussies. My pal went with Boarding Pass over Water Wheel, interesting.
QOTD: Used to love baseball, started out as a Cub’s fan but all the scandals, pumping up, dubious records, outrageous salaries, over the top ballpark prices and disregard for the fans has left me cold for the game. sad.
April 1, 2008

Jay
I’ll admit, I’ve been lurking for a while. But when your QOTD hits that close to home, I had to leave a comment. Just try and remember me when I come looking for suggestions on what to uncork in celebration of the Mariners winning the series.
April 1, 2008

akellner
Great show. I found the Boarding Pass close to the edge of too much, I will try the water wheel.

Opening Day, was Sunday in DC first game, new stadium, Bush threw out first pitch (not as many boos as you might have thought), excting night, even for a Met fan…
April 1, 2008

Billy Mac
It’s got to be the Detroit Tigers!
April 1, 2008

Clinton
QOTD: Uumm, we’re still in basketball season. I pick Kansas to win it all!
April 1, 2008

pawncop
Good show as I tend to be a Aussie and NZ fan of wines.

Opening day – as usual have to work but am pulling for my beloved Texas Rangers.
April 1, 2008

Cliff and Darcey
Thanks for an awesome show GeeVee … your enthusiasm is infectious – I always want to go straight home and pop something wonderful.

QOTD: I am rooting for whichever team will make you happy enough to offer free shipping!
April 1, 2008

bigmay
Thanks for doing the Mitolo GAM. I’ve often wondered what your thoughts on that might be. I’m really looking forward to trying it. If you ever do a heartland tour, you MUST make a Twin Cities stop.

QOTD: Missed the Twinkies game but watched the Detroit/KC game and the SD/Astros game.
April 1, 2008

Simon D
Once again, great show! I looked for the Waterwheel locally and amazingly it is available so I’m definitely gonna give that a try. I was drinking so much Bordeaux over the winter that I’m really leaning towards more fruit forward wines now that spring is here.

QOTD: Gotta go with the Giants…
April 1, 2008

Keith
They still play baseball in the US? Oh yeah thats right nobody has the attention span anymore to follow 162 games.
April 1, 2008

Taylor
That was something we haven’t seen in a while Gary drinking some fruit bombs.

QOTD Obvz the BOSOX, its all about the repeat!!!
April 1, 2008

stephen
I think the Mitolo is a killer wine and well worth the Tom you have to put down, that and the Schild in my opinion are the best Shiraz’s in Oz at this particular price point.
even though I am South African, I have to admit I love the Aussie wines, the even make some darn good Riesling [another favourite]
Nice show
April 1, 2008

BiggMakk
QOTD: GO CARDS!!!
April 1, 2008

Len
Another great episode! Once again you pulled all the stops trying something that was just over the top… I found it very interesting how Australian wines were your main interest in the beginning…it almost seem that too much of a good thing loses its luster…don’t know if it ever lost its thunder for you but glad you did these wines.I’ve been drinking a lot Shiraz’s of late and was glad to see the Mitolo Gam…I’m putting that one on my list to try next.Great show as always…keep bringing the thunder GV.

QOTD: THE YANKEES
April 1, 2008

Derek
Loved this EP Gary.

QOTD: I am a Boston Man…sorry!!!
April 1, 2008

NC Carl
Great show, I’m really into Shiraz right now. Gonna look for the Water Wheel and Mitolo. I agree with the above comment on Schild.

Go Braves!
April 1, 2008

JayZee
Great show! While I tend to like the Olde World wines better than the fruit bombs, I have several fruit bombs in my cellar that I adore (like Amon-Ra Godolphin amongst others). Very interesting show. The Water Wheel sounds like a must try.

QOTD: GO TRIBE!!!! (’Nuff said)
April 1, 2008

Ducati AGB
Nice to finally see some wines that we can hook up in Canada. Looking forward to trying the Mitolo GAM

Thanks GV
April 1, 2008

wayno da wino
Yo Gee, Nice to see some love for da Auzzie Vino……
QOTD: Will be rootin’ for da Squaws…..er Indians, Padres, Angels,
and Dodgers……….
April 1, 2008

Chris
QOTD- Went to Cupid’s Hot Dogs (since I couldn’t make it to the game) and brought back a dog for everyone at the office to celebrate Opening Day. Dodgers are going all the way this year!
April 1, 2008

Alex
go brewers!
April 1, 2008

Ricky B.
QOTD- my team is probably the worst team in baseball this year (S.F. Giants), but I will still root for them. When your team is bad it takes a little luster out of the season though.
April 1, 2008

Andy & Edie
Great episode that made me really thirsty for Shiraz! If you are traveling to the midwest, you should stop in Montana! We have Glacier Park, Yellowstone Park, tons of fishing, hiking, mountains… QOTD: Go Rockies!
April 1, 2008

Dominus
Great show so I ordered some of the Mitolo and Water Wheel.

QOTD: I attended “the” Opening Day at Nationals Park. A really, really nice venue and got to see the Pres throw out the first pitch. Do you think Obama has a clue what a baseball is?

I root for the Nats (I used to be an Os fan until the Angelos dynasty ran them into the ground) but who wins it all? On paper, the Bosox but since I hate ‘em and everything associated with the NE area, I’ll go with the Dodgers.

Cheers!
Dom
April 1, 2008

Dean Satterlee
Come visit New Mexico; maybe Santa Fe!!
April 1, 2008

Shane B.
I’m going for the LG Twins, a Korean team, since that’s where I live.

We get a lot of Aussie wines here as the price points make them reasonable, and I’ve noticed that fruit bombs are best drunk after being open three days, it seems to really tone down the red-level fragrances usually present.
April 1, 2008

kaybee
QoTd
The S.F. Giants are going to top everyone this year!
April 1, 2008

Jeff
GV,

I agree on the Waterwheel Shiraz Bendigo! I was about as taken back as you were when you tasted it. I purchased, on sale, at a World Market (since I can’t seem to get any wine shipped to AZ) location and it was absolutely the shizz! Keep up the good work my friend!

QOTD- Placed my D-backs cap on the dash all day for all to see in the parking lot at work! I can hope too little Jets fan!;)
April 1, 2008

SoCal
QOTD: Dodgers
April 1, 2008

agentorange
If you decide to visit the home of Jesse the Body, we’ll hook you up with some serious shizzle. Like it, or not.

QOTD: Twins over the Giants. 7 games. (or not)
April 1, 2008

Sasha Fornari
oooo very cool. been waiting for some Aussie action.

thanks!
April 2, 2008

Scott Breffle
I’ve recently had bottles of the Boarding Pass and another Water Wheel – the Memsie Red – and thought the Boarding Pass was better. The Memsie is a cheaper bottle, so I’m looking forward to trying the Shiraz Bendigo for comparison.
April 2, 2008

lazyb
comment.
April 2, 2008

elron
Enjoyed the show! I like all reds but my favs are Cali Cabs and Aussie Shiraz’s! Although, I get into my periods where I just feel like drinking say reds from Spain or reds from Italy or whatever else.

We had a poker party at our cousins house back in late January and had the Boarding Pass. Besides, a poker marathon it turned out to be a wine drinking(not tasting) marathon also. First mistake: “Do night put your poker table right by your wine fridge/cabinet”. Too easy to lean back and grab and pop bottes. Second mistake: “Do not close door to room and blast sattelite radio after drinking bunches of bottles of wine”. A fire started in the kitchen and we didn’t hear all the commotion to contain the fire. Eventually and thankfully, it was contained.

We drank bottles from all over the place: South Africa, Chile(Carmenere), France(Pinot), Argentina(Malbec), Portugal, Spain, Cali.(Cabs.) Aussie Shiraz’s(a few). After bottle after bottle being clanged into the recycle bin, we lost count. They just kept coming! Go back! to first mistake!

Back to the Boarding Pass! We had this particular wine after the best bottle of the night which was an Aussie Shiraz from I believe Barosso: Bethany Reserve Shiraz 2004. From what I remember, a beautiful full wine rich with plenty of Chocolate on the palate. The Boarding Pass didn’t stand a chance after this wine. I didn’t pull anything from the Boarding Pass at all. In fairness, it was at the last in line to be had. Whether it be tongue saturation or discombobulation, it does seem to correspond with other reviews here however.

So after picking up the BP and the Water Wheel Saturday, I will do the taste against each other too. Out of all of them that you had tasted, the Mitolo seems to be one the I would really enjoy! I love wines that are really chewy as if a peice of meat got accidently dropped inside the bottle!

Good job once again Gary. Also, thanks again for Saturday(3/29)! And that idea of a quarterly function sounds slick.

Yankees Brother!
April 2, 2008

John Watson
Fun show. Not a baseball guy, but everyone else feel free to enjoy! I missed the WL meetup by one day. I was in Manhattan Sunday and Monday, but couldn’t get there for Saturday. Hope to hit the next one!
April 2, 2008

Achilleas in Cyprus
Good show.

I used to love these over the top fruit bombs, and although I still like them, I appreciate more the old world wines.

Saying that … there are just days when you need an over the top fruit bomb for your “pal”
April 2, 2008

Doc Johnson
GV, I’ll be moving very close to Notre Dame in a few months and you can stop by anytime.
April 2, 2008

Parker R.
Wow. I told my parents to buy 3 of the Water Wheel back in December 2007 when they were looking for Christmas presents for 3 of their associates. They got it for around $12 at Costco. Who woulda thunk you’d actually review it (and like it). The parents told me that everyone loved it. Radool! I’m downloading this episode just to show them.
April 2, 2008

Will G
We’ll see if the Cubs can break the 100-year curse this season.
April 2, 2008

Craig
Yes! Come to the midwest. This Iowa boy would love to have you in the area. Try the REAL midwest. McGregor, on the Mississippi. We’ve got a new restaurant with food that’s to die for. Wonderful Chef.
April 2, 2008

Blake
QOTD: LETS GO BUCS!!! Sadly I can not honestly believe the Pirates will even have a winning record this season…*sigh* The Phillies should be strong this year.
April 2, 2008

Courtney M
Some of the first wines I seriously tried were Australians.

QOTD: I’m not into sports, but I know my Dad and my Sister will both be cheering on the Mets and the Red Sox this season.
April 3, 2008

jrock
What wines remind you of that ballpark smell? mmmmmm hot dog and cracker jacks.
April 3, 2008

Grape Expectations
QOTD: Ahhh, baseball season. My favorite time of the year. Gotta go with the Mariners. Maybe you’ll pick up a little SoDo Mojo when you’re out here next weekend.
April 3, 2008

mattd
Great idea with the quarterly “pick your crap up” meet & greet. I’m in that hour-distant weird zone and would definitely make the trip.

How would the buying work, though? I’m picturing a “pickup wish list” or something that you’d finalize and have me pay for the week before the meetup.

-M
April 3, 2008

damon aka unknownwine
gotta go with the Reds for the surprise winner of NL central. (not betting the farm though.)
April 3, 2008

Stephanie from So CA
QOTD: In So CA we choose who does not suck at the moment. Padres, Angels of LA of Anaheim(whatever that means)and Dodger Blue baby! We got Torre in the house.
April 4, 2008

mjr
gday gary
thanks 4 doing the aussie wines. i’m from there, i know the places, it’s easier 4 me 2 get my head around them & remember them when i’m in wine shops. inspired by you i’m drinking a 2005 french burgundy pinot noir. it’s ok. good balance a bit watery…. antonin rodet…
you rock
thanks 4 putting the shows out there
i love em
go jets
mjr
April 4, 2008

ValerieM
QOTD: I am rooting for Detroit Tigers, baby!
April 5, 2008

Karl Laczko
I’ve not really had any OTT monsters from Australia, the closest would be Grant Burge’s The Holy Trinity 2002 GSM, but I’d have to call that a more elegant wine than some of the one’s you were describing. The Mitolo sounded really good!

QOTD – Opening day? What the frak’s opening day?
April 5, 2008

Dan-o
I have a bunch of Aussies in my cellar of all shapes and sizes – Elderton Command, Rosemount Balmoral, Marquis Phillips #9 Shiraz, Brothers in Arms Shiraz, Penfolds Grange, etc. I am a big fan, but they can wear on you. I have taken about a year off from drinking them and they have been fun to revisit.

I have been a fan of The Big Red Machine for almost 40 years. It has been tough – I went from the back to back ‘75 and ‘76 World Series and then had to wait until the ‘90 sweep of the A’s. Now I am waiting again!
April 5, 2008

Jim in Atlanta
Went to Braves opening night so I need to pick them.
April 5, 2008

Eric Gardner
Good Show, nice mix of prices. Like to see inexpensive stuff tasted next to pricier stuff. Maybe I’ll let my Glaetzer sit for a few years.

QOTD: Grew up in Oregon (no MLB team), went to college in NYC, went to 4 years of Yankee games, you can never forget the first trip to Yankee Stadium… go Yanks!
April 5, 2008

Nate
Yes, please come to the Midwest. More specifically Madison WI. This town brings the thunder to all that live and visit here. Great people, interesting dining, and an attitude on life that will forever leave an impression on you. I do not even live there, but I work and have family in Madison and I always love the things this town has to offer. Yes I believe where you live has much to offer because of size and diversity of all there is to do and see. But given the opportunity, I think Madison, WI will give you a rewarding and unique experience, better than any where else in the Midwest. I hope to hear that you are visiting soon. On Wisconsin!
April 5, 2008

Tommy Vernieri
GV, I’m back… got a lot of catching up to do. I don’t keep up with baseball much, but when I watch I’m a Yankees fan.
April 7, 2008

Tom Purvenas
LOL – Leave a comment. Good show, I was not able to make the “really big show” in person I am sorry to say, we got a bit too much going on here. Keep doing them I am sure I will make one next time.

Keep the reasonably priced ones in the mix, it always keeps my interest and when I hit the lottery I’ll buy the other stuff….
April 9, 2008

charlie berg
Gary–so great to see you giving props across the wine board–yes even to fruit bomby Aussie reds. I also was surprised and humbled by a Cab franc, p.verdot, merlot blend from Gemtree, McLaren Vale at a recent wine tasting. have a great week!
April 11, 2008

Rolf Lydecker
It just goes to show that lame fancy packaging doesn’t always lead to good vino…

P.S. SD Jones Rules!
April 12, 2008

ChezJosh
Go Cubbies!
April 12, 2008

Dan Schmid
I’m curious to see what Torre is going to do with the Dodgers, but I’m still rooting for the Cubbies.
April 12, 2008

Mr.Ambassador
Opening Day and my Mariners are gonna win their division (thank-you Angels for those injuries to starting pitchers)! I think you’ll see some surprising production from both Kenji and Sexson in their contract years.
April 20, 2008

Kylie
Hey thanks for giving our good wines a great review. about time. gary when are you coming down here again? love the mitolo too.
Kylie Gold Coast Australia
April 23, 2008

CJ Bowyer
I cant get away from the fruit and sugar ! Great show !
May 23, 2008

Mike Gigante
I gotta agree on the Water Wheel. This is one of my long time favourite quaffers. Great value for money. Been buying it since the late 80s or early 90s.

It is so delicious young and is an every day kind of wine so I’ve never managed to keep much. I don’t have any older than 2001. I should probably give it a little more respect and hold some back like I do with most of my wines.

Bendigo (ben-dig-go) is in central Victoria adjacent to Heathcote (Jasper Hill, Shadowfax etc) and not far from the Nagambie/Goulburn valley (Tahbilk, Mitchelton etc).

It is one of 10 or 12 distinct wine regions within ~2 hours of Melbourne (let’s see. clockwise: Geelong/Bellarine Peninsula; Ballarat, Sunbury, Macedon, Bendigo, Heathcote, Goulburn Valley, Strathbogie ranges, King valley, Mansfield, Yarra valley/Diamond valley, Gippsland, Mornington Peninsula). 13 and that leaves out some wonderful areas just a little further out – Rutherglen, Grampians, Pyranees, Great Western. The list goes on…

Melbourne is one of *the* great wine destinations – great wines in so many different styles in a compact form factor with english-speaking, friendly locals

Gee, maybe I should have a job at the dept of tourism

Look me up if you decide to test my premise!

Mike
May 26, 2008

vivaitalia
i’m fairly certain Ben Glaetzer makes the Mitolo as well. As much as I love you GV you seem to be trying to hard sometimes to break away from your love of “new world” wines. I don’t understand it because your recognition of those is what made wine library blow up. I’m not trying to be a jerk but it almost seems like you feel a need to join the wine establishment because you’re big now. Also a thing that’s been bugging me; Robert Parker is known as loving super huge fruit bomb wines but he’s always made his rep as being the bordeaux guru. I’ve never quite understood that.
May 27, 2008

Matti
Had the G.A.M. 2005 today. Vivaitalia, you are right Ben is behind Mitolo wines together with Frank Mitolo. The 2005 was an explosive experience, would recommend definitely. I bought some Amon-Ra some time ago and can’t wait to open those (trying to save them for the next decade).
June 7, 2008

Paul V
Gary! I’m surprised you even have to ask. Opening day can only mean one thing: my Pittsburgh Pirates will be all up in or something.

Wish I could have experienced baseball in the 50’s – i think that would have been awesome.
keep up the great work.
June 25, 2008

Sarah
From the review you gave grateful palate’s Boarding Pass Shiraz, I’d be curious to see how you like their First Class Shiraz. It comes in at about $30 at Cellar Wines in Oklahoma City. My husband and I liked it so much that we bought the last two bottles available in the state.
July 3, 2008

Tim
It’s fairly predictable in a way Gary that the two Grateful Palate wines made by Chris Ringland that you have reviewed recently (Evil Cabernet & Boarding Pass Shiraz) are exclusively made for the American market.

By labelling these wines as “predictable aussie” wines I think isn’t fair as they are not made with a sense of place in mind, ie, Terroir.

They don’t even come from a designated region, but rather ‘South Eastern Australia” which covers 75% of Australia’s wine regions.

You loved the Mitolo and Water Wheel which have distinct regions (Bendigo & McLaren Vale) and seems to espouse the characters of that land.

So, rather than tarring the Aussie wine scene with that same ‘Over the Top’ brush, keep in mind that some wines made for the US Market almost exclusively (and are even sometimes made a little differently than the same wine destined for local shelves) are made to appeal to the sugar loving, middle American palate.
December 29, 2008

MNGeorge
Just caught this– best quote EVER on Wine Library TV (regarding the high 15.7% alcohol level of the Boarding Pass Shiraz):

“A great first date wine”
January 10, 2009

Dessert Wine Nerd
Nice Aussie showing overall. Im thinking of investing in a Molly Dooker or two, and buying some other Aussie wines I can drink now. QOTD: Sadly, the Mariners. We all know what crap they turned into after the 2001 season, and I know 2009 wont be any different. They havent made any great moves so far (big shocker), and I dont see them even comming close to competing for the division. Sadly I think they will lose more than 100 games again this year and the manager Wakamatsu will be fired by the end of the 2010 season.
February 10, 2009

Phildo Massey
I love Shiraz. I have a soft spot for them considering they really got me into wine about eight years ago. I did get a little worn on them a few years ago but have come back around full circle. I have not purchased the 2006 Anaperenna nor have I tried it yet so I’ll hold off any comment on it. However I tried it’s predecessor the 2005 Godolphin from Glaetzer and absolutely loved it. I plan on buying a few bottles of the Water Wheel, have never even seen the boarding pass but will definitely pass on that. The Mitolo GAM is another fantastic shiraz, but I not in the same tier as the Godolphin.

QOTD: Since it is almost opening day here in 2009 (A year late, sorry) I am going to go with the good guys who wear black. The Pale Hose, my Chicago White Sox. Not much talk about them, they’ve definitely been flying under the radar with the national press but that’s nothing new. This team is going to bring some thunder next year, possibly even a trip to the ALCS. We’ll see.

Keep it up Gary, I love your show!

Phildo~
September 17, 2009

Full Tasting Note on Waterwheel Bendigo Shriaz 2005 |
[...] giving it 91 points and Gary Vaynerchuk from Winelibrary TV giving it 90 Points – Click Here. I was really looking for to this wine based on both scores and the fact that I liked the Memsie [...]
October 4, 2009

David Vogel
Gary,

First, I appreciate your mea-culpa on big aussie wines. I love your enthusiasm. I also appreciate how you put your tastes in context so we can judge your ratings adjusted for my taste differences.

Anyway, we drank the Glaetzer Anaperenna after decanting it 2+ hours with a big flavorful meal and it was wonderful. Some wines like this need to be decanted, especially when young and are meant to be drank with big flavorful foods. These wines do not get appreciated by themselves.

Suggest you try it again with a savory rack of lamb and garlic mashed potatoes after decanting it for 2 hours and see if it gets any better for you.

That being said, I really don’t mind that our tastes are different because then I can still buy the wines I like that you are not crazy about.

Dave
October 4, 2009

David Vogel
Gary,

First, I appreciate your mea-culpa on big aussie wines. I love your enthusiasm. I also appreciate how you put your tastes in context so we can judge your ratings adjusted for my taste differences.

Anyway, we drank the Glaetzer Anaperenna after decanting it 2+ hours with a big flavorful meal and it was wonderful. Some wines like this need to be decanted, especially when young and are meant to be drank with big flavorful foods. These wines do not get appreciated by themselves.

Suggest you try it again with a savory rack of lamb and garlic mashed potatoes after decanting it for 2 hours and see if it gets any better for you.

That being said, I really don’t mind that our tastes are different because then I can still buy the wines I like that you are not crazy about.

Dave