Viognier Friday – Episode #462

May 9, 2008

Today Gary tastes 2 Viognier wines head to head and gets into a different mindset and mixes it up a little.

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Comments on this episode(177) Leave a comment ›

“so the peltier smells like nitrous??…” by nnothing
“Smurfette, gotta love the pumps!. But the better question is whats you…” by Drew
View all 177 ›

Wines tasted in this episode:

2007 Le Paradou ViognierOther Rhone White Wine
2006 Peltier Station ViognierOther California White Rhone V

Links mentioned in todays episode.

177 Responses

May 9, 2008

Aaron S.
Yay! I’ve been waiting all day!
May 9, 2008

lizv
for once i thought i’d be 1st!
May 9, 2008

John Farrin
I’ve been on it this week. Like third top 10. More later
May 9, 2008

lizv
mazel tov aaron s you’ve beaten me to it. great weekend to all & thanks for all the great bday wishes:)
May 9, 2008

Candace
Yes!
May 9, 2008

The Doc
Enjoy the weekend Vayniacs
May 9, 2008

David M Roberts
Top 10, Baby! Have a great weekend.
May 9, 2008

Exdamyankee
Looking forward to this ep. WLTV got me to experiment with viogniers abuot a month ago and I’m hooked
May 9, 2008

aaronb
Top 10!
May 9, 2008

John Farrin
QOTD: For Christ’s sake Gary, I’m 61 years old. I guess then it would have to be Papa Smurf. You seriously need therapy
May 9, 2008

JoeShmo
wow really been mix’n it up here lately. i like that
QOTD: Handy Smurf
May 9, 2008

Exdamyankee
I had an interesting viognier last week, Zaca Mesa 2006 from the Santa Ynez Valley. Fifteen bones, 92 rating from Connoiseurs Guide. Had it with steamed musssels and it rocked. Solid 90 for me.

QOTD- Smurfs? Seriously, what do I know from smurfs??? Uh–OK, they’re blue. I don’t know, was Smurfette hot?
May 9, 2008

elron
What?
May 9, 2008

M
No way!!! We had Viognier tonight with dinner. Now I have to watch show #462. I’ll be back in 19 minutes.
May 9, 2008

LauraG
QOTD: Props to Grouchy Smurf – my fave.
May 9, 2008

Dr T from N. Carolina
QOTD Papa
May 9, 2008

Palmer
I mean, I was always in love with Smurfette – total babe.
May 9, 2008

Palmer
love viognier btw – my favorite white varietal hands down.
May 9, 2008

aaronb
QOTD: Brainy Smurf
May 9, 2008

agentorange
QOTD: Um, when I was in college, we had a 36″ water pipe (used for tobacco only…) which was blue, and we named smurfette. Guess that makes her my favorite.
May 9, 2008

Malphas
QotD: My favorite Smurf of all time would have to be Jokey Smurf. You know, the one with the yellow gift box with the red bow that explodes. Yeah baby.
May 9, 2008

RANDI
Funny, but I am so focused on changing & mixing things up right now that I completely appreciate the different angle!
GARY!!! I wanna come and hang at Bounce w/you!! Gonna try…
Stoked about all the great things that are happening for you!!
QOTD: Fave Smurf? I dunno…theyre cute, theyre small, theyre blue…
xoxxo
May 9, 2008

elron
QOTD: My highschool baseball coach!

What?
May 9, 2008

M
I had a french viognier with dinner Maurel-Vedeau, les cepages (negociants). Golden color. The nose reminded me of wines from Alsace. It was pretty good at a pretty good price which I can’t recall exactly ($10-$15). The sweetest Viognier I’ve had was the Cono Sur from Chile. Eww. It was so sweet I thought it gave me instant cavities. The southern france bottle today was pleasant, 100% more enjoyable than the Cono Sur. I’d probably buy it again.

QOTD: dunno
May 9, 2008

MrTaz
Viognier is one of my favorite wines. My daughter was a “Smurfy” at Club Med — clearly my favorite. I hope to see you at the NJ book signing.
May 9, 2008

DerekC
QOTD: Dreamy Smurf or the nature/tracker Smurf.

And what happened to folks leaving comments in the videos? I used to crack up reading those as the show went on. Like a little Pop-Up Video or commentary track to counter-joke your jokes and stuff. I’ll have to start up a little revolution here and get them going again.
May 9, 2008

KenP
Refreshing ep.
May 9, 2008

kallardnyc
Another vote for Jokey Smurf.

I am with you on the Peltier Station. A pazz for me.

Click my name and go to my blog and click my ads. Your clicks buy me wine.
Thanks
May 9, 2008

Jon Ward
I recently had the Peltier Station and was blown away by the quality. The way you described it sounded like a completely different wine than I had. I had NO heat whatsoever, I was actually shocked at the alcohol content when i read it on the bottle. I also got more oyster shell and dry grass on the nose with blue stone and pear on the palate. I think maybe chilling that wine could change the whole flavor profile. Perhaps you could consider doing a show where you did chill the wines, since most of your viewers probably drink them chilled, especially white wines. That way we might get a better impression of what they might taste like when we drink them.

Don’t worry, I still love you, man. By the way, that’s the second wine that you’ve pretty much crapped on that I loved. The first one was that Talus Pinot that you gave 50 pts a long time ago, I love that wine
May 9, 2008

MattUD
Nice job changing things up. I was interested to see that you did not enjoy the Peltier Station, because when I was at the March 29th event at WL, an employee told me that I absolutly had to have it. I am yet to try it and won’t for at least five weeks because I am leaving the country, meaning yes, this was my last episode until then. Good luck on the book tour!
May 9, 2008

Robin C
QOTD: Dont’t know much about Smurfs.

Donnie Deutsch show was good. You sounded totally together. Congratulations.
May 9, 2008

Byron Chen
qotd papa
May 9, 2008

dAve
Nice angle shot, Mott! What a messy desk, Gary! Ghez. On changing things – remember one reason we like Flintstones and Wrestling and MASH is the beginning puts us in “the place” – don’t go changing, just cause you are bored. Open the same and mix it up after. Bring in more guests you make them shine! Have Mott open in the parking lot again. Have a guest open and pretend you are not there. Go for it! smile.
QOTD – Jokey Smurf. Always made me feel normal. My granddaughter looks like Smurfette – but not blue. She’s 4!
Viognier has such range – I find them hard to find what I like, but I have a few.
I only watch on WinelibraryTV!
Nice rambling episode! Just fun!
May 9, 2008

Tom
Hey Gary I am planning to take over my not so secret packs to my parents tomorrow and do a tasting with you and them for Mother’s Day and my birthday. I really love the idea of the secret packs so keep them coming. I am also pumped to say that I already have tickets to see you while you are here in Houston in the woodlands wine festival. I can’t wait to meet you and have some wine.
May 9, 2008

laurie in VT
QOTD: Papa Smurf is the only one whose name I actually remember. I guess that makes him my favorite by default (?).

Today’s ep was fun. Some people rearrange the furniture, you rearrange your vlog.
May 9, 2008

Grapedigger
Cool show!
May 9, 2008

SoCal
NO LOVE :X
May 9, 2008

Jonathan Yockim
Awesome episode, i liked the slight moving around, and the post wine talk was awesome!
QOTD:Dreamy Smurf, i dont know about you but, day dreaming, being in that half in, half out, kind of hypnotic stage, is pretty cool, and im pretty sure thats all Dreamy Smurf does.
May 9, 2008

Mark
Gary, you were in the freakin’ zone today! Keep it up.
May 9, 2008

Susan
Gary- Love the energy and creativity!!! Great ep on a varietal that I LOVE !!!
May 9, 2008

Susan
Gary-Did you ACTUALLY swallow some wine??????????????????????????????????????????? What????? WOW!!! HOW did that happen???????????????? wink wink wink
May 9, 2008

amgryger
QOTD: Smurf?
May 9, 2008

Aaron S.
Way to be a Mac user, GV. Way to be.

You are so kind to all of us humble viewers. Thanks

Papaya? Really? Wow…

WAY TO LAND VOTTO IN FANTASY! I have Volquez for pitching, so Wednesday’s game was GREAT! 3 homer for Votto, 10 K’s from Volquez… man oh man…

I’m enjoying this episode a lot; maybe Head-to-Head Laid Back Fridays now?

QOTD: I don’t really know the Smurfs too well… but an old friend of mine’s last name was Murphy, and one of our teachers used to call her Smurfy Murphy…
May 9, 2008

Susan
Gary-QOTD: Brainy Smurf!!!!!!!!!
May 9, 2008

Aaron S.
I forgot to say have a good weekend… so, have a good weekend!

P.S. Please convey my apologies to your wife for posting first. Sorry LV!
May 9, 2008

RWH
Gary: you need to dictate all your notes on your tasting for later publishing. i keep a small recorder with me always to dictate metal notes for later recall. cheers
May 9, 2008

The JB Special
Gary, awesome show. First time poster, medium fanatic, I’m getting there. Just wanted to wish you the best of luck on the upcoming week. Also was wondering if you could do a spot, or maybe a show, or possibly just enlighten me on White Merlot. I had one the other week from a friend who had brought it back from Germany and it not only amazed my pallet and my schnoz but it perked my interest in general. Keep me posted, I’m buying the book. Thunder hard.

JB
May 9, 2008

damien
qotd: my fiance says vanity smurf, i forgot about him untill she threw it out there. all i could remeber was papa smurf and gargamel but gargamel wasn’t even a smurf, what was the cat’s name???
May 9, 2008

ray-ray
Nice Show GV… Hope you have a Wonderful weekend as well.

QOTD: Handy Smurf… He was a like a Mad Engineer building stuff, in a MACGYVER kinda way
May 9, 2008

MattyO
gary VEEEEEE!

awesome show! way to change that bitch up! cool stuff!

sound the trumpets! i had my first wine in MONTHS tonight!!! remember, CKC, no money in this wallet. yea, my dad and i went to shop for a camping tent and we decided to wine and dine. i had a chard. from northern italy. FANTASTIC just to have some wine again. good wine, good food. great time with dad. awesome stuff!

thank you gary! thank you mott! thanks to all the cool vayniacs out there who rock the vino!
May 10, 2008

David Scott
QOTD: Papa Smurf was the winner for me, hands down. The guy had mad knowledge and always remained calm when the caca hit the fan.

Excellent show, especially with the cheaper wine winning out. Good luck, be safe Gary V.
May 10, 2008

DirtWineKen
QOTD: Papa Smurf without a doubt. He’s in my generation.
Viognier——meh. You have to pay too much for anything really good. Dyathink its because of low yield, or what?
May 10, 2008

Chris from Portland
QOTD: Handy Smurf. I noticed a vibe goin’ on between him and Smurfette. Plus, he could fix anything. July 2nd, Ptown, Powell’s, that’s classy.
May 10, 2008

manonthemoon
Nice way to round out the week.

QOTD: has to be Grouchy
May 10, 2008

C-Lo
I don’t know what it was about today’s episode, but I was laughing through it all. I have to stop and remind myself sometimes that you’re sitting in front of a camera having half of a conversation, and not just sitting around with friends.

Just watched your clip from Big Idea – looked good buddy. Kinda cool that your tips were used as the measure for the success of the other two – you’re big-time!

QOTD: Smurfette all day long! I used to love the fact that she had the blond hair like I did. Have a great weekend and Happy Mother’s Day to your moms. Keep it real. And come to Chicago for the book tour.
May 10, 2008

Cuse Wino
QOTD- Gotta be Papa Smurf. Was there a Drunky Smurf?

Kudos to you Gary on all your success and Big Ideas (intriguing show thanks for the link Mott) You are an inspiration and an educator which is a pretty cool combination.
May 10, 2008

Xavier
haha nice to see people from over the ocean remember this Belgian cartoon, which I grew up with. See we got more to offter than just Chocolate and beer(pazzz for me) and BELGIAN Fries and waffles!
May 10, 2008

Xavier
oh ye, lazy smurf or dreamy smurf I guess, something pretty familiar about them
May 10, 2008

T. Bone
Dude can just talk story and still put out a rockin’ show, that’s how you know you’ve got something. Keep it the same, change it up, it don’t matter. As long as the passion is there, I’ll keep tuning in.

Don’t like the head-to-head format as much, only 2 wines! How about a tag-team approach? Two from the new-world, two from the old-world, e.g. If one’s too hot, then his teammate tags in and takes over.
May 10, 2008

MikeyLikesIt
Gary, why not film a couple of episodes down in the wine cellar. There’s nothing like getting in the right mood when tasting the grapes. Happy drinking.
May 10, 2008

Karl Laczko
That office is almost as messy as mine! Viognier I like, more my style of whites; aromatic, not too dry with some fruit and body.

QOTD – I always found Smurfette quite cute, but really it has to be wise old papa Smurf.
May 10, 2008

RX8DOC
Is it me or does Gary look like the love child of Gargamel and Smurfette??
May 10, 2008

JimKay
It Saturday morning and only 60 comments! What’s up with that?
May 10, 2008

J Crazy
Papa Smurf man, absolutely. He rocked it in a chill ass style and could crack the whip to boot.

Awesome episode, like the “conversation with GV” steez.
May 10, 2008

Sonnenuhr
Will try the Paradou. Great values from Europe, even with the FX rate.

California has to get a handle on alcohol levels – it is killing them; worse than the excessive use of oak. I buy 30 to 40 cases of wine a year – maybe one or two of those are California wines, next year probably none. Is Napa going the way of Detroit?
May 10, 2008

Craig Rabe
Papa Smurf. Oh so wise.

Some great Viognier coming out of Santa Ynez valley in Santa Barbara County.
May 10, 2008

Jon-Paul Lenczuk
Planning on coming to the New Jersey appearance, but Amazon hasn’t sent me my book yet!
May 10, 2008

Medo
Wonderfull show Gary! Nice to see some chatty chat with Mott.

QOTD: Papa smurf! The CEO of Smurf Inc.
May 10, 2008

BF
QOTD: That nerdy guy. What was his name??
May 10, 2008

BobbyTiger
When you started the show with “Hey everybody”, that kinda set the tone. A big change to begin with. Don’t know if I am really too keen on your moving the set around, but………that’s probably just me, as maby I’m just use to seeing you behind the big deskie-desk. I have only had one Viognier, as I just stumbled across it last month. For a white, (not my favorite variety), it was pretty good. And while I don’t appreciate your yelling at me about only trying a wine one time, (I’m a pretty sensitive guy), I will go back to the well for a second attempt. Looking forward to your being on Kramer’s show. While Danny D. kinda put me to sleep, (and I don’t feel he did you justice), Kramer/Gary V is a can’t miss. Speaking of putting to sleep…….was Larry King moving when you saw him? QOTD?………………What’s a smurf? (Honestly, I don’t know)
May 10, 2008

Dr. Dan
Good conversational show today. Very much a heart-to-heart to go with the head-to-head Viognier battle. Alcohol, yes–I shy away from Aussie Shiraz just because of the alcohol levels, in many cases. That’s one of the reasons Bordeaux are so great IMHO, they keep the alcohol levels low (13-14) and achieve great balance.
May 10, 2008

Purple Tooth
Viognier has become my new fav white wine. You did a great job on the Big Idea. QOTD: No favorite Smurf. They sorta creep me out.
May 10, 2008

Phil G
Handy Smurf…
May 10, 2008

Len
Good show GV…like the head to head…if you’re looking for a change of scenery for wine-tasting why not in the wine cellar…..QOTD: Not into Smurf’s
May 10, 2008

Tony D
First comment ever right here – Gary, I’ve been watching for about a month and love the show. Keep it up and definitely check out the support for a DC book visit in the forums!

QOTD – Papa Smurf, who else?!?
May 10, 2008

Lawrence Leichtman
Why Smurfette of course, sexy little blue girl. Very blue myself about not being anywhere near a book tour or signing.
As to Viognier in the US. The higher alcohol content in the US seems to be a constant for me with Viognier. Could this be that it is produced in hotter areas than southern Rhone? Seem to have similar issues with Texas Viogniers but ones from northern Virginia not so much.
As to contests, like them but they have become inside jobs. I don’t use Amazon but buy all of my books and yours from Barnes and Noble. So where’s the love?
May 10, 2008

Andy
QOTD***** Got to go with Popa Smurf baby…………
Thanks for tasting the Viognier G………. a great wine that is quite different……….
May 10, 2008

Adam J
Qotd: papa smurf had things going good in smurf town.
Have a great weekend GV!
May 10, 2008

jason
qotd : smurfette, cause the rest were dudes.
ps GO VIOGNIER!
May 10, 2008

Bigsigar
QOTD: Jokey Smurf with his judicious and comical use of explosives.
May 10, 2008

Jen
Poet Smurf rocks!

Great show, Viognier is currently my favorite wine and I’ve been trying different brands like crrrraaaazy!! It was awesome to see you do a head to head with it.

Congrats on all the great media attention you’re getting, you work hard for it, that’s why you continue to be so successful…again, big congrats!!
May 10, 2008

kaybee
Love the Viognier.
QoTd
Didn’t watch the smurfie-smurfs, so I couldn’t say. More of a Scooby-Doo fan myself.
May 10, 2008

Kirk (AKA: slave2thevine)
Wow….great to see you doing a head-to-head with Viognier…I had the Peltier Station around the first of the month..and it was far too hot for my liking as well. Keep the great shows rollin’ thanks for all the effort!

QOTD: My favorite Smurf was Lazy smurf….go figure.
May 10, 2008

ZinRiki
Here in Lodi, it’s pronounced Pelteer!

Great program GV!!
May 10, 2008

J-Pipes
QOTD: Smurfette. My first role model.
May 10, 2008

GrapeStuff
Liking the head-to-heads, GV. Keep ‘em coming!
May 10, 2008

purplejuicebruce
QOTD…Petite Sirah
May 10, 2008

Stu
QOTD: Never was a smurf fan, but loved Spridel from Speed Racer.
May 10, 2008

JudeMurphy
Cool head to head but ya really went off on one there, didn’t ya! haha.
Had a chateauneuf Du Pape last night that tasted like cheese.
That was crazy!
As was that QOTD! Never watched the smurfs myself.

Thought of a great analogy for wine tasting:
It’s like when you’re a kid and you lie in a field looking up at the clouds with your friends and everyone talks about what they can see.

Think about that one, Gary.
May 10, 2008

BargePlus
Starting to worry about my books. Ordered 2 from Amazon on May 6th, and now Amazon says they won’t be delivered until June 2nd, i.e. 5 days AFTER the SF signing. Not sure what to do in that case.
May 10, 2008

Achilles Mike
Love the Viognier- had my first one from a small Winery in Temecula, CA. Just had a Boony Doon version and it remided me of a Vouvray. Great show, Gary!
May 10, 2008

Timmy
Wonderful episode Gare. I leared a lot. A ‘humble’ suggestion. Throw a virginia viognier in ther next time. timmy
May 10, 2008

Eldridge
Gary, Great show!!! This is Flint town (Michigan that is) representing the love for a sniffy sniff and the enjoyment of the taste… Have you ever tried the La Playa 2004 CLARET BLOCK SELECTION RESERVE? Looking for your opinion.
May 10, 2008

DOm N. (@geekdom)
Talk about a pang of guilt every time you call me out!! (lurker) I really do wanna comment I just fall outside of the ability to answer most QOTD’s. I’m going to try and fix that though
So…
QOTD: Porn Smurf was my fav. what? Never saw him? well, thats cuz he was always in the bathroom. to busy..
May 10, 2008

Rob C.
Viongier…..very under appreciatted grape…. thanks for bringing attention to an excellent vareital. For a future head to head consider one from Virginia..theyre making some really good ones over here.
May 10, 2008

Derek F.
Cool show bro…very laid back and “chatty” today, very cool!!!
May 10, 2008

Ed Salonia
Great show

QOTD: Not sure…
May 10, 2008

Donna Marie
I like Garretson Viognier—it’s either Paso Robles or Santa Barbara. The bin’s always empty in any wine shop that carries it, so I haven’t had it in several years.
QOTD: Papa Smurf is the only one I remember. We have a Christmas ornament of him–it has to be over 25 years old.
May 10, 2008

Duffy
QOTD: Schlaubi! Don’t know what he’s called in english..
May 10, 2008

David Dadekian
QOTD: I’m going to take a pazzzzzz on this one!
May 10, 2008

Harley Stan
Nice head to head, viognier is one of my favorites. I also watched on viddler today which show the view counts, pretty cool. Alot of lurkers.
QOTD- Smurfette for sure, she was a hotty in a blue animated sort of way
May 10, 2008

chenrys
Like the head to head format,too.

QOTD: We don’t know any Smurfs. Missed them somehow…darn.
May 10, 2008

ChrisH
I’m loving the converstaion format you brought to this show. Very relaxed and enjoyable… especially for laid back Friday.

QOTD: Um… Smurfs.. I guess Papa Smurf cause he is the only one I really remember.
May 10, 2008

the unknown chef
Hooray! You used 2 glasses! One for one. I thought that worked out so much better than rinsing ’cause we could compare the two visuals so easily plus you could taste back and forth. Liking.
May 10, 2008

Ben
Me and my roommate agree, Smurfette, for reasons too odd to go into. I’m seeing my Mother tomorrow, who has just recently taken an interest in wine. I’ll be sure to turn her towards Gary in the near future. Rock on bro!
May 10, 2008

tom
Gary — please do an episode with the St. Jean Du Barroux Le Blanc 2005 — it is one of the most perplexing white wines ever….please!
May 10, 2008

maggiej
I like the head to head, maybe do two head to heads an episode (4 wines)

Had an incredible, and pricey at $28, viognier at Melville this weekend.
May 10, 2008

bfrankphoto
QOTD: Brainy Smurf – reminds me of Cliff Claven.

When you come to Des Moines, you have to go to Gong Foo tea. I know you dig the leaves, and it is less than a block from the book store. See you then!
May 10, 2008

Dick
GARY, VIOGNIER IS GREAT…TRY THE ARGENTINA AND AUSTRALIA ONES…ALSO GREAT BLENDED WITH SHIRAZ 5-8%…DICK…
PS DON’T BURN OUT..
May 10, 2008

Jaybird
That’s funny, I knew you had to like the Smurfs. I use to have a ton of characters, my brother and I always fought over officer smurf (dressed as a cop blowing a whistle and holding a billyclub) But jokey was the shiz!
May 10, 2008

davebw
QOTD: definitely the hot blue chick. Waiting for Captain Kirk to drop into the show and make it with her…

I really like viogner. Interestingly enough, it seems to be catching on with the Texas wineries. Just tasted a Llano Viogner today, decent for $10. I prefer the Becker, oily, full bodied, with good acidity, for $14. Its such a good food wine, like rieslings.

Dave.
May 10, 2008

Kristen
Really cool change in format today- it was a nice and chatty episode. I definitely liked it. Won’t be there for NYC or the Dirty Jerse, but I just reserved my place in Boston!

QOTD: Never really was into the Smurfs, sorry.
May 10, 2008

theemptyglass
I’ll admit I had a few viongnier and passed them off, so I’ll give them another shot.
QOTD: Sassy smurf of course!
May 10, 2008

Ben Janssen South Australia
Gary if I threw a ball to you from 50 yards away would you catch it ?
You can talk the talk about sports but can you walk the walk ?
Are you actually sporty ?
May 10, 2008

Ben Janssen South Australia
Also was there a bit of Singer-chuk in there. It’s getting hot in here!
Maybe a show by song one day!
May 11, 2008

Withnail
QOTD: “Melanie Griffin” Smurf
May 11, 2008

ckcBlackBrian
I was under the impression Gary’s book didn’t come out till Tuesday? Yet I picked it up at my local B&N this past Friday. What gives? Anyways, good stuff, and good show. Looking forward to reading it.

-Brian
May 11, 2008

Juan Romero
Papa Smurf all the way. Gotta give props to the O.G.

Imma switch it on ya:
QOTD for you: Are you considering crossing the atlantic for your book tour?
Leave a comment!
http://tv.winelibrary.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=17670
May 11, 2008

BPlague
Great show keep up the great work.
May 11, 2008

Glen.. WINECRAZY.COM
Don’t know about the smurfs but once I stayed at Turnberry Isle in Miami and I found a camera on a couch in the lobby so I turned it in and at the time it was film, not digital….or I would have checked out the pics…lol

Anyway I got a magnum of Crystal with 2 dozen roses deliverd to my room that night with a note that said thank you so much for returning my camera. The pictures were from my recent trip to Paris and irreplacable. You are a very special person.

Well……guess who’s camera it was.

Give up?

It was the inventor and owner of Smurfs. Or his wife. I remember she was Asian but I forget the name.

I guess it pays to be good…!!!!
May 11, 2008

Rossodio
QOTD: Much love to BIG PAPA smurf…
May 11, 2008

Connor Sears
QOTD: Smurfette is by far my favorite. I mean, a bunch of dude smurfs would just be weird. She balances everything out.
May 11, 2008

wayno da wino
qotd: A Whooooooooooooo ?????????
May 11, 2008

countrygirl60
QOTD:Dreamy smurf of course,great show gary!Can’t wait to see you on Conan,and get my books.
May 11, 2008

mikeyrad
QOTD: Gotta be Vaynersmurf.
May 11, 2008

Sir Lurks-A-Lot
I don’t mind changing things up, but the new camera angle and position in the room made you sound further away from the camera and “echoy” compared to at the table and the normal Friday couch position.

When you do rearrange the “set”, check the acoustics on the recording.

(Having the recording without echo makes you sound more like you’re “in our home” (i.e.: closer to us))

Thanx Gary & Mott!
May 11, 2008

Mr.Ambassador
Where would all the smurfs be without Papa Smurf? Gotta throw Papa some props, although how all those Smurfs got by with only lady in the group (Smurfette), I’ll never know…
May 11, 2008

JayZee
QOTD: Papa Smurf rocks!
May 11, 2008

Ryan W
Gary,

I liked the way you did your laid back Friday.
May 11, 2008

KVolk
Gary really like the head to head and two glasses and swithching back and forth…..you were really good on The Big Idea and you and Jim Cramer ought to be enough energy to power CNBC for 24 hours….
May 12, 2008

Eric Gardner
Gary! So introspective! Looks like a lot of restless thoughts are churning in your head. I just got caught up on a week of WLTV. Missed a week of shows because of a heavy work schedule. Seeing a bunch of shows on Sunday is like talking to an old friend (you).

Since you asked about the format, here is my response… mix your pitches! Record short shows and longer shows. Head to heads are great too, just mix it up. The great ones have at least three pitches. Remember Tom Chapin’s show from the 70’s (Make A Wish)? They always mixed things up.

You’re doing a great job, keep it up. Don’t be afraid to challenge our expectations.
May 12, 2008

Eric Gardner
QOTD: I’m a Papa Smurf Guy
May 12, 2008

master1228
Always always always gotta go with Papa Smurf, he’s got that whole Captain Picard, fatherly figure always knowing best thing going for him.
May 12, 2008

Achilleas in Cyprus
Never had a Voignier – another to try.

QOTD: Papa smurf
May 12, 2008

Capt M
Gary, great show! How’bout a show down between the ‘99 Chateau Musar from Lebanon and any old world Bourdeaux? That would be an awesome comparison. Regards.
May 12, 2008

Siggi from Iceland
QOTD: Are you kidding me, Cooking Smurf of course. And yeah Gary, IÂ´m going to London Wine Fair, send me an email if you are there, I really would like to meet you.
May 12, 2008

Christian Calleri
Hey Gary,

Just started watching your show last week, and I just love it. Really great work, and thanks for bringing such a great approach to learning about and drinking wine.

I read an article recently about the movement in California where there are more and more negotiant wines popping up. Ever think about doing a show about this topic? Could be interesting.

All the best,
Christian
May 12, 2008

JerseyGirl turned CNY vayniac
QOTD: probably either smurfette or papa smurf, but i have to admit i wasnt the smufiest smurf fan
May 12, 2008

Christian
Jokey Smurf
May 12, 2008

CBG
Jessica-Alba smurf?
May 12, 2008

eyezonwine
I was kinda a fan of Gargamel actually
May 12, 2008

Vbellore
QOTD: Papa Smurf – who else could save the day.

On a side note, did you know that Papa Smurf was supposedly modelled off of Carl Marx. THe big Beard. Red Pants. It was often accused of being communist propoganda. Even the smurf village was practically a commune.

should be down at bounce monday night.
May 12, 2008

Colin
Fun stuff – thanks for all the info. QOTD – Smurfette.
May 12, 2008

DARREL LAS VEGAS
LOVE THE GV RANT!

QOTD: The Smurf thays always drinking !
May 12, 2008

Coupe 60
Redskin wide receiver Charlie Brown…Not the same Charlie Brown BTW, that still spams my inbox courtesy of Brandon M…
May 12, 2008

Kev and Ams
QOTD: Baker Smurf.
May 12, 2008

yowens
Still Love the head to head and a huge Viognierhead. QOTD: Smurfett
May 12, 2008

joe
gary viogniernerchuk!
May 12, 2008

JD
Papa Smurf…Great repro guy.

Didn’t like the angle.

Would be going to Ridgewood, but heading to see the Sox in Baltimore!
May 12, 2008

Brian V
Loving the new laid back friday, AKA casual talk. It’s nice to see a little behind the scenes as well.
May 13, 2008

wayno da wino
Yo G !!! got da Book over da weekend !! You done Goooooooood !!!
Got allota coool/unique Vinos in it !! Grrrrrrreaaaaat Job !!
May 13, 2008

Ryan D
QotD: Screw the Smurfs… I was always liked Azrael the best. Heh.
May 13, 2008

wannaBconnoisseur
I will say again, I love the head-to-heads!

Q- Smurfette…what a piece of ass!
May 13, 2008

pawncop
Good show, very much enjoy the head to heads.

QOTD – Sorry Don’t have a favorite Smurff.
May 13, 2008

Ken B.
Gary,

It’s been awhile since I’ve posted, but I have been faithfully watching. I love the show. Congrats on the book and all your success; it’s well deserved.

I like The Big Idea, so I will definitely check it out.

Take care,

Ken B.
May 14, 2008

Mondavi4Life
there’s no way I’d drink a viognier when I can drink a Robert Mondavi Chardonnay. the Viognier is one dimensional while the Mondavi Chardonnay is multi dimensional and for my palate has a 2 minute finish which makes this a supreme wine to drink at any time during the year.

We all owe so much to Robert Mandavi as the man paved the road for all Napa Valley wines.

A true legend.
May 14, 2008

YoungDave
QOTD: Grandpa Smirf- he was the MAN. The oldest smirf, and even after returning from a 500 year absence he’s STILL spunky.
May 14, 2008

Shawn
You so crazy! Pretty cool episode Gary. I think that I like the whole written review idea. You could build up a huge database in no time at the rate that you taste wines. But remember, quality before quantity. No book signings here in Denmark, but hey, it’s a little out of the way. I’ve got the book coming from Amazon though.

QUOTD: I seriously don’t remember. I haven’t seen that show in a million years.
May 14, 2008

Winelynn
My favorite has to be Papa Smurf…Enjoy the show…
May 15, 2008

RC
did Gary admit to doing whippits with the ready-whip reference?
May 15, 2008

Luis Felipe
QOTD: Sommelier Smurf, of course. It Doesn’t exist? Well maybe it should have. He could have helped out Baking Smurf with some pairings. Baking Smurf was my favorite, always made me want some cake as a kid.
May 15, 2008

Luis Felipe
RC, it did sound like Gary inadvertently admitted to doing that, yea…I hope not.
May 15, 2008

damon aka unknownwine
gotta go with smurfette….duh!!!
May 16, 2008

Blake W
QOTD: Papa Smurf….show was a bit before my time tho
May 17, 2008

Sharon
Unusual show, I’m sorry about the any flaming email you may have received when someone may have been ridiculed by KAHUNA who deserves a kick in the ass. I know zip about Smurfs. Still need to send you at least one Star Wars figurine though at some point. Know just where to get it, too. I don’t like wrestling or boxing or the 3 Stooges or anything that involves people hitting each other.
May 18, 2008

jame
I’m a fan
May 19, 2008

Jayhitek
QOTD: Handy
Wasn’t the Smurf that got to tap Smurfette?
May 20, 2008

Rhonda
I bought some of the Le Paradou Viognier using the free shipping code I got from ordering the two books and I really like it. I just got my books today and I started reading it on the ride home. I can’t wait to sit down and give it my full attention!
May 20, 2008

Social Project Brian
QOTD: I don’t remember the names of all the Smurfs, just Papa Smurf and Smurfette. And Gargamel was the cat, I think. I did have a Smurfs game on Colecovision in the ’80s. That was cool too. Maybe you can do a Smurfberry Wine Friday?

Making up my own QOTD: What Viogniers have I enjoyed? I haven’t tried any from Condrieu yet, but that’s on my list. Here are a few good domestic ‘05 Viogniers that I have liked: 1. R.H. Phillips – EXP, 2. Alban Vineyards, and 3. Zaca Mesa – Estate Bottled, Fess Parker.
May 24, 2008

Dan-o
I liked the babble on the couch. Is there any significance to the leather couch – psychiatric?
I am not a Smurf fan, but I would say that I would definitely be a fan of Durif Smurf – the Australian Petite Sirah drinker!
May 25, 2008

Sassodoro
High energy day, even for you, Gary.

QOTD. Sorry, what’s a smurf?
May 28, 2008

Ben F
Wow I think you were buzzed on this episode of WLTV… Buzzed Gary is very entertaining!!!

I have to go with Smurfett, but you have to give props to Handy Smurf he had a lot to do…
May 29, 2008

bridge
you’re a good man- your appreciation is sincere and your success seems well deserved. thanks for sharing your passion through your show. take care.
July 16, 2008

Tooch
Papa Smurf was a good leader. His instincts were uncanny.
January 12, 2009

Dessert Wine Nerd
I love me some Viognier! Ive had quite a few and am nearing the adoring phase. Too bad these brought the meh. QOTD: Im down with Angry Smurf. I jsut like watching characters with rage go off. Angry smurf, Daffy Duck, Duckman, Ren Hoek, Donald Duck, Dr. Cox, etc. They always keep me in stiches.
February 26, 2009

Drew
Smurfette, gotta love the pumps!. But the better question is whats your favorite Snork???
June 1, 2009

nnothing
so the peltier smells like nitrous??