What Would Gary Recommend To You If You Stopped By

What Would Gary Recommend To You If You Stopped By – Episode #492

June 24, 2008

Today Gary gets visited by Vaun, one of the 1st winners of a contest on WLTV, the 1st widget contest back in December. Heâ€™s here and here we go. Letâ€™s taste some wine.

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Comments on this episode(189) Leave a comment ›

“QOTD: Frederic Magnien White Burgundy (solid fruit, good grip, not ove…” by richardvinifera
“I don’t know if Vaun is your buddy or not, but I found the same thing …” by looper
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Wines tasted in this episode:

2006 Valli Waitaki Pinot NoirNew Zealand Pinot Noir
2006 Alamos Seleccion MalbecArgentine Malbec
2004 Killibinbin Cabernet/shiraz Cellar Release The Blend #2Australian Red Meritage
2004 Robert Karl Cabernet SauvignonWashington Cabernet Sauvignon

Links mentioned in todays episode.

189 Responses

June 24, 2008

GrapeStuff
1
June 24, 2008

Deano
2
June 24, 2008

Gene
Great episode…and top 10 to boot.
June 24, 2008

MARK
4….GOOD SHOW !
June 24, 2008

John Farrin
5
June 24, 2008

Hinrgman
Another great episode

thanks Gary
June 24, 2008

Withnail
Sweet – love the long shows!
June 24, 2008

MagnumGourmet
Top 10…Woo Hoo!!!!
June 24, 2008

KenP
top ten?!
June 24, 2008

Hinrgman
Slow comments???
June 24, 2008

Kreepy Freek
Wow, a wine that would convert people…I would have to say a nice Bordaeux or a Riesling, depends on there palette .. I really dont know though cause Chards converted me, but i can see a Bord or a Ries playing a high card in this.

And Yes Gary you need to grow the patch
June 24, 2008

CindyW
Great fun — really enjoyed this episode. I had to laugh midway, though, when I tried to move my cursor away from the front of Gary’s shirt and then realized it was the hand from Mott’s new tee.

QOTD #1: For me, it wasn’t trying any one wine that brought me over (years ago). It was going to a wine tasting and realizing how many types of wine there was. The variety and change between every sip was when my eyes lit up and I said aha!

QOTD #2: no soulpatches, please! Now, a handlebar moustache that you can wax and twist into a point. . .
June 24, 2008

Susan
What happened to ALL of you Vayniacs??????? Where did you go????????????????
June 24, 2008

purplejuicebruce
Great show!
QOTD #1 I think a nice Chianti Classico with some pasta might be the way to introduce someone to red wine or a beautiful fruit salad paired with a Vioginer for a white
QOTD #2 no
June 24, 2008

Dr T from N. Carolina
QOTD I — soft Rieslings
QOTD II — No beard , GV, but maybe the handlebar ‘tache.
June 24, 2008

jtmac
Back to back shows with awesome guests! Gary is spanning the globe with the selection of guests. Great show!
June 24, 2008

Chris Leone
Vote for the soul patch
June 24, 2008

John Farrin
VERY nice show! Makes a person want to win a WLTV contest.

QOTD #1: Men; Probably a good Aussie Shiraz. Women; Probably a GSM from SW France or something like the Pasodoble from Argentina.

QOTD #2: Let’s see Vaun, you or Lizzy? You do the math!
June 24, 2008

Loweeel
Top 20!
QOTD after I watch.
June 24, 2008

JudeMurphy
Gary- Salvador DalÃ style facial hair. Now!

QOTD- It’s not a matter of which wine one tastes where being “converted” is concerned, but the context in which it is tasted. (Though a good quality wine is important!)
I discovered I like wine sitting in a Chinese restaurant with my family on Christmas eve.
June 24, 2008

Neil
QOTD: Dry Reisling from Alsace
June 24, 2008

Kevin K
QOTD1: Muscat.

QOTD2: No soul patch, but I would love to see a mustache.
June 24, 2008

LuvsChandon
Great show, really enjoyed your guest.

QOTD: 1) I couldnt imagine how to convert someone who really had NO interest in wine. 2) Clean shaven all the way
June 24, 2008

Pete G
Another guest who brings it on the big show. Great job Vaun.

QOTD #1: I’ll back Neil on the riesling but I’ll go with a sweeter German kabinett or even a spatlase. No one can resist that allure.

QOTD #2: No chin wiskers or satche’. I’m diggin the youthful boy wonder look.
June 24, 2008

rvensel
Nice show I kinda enjoyed hearing 2 different opinions of the wines being reviewed. Definitely a nice change of pace.

QOTD 1: I genreally introduce people to wine using Fetzer Gewurztraminer people seem to like the flavors, and plus the price point is good as well.

QOTD 2: If any facial hair is to be grown I vote for a 70’s style porn stache.
Something like a cross between Super Mario, adn Ron Jeremy.
June 24, 2008

AnthonyS
Top notch episode GV. Vaun, you did a stand up job; better than I ever could. I’d be much better as the winner of a trip to France, rather than winning a guest spot on the show.
June 24, 2008

Greg B
Big G, First let me say Big V killed it. Next, could someone turn off the radio when your doing the Thunder Show? Ugh.
It seems that Washington is really Bringing it these days. I won’t email ya, but I’d love to hear your top 3 places in the world that your excited about, QPR etc. Put them in order and add the years that are doing it for ya.

QOTD: I think you have to go with the Sugar stuff first. Shiraz etc. I think that is why so many people are drinking Yellow Tail. Hmmmm

#2. Yes Big G. I rock a Goat and so should you.
June 24, 2008

Norman
QOTD 1: Probably a nice balanced cabernet.

QOTD 2: A little beard scruffy scruff wouldn’t hurt.
June 24, 2008

Stan Vasily
Mad Dog 20 20 No Just kidding a nice Reisling would be a start and No Hair Gary Love the New start to the show with the wine bottle skit.
June 24, 2008

cameron w
Good show. Good mix of wines and general craziness.

QOTD 1: I’d go with something rich and yet relatively inexpensive, maybe The Prisoner.

QOTD 2: No facial hair.
June 24, 2008

Hido53
QOTD #1 – How ’bout a nice refreshing, off-dry Moscato D’ Asti. A little “frizzante”, lots of stone fruits, floral, low alcohol . . .

QOTD #2 – Maybe a goatee and handlebars for a short time, but back to clean-shaven soon after.
June 24, 2008

Rick D
Lot’s of fun having a Vayniac sittin’ along side comparing palates. Vaughn did a great job.

QOTD 1: It’s hard to say what could convert a person to vino. I think it is not just the wine, but the environment in which it is enjoyed. Pairing a right wine with the right food makes a huge impact on the perception. For a red I would try a Malbec since many end with a silky smoothness that most people would find agreeable. I think many newbies are swayed by the wines finish on their palate.

QOTD 2: No Van Dyke’s please, definitely not the way you roll Gary.
June 24, 2008

Dale Cruse
QOTD1: Rosa Regale. It’s a dessert wine that will get people who don’t drink wine to not only try but enjoy! And for wine lovers it’s complex enough to be interesting. That one’s a game changer to me!
June 24, 2008

RIck K
great show
June 24, 2008

TimInSpokane
Excellent show, especially with “our” beloved Robert Karl Cellars included! (By “our”, I mean all of us in the burgeoning wine city of Spokane, Washington.) Joe Gunselmen, the physician/winemaker behind Robert Karl, is simply a genius. His cab kills (as you just saw), his syrah rocks (94 pts Wine Enthusiast), the merlot will make a believer out of any pinot snob, the Claret ($20), which is a Bordeaux blend, is the absolute steal of the century, and the Inspiration Reserve ($41) will blow away just about any wine in the country for twice the price! Yafreakinhoooooo!!! Now…. how do I win a contest and get on the show??

QOTD – an affordable red with some kahonas, like the 2006 Layer Cake shiraz ($15) or the 2005 Rulo Walla Walla Valley syrah ($24). Either of those will up the ante considerably for the wine novice and open their eyes to the possibilities.

QOTD#2 – Gary can only have a soul patch or a gotee if he gets some of those black horn rimmed glasses like those ultra-hip guys at Starbucks wear! Otherwise, naaaahhhhhhhhhhh………
June 24, 2008

JesterQC
Great show! Go HABS!

A nice dry french rose “Cotes de Provence” would hook a few newbs along side a nice BBQ meal.

Keep shaving G!
June 24, 2008

Derek F.
Great EP Gary and Vaun, killer show top 10.

QOTD: 2006 Razors edge Shiraz from south Australia
June 24, 2008

Derek F.
QOTD #2: no facial hair
June 24, 2008

Dominus
Great, great show. Your guest should not be so timid but then again, he’s from Canada and gets intimidated by us Yankees.

QOTD: German Rieslings (Karl Eber Kabinett) or maybe the Elio Perrone Moscata di Asti. I’ve converted at least a half dozen “non-drinking” friends to these two wines and now they swear by them.

See you Thursday in my hometown (Rockville) with wristbands and Peyton jersey. If you don’t recognize me, I’ll be crushed.

Cheers!
Dom
June 24, 2008

Dominus
QOTD #2 (forgot): No facial hair though if you thought you had to do it, a goatee might work.
June 24, 2008

Elliottt
Oh NO! Hacksaw in the heezy. I miss hacksaw…
June 24, 2008

Palmer
QOTD: ‘05 doisy-vedrine sauternes.

QOTD2: chops.
June 24, 2008

Little Jonny H
Vaughn was a very candid guest! I appreciated his honesty and also like that he was getting tipsy by the end of the show (this happens to me too )

QOTD1: Hogue, Late Harvest Riesling (it’s like sweetened fruit juice, with almost no sign of alcohol), or Ercavio Roble la Mancha Tempranillo (bright red fruit). Both around $10

QOTD2: I think the sole patch would be the appropriate way to go.
June 24, 2008

sam
Cheers to all Canadians (especially the Quebec vaniacs)! I’ve really enjoyed the last two shows. Lots of energy and laughs. Keep it up!

QOTD: I think most people who are new to the wine world enjoy whites. A vinho verde from Portugal or a Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand on a hot summer day would entice non-wine drinkers to this compelling universe of wines.
June 24, 2008

canadapete
Great to see some of the Canadian Contingent – great job!

QOTD:
1) A sweet, smooth red wine like Wyndham estates bin 555 Shiraz.
2) GV definitely needs a nice thick stache
June 24, 2008

Dan Manu
QOTD #1 A desert wine for sure… like the great man himself said, everyone likes the sugar!
#2 I wanna see Gary with a MO!
June 24, 2008

"old whats-her-name"
QOTD: The OTher Guys (Sebastiani) Hey MAmbo. A really accesible red blend from Cali. and I sold cases and cases of it last year.

QOTD part deux: maybe some Pierce Brosnanesque scruff, but nothing solid. I’m not really into facial hair!

Great job, Vaun!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
June 24, 2008

jason
qotd: mateus! baby duck! royal red!
qotd2: Yeaaaaaah chops!!!

I poured wine up my nose on the sniffy sniff while watching the show too!
My girlfriend (who is from seattle) asked me if the Maple Leafs are from NYC!! hee hee. Go (Winnipeg)Jets!
June 24, 2008

Tim Lazaroff
QOTD1: I love Chaussers Mead, and I think that was the first wine I really liked.

QOTD2: Gary defiantly needs some chin hair!
June 24, 2008

JR Moreau
QOTD 1: A medium bodied rioja is my choice… so easy to drink! Or a good California Zin.

QOTD 2: Gary needs a full mustacio… I’m talking a real flavor savor
June 24, 2008

Lindsay
QOTD: 2006 Hangtime Pinot Noir. Sweet, fruity, but with good acidity. Itâ€™s a converter.

QOTD2: Noooooooo. No facial hair.
June 24, 2008

Rick
Where can we get the Mott link it up t-shirts?
June 24, 2008

PaVo
AWESOME SHOW! Vaun way to represent Canada!

QOTD: Being summer and people’s affinity to drink whites (though I like them anytime) I’d say the Susana Balbo Crios Torrontes. It’s light but has so much on the nose and pallatte. Just like smelling and then drinking a bouquet of flowers. And for $11 (in the US where we only have slightly crappy taxes (though our state governments limit where we’re allowed to buy from; I’m looking at you Illinoize)) or so it’s so accessable. Just great.

QOTD2: HELLS YES rock some. I’d say a fu manchu or just something totally nuts like porkchop sideburns and a handlebar tache!
June 24, 2008

E
I really can’t complain about Rosa Regale. Ain’t found a soul who didn’t like that. But then you have to turn them away from the sweet stuff …

If not that, a nice German riesling ought to work, but not the sugary stuff in the blue bottle.

Calgary, btw, is an absolutely beautiful city to fly into. But you have to be in a small plane, so you can appreciate it head on.
June 24, 2008

laposte
QOTD:

It may take champagne, Jacques Selosse
June 24, 2008

Rowland
another classic Veynerism; “a closed nose is no nose at all”
June 24, 2008

thefanjestic
Great episode – Vaughn seemed pretty cool, so that makes losing to him easier!

Qotd: No facial hair needed but smoke em’ if you got em’. Port would be the wine or a desert wine that I think would get most to try more – that’s what did it for me.
June 24, 2008

elron
Cool show today Gary! It’s always good to have curveballs thrown at us! Way to go Vaun!

Columbia Crest “Two Vines” Shriaz
June 24, 2008

Pat Sissons
Gary, come to Canada! I would make the drive to our city’s rival town (but seriously, only love) to get a chance for a quick chat.

QOTD: My first wine was random white wine at a christmas dinner, nothing too special (as you can see from my memory of its name). However, what pulled me into the wine world was a Valpolicella by Masi. I don’t know if it was the right wine at the right time, but ever since then I have been attracted to the grape juice.
June 24, 2008

Happyuke
Great show guys,nice to have a Canadian on the program,How about some Bc wine reviews
June 24, 2008

Rani Haykal
Great Show!!!

Your guest did a great job.

QOTD 1: I would probably go with a big Aussie shiraz or a new world Spanish rioja for the reds. A NZ or South African sauvignon blanc or a gwertzraminer or whites. And ofcourse almost any Sauternes or possibly Dolce from Napa.

QOTD 2: GV should grow out his beard again!!! And when he is ready to shave it all off, he should shave small parts at a time and film a show (1st day – handlebar goatee, 2nd day – shave the chin and leave a fumanchu stache, 3rd day – shave sides of stache and leave a porn stache, etc)
June 24, 2008

Vinsant
Robert Karl rocks! Great folks and great wine in a great city!

QOTD; Robert Karl Claret…approachable, smooth, complex, delish!
June 24, 2008

manonthemoon
Great show, keep’em comming.

QOTD: Has to be a quality Zin, those always a fav of people who aren’t really into wine, at least the ones I know.
June 24, 2008

Rumblestrip
Love the fact that you are not a Testicle Verdy fan!
June 24, 2008

Mike S,
hmmm… I think that a Riesling is a good way to go for a newbie.
June 25, 2008

ryan
QUTD – for a non wine drinker – Conundrem from caymus
June 25, 2008

Scythe
Q2: You so need to grow a goatee!
June 25, 2008

Wes M
1. Chateau Ste. Michelle Riesling. It’s always best to start white and this wine is pretty good (as tasty too)

2. I saw an episode on garyvaynerchuk.com where the shadows on Gary’s face cried out “goatee!” “goatee!”. it is a must.
June 25, 2008

Rhonda
hogan moustache. go.
June 25, 2008

Roberto
great job to both of ya!!

QOTD #1: Mitolo, GAM, shiraz 2006, guaranteed to turn beer lovers or anything else, into wine lovers…

QOTD#2: johnny depp in pirates… that look would be killer
June 25, 2008

Phil G
QOTD1 – a prosecco
QOTD@ – picture Hulk Hogan…
June 25, 2008

Adam J
Qotd#1- Moscato d asti for sure.
Qotd#2- Heck yes, handlebar mustache.
thanks for the show!
June 25, 2008

Andrew Z
QOTD #1: Hogue Cellars Genesis Cab. Sauv.

It’s not too expensive, it has a very accessible flavor profile for a Cab and it goes well with food or on its own.

QOTD #2: A goatee or soul patch would be cool. Or you could grow the 80’s porn star mustache with Alex and Kevin; as they frequently mention on Diggnation.
June 25, 2008

WineWoman
QOTD: Sparkling: Krug Champagne Still: It depends on what kind of drinker we’re converting. If it’s someone that consumes soft drinks like soda and lemonade. then you might want to go Australian–Tir Na Nog Grenache or any of the Shirazes in the 15 dollar range. Also a semi-dry Riesling–Germany or Finger Lakes-Herman Weimer. California Chard–Newton unfiltered. Then get into Spanish Roses or Cavas. Even Prosecco like the Raos mentioned in Gary’s book. Then transition to Spanish Roses or Cavas and finally a light red–CA pinot. Beer drinkers can probably go straight to a lighter red because they are used to not having so much sugar in their drink of choice.

QOTD 2: Gary would look good with a little love patch.
June 25, 2008

Michelle
Woo! It’s great to hear the Canadian accent again I’m originally from Calgary – Go Stampeders Go!

Great show.
June 25, 2008

kaybee
QoTd
A very nice riesling, moscato or ice wine. Aromatic, delightful and yummy!
June 25, 2008

Paulie D
1. for a woman: moscato d asti; for a guy: mendoza malbec in a stemless riedel with a steak on the side
2. i say grow a stinger – just like zappa
June 25, 2008

rimarfish
Great show guys!
QOTD: According to my own experience and what i saw in the last few years, i think the Mollydookers can turn a wine drinker into a wine lover. However i understand is transitional. I don’t like them as much as i used to, but it was a great start.
June 25, 2008

Gobi
QOTD 1 – Vega Sicilia Valbuena 2001…. totally amazing, like heaven in a bottle….. will turn anyone into drinking wine!

QOTD 2 – YES! grow some handlebars! lol
June 25, 2008

Kevin
I gotta admit, this guest host had no clue what he was doing or talking about.

Pretty weak episode on the whole. At least get people who know how to swirl wine!
June 25, 2008

Oregon Jim
As always Gary you sparkle with guests, as it really shows off your compassion and true friendliness which is endearing to your fans.

QOTD – von Hovel riesling. or some good german riesling as it is fun and has a friendly flavor profile. Most good champagnes are too acidic and dry for the young palate.

I am flying into Portland on Wednesday afternoon and it will be tight, so stay late a Powell’s in Beaverton. I will try to make it. It would be a highlight for me!
June 25, 2008

vibemore
GV – We’ll be seeing you in Seattle this weekend! Looking forward to it.
June 25, 2008

Pardus
I have to say if the wife doesn’t like facial hair I wouldn’t go there. (Made that mistake once.)
June 25, 2008

Ozzy
With my wife and I BEING wine n00bs, I think I can safely say that our untrained palates are still leaning more towards the Moscato d’Asti’s and Rieslings of the world.
And with the price range that we feel comfortable with, most of the Cabs taste more like vinegar to us, at least right now. (We’re trying, but ponying up 20 bones a pop for something we may think is a dumper now is just not much of an option) Hell, that’s why I watch this show, to try to find the super sweet fruit bombs that we enjoy.

And my wife actually cried some years back when I took a job that I had to shave my goatee off. That, along with the fact that in 31 years I have NEVER shaved my upper lip makes me just a shade biased to the mustache and goatee look…
June 25, 2008

Ben Janssen South Australia
Go the whole beard !!!
June 25, 2008

Justin L Ove
Nice job Vaugn, you handled the pressure well. That must be a pretty hot seat.
QOTD: I’d have to go with the wine that converted me, and opened my eyes to the beauty of wine: Quintessa. I had the 98 and 99 at the vineyard, and it completely changed my outlook on grape juice. It’s very expensive (100 bones), and these days I’m enjoying a lot of 10-20 dollar bottles, but I think it sometimes takes a really special wine to kind of slap someone in the face and say “See! Look how awesome this stuff can be!” Because prior to that I’d had a bunch of “okay” wines, and in effect my idea of wine was that it was just “okay.” It took a great wine to wake me up.
QOTD 2: The only way it might be cool in my opinion is if you suddenly have a full beard. Like next time you go on vacation or something, and you come back and viola! Full beard. And then, of course, you shave it off immediately.
Great show as always! Thanks guys!
June 25, 2008

David Dadekian
QOTD 1: I’d probably go with a Riesling to get someone started.

QOTD 2: As for facial hair, asking the question made me realize I’ve worn it for over 50% of my life now–aging! I’d say Gary tries the mustache. No handle bars, just bushy.
June 25, 2008

Richard Ritter
Great show “Aye”? This show made me want to take off to the great white North. It’s a beauty way to be!

QOTD#1: I didn’t want to go to a casino after I went to the BINGO hall down the road, but I did after I went to Ceasar’s Palace in Atlantic City. So I’d say if you’re going to convert someone…go big..roll out the red carpet… and give them Opus One.

QOTD#2: Gary should rock the “Abe Lincoln” or maybe a skinny aboriginal stache and beard.
June 25, 2008

Iuri Almeida
Hi, I figured since that was a very funny show, I’d quit being a lurker and say something!

By the way, I’m Iuri, I’m from Brazil (despite the russian name) and I’m 27.

QOTD 1: I think to convert someone I’d go with some nice champagne (I’ve actually done that before), something like Bollinger NV or Pol Roger vintage rosÃ©.

QOTD 2: Gary should grow an old style, solo mustache, which by the way is making a comeback at some places here in Brazil.

Please keep up the good work Gary, your show really brings the thunder!

P.S.: Sorry Winelibrary doesn’t ship wine to Brazil, I’d like a lot to taste some different stuf you’ve got up there.
June 25, 2008

wannaBconnoisseur
Q-Perhaps a sparkling wine, one that’s not crazy dry and has plenty of fruit. Prosecco would work.

Q2-NO.
June 25, 2008

SaraMHCRU
Like the new intro.
qotd1: for a white, i’m big on verdejo these days, which seems to usually have some tropical fruit going on, and I think that’d win some people over. for red, maybe cline cashmere, only because the last time I brought it somewhere the person I shared it with started buying it by the case.
qotd2: hmm, that might be up to the wife.
June 25, 2008

Johnny C. a.k.a SmokinActuary
QOTD 1 – Trevor Jones Boots Grenache for a red and Shannon Ridge Viognier for a white

QOTD 2 – Keep the wife happy (You don’t want to chaf )
June 25, 2008

Johnny C. a.k.a SmokinActuary
QOTD 1 – Trevor Jones Boots Grenache for a red and Shannon Ridge Viognier for a white

QOTD 2 – Keep the wife happy (You don’t want to chafe )
June 25, 2008

Mike Z in SD
QOTD #1: I think that a Williams-Selyem pinot noir would bring an outsider in to the wine world. There is a lot of flavor but no excessive weight or dryness. People always like that stuff.
QOTD #2: I agree that a soul patch (aka ‘flavor saver’) would be a good look for GV.
Good show.
June 25, 2008

Adam
QOTD1: Muscat D’asti from Italy. The slight frizzanti action will appleal to everyone.

QOTD2: Lamb chop sideburns.

Great show, love the score differential.
June 25, 2008

RichG
Great show…cool guest “You hoser!”

QOTD #1: A fruity Rose would be a good starting wine for the virgin vayniac.
QOTD #2: Rock the flavor saver……
June 25, 2008

M
QOTD1: White: Verdejo…Casamaro Blanco, Rueda
Red: Amisfield Pinot Noir (Central Otago) or Saintsbury Pinot Noir (Carneros). or maybe a yummy Rhone blend, Domaine Jaume, Vinsobres.

QOTD2: Meh
June 25, 2008

Lawrence Leichtman
I don’t think that there is one wine that could please everyone’s pals. Beer drinkers might like a really dense Malbec. White Zindfandels drinkers may like a really well made Rosato. A well made white Burgundy will convert many people to wine drinking. Can’t see GV with a full beard. He might look like a muskrat. A soul patch would go well.
June 25, 2008

Harry
I work with a lot of new wine drinkers, whose intro is Moscato or other sweet wines, so I’m inclined to see either Lambrusco or perhaps Beaujolais as good intros due to their lower tannins an juicy fruits as good bridges to more serious (especially red wines). For Red wine drinkers who don’t drink white, I like to give them a good Viognier, with nice lime fruits and chalk on a hot day to show them the Thunder whites can bring.
And I’m all for the handlebars – ride them hard.
June 25, 2008

ex-lurkdawg
qotd1: I’ve been trying to convert a friend of mine for a while now, and the one category that he really likes is dessert wine. I think it was a Niagara Peninsula icewine that really turned him on to wine at all. I hate to say this, but I also think Andre brut sparkling wine (I wish they would take the C-word off of the label) could be another candidate. It’s just so darned fruity and cheap.

qotd2: I agree; a soul patch or goatee might work for him.
June 25, 2008

ChrisV
Great episode!

QOTD1: Depends a lot on the person. I think most often a really big shiraz bomb.

QOTD2: If GV gets a goatee I may be unable to distinguish him from Joe Hachem: http://www.tourneyblog.com/images/TN3726_EPT-Monte-Carlo-Hachem-2.jpg I also think he might look a bit like he’s in the Mafia.
June 25, 2008

jason
QOTD 1 – whites would be a vouvray, demi sec with a few years on it or a voignier
reds would maybe a 1990 chateau beaucastel or a 1990 pichon baron

QOTD 2 – gary needs a uni-brow like bert
June 25, 2008

CBone
QOTD: I think any Zinfandel blend by Ridge. They are sublime.
June 25, 2008

geoffroy
another absurd dividing line between 89 and 90 (Alamos Malbec) ! Gary, a wine is GOOD at 75..! (that means 15/20 — no mean achievement) why not use the 100 scale to its full, and rich, potential? Otherwise, still a pleasure to discover your wine world
salut
June 25, 2008

Chippewamike
Awesome show! Love when guests are on–they bring a different and interesting perspective. . .

QOTD 1: I think Pinot Grigio would change alot of non-wine drinkers over. Not too over the top and fruity enough for alot of people.

QOTD 2: Gary needs to shake it up with some facial hair. Either a soul patch or the Brett Farve beard. . . just for about a week.
June 25, 2008

ATLIENS
show us the tattoo!
June 25, 2008

MacNPhish
Great show! Thanks for the birthday shout outs for my daughters!

QOTD: I’d say a Riesling to start. Although I got my wife to start drinking wine based on the atmosphere and ambiance. We were in Venice, Italy, sitting alongside a canal having dinner and she had her first Red wine. She might have drank a little too much but ever since then she LOVES red wine.

QOTD: Rock the goatee, had one for a LONNNNNG time, the wife won’t let me shave it. Except now its half grey.
June 25, 2008

Clinton
Excellent show. I was curious when the contest winner would make an appearance.

QOTD 1: I would go with a late harvest Riesling as it preserves the wine experience without adulterating it with bubbles.

QOTD 2: Ask your daughters…
June 25, 2008

LauraG
QOTD # 1 – How about a Francois Villard Condrieu?

QOTD # 2 – Go the whole 9 yards and rock the ZZ Top!
June 25, 2008

Edward Colcord
Outstanding.
QOTD 1: NYS Reisling

QOTD 2: “Hair is there.”
June 25, 2008

rachael s
QOTD: I have no idea because I’m one of these unconverted of which you speak. So glad you asked this question. I have been taking note of the responses … seems like rieslings are showing up a lot.
Just started watching the show earlier this week. awesome stuff even though I don’t get a lot of it.
June 25, 2008

JeffC
QOTD: Maybe start out with Riesling or Pinot Grisio. G-Man with a “mullet and lamb chops.” oh-yes, serious thunder road look.

Great show.
June 25, 2008

SoCal
QOTD: Stags Leap Cellars SLV
QOTD: Soul Patch
June 25, 2008

jay
QOTD: I have gotten many people hooked on wine by having them taste Saracco Moscato Di Asti. After that I have them move on to whites then reds. Works everytime.
June 25, 2008

wednesday
Probably a sparkling wine like a Pannier. For red, I would go with a fruit Grenach from Portugal, Spain or smaller source California.
June 25, 2008

Steve B
QOTD #1: Yquem.

QOTD #2: Gary, try a full Tolstoy.
June 25, 2008

Pete W.
QOTD 1: Nachtgold, an inexpensive ice wine, did the trick for my wife.
QOTD 2: I’d like to see Gary with a Western-style handlebar mustache.
June 25, 2008

Stu Hanford
I started with Reunite. Hey! Today most people want to try red so I recommend Orin Swift Prisoner or a Biale or Turley Zin. But, how do you beat Layer Cake for $12. Any Ramey Chard as a white.
June 25, 2008

Leio
A hair of the oak monster? Robert Karl wines are so over-oaked it is ridiculous!
June 25, 2008

Bruce
Gary,
That would be Waitaki, pronounced:ytacky.
Go visit you will love it.
Bruce
June 25, 2008

Sharon
You guys had great chemistry, absolutely! However the show is too long, just sayin’. ‘Brevity is the soul of wit’.
QOTD: Good question indeed. Hmmm Prosecco. Chenin Blanc (demi-sec). German Riesling.
QOTD2: Vaughn had the good suggestion I think – like a Kevin Garnett chin patch or whatever they call it these days. Yeah, try that out. I think the Elvis sideburns may look good on GV too.
June 25, 2008

Purple Tooth
QOTD: The Stump Jump Australian blend. Big fruit. Easy on the palate
QOTD: NO FACIAL HAIR. It wouldn’t suit your personality. A clean shaven face shows your youth and enthusiasm. Sometimes facial hair is the sign of deception or someone trying to hide something. Just be YOU.
June 25, 2008

JonE
Great choices. I really want to try that Robert Karl, it seems a very friendly price point for a good Washington bordeaux blend. I recently had an Andrew Will Sorella that rocked my face off, unfortunately its more than double the price of the Robert Karl.

QOTD1: A fruity prosecco in the summertime heat, would convert many a non-wine beer drinker. For those that drink neither may God have mercy on their souls.

QOTD2: Total need for a slicked out handle bar mustache!!
June 25, 2008

Harley Stan
Vaun ( and Gary ) Great Episode today!
QOTD 1- Any Ice wine from Canada,
QOTD 2- Yeah a little facial hair, only because I am 36 and still can’t grow any.
June 25, 2008

Holmes
Nice Show! Vaun was great, can’t stand the accent or the baby polo, but you guys definitely entertained! Like to see more guests, maybe friends of yours or other critics.

QOTD #2: No facial hair, but maybe some work on those guns, big guy.
June 25, 2008

Joseph Ostervich
Great show last night. Love to get my hands on the Robert Karl. The Oak monster doesn’t scare me. Makes me want to be on the show more and more! Hey Gary is it possible you could taste test Twenty Bench Cabernet Sauvingnon from Napa Valley on one of your future shows. It is an explosive cab and I like it and want to get your thoughts on it.
June 25, 2008

BobbyTiger
#1 Would stay away from the heavy wines, (although I personally like them). A sparkling wine would be nice. A Cooks Brute or Yellow Tail would fit the bill. #2 Is it possible to grown your eyebrows together?
June 25, 2008

Slushpuppy
Please try to have someone knowlegeble about wines from their country of origin; ie: Canada
Thanks
June 25, 2008

KVolk
Great show..way to rock it out Vaun!!!!!!!

QOTD1:Hate to say it but white zin
QOTD2: Soul patch for sure….
June 25, 2008

markfarrell22
OMG…Vaughn should get a free Oak Monster T-shirt. He is the Oak Monster. That was awesome! I think I actually jumped out of my chair a bit.

QOTD 1: Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 – A $50-$60 cab for $15-$20

QOTD 2: Fu-man-chu for sure
June 25, 2008

Derek
Links on your site should open in another window so as not to interupt the video.
June 25, 2008

dAve
QOTD: one wine to make a convert? Zinfandel with hamburgers. I’ve converted 7 folks so far doing this. Can never do it with any wine … without food also.

Good show- thanks
June 25, 2008

Candace
QOTD the wine question is a pretty big one. Evolution from Sokol Blosser in Oregon is superbly complex for a white wine, dry to off dry.Sparkling rose is a always festive, try a Duval-Leroy rose (my all time fav). the right-bank style bordeaux for those who need a little more lovin’

QOTD2: no facial hair GV. just my vote. besides, i think you should be the person you are. we all love you for that:)
June 25, 2008

248-N8
QOTD: I would have to go with Gnarly Head Old Vine Zin with some grilled food. This is how I got a couple of friends into reds last fall.

And on the facial hair note… Yea, it would be interesting to see some handle bars for #500.
June 25, 2008

jason carey
2006 might be a little young.. for that Pinot.Also. This might be a food wine. Let that Pinot sing in 5 years, or leave in fridge overnight.

Watch out for Washington..The best of both worlds..

The wine I would suggest for a non-wine drinker. I think a Pillar Box Red or a Chassagne Montrachet.
A soul patch is cool.. it absorbs drippy drips
June 25, 2008

yowens
tight.
June 25, 2008

ChrisH
Best oak monster ever… period
June 25, 2008

Robin C
I enjoyed getting to know Vaun. I love Canadian accents.

QOTD: I think that a Zaca Mesa viognier would be a nice intro to wine – we had some at a Zaca Mesa wine tasting and the peole at the neighboring table were novices to wine, but we all agreed on the viognier – it was very drinkable. The reds were quite uninteresting. A nice pinot noir, like the New Zealand Rippon might convert someone to red wine.
I think that men don’t experiment enough with their hair. You grow it, you cut it, you grow it, you cut it – no big deal. So, sure, I would be comfortable with Gary trying some facial hair.
June 26, 2008

nougat
How’s it goin’ eh? Vaughn is a true hoser, and that is a compliment.

QOTD: A Beaujolais with a light chill on it will turn many non-wine drinkers around. Baby steps. You can’t just whip the whole thing out the first time around.
June 26, 2008

KyleLikesTies
QoTD#1: As GV always says, everybody’s pal is different, so I certainly can’t say for anybody but myself … It was a St Emillion Grand Cru. At the time, I had *no* idea what I was drinking, but I knew it was something I wanted to drink more of :~}

QoTD#2: I’m not sure about Gary with facial hair … But *Sir* Gary with some sort of funny moustaches?!? That I’d love to see.
June 26, 2008

Keith
Good episode!
QOTD: Columbia Crest Two Vines Merlot…delicious, fruity, nothing scary, no oak monster, approachable, etc
June 26, 2008

Andrew D
Great show guys

QOTD” Champagne for there birthday

Andrew
June 26, 2008

MFries
Best Oak Monster ever! Grab the audio, have it cued up when needed, and play it anytime the monster makes an appearance!

great show…
June 26, 2008

Augustus
Big, Oak filled Chard will always bring the non-wine drinker around. Big Oak Chard delivers all the sugar, cream and, well, oak, that is sure to please. Eventually, however, this wine will become boring and overly heavy for the imbiber, and he/she will seek out wines that exhibit, say, the green apple components in chard. Soon, Chard in general will become boring – no matter how complex. He/she will find themselves looking at Rhone White Blends, and digging deeper for Cabs filled with notes of Cedar and blackberries. Oak filled Chards reel them in. Time and experience make us all demand more from our wine.
June 26, 2008

stl-dave
QOTD 1: I have been hand-selling wine in restaurants for almost 10 years. keeping in mind that I am from the land of Budweiser (for now anyway) and the most effective wine for converting Bud Light drinkers to wine is Leonard Kreusch Dexheimer Doktor Spatelese. Sweet but not syrupy sweet riesling with great crisp fruit. In our Coca Cola culture, how can you go wrong?

QOTD 2: Definitely go with the facial hair. I’m partial to shaving the head and adding the soul patch. Don’t shave your head for the first time during the summer, though. Let your tan fade first, or you’ll look like you’re wearing a white helmet…

Dave
June 26, 2008

Paul C
QOTD A bottle of Allegrini Amarone will turn Muhammad on to wine.
June 26, 2008

theemptyglass
QOTD1: Champagne did it for me, I don’t know about other people. I thought I didn’t like wine for the longest time, because I tried what my parents drank, and all they drank was red Zinfandel. I wouldn’t recommend a red Zinfandel to non wine drinkers.

QOTD2: I dunno if it would suite your face, but I think it’s good to switch it up every once in a while, I mean if it doesn’t look good you can always shave it off.
June 26, 2008

J Crazy
Awesomeness brung again.

first qotday: chateau haut brisson (from 2003-2005 aka the only wines I’ve had from them. ps. they’re going organic)

2nd qofthed: three words: foo man chu (spelling anyone?)
June 26, 2008

Mike C
QOTD1: Sokol Blosser’s Evolution (already mentioned) or Seghesio Old Vine Zin. Subtlety comes later with a well-trained palate.

QOTD2: Sure, mix it up!
June 26, 2008

Taylor
Great Episode loved the idea, wish i was there.

QOTD 2006 King Estate Pinot Gris
QOTD Yeah get a Goatee Gary!
June 26, 2008

Horacio Campana
Dear Gary,
You should go ahead and try the handlebar mustache. I grew one for the heck of it and kept it 3 months (to my mother’s horror).

i can send you the ridiculuos pic if u e-mail me back.

From Mexico with love.

Horacio Campana
June 26, 2008

Brian
Fun episode:

The wine to convert a non-wine drinker – Muscato d’Asti WITH popcorn (assuming the person likes popcorn). Fun, easy drinking and good introduction into quality wine.

As I reside in Calgary, I have to disagree with Vaun. There are a lot of Leafs fans in the city… but the Flames rule. And Gary should visit here… we have a really cool wine scene here.

On prices – yup, we do pay more here. Most of that is taxes. Not that I am trying to start a debate on fiscal policy and what gov’t does with the $$$, but I don’t mind paying more for wine in my neck of the woods. I do wish we did have more choices on U.S. wines, which does seem to be a stumbling block of the current system.

Also, maybe it is time to do a show on some of the wines from the various regions across Canada.
June 26, 2008

wayno da wino
Yo G & Vaun, Grrreaaat Episode!!! Vaun, Nice “Oak-Monster”…..Whooooa…..

QOTD1: Kathy Lynsky (New Zealand) Gewurtztraminer

QOTD2: i think G should shave his head & grow a ZZ TOP beard……..
June 26, 2008

Roger in Omaha
Excellent show yet again!!

QOTD # 1. A Beaujolais is a great entry wine for non-wine lovers or non-red wine lovers.

QOTD #2. I think a goatee would suit G nicely!
June 26, 2008

Sonnenuhr
QOTD 1: Ironically the easiest new-entry wines and the most complex and sophisticated wines in the world are German Rieslings.

QOTD 2: I think GV should shave his head!
June 26, 2008

Rob
Gary..I’m not a “grammer-snob” but felt obliged to correct your pronunciation of “Meritage” (at about 2:55 of the program). I learned from a recent wine educational seminar in Virginia that this is a made-up word combining the words “merit” and “heritage.” Meritage is pronounced Meh-rih-TIJ, rhyming with Heritage. This word, interestingly, is registered as a US trademark, that wineries must pay to use on their wines.

Love your show, man!
June 26, 2008

Hugh
Sauternes
June 27, 2008

French Wine
Rob, wait until your French wine class. You’ll hear Gary’s pronunciation of Meritage there refering to a French blend.
June 28, 2008

YoungDave
QOTD 1: For sweet cocktail drinkers: Moscato di Asti or a Riesling Spatlese or even Kabinett.
For beer drinkers: heavily oaked Astralian Shiraz fruit bombs.

QOTD 2: Two words- mutton chops.
June 28, 2008

Pastafari Pirate
Great show! Nice job Vaun! QOTD#1: Probably a Malbec – how about the rockin’ Terrazas de los Andes Malbec. QOTD#2: Naw, he’s better off clean shaven.

It was fun to meet you Gary, at the Maryland B&N. Unfortunately, I was running low on sleep and worked 4 12 hour days that week already. Sorry for being a bit flat that evening. Caw! Caw! Caw!
June 28, 2008

Sassodoro
Good job, Vaun!

QOTD1. I think Moscato d’Asti would appeal to many non-wine-drinkers. I have a friend who is French, who drinks no wine and eats no cheese. (And he is French! Is that allowed?) Once in a while he’ll try wines I suggest, and the only ones he actually seems to like are Moscato d’Asti.

QOTD2. Yes. Maybe a little on the chin.
June 29, 2008

Jim in Atlanta
Interesting to get the opinion of others who have different tastes than Gary. QOTD – A friend who is just starting to drink wine likes Australian Shiraz and sweeter Vouvray.
June 29, 2008

Cuse Wino
AWESOME JOB VAUN! Great to have another pallate on the show-
QOTD1- Zinfandel might be the best converter wine
QOTD2- Rollie Fingers Moustache please
June 30, 2008

M Knudsen
Q1: Moscato D’Asti
Q2: A Goatee would work
June 30, 2008

Von P
How ’bout having another Von (I know he spells it differently) on the show I’ll do it any time!!!
June 30, 2008

Karl Laczko
Good show indeed, although I’m ashamed to admit wondering too much on why Vaun didn’t wear something with longer sleeves? Good cork flick!

QOTD1 – For a white I’d go to something from Alsace, one of their drier Rieslings or Pinot Gris. Difficult for a red, a non-wine drinker wouldn’t necessarily appreciate the tannin/acid in the same way, so I’d say something fruity and easy drinking, maybe a Sicilian Nero d’Avola or blend, or a good Rhone Varietal blend, how about an Australian Grenache?

QOTD2 – Can’t see it myself, but hey, why not?
June 30, 2008

Steven E
Hi Gary,

Big-Time lurker here. Just started watching less than a month ago and am now ripping through the archived episodes. Loved the Torrontes episode (Jan. ‘08)- I am from Portland, OR to answer that QOTD. Loved your guest, and Canada for that matter.
QOTD- It depends on what they drink, if a beer lover for example, I would start them off with a bigger red, Cab, Syrah, or something Italian. If they drink booze, lemon-drops or gin & tonics, I might try to get them to try a white, like a pinot-grigio, sauv-blanc, or even a torrontes! Its all about their palate.

PS- You mentioned you are coming to portland (beaverton) on July 3rd. I am assuming the book signing is at 7:30 at powell’s, BUT a friend mentioned you might be at the World Market on the same day? Is this true? I am tasting wine at my restaurant that evening, but would love to pay a visit if you are at the World Market during the day. Thanks again for the show, my new favorite thing about the web.
July 1, 2008

Colin
QOTD – St. Emilion QOTD2 – FuManChu baby.
July 1, 2008

boegemann
QOTD: Prolly Yellowtail Chardonnay
QOTD2: Mutton chops
July 1, 2008

Tommy Vernieri
QOTD: How about the 2006 Beringer Vineyards Alluvium Blanc? It was nice and agreeable but also had a good amount of complexity going on. It might work to get non-wine drinkers started thinking, “hey this tastes good” and then by the second glass realized that there’s more going on there besides grapes and alcohol.

QOTD: No soul patches please. I’m all in favor of bringing back a Jets beard though.
July 2, 2008

conscious
Awesome job, Vaughn. Way to represent us Canucks (or your Stamps as it were). BTW, aren’t those who travel south in the winter, “snowbirds” or are they called “snowflakes” in Calgary? Gary you do a great job with the guests – I enjoy the mix.

QOTD – I’d agree something sweet to get someone in the door. Moscato d’Asti, Riesling, Port, Icewine, etc.

QOTD2 – 70s Porno ’stache.
July 2, 2008

Newman
Trying to catch up on a week of WLTV, oh geez…

Nice to see a fellow Canadian on the show. I concur on the matter of pricing, but I can’t buy wine south of the 49th parallel anyways (i.e. see drinking age), so I guess I can’t complain.

QOTD1: Mission Hill Chardonnay, or Spy Valley Sauvignon Blanc. Obviously I have to choose a white wine if it’s someone who’s new to wine. Both these have good flavor, aren’t too acidic. Overall I just really enjoyed them.
QOTD2: Surprise me.
July 3, 2008

Serge Laporte
..Eurghh.. they are actually called “”snowbirds” .. not snowflakes”" Vaun.
Btw, great episode and a cool, relaxed vibe, and a good guest.
July 5, 2008

IPv6Freely
GO LEAFS GO
July 5, 2008

Dan-o
Really enjoyed the show.
Vaun seems like a laid back guy who knows more than he is letting on about wine.
QOTD
- white – Gavi (thanks GV, had my first one on the road and it was nice)
- red – a light Beaujolais (not nouveau) with the Gamay grape

QOTD 2 – just say NO to facial hair!
July 8, 2008

dakotapaul
This was a FUNNY show. Gary and Vaughn rock. A great combination. Loved it!!
July 9, 2008

Kenny Dion
Funny how a big guy like him loves wine.
July 9, 2008

Daniel O
QOTD 1: start with something sweet, like Asti Spumante, Brachetto, Moscato D’Asti, or White Zin, and then slowly, over time, reduce the residual sugar level. As Gary says, people are seduced by the sweetness of dessert wines, so maybe an ice wine or botrytis affected wine with dessert would work too.
July 9, 2008

ChiroGuyDC
Cycles Gladiator Merlot 2006…my personal favorite. First had it at the California Grille at the Contemporary Resort in Walt Disney World!
July 11, 2008

JayZee
Awesome job, Vaun, way to represent the Vayniacs! I really enjoyed the show. Good vibe and Gary is great with guests (at least since the first 100 episodes or so). Actually, some of the best shows have been with fellow Vayniacs. Hey, how about a Vayniac of the Week on Laid Back Fridays or something like that?

QOTD1: Believe it or not, a nice cru Beaujolais is a great transition from sweet and white wines to red wines. If someone doesn’t like wine, I’m not sure what I would suggest for them to try first. If they are from America, you have to overcome the whole “soda pop” thing which usually means start sweet.

QOTD2: Gary looked terrible with the “Play-Off Beard” so I cannot envision much for him in the way of facial hair. I think Gary’s face with a mustache would pretty much say “70’s prn star”.
July 21, 2008

MattUD
Wow, this show was awesome. Vaun rocked it, especially his Oak Monster, that really caught me off guard.
October 8, 2008

CaseyLee
like someone who does not say please and thank you lol . good guest. his oak monster is explosive. OOOAAAAAAK ! ! ! ! holy crap gary that was freking funny as hell .i laughed so loud. your expression was hilarious. good stuff.
cool shirt.
December 14, 2008

Jules
Hey Gary V!
The region of the Valli Pinot is pronounced WHY-Taacky, I live about 45 minutes from the vineyard.
December 14, 2008

Jules
It’s in North Otago. The soil is very heavy on the limestone with a little bit of gravely top-soil. Very very different to any of the different terroir than in Central and similar to burgundy – particularly Corton. Loved the Episode – if you enjoyed the Valli try the Ostler Carolines Vineyard – less vegetal but a lot earthier.
January 15, 2009

Dessert Wine Nerd
Good stuff. Love seeing a Vayniac rolling hardcore on the show and having a good time. Nice to once again see the Washington wine take the crown. Selfish, I know, but Im from Washington. That’s just how its going to be! Congrats to Vaun once again. QOTD1: I think something that has a little bit of sweetness, like maybe a German Riesling Spatlese or Auslese would do the trick. We all love sugar and if you plop a tannic red in front of someone I bet most everyone is going to go “Hell no!” QOTD2: Im down with Gary growing a goatee. BRING IT!
February 3, 2009

Chris Lotz
hedges three vineyards, and fu-man-shu
February 6, 2009

VioletRuby
Vaun was great. Gotta love Canadians! I think Rieslings are a good intro to the wine world. Also Lambrusco or Pinot Noirs for the red world. I’m still relatively new myself, especially to reds, but know I liked these varietals right from the start.
June 16, 2009

looper
I don’t know if Vaun is your buddy or not, but I found the same thing wrong with this episode as with all episodes with guests.
1. He can’t keep up with you on the intensity level, and it seems like he is talking in slow motion. I guess that being from chicago, I am used to hearing people talk fast, like in NY. But is he slow or something, he claimed to be this great fan, but then seemed surprised and intimidated by your energy??
2. Your talking is sooo loud, and the guests talking is sooo quiet. Quests need mics when dealing with GV… they also need a buzzer or something to stop you from interrupting. But my beef is not with GV, it is with these soft spoken, boring guests that can’t bring the Thunder.
Theres my 2 cents
Peace
November 5, 2009

richardvinifera
QOTD: Frederic Magnien White Burgundy (solid fruit, good grip, not overoaked)