Secret Pack Tasting after a Jets Offensive Explosion

Secret Pack Tasting after a Jets Offensive Explosion – Episode #548

September 29, 2008

Gary Vaynerchuk selected 4 wines he had previously tasted for this Secret Pack. Please leave comments with your notes if you are tasting along!

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Comments on this episode(226) Leave a comment ›

“I love these episodes but kick myself because you cant ship the packs …” by Dessert Wine Nerd
“Hi Gary! I’m just catching this episode (Jan ‘09) and wanted to post s…” by MIke Harvey
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Wines tasted in this episode:

2005 Finca Arantei AlbarinoSpanish Albarino
2005 Saison Des Vins Syrah L’hiverOther California Syrah/Shiraz
2003 Goretti Le Mura Saracene Sagrantino Di MontefalcoSagrantino di Montefalco
Le Gourmand RivesaltesRivesaltes

Links mentioned in todays episode.

226 Responses

September 29, 2008

manonthemoon
#1
September 29, 2008

waibeans
i was gonna say GV, you BETTER be doing a live show today after sunday’s Brett Favre performance!

first
September 29, 2008

cma82
Yay! Secretpack. It will be fun to watch even though I didn’t order.
September 29, 2008

John Farrin
3
September 29, 2008

M
I am not one of the lucky ones tasting along. My excuse: I live in PA….no shipping.
September 29, 2008

Withnail
Excellent!
September 29, 2008

Rick D
Enjoyed the show. I didn’t get the secret pack since I live in AZ and it’s still to hot to ship wine into here. Maybe the next one.
September 29, 2008

Eli2Tyree
Good episode. HAd the sagrantino about a month ago and enjoyed it very much… Ian picked out for me when I was there. . . Great food wine.. very unique
September 29, 2008

Rob Z
My wife just had our second kiddo last week so I’ve been staying away from the secret pack sitting in my cellar to make it through the “night shift” without nodding off while chaning a diaper

After watching this episode though I’m going to crack open the Le Gourmand and slice a piece of cheesecake. I’m pumped to try out the Syrah now too!
September 29, 2008

boegemann
QOTD: Watching my 401(k) shrivel up.
September 29, 2008

John Farrin
OMG, I’m such a bad person. I bought the secret pack and didn’t taste along with you cause I kind of thought you were going to give some aging advice. Now I have to NOT be like the obnoxious sibling who hordes their dessert until everyone else is finished and then parades their untouched plate in front of the others taunting them. Neener, neener, I still have mine

QOTD: Unfortunately, I’ve been spending a lot of time seeing doctors trying to find out how I can get my sense of smell back. Haven’t had it for four months now and you know how I like to sniffy-sniff.
September 29, 2008

Purple Tooth
Will comment after we can do tasting along with you.
September 29, 2008

BargePlus
oooooooooooooooooooooops! Almost started watching this episode. I’m saving my secret pack to share with three other couples – hopefully soon.
September 29, 2008

mike z
great show! unfortunately, i couldnt drink along with you, but i did have the albarino and syrah already. wasnt a big fan of the albarino, but i enjoyed the syrah a lot.

qotd: i started watching the show right around epi#500 and its phenomenal! the highlight of my day is coming home to see what you cooked up next. keep it coming.

see you at the tasting on the 14th!
September 29, 2008

Rob Z
OK – Just had the Le Gourmand, this is great stuff! A tad bit of cough-medacine taste but the smell of the strawberries gets you by that pretty quick. Goes *perfect* with chocolate cupcakes
September 29, 2008

Dr T from N. Carolina
Only had time to try one:
2005 Saisons des Vins (Copain) Syrah l’Hiver
89 points: Dark color. Interesting nose: generic black fruit over blueberry and raw meat. Good black cherry, very smooth, upfront. Very light tannins in the middle, growing slightly towards the end. Some black raspberry and red cherry in the middle, but it’s blackberries that take over the moderately long finish, along with the acidity, which also build from the mid-point onwards. A little heat at the end
September 29, 2008

Tom Langan
Wow. Top ten for the first time in a long time. Yippee.
September 29, 2008

Slushpuppy
I would love to take part in the secret pack wines; unfortunately you cannot ship to Nevada; I don’t know why, do you? I would love to give you all my business. Is there a drop ship point in CA near Reno, NV where I could have my wine shipped? Anyway, I loved your selections. Congrat’s on the massive Jet’s win!
Smell it first! TR
September 29, 2008

JudeMurphy
Gary, since I know you’ll read it- big shout out from the island of Ireland!!!

We’ve got one wine in the while country that’s naturally produced and it was the craziest thing I’ve ever tasted- apples in the brain! It’s a red wine and it tastes like a white wine. I unfortunately don’t remember what it’s called, but it’s made near Kinsale and you should definitely try it because it’s mind blowing-ly weird! Absolutely unique in the wine world. A terrible wine by normal standards but it can hardly be compared with the others anyway!

Please give a random shout out to the Electric Penguins on WLTV, struggling to make their second masterpiece, that would be ridiculously amazing!!!

You should definitely come over to Dublin some time, Gary!
Can’t wait to see you some day. Would love a good chat!

Great show, anyway!

-Jude Murphy
September 29, 2008

crimedog
Sad that I didn’t participate in the secret pack this time after seeing the wines. Have been cutting back on all the expenditures to prepare for a big move at the end of the year. That’s what’s up with me

As long as your reading Gary, have you given any more thought to the (second) dinner at Bern’s? If you could do it before the end of the year I would be ecstatic. A little advance notice would be great too

Still enjoying the show, thank you.
September 29, 2008

Mark
Wild Irish Rose for life.
September 29, 2008

Bill
One of your best shows. Totally wired, and completely hyped! As one of the purchasers of this secret pack, I wish I had a heads up about the tasting so I could have tasted along. Maybe next time.

Happy New Year GV and family!

QOTD: Mourning the Yanks, hopeful for the NY Rangers!
September 29, 2008

Marc
I found this secret pack disappointing. The albarino was nice, but nothing special. The syrah was meh. I can’t stand the Rivesaltes..wow, talk about sickening sweet! And I haven’t opened the Sagrantino yet, but it’s one that has been on my list since #394 so I have very high hopes for it. Sorry GV, my pal wasn’t thrilled. But I’m very glad I got to try some wines from regions I haven’t had before…for that, I thank you!
September 29, 2008

sam
Love your show Gary, as always…

Hey, can you ship secret packs to Canada? Québec more precisely?

I know I’m still waiting for the schwag pack from early September.

Anyway…I’d love to hear from you on the possibilities aforementioned.
September 29, 2008

ecola
Congratulations Chris & Jocelyn! Hope you enjoy the wines.

-Eric
September 29, 2008

Tom Langan
OK, so I typed too long and missed the top ten. What else is new?

The Syrah was definitely a home run. But I liked the Albarino as well. Gary has turned me back on to different white wines. I was always just a red wine guy, but now I’m drinking whites and loving them.

QOTD: I’m sitting here watching my 401K turn into a 101K without me having to do anything.
September 29, 2008

Mark
GARY – Why aren’t you decanting all the wines you taste on the show for at least 2 hours? I think the results would be much different. I’m such a firm believer in decanting, and you are too. So I think you should walk the walk on the show.
September 29, 2008

Withnail
Great episode!

Been up to the usual: writing, watching football, enjoying life, brainstorming new projects.
September 29, 2008

James H.
Ugh I was unable to get the secret pack. Maine alcohol shipping laws make me a sad.

QOTD: Trying new wines and building computers…..at the same time is some cases
September 29, 2008

kenny_k
Bravo! Look forward to many more secret packs. Could not join in. Have killer headcold, will comment on wines in future. Thanks again for a fine show.
September 29, 2008

Eliot (in the Lou)
GV, welcome back to the trusty ol’ table. Love the energy after a big Jets win. Do you think Favre will have the n*ts to do a Broadway Joe and guarantee victory in the postseason?

QOTD – Traveling: Just got back from Chateauneuf du Pape. Completely blown away. Best wine trip ever, and I don’t even speak French. Vayniacs – make the trip if you can. It’s (relatively) affordable, the food is great, and there are a ton of places to visit all in close proximity (walking distance) in the village.
September 29, 2008

Hido53
Gary -

Didn’t go for the secret pack this time, Sorry! Had to spend what spare change I had on making my own wine with some buddies! Have a big Syrah/Petite Sirah blend going. Did a three-day cold soak after the crush and siphoned off some of the juice to make a “nouveau”. Both are happily fermenting now.
QOTD: working, enjoying my kids, making wine and trying to stay calm as I watch the market tank!
September 29, 2008

MattjDrake
Uggg,
The idea of a secret pack is very cool – I wish that you could get wine deliveries in Pennsylvania…
September 29, 2008

brent
QOTD: SUP GV, just had a tasting with the export sales director of Caparzo and Borgo Scopeto… did the Rossos, Brunellos, and IGTs. Interesting to taste so many styles of sangiovese side by side! (That’s what I’ve been up to)
September 29, 2008

gotsha
QOTD…Just losing money in the stock market lately. I’ll be in New Jersey Thurs through Sunday for golf!!!

When will I be able to once again buy your wines in Illinois???
September 29, 2008

Teampants
The Syrah tastes like circus peanuts to me.
September 29, 2008

kaybee
QoTd
I’m back to school, which kinda takes over, enjoying the change of seasons to Fall, the colors, leaves, pumpkins, etc.
September 29, 2008

MattjDrake
Yikes, you have sold me on the 2005 Saison Des Vins Syrah L’hiver. That sounds like exactly like a wine for me. Gotta try and find this one.
September 29, 2008

jahlove
QOTD: I’ve been on my back the last few weeks. Herniated two discs in my neck. Have been out of work since September 10th. In and out of hospital and doctors offices and lots of pain. Starting to feel better now with cortisone injenctions to the spine. Unfortunately will probably not be well enough to make the road trip on the 11th, something I was really looking forward to. Haven’t been in the shape or the mood to drink much vino lately. Did not get the secret pack, but I have recently tasted the Montefalco, which I found to be on the new worldish side for a Sagrantino. Still good though. Glad I have one more in the cellar. My note:

2003 Goretti Sagrantino di Montefalco Le mura saracene
9/2/2008 rated 91 points: Unabashedly modern in style, showing liberal yet stylish use of oak. On the nose, mocha and black cherry. Oak continues to manifest itself on the palate with shades of vanilla, but ripe fruit is the call of the day here. Lots of ripe berry action – sweet blackberry and black raspberry are framed by fine, well-integrated tannins, leading to a medium-long, dry finish. May not be a traditional expression of the Sagrantino grape, but extremely well-crafted nonetheless. Paired exceedinly well with a grilled flank steak.
September 29, 2008

Dominus
Great show that I had the opportunity to taste along since the little woman is working late tonight.

My notes, opinions and rankings of the secret pack while having a pasta dish with Parmigiano chees.

#1 Goretti (Sagrantino)
Nose: 89 pts (I got purple paint initially though it transformed into oregano and esp Parmigiano cheese which you mentioned)
Taste: 91pts (wow, I love this stuff, a potpourri of rustic flavors and oh so smooth. My fav wine of the bunch.

#2 Arantei (Viognier)
Nose: 92 pts (really nice)
Taste: 88 pts
Overall: 89+++

#3 Le Gourmand (Red dessert)
This was a very unique wine and would raise alot of eyebrows at a dinner party. I think its a Jekyll and Hyde type of wine that doesn’t know where it wants to go. Red? Dessert?
Rate: 88pts

#4 L’hiver (Shiraz) RP90pts? I need to expand my palate
Nose: 85 pts
Taste: 83pts (Way too hot for me and felt the nid-palate and finish was disjointed. I never figured out where the flavor profile was going. Not for me.)
Rate: 84 (I’m being nice)

Again, great show, great choice of wines.

QOTD: Just returned from a week on the Outer Banks, rained the entire time though I had the opportunity to try some great wines. Thanks for asking.

P.S. I will not be able to make it on the 11th which crushes me. I have a birthday party that I have to attend. One day I’ll make it up to WL. I promise.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!
September 29, 2008

Cabrilla
Had fun watching the live stream for the first time.
(And in case anyone in the chat was wondering, I did manage to capture the chipmunk that was trapped in the bathroom and repatriate it to the Great Outdoors. I have no idea what happened to the second chipmunk that the cat carried into the house. However, after seeing that, I think I can guess how the first one got inside.)

QOTD: This summer, I finished grad school (for now – MS in Digital Media), watched the motoGP race in the hurricane, went to the Austin GDC, fostered 2 dogs, and launched postliteracy.org (http://www.postliteracy.org). And drank wine.
September 29, 2008

manonthemoon
Great show, too bad I missed the pack this time around.

QOTD: Getting ready for my trip to washington, working, and watching my mets choke yet again
September 29, 2008

Rani Haykal
Great Show!!!

I wish I could make it on October 11th….my bday is October 7th so it would be an awesome trip/gift, but I was just up there a little over a month ago and can’t afford to make it up there again this soon.

QOTD: Wish I could have gotten the secret pack. Nothing much else goin’ on down here….still trying to get life back in order after hurricane ike. Hope all is well with you GV and all other vayniacs.

–RH
September 29, 2008

Alex S
great show i’m a big fan of sagrantino and albarino… unfortunately i was not able to taste along but i did have a glass in front of me while watching 01 dr.zenzen kabinett mosel i love the petrol in aged riesling.. quick question have you had the o4 Goretti Le Mura? just asking because i’m not a big fan of 03 Italians i like the 04 balance better in any case great show you do a great job this coming from one of the “lurkers” thanks for the entertainment
September 29, 2008

Lenny
Well I didn’t have the secret pack.

The guy who was supposed to organize the group in Houston fizzled. Never did contact me, and I didn’t get their info.

Like they say if you want it done right……!!

Have a T-shirt coming your way soon.

QOTD: Helping my second youngest move to DC for an new life adventure, and helping my youngest move here from New York. So I guess you are off of the hook for the limo unless she goes back (Which is always a possibility.
September 29, 2008

Kelly Goff
Hey Gary, I have set up a tasting with the ladies this weekend and I will comment later since I was unsure the secret pack tasting date. We in VA are celebrating the sucess of our Skins. As I recall you pegged them as “not well coached” and headed for disaster. (This could still happen), but we are true fans around here!! I wish I could make it to NJ this month but the hubby is out of town and someone has to stay with the rugrats! I hope to meet with you and Lizzy again sometime soon.
September 29, 2008

Tofferotti
Fun episode. I’ll be getting in on that sagrantino. Still have a bottle of the Paolo Bea waiting for a nice dinner. Gonna try to get to the party on the 11th.

On another note, Rick Flair dined at the restaurant I work at the other night. Unfortunately I didn’t wait on him and I was too busy to try and get a WLTV plug in for you. I’m just down the road in Philly so I was hoping to maybe tell him about your WWF fanatacism and convince him to pay you a visit. I did note what he was drinking. He had a bottle of Arrogant Frog pinot noir. We serve it by the glass so it was nothing too original.
September 29, 2008

Danny C
Gary,

What’s shakin’ buddy? Things are good here, doing my thing. Drank a good South African blend over the weekend (pinotage, cab, merlot, cab franc), Kanokop Kadette was the name of the wine. Good by itself, but really good with Thai food! $12, so it was a decent price. Also picked up a good cab called Fitch Mountain Cellars for $19. Good things…

Celebrating Octoberfest this weekend with friends and family at the Harpoon Brewery in Boston! Should be good, I hear there is a mean keg bowling contest!

Thinking about the cruise…

Listening to the new Kings of Leon album, Metallica’s new one, Ne-Yo (Year of the Gentleman), and an old H2O album (new york hardcore).

Training for my first marathon and staying fresh!

Hope all is well man, great show, didn’t get the secret pack, bummed about that. Thinking of buying a couple bottles of the Oliverhill Shiraz Jimmy Selection 2004. Nice stuff!

Stay safe, have fun!

Dan
September 29, 2008

Ben Janssen South Australia
G’day Gary.

What do you think of Ben Graham the kicking guy for the NYJ?
I am interested in the NYJ as he is an Aussie playing for them.
Please let me know in your next show.
Cheers
September 29, 2008

Izzy
Hey Gary, I’ve been lurking for the past 15 or so episodes, decided to leave a comment for the first time since you said you were gonna sit and read ‘em.

I’m a big time wine “newb” and have pretty much zero experience with tasting and such. My wonderful wife is a wine lover and I’m trying to get into it so I can enjoy it with her. I wanted to let you know that you’ve made wine an exciting thing for me for the first time ever – it’s something that I’ve never really been interested in until I really started getting into WLTV. I grew up in a house that drank no alcohol whatsoever and I didn’t have a taste of alcohol or wine period until I was in my early 20’s. Maybe that tainted my palate? I’m not sure…

With that being said I’m finding that every single wine that I taste is way too strong for me alcohol-wise and I’m getting somewhat frustrated with tasting in general. I want to like something, but everything just seems to be too “dry” or strong for me to stomach. My experience is limited to mainly house red wines and although this may be sacrilege to the wine connoisseurs I think I like the “lighter, fruitier” wines more than anything, possibly whites. Any suggestions for affordable “weak” wines along that vein? I’m game for just about anything.

Keep up the great work, I especially enjoyed your web 2.0 expo talk.
September 29, 2008

Alex
Football season, school, work. bout it for me. Go packers! (they need to stop loosing )
September 29, 2008

Sam Scarpari
Hey Gary, this is Sammy S from Australia, here I was sitting here at work on my lunch hour watching your secret pack tasting, drooling all over my desk – wondering whether you ship your secret tasting packs all the way to Australia???? Those four wines you tasted really looked GOOD!!!!
QOTD – I’m at work, here at The University of Melbourne, Dookie Campus Winery – preparing our spring wine special catalogue for the general public in our great state of Victoria. ps. the pic of that guy holding a wine glass on the website is me…OH yeah how is our Aussie born punter, Ben Graham performing for the JETS???
CHEERS
September 29, 2008

Doug
Good show Gary. I definatly have to get a secret pack next time…What have I been up to? Lots of Chicago sports…Bear win and gearing up for the Cub in the playoffs.
September 29, 2008

Alexander
Hey Gary,

I was wondering if you are able to ship wine to Michigan? Please e-mail me I would greatly appreciate it.

Thanks

Alex
September 29, 2008

ChiroGuyDC
I’m hoping to get the next secret pack as I missed this one, and unfortunately I can’t make it to the SUPERtasting OR the Thunder Cruise next year…sadness prevails.

QOTD: Even though you hate me for being a fan of such a DIRTY team like the Pats, I have been spending time raising my first son Braelon (who just turned two months old!) with my wife Courtney and would LOVE a shout out in a future episode for our new arrival (we watch together all the time!) That would be radical! Fatherhood is an amazing thing, but keeps me busy everyday!

Thanks, keep up the great episodes!

Matt (ChiroGuyDC)
September 29, 2008

Dustin
Gary, I did not get the secret pack but I have tasted the 2005 Saison Des Vins Syrah L’hiver and you totally nailed it. When I had it a couple months ago, Slim Jims were one thing that really stood out in my palate.
September 29, 2008

Matt
Wanted this secret pack but I think it cannot been sent to Canada.

QOTD: Working, gym, listening to Kayne West Love Lockdown, watching all of my favorite tv shows (Dexter, Prison Break, Entourage, Californication, Heroes… waiting for 30 rocks) and for sure, continue to expand my palate by drinking a lot of different wines, some sauternes and a bunch of belgium beers.
September 29, 2008

amgryger
QOTD: A coworker of mine recently left our office to move to Japan with his family, and instead of hiring someone else, I just had to pick up the slack, so it seems like I’ve just been working all the time lately.

I’ll probably be at Wine Library on the 11th.
September 29, 2008

BWicked
Gary,
Great Secret Pack choices–unfortunately I was not able to taste them
tonight but will put together a party this weekend.
Life is back to normal: too much work, high school tennis (as a proud
parent), and wading through fall mailing list allotments (and wondering
where I can stash more wine that I don’t really need).
All is good.
September 29, 2008

KVolk
QOTD: Gary really liked the Albarino the most of the secret pack the syrah and the Montefalco I wasn’t as high on and the dessert wine I still need to try but I want to wait until I have the right dessert to pair with it….love the secret packs and I hope the next one is just as fun….it is the most adventureous wines I get to try…..
September 29, 2008

Sir Lurks-A-Lot
Since Gary says he’s reading all these comments…

My show idea: Gateway Wines

Just like they say certain drugs are “gateway drugs” that lead to “hard drugs”, I’d like to see an episode on a few wines that could be “gateway wines” for those of us with “young palates” and prefer wines on the sweet side. Wines that can help build a bridge to expanding our young palates.

As you say, “try new things”, but a lot of wines I try just seem “too rough” and I don’t like them. I need some baby steps to build up to the big boy wines.
September 29, 2008

ScottEJ
Great package, G. And the wines were nice, too.

Seriously, had my state of IL not gone to the dark side, I certainly woulda in on this one; or, at the very least picked up a few individually.

QOTD: Planning my wedding, watching the Cubs (and Bears), and sipping on the vino. Good to hear you’re slowing down a bit. Catch your breath man…you deserve it.
September 29, 2008

sleh
Jets suck, go Ravens!
September 29, 2008

neutron212
QOTD: Ive been the grind of work, gym and home but there are some high lights my brother and his wife had a baby girl Elise which is awsome but now puts the pressure on me to have a kid but i have to get a woman fist. other then that im amped that hockey starts this weekend cant wait to see how the Sabers do btw how about them Bills 4-0 but this week is going to be the first loss. last but not least ive been going to this place in Amhert its a suburb for buffalo called Premire and getting lost in the wine section and trying wines ive never had like the PV and oh my its good had an aussie one called Redd Mudd it was awsome but then again its the only one ive ever had. thats about it my friend Love the shows keep up the good work
September 29, 2008

BruceErik
Since I’m alone this evening, I opened only the Syrah to taste along. I’m not liking the nose at all. I do get hints of the Slim Jim if I let it sit for a bit, but when poured, it’s kinda’ nasty funky, like the smell one gets from a basement drain when backing up … you know, those nasty sewer gases. It’s quite a turnoff. I get only very slight fruit because of it.

I have to admit, I can’t recall any Syrah I’ve ever liked, and this one doesn’t change my mind. Your description is pretty accurate, but there is a bitterness that turns me off. Can’t say it’s the tannins, because I love Cabernet Sauvignon, and most big, bold Italian reds I’ve tasted. I’m not experienced enough to describe it, but it’s almost the mixture of vegetation and bitterness, instead of fruit and tannins, that doesn’t appeal to me in Syrah. And this nose is nasty!

Really excited, though, about opening the Sagrantino!
September 29, 2008

Paul A.
Hey Gary, I thought it was a great show. Sadly I was unable to join you since I go to school in a state where you can’t ship wine to (MN), I am also from a state that you cannot ship wine to (PA). I was wondering if you could have a secret pack near Christmas and if you could have some of the secret packs available for pick up, because I could probably drive on up to the store when I am home for break.

So, I am a newly returning member of the Vaner-nation. Last fall I was very sure to watch every day, and I was getting close to catching up with the episodes I had missed; last fall was actually my first return to watching WLTV, as I did watch a number of episodes when you first started doing so (around #20 or so), but I was not yet of age, so it sort of made me sad learning about wine, but not being able to actually taste it, at least legally). So when I turned 21 last fall I started tuning in.

The only reason I stopped watching was because this past spring I studied abroad in Rome. My internet connection wasn’t great, but I did continue watching for some time, but then there school got crazy, and you almost stopped doing the show. So I took a break. BUT now I am back in school, and back in the mode for drinking some wine and most importantly expanding my palate.

I just got your book “101 Wines” today, and I am enjoying it, and I hope that I might be able to get a hold of a few of them out here, who knows.

But life is good, and I am really excited for this coming January because I’ll be living in NYC for 3 weeks. Do you have any awesome suggestions on some must try restaurants or wine bars that you think a college kid (ckc) like myself could actually afford and not look stupid going to with some friends? That would be awesome.

I hope that I get a chance to visit the store when I’m home on break, maybe I’ll run into you, and maybe I’ll be lucky enough to pick up a secret pack!

Ciao!
September 30, 2008

Paul V
Heyya Gary!

Great show, unfortunately I missed the secret pack, maybe next time.
Work has me consumed quite a bit for now at least. Getting married in 19 days which I’m REALLY excited about. Flying back east for that. She’s moving out after the honeymoon.

Other than that, not a whole lot.

Let us know how to get the newest wristbands! I would enjoy getting one.
Glad to have you back, I always enjoy the non-taped shows.
September 30, 2008

Robin C
The Secret Pack sounded phenomenal.

QOTD: Attending the Santa Fe Wine and Chile Fiesta, adopting a stray cat (the one who fell in through our roof), planning a Mariachi birthday party for my mother, getting ready to leave Wednesday for Crushcamp in San Francisco, and Russian River Valley.
September 30, 2008

brorjace
QOTD: Preparing myself for the Cubs in the playoffs, gonna be a lot of fun! Good show, the secret packs are fun to watch.

Also, congrats on Favre tearing it up, but my God, were those uniforms ugly!
September 30, 2008

Robert Howells
Gary,

I have been watching all the videos you have been doing like Eat, Drink or Die and I enjoyed the keynote talks. How about giving a shout out for a long time Vayniac (Me). It is great that you will be hanging around WLTV instead of globe trotting.
September 30, 2008

Ben Browning
Gary Great Show!!!
I love every episode I have seen, which is not many considering you have over five hundy, plus I just discovered the show around three weeks ago.
Anyways I’m 24 years old and I’m just starting to get into tasting wine. What I think is so great about wine is that you can find good stuff you like for under 20 bones. I know that this is absolutely nothing new to you, but I think that is the greatest thing. When I was like 19 or 20 I tried some kind of Merlot that was horrible to me and I just figured I didn’t like wine, but literally last month I went to a tasting with some friends, tried some very good wines that I liked and some others I didn’t like, but I learned that it is okay to not like everything you try. Now, I’m taking your advice and tiring different things and finding what I like, what’s good to me.
By the way I live in Sonoma County, CA and grew up in Lake County, CA so there are plenty of local wines to try. I have not found any episodes with Lake County wines on them, I would love to see you try Thirty Nine Degrees 2005 Petite Sirah. Also, I would like to see you try my favorite wine I have tasted so far, A Catena 2005 Malbec from Argentina.
And Finally I am tempted to order this Thunder Cruise Secret Pack, I am jealous of all the people that got to try these wines with you and dazzle their palate. Do you ship out to California and what are the chances I get the pass to go on the cruise? Sorry for the long Comment but I just want you to know how much I appreciate WLTV.
Thank you, Ben
September 30, 2008

Tyler Walker
Things are fantastic….just got done cycling the rim of Crater Lake…now just about to delve into harvest out here in Dundee, OR….gonna get Loco
September 30, 2008

Jon Olson
QOTD: Just got back from a trip to Walla Walla. Best experiences were at Spring Valley and Cougar Crest. Really liked the Cougar Crest 2006 Estate Viognier and the 2003 Estate Syrah Reserve. They are pouring their primo wines through the pump machines for an additional $5. My friends and I hit up this winery specifically because of the tastings you did Gary. The 2003 Estate reserve Cabernet Sav was also amazing, but the one that blew me away was their 2003 Estate grown Port. I will join their wine club specifically for this port. Never did I expect a port from Washington state to be this tasty. Their 2005 Estate grown Cab Franc was also of note. There were many really good wines we tried on this trip, but Cougar Crest rocked the hizzy with their tasting room, number of good wines to try, and you gotta love that statue of a cougar right their in the room. I would love to see you do a show that focuses just on Walla Walla. If you do, seek out the Spring Valley wines. The Uriah, Frederick, and Derby wines from Spring Valley brought some thunder.

My cousin, Rob Hord, had the best joke of the trip. He went out one night and saw a great looking lady that was obviously a bit older than himself. He asked her if she went to Washington St. She didn’t understand and asked him why he asks. “Because you are a cougar baby”. Apparently she slapped his ass. A joke I could not forget as I posed for a photo next to the cougar statue at Cougar Crest.

Wine trips to the Walla Walla region are definitely worth the pilgrimage.
Gary, you show brought the thunder to my friends and I and we thank you.

-Jon Olson, Austin, TX
utjono@gmail.com
September 30, 2008

OSCAR FALCON LARA
That was a lot of fun Gary, I am just sad I did no t get those wines to taste along, the Rivesaltes and the Sagrantino look very appealing to me, I must find out who sells them locally and if I find them I will definitely ring you up to share my POV.

QOTD:
Well, my girfrind an I have started planning our wedding for next year and we are buying and tasting a lot of wines and eating out, we even started a website to chronicle the dishes we have and give them scores -www.garalysoka.com-.
Other than that, I have been trying to make myself more busy, keeping up with my flying lessons and managing my archtecture firm, it’s all very appaling sometimes, smothering even but I try to make the very best and give ourselves time to go out and prepare our now famous picnics( see photo here: http://flickr.com/photos/sokalo/2767444863/ ), and wines to expand our pallates- literally.

Cheers Gary.
September 30, 2008

Jon Olson
I apologize for my type-o’s in my previous message.
-Jon
September 30, 2008

Darlene O.
Great, great episode! Tasted along, loved all the wines, for many reasons. Took notes as we tasted with you, however, our notes were taken before we heard your comments on the wines. Fun!

You asked for it…

All wines tasted at room temp. Hubby and I are combining notes.

Albarino -

Sniffy sniff: Fun nose! Lemmony, creamy, apple, pear, and some oakiness.

Taste: Silky on the palate. Progressive grapefruit…meaning, more grapefruit as it goes to the finish. Some smokiness. Like this wine. We give a 89+.

Syrah -

Sniffy sniff: Deep berry, with the skin of a plum, deep jammy, a mustiness. Hubby says it’s like walking into Aunt Ruth’s jam cellar. Some heat (sorry, Gary, no ‘Slim Jim’ on this one…)

Taste: Nothing like the nose. The initial taste is a definite forward pucker, good tannins, some bitterness, but not offensive. Oak, tastes like chewing on an old bicycle tire. Definitely a food wine, not a stand-alone. Nice finish. We give it an 88+.

Sagrantino –

Sniffy sniff: Old world, lovely berry dust, some currant, a little petrol. Hubby says it’s like going to his dad’s old garage where musty ledgers were kept. Some heat, some inner tube…LOVE THE NOSE!

Taste: BIG tannins, whew! Sour cherries, rubber. Definite food wine. After hearing your comments, could pick up the dark chocolate. We give an 88.

Le Gourmand

Sniffy sniff: First, the heat! Then, milk chocolate licorice, orange cassis, and again, some rubber. A little petrol. LOVIN’ THIS NOSE!

Taste: Candied caramel, sweet cassis. Wow! For us, this is too sweet for chocolate. Would be great after a wonderful meal, with a to-die-for cheese tray. We tasted it with a fontina. It was lovely, but a more full-bodied cheese would do this justice. We gave it a 90.

Thanks, Gary! Lots ‘o fun!
September 30, 2008

Joe Tom
great show “Panthrochuck”
gonna postpone the secret pack tasting, but i’ll tune back in
when the time is right. nice to see all the diversity in one pack.
looking forward to the next one.

QOTD: spending too much money on wine. looking forward to going to
Bordeaux for the first time next month.
September 30, 2008

Flavio
I can’t believe I didn’t order the secret pack this time. I kept thinking “I’ll take care of it tomorrow” and never got to it… It’s definitely my favorite thing about WLTV.

I actually picked up the Rivesaltes a few weeks ago at the WL when I stopped by for some cheese and to pick up an old internet order.

I liked it but, to be honest, I was not too impressed. Maybe I expected more texture/viscosity, like in a vintage port or an older banyuls, which I generally think can be helpful with a rich chocolate dessert. Perhaps I wanted it to be sweeter… I bet a Roaring Forties or roquefort pairing would have been the right way to go (instead of dessert). I’ll buy another bottle next weekend… and see if Everett can hook me up with some good Fromage (your crew downstairs is a great asset to WL, btw).

On a separate note – I had been procrastinating on a visit to Terroir for months, and ran to the place last weekend, after I saw your interview. Had a phenomenal time with my wife and the 11 glasses of wine we ordered. Thank you so very much for the recommendation. I wish you did more interviews/reviews of restaurants and wine bars… and please keep WLTV viewers informed of what you are doing at Eat Drink or Die or any other side project. Turns out they are very helpful and informative too!

Shana Tova
September 30, 2008

Victor
Hey Gary:
Thanks for a great appearance at Books and Books!!
Its great to know you talk the talk and walk the walk…
We can’t wait for your next visit.
HOW ABOUT THEM JETS!!??
I took a lot of flak, but they are the greatest!!
Victor from Hempstead.
September 30, 2008

Chris Leone
Hey Gary!

QOTD: Been working hard building the personal brand, kicking butt in my job, and teaching drum lines. Just launched a new personal website inspired by garyv.com. I’m a huge fan of that site, by the way – those vids fire me up! Keep them coming!!!
September 30, 2008

Richard Ritter
56!!! I’m lovin it!!! Sorry no secret pack…but trying to make the time to get to the super tasting…my brother in-law and his crew have been coming for years.

QOTD: Continuing my photographic series on the wines of Long Island. There will be an article about me in the Long Island Wine Press in the Fall/Winter edition…and BTW when will I get the chance to photograph the Vayniac Cab that’s coming out? Let me know Baller. J-E-T-S
September 30, 2008

Diego
Hey Gary,
I’m so glad you mention the Le Gourmand. I’m a cook and recently discovered that Rivesaltes. It’s been a hit people I serve it to and goes extremely well with Caramel and toffee desserts. I sadly missed the secret pack but will definitely grab the next one.
September 30, 2008

Rick Martinez (aka: Senor Sangria)
Hey Gary,

The last few months have been real tough for me to stay up to date with the shows. I missed out on this secret pack. Though I am going to pick up the “Le Gourmand” and try it out with some chocolate.

As for myself I’ve been swamped with finishing the development of our product. We’ve been meeting with distributors and retailers trying to stir up some business and things look good. I am a bit bummed that we are going to miss out on the product push for the end of the year.

I’ll keep you posted on our progress over the next few months. We’ll need to host a party for you and the Vayniacks.

Cheers!
~ Rick
September 30, 2008

rimarfish
Great show gary!
I think Syrah is gonna surpass Cabernet in California and Washington. It’s being my wine to go these days and there are many great producers and wines out there at a very fair price. I like them very much…
September 30, 2008

vibemore
GV – I notice you’re often doing a pour out for all the Vayniacs who are no longer with you or can’t be with you. How about a little pour for all the Vayniacs who can’t purchase the secret packs because our state won’t let you ship to us. Bummer. I guess I’m going to have to move to NJ. Which may happen sooner than later…we’ll see.
September 30, 2008

victor
Couldn’t resist peaking- Will have to wait to taste secret pack in Florida
in 3 weeks when I go on holidays and have these wines and others waiting for
me at my hotel! Yes Canada! You can order delivery of these wines to your
American hotels you visit while on vacation &/or business!
September 30, 2008

vibemore
QOTD: Getting ready to learn Greek starting this Thursday!
September 30, 2008

medo
Hey Gary!

For me, everythings are fine! Got 30 last sunday, got married 3 weeks ago, got our tickets for the thundercruise (our honeymoon), a cellar full of wine… Dude, how can life be better ?

Cheers from Germany,
Nico
September 30, 2008

Herb
G.V.

Thanks for the Secret Pack. Three of the four grape varieties I’ve never tried before, so I’ll be expanding my palate…cuz that’s what we DO…here.

Thanks for Laveranues Coles for being on my fantasy team…ri_donk_ulous!!!

Thanks for the Bern’s update.

Please refrain from referring to Mott as Goldilocks. He’s bigger than you and could put a hurtin’ on your neck. lol
September 30, 2008

ante
love to see a show when you like all the wines.
now when you are back gotta have some CROATIAN wines!
please!!!
September 30, 2008

Snarf
I have had the L’Hiver Syrah recently and thought it was excellent; then I remembered how much it cost and was even happier!
September 30, 2008

Redmeat
What have “I” been up to?

Working in my yard to prepare for next years veggies(want to get it all done before the Rainy Season starts)

Been short on funds as of late so I have been dipping into my Cellar….man I forgot what good stuff I have in the “closet”

I would have loved to have gotten a “secret Pack”….but…alas….I live in Washington State and you do no ship here…..on a side(and happy)note…thanks to you GV I have been trying new wines…we do not get all the same wines here on the West coast that you taste,but I go for the same regions and try a few.

Oh and GV….although I loved Coles and Farve on my Fantasy teams(those that I started them!!)…..You and your Beloved JETS are still going to go down in Defeat to My Hometown SEATTLE SEAHAWKS on Dec 21st…Hope you are here to feel the Pain at Qwest Field in person!!
September 30, 2008

hugh
Happy New Year/L’Shanah Tovah to you and the Vaynerchuk’s….look forward to seeing you at the Super-Tasting on the 13th….
September 30, 2008

bendid
you had me at white chocolate
September 30, 2008

Scott, PA
QOTD: Loving life and getting my face rocked by the Pittsburgh Symphony.
September 30, 2008

Casey Lee
sounds fun. ..dont have the secret pack but it sounds interesting.
great vid, though. thanks gary go jets !
September 30, 2008

Mark Fitzpatrick
Secret packs always great shows, and it’s always even more fun when the Jets win…and the Skins beat the Cowboys down. Serious thunder on some of the hits. Looks like Zorn has the potential to be a 2005 Bordeaux…Philly may bring us back down though.
September 30, 2008

BrianSocial
I love how Mott linked up the “Wine Library Supertasing” under today’s episode. Don’t tase me, bro! Don’t tase me!
September 30, 2008

waibeans
QOD: I’m doin fine, but I’m glad you’re gonna be hangin in Jersey for a couple months. The show needs to get back to the roots a bit. You’ve got great things going on with the Jets, bring them back more and just be current and communicative with the vayniacs!

Other than that, happy new year and keep it up!
September 30, 2008

Rick O'Shea
Secret packs sure look nice. Too bad my state is uptight and doesn’t allow wine shipments. Time to expand WL to other states?!
September 30, 2008

Yvettew
QOTD: Living it up! Going to tour some NJ wineries up in the northern part sometime late October, so I’ll be interested to find something I like. Glad you’re taking it easy…good job!

Awesome show!
September 30, 2008

mike l
are you going to have a free shipping deal since youre trying to clear out and make room for all those 05s? sure wish you would have a cart with like 2 or cases just sitting there waiting for you to offer free shipping again.
September 30, 2008

Andy Cross
Great show, have not missed a secret pack yet! This was the best one so far, all wines interesting and real good. Who was the winner of the cruise? Keep the secret packs coming!
September 30, 2008

Rich
lmao, I love all the NFL references I can’t believe Farve rolled up 6 TD’s on the cards. I’m a Seahawk fan who lives in Wisconsin, so I thank Favre and the J E T S !!!! for beating a division opponent.

On the show, what “OTHER” things do you do with a slim jim? LOL!!! too funny.
September 30, 2008

Keith
Hey Gary, first time secret pack orderer (?), but right now I’m out of town visiting family so not able to open anything. But the wines sound great, particularly the Sagrantino…I’m getting into the rustic Italian and Spanish wines more and more as I try new things.
September 30, 2008

Rich
QOTD…Loving the show Gary!!! Keep up the awesome work. Kickin it in Wisconsin cheering for Farve and the Seahawks. Also I wanted to know where can I get a cool wristband like the new green ones.
September 30, 2008

Glen... winecrazy.com
Dude….You’re killing me bro. I am going to Arizona on the 9th for 5 days and I will miss everything!!! I will miss the Veynernation!!!!

Since you are going to be around, and you don’t answer any emails, maybe you can tell me when you wil be there so I can come by for a minute. I miss you!!!

QOTD: I’m heading to the shore this week to get the house ready and the Boat scedualed to be pulled out for the winter. You know….the one you NEVER came to this summer!!! Besides that I had a bottle of Sea Smoke Botella last night and a Sanford 2001 Pinot the night before I bought at the winery in Buellton years ago. WOW, that was a nice wine!!!

How about you brother??
September 30, 2008

Scottie P
Fun episode. I got the pack (our 1st secret pack : we live in PA) and can’t wait to taste them, but it’ll have to wait… my beautiful wife and I are expecting our 2nd child; due around Christmas. We planned to save them till after New Years when we’ll start gearing up for the cruise. If comments are still open then, we’ll certainly leave our thoughts on these wines.
September 30, 2008

Ray-Ray
Great Show Gary,

It’s been awhile since I’ve left a comment but the last episode has drawn me back in. I watch most of my episodes via itunes so commenting on an episode isn’t always an option. I love watching the Secret Pack shows, as your enthusiasm is always a notch higher. I only hope that one you might find a way to include all of us north of the 49th; so that all the Vayniacs in Canada could partake as well.

Qotd: Currently, trying to finish my Art History degree @ University and find a way to embrace my passions as I move onwards into the professional arena. I’ve been following all your posts on garyvaynerchukdotcom and I cannot tell you how inspiring it has been. As a result, I’m following your mantra of a lil Hustle 2.0 and starting a culinary design collective. I’ll keep you informed and provide more details once the site drops. Thanks for doing what you do…

Later Days
R.
September 30, 2008

DAve A
GREAT SHOW! We will be tasting and watching this weekend, as our neighbors bought the pack this time. So we’ll post details of 8 of us tasting it while watching. watch for my 2nd post this weekend. GREAT SHOW! I watched it and can’t wait to open the wines and watch again. I might get some dark cherry, basil, etc. so the room can compare and see if they can find the smells in the wines.

Bring on the secret packs!

Hey??? Where is my SWAG? I answered the email with my address. Never got anything? Man, what’s a guy gotta do? hahaha.

QOTD: what am I doing. just finishing up major major remodeling of the kitchen! Want have parties starting in November, including wine tasting ones. come on!
September 30, 2008

KatieP
White chocolate can’t count….it doesn’t even contain any chocolate!!!! Great choices for the pack, though.

QOTD: Started my own blog about a month ago and just put up a post about you so if you get 2 minutes, check it out: http://gonzogastro.wordpress.com/2008/09/29/%E2%80%9Cyou%E2%80%99ve-been-thunderstruck-yeah-yeah-yeah-thunderstruck%E2%80%A6%E2%80%9D/
September 30, 2008

jaredlevy
Hey Gary,

Welcome back to the Thunder Saddle, it missed you. As usual, awesome secret pack tasting

QOTD: What have I been up to? I GOT ENGAGED LAST WEEK! My fiancée is making an honest Vayniac out of me.

Hope all is well with you and Lizzie and your parents and AJ…because if I’ve taken nothing else from WLTV, it is that family and love is the most important thing to EVERYBODY.

Keep rockin’ Gary!
September 30, 2008

RANDI
GARY!
Happy New Year!!
You have been missed!
I will be in AZ during the Super Sale/Super Tasting weekend!
Hate that I miss that stuff! Maybe I’ll come by when I return…
QOTD: I’ve been doing my thing Gary!! Oh…I may be on Speed Network’s show, Pinks All Out this thurs…was a Hot Rod Girl for a day
Enjoy your family & friends today!!
September 30, 2008

Lb in KS
QOTD… recovering from lack of sleep at the bluegrass festival in Winfield, KS…. and NOW waiting for the keys to arrive in my mail to WineLibrary. What? you don’t remember our little bet we had that my Chefs would FINALLY get their first win against the Broncs
September 30, 2008

Kevin K
QOTD: Another great secret pack. I can’t wait to have a tasting party.
September 30, 2008

Laurie in VT
I’m so sad that we missed this secret pack! But when the Goretti and the Le Gourmand arrive in a few days I’ll feel better…

QOTD: Out straight mainly with family, health issues. Mostly back on an even keel now, I hope, so I have a few spare minutes to watch again.
September 30, 2008

Joe Po
Hi Gary,

Glad to have you back! I brought the Finca Arantei to a wine tasting about a month ago and paired it with gambas al ajillo(Shrimp w/garlic) and it was fabulous! Our wine group had an Indian dinner prepared by one of our tasters and we tried beer and 2 whites with it. People prefered the beer but enjoyed the wine (Sauv Blanc and Riesling). That’s about it, other than heading to Charlotte to visit friends at the end of the month. Again, glad to see you back in the “studio”!
September 30, 2008

Jon-Paul Lenczuk
The Spanish Albarino sounds like the one I would enjoy the most–seems to have similar characteristics to a Viognier I had in the summer.

Answer to QOTD: What I have been doing is thanking my lucky stars I am employed, given how crazy things have been lately.
September 30, 2008

M
I’m not tasting along with the vayniacs but I’ll comment on the Albarino. I had several good Albarino wines in 2006 and 2007 but this year, I was focused on discovering other whites. I also noticed that the Albarinos were creeping up to the $20 vicinity. I enjoyed introducing friends to Albarino and now I’m introducing them to Muscadet, Saint Veran, and Vernaccia. But I’m still an Albarino fan.
September 30, 2008

Crip
Hey Gary!

I’ve never actually commented before (I don’t know if you will read this since it’s a day late). I’ve been watching every episode for about a year, but haven’t had any wine in that whole time!
I still don’t understand how you are able to make your show so interesting to someone who doesn’t even drink wine!
I snapped my neck in a car accident 2 years ago, and am now paralyzed, so I had to move back in with my parents for a year (woo hoo…), but just got my new apartment and am back at University.
I know a couple girls who are pretty in to wine, so if that isn’t some incentive to get some bottles, I don’t know what is!
I’m going to pick up a couple this week, so maybe I will come back and let you know how it goes!

Keep up the amazing show!

P.S. I am definitely looking forward to getting the next Secret Pack!!
September 30, 2008

Chippewamike
Great show. Sad that I cannot get the packs (or any WL wines) shipped here to Michigan . Been a busy last couple months. Actually started looking for a job in the wine industry to continue my wine education and earn a couple bucks–so if you know anyone in the Detroit/Ann Arbor area, let me know.

Again, great show!
September 30, 2008

Luthor
Hey Gary, great show!

QotD: I got a puppy! And she’s awesome. Her name is Boo. She’s a shepherd/husky mix and a very welcome addition to the Luthor house hold.

Here’s some pictures: http://www.flickr.com/photos/iamluthor/sets/72157607419425238/
September 30, 2008

LauraG
QOTD: Wow, how much time do you have?? First of all, I was at Chateau Pesquie for part of the harvest, which was just unbelievably awesome! Also, am eagerly awaiting all the wine I’ve ordered over the summer to ship in a few weeks now that it’s cooling down. But most prominent on my radar this week is the fact that we have no %$#@! gas in the Southeast, particularly here in Charlotte, so I’ve been housebound quite a bit. And it blows my mind that there don’t seem to be any headlines about the shortage or the hour+ lines it’s produced. Finally, VinoVixen’s grandmother passed away and she (Michelle) would probably love to have someone at WLTV drop her a note – she’s pretty down… So that’s the highlights – thanks for asking!!
September 30, 2008

Rowland
happy new year?

how bout pour some wine for the Veyniacs who are so poor the only wine they drink is the wine they make.

wow, just as you said marshmallows, i stuffed a peep in my mouth!

GOOSEBERRIES? RED or BLACK CURRANTS?

Parmesan cheese? come on, surely the area of Italy the wine is from has its own regional cheese?

O MY GOD I LOVE THOSE STRAWBERRY SWEETS! you can reliably find them in funeral homes also i get these crappy knock off ones from the dollar store.

qotd; Hustling. been working; farmer’s markets, picking the grapes. doin my research. tryin to find a way to get some decent land in my own community, but even sellers who supposedly want their land to be farmed are still not willing to sell it at farmland prices. maybe ill start a 501c3, they have had a lot of success in local open space preservation initiatives, so farmland preservation is surely the next logical step, especially being so close to NYC. just racked off my plum wines for the first time, both are made from Japanese varieties being grown by Wilklow Orchards. The ones made from Shiro have this awesome “runts” banana flavor smell on the nose, you’d dig it. other wise it tastes like an astringent acidy white wine (to me, i have a very untrained pallet, and the wines are still months away from being done). the other one, made from Elephant Heart, taste spot on just like the fruit (minus the fermented sugar). its like a dark rose color, with a crisp, almost watery clean feeling, makes your mouth water. mmmmmmm. i kinda wanna go rack it again just to taste it! I dont think ill be able to make grape wine this year, since my grower went back on his word and sold the grapes he had promised me. I could always get some from the finger lakes, but i dont know, im all about the Hudson valley.

Yikes! peace
September 30, 2008

M
We Pennsylvaniacs should carpool to Wine Library.

Since I began watching WLTV in Feb 2008, my wine knowledge base has exploded. I used to think I knew about wine but apparently not so much. Thanks for expanding my palate. I started hosting wine tasting parties to share the concept of trying new things.

I’m having fish for dinner. What wine should I have? Kidding. It was a bad joke.
September 30, 2008

J3rome
Awesome show as always. I love that I got a sneak peek of it on ustream. QOTD: Today is Lori and I’s 3 year anniversary. Other than that I’ve been coming home from work everyday hoping to find a package from you guys. I’m actually waiting on three things. 1. Wristband for Cleveland book signing. 2. Schwag bag for commenting on a post a while ago. 3. Green wrist band for being 1 of 10 winners for having the pleasedressme widget on my blog. Also, looking forward to seeing you again soon, especially on the Thunder Cruise.
September 30, 2008

Jay
A couple things…

I can’t believe you said that the Cardinals should have beat the Redskins. Are you kidding me?

The other thing is that I still haven’t been able to find a Sagrantino that’s under $60 (or so). Although, I did find the one that you rated a 97+ for about $80. Now I’m just trying to decide whether or not I want to make that kind of investment.

QOTD: Looking for a new job and getting jacked for the upcoming snow season.
September 30, 2008

Micah
My sister worked for the company that made slim jims. she said they were made of completely whole chickens, just ground up. beak, feet, and all. sniffy sniff that.
September 30, 2008

wayno da wino
Yo G, Grreeeaaat Energy (Rantin’ to a Tizzy) & Episode!!!

QOTD: Livin’ Life & It is Goooooood!!!
September 30, 2008

rikta
great wines ,an other great pack ,im not a sweet wine drinker im more of the old world style ,i cant wait for the next secret pack ,hopefully it’ll have some wines more of my style.
September 30, 2008

Roberto
Hi Gary,

Hope you do read all the comments, but not just this show, but all shows. I know it takes a while but I think it keeps you grounded to the show and your fans. Have not tasted any of the secret pack wines but I will this weekend. Am gonna miss the whole October weekend happenings by a few days, as I’m coming into the city for the Calif. Wine Experience.

best to you and your family,
September 30, 2008

terry
Gary I didn’t have the secret pack but I did have the 2005 Saison Des Vins Syrah L’hiver in my cellar and opened it and tasted with you. You were spot on, really love this QPR. I wish you could still ship to me in Illinois. Need to get that 05 Angelus future I ordered from you some how. Any thoughts? Waynestreet
September 30, 2008

bob c
Well I’m holding off on the tasting for a couple weeks when I meet up with the boys on a camping trip.. looking forward to it though..I see one of the wines is a sweet one..the wife will enjoy that one..
September 30, 2008

Justin
I quit my investment banking job in July (before all the failures) and have been drinking a lot of wine (went to your 500 in SF), playing a lot of video games, and now I’m a producer at a video game publisher in SF.

Cheers, Gary!
September 30, 2008

J Dubb
Gary, thanks for the show.

QOTD: I am still looking for a job and hoping to find something before the economy totally falls apart.
September 30, 2008

Chris Hansen
Gary, I enjoy your show and work to promote it with friends and wine tasting acquaintances. I am frustrated by the lack of access I have to WLTV products, but am realistic about the prospect of moving. It is a divorce or wine from Gary kind of choice.

My palate is expanding. Thank you, Chris
September 30, 2008

ItsBecca
QOTD: Been a little down lately, but started spending more time playing my guitar. Nothing better than music to pick up the spirits.
September 30, 2008

Tom
Wish winelibrary shipped to Michigan — would have loved to taste those with you.

QOTD: Just finished building a cellar in my basement, so I’ve been having fun filling it.
September 30, 2008

Roberto
OMG There was a Roper’s spin off!!!!!!!!!??????????????????
September 30, 2008

Kenny Dion
didnt have the money for the secret pack…wish i did. Good show like always
September 30, 2008

Deano
Gary awesome episode…i still haven’t had time to have a party and do the secret pack tasting.

QOTD:
-Mr Trav and I started a new website http://www.sudsorduds.com where we taste craft beer and review them….it has been a lot of fun so far….if you have time check it out.
September 30, 2008

mark b
Just transferred to Western Washington University to finish my BA in Environmental Economics
September 30, 2008

kristen
Awesome show Gary! I was on the fence about whether or not to get the secret pack because I was low on funds. I ended up not getting it. Next time I will not hesitate. I love the idea of your choosing wines you’ve already approved before. It ensures better results.
QOTD: a whole lot of working and cleaning my home… Other than that I haven’t been up to anything special at all. Looking forward to going and visiting my friends in their new house in Vegas next month though
September 30, 2008

Vinetech
Wife and I will save this episode so we can taste the secret pack together next week. We’ll spend two days on each wine and see a part of the show each day we open a new bottle- thanks for the eight days of entertainment!
September 30, 2008

italianwinelover
Happy New Year – Did I miss something??? Any reason to open a bottle is good for me! So happy that your team won and will continue to win!!!

I was lucky enough to taste a Sagrantino before and love it of course-it has everything I love in a wine! I also have hooked up with an Albarino (although not this one) and I enjoyed it very much, so much so that I recommended it to the owner of the wine store I work at and she brought it in and it has been selling outstandingly!

QOTD: Just got through my son’s homecoming dance/game/parade. The masgot for his school is a Crusader so he dressed as the crusader and rode his horse through our downtown during the parade. Actually he lead the parade after the police car sirens and the firetruck horns with the football team on it. A real downhome midwest celebration! Made the front page of the local newspaper too! It was awesome and the horse was perfect! The first time for both of them riding in a parade. Now the school wants him and the horse for a repeat performance…they are even making the horse a costume!! I celebrated that night with a Anglianco! Life is good! Thank God I am blessed to have such a wonderful son! Wish I could get the secret pack – damn IL laws! I might just have to get on a plane and meet you on the floor of your store!

Got to see you on the road – I believe that you will meet every person in the world!!! Vanyiacs if you get a chance go hear him speak – it was great!

Fabulous episode!

vino amore!!
September 30, 2008

BF
So I’m sitting here watching the episode (next day) and check my email to find “Gary Vaynerchuk has accepted your LinkedIn invitation”.
September 30, 2008

BF
Another comment (since you’re reading comments today). Going to Vegas in 2 weeks! How about some props for the Brewers — first playoffs in 26 years. 1982 was a good year for wine and for baseball (Robin Yount MVP; I turned six and began playing t-ball). How about some ‘82 Bordeaux on the show to celebrate??
September 30, 2008

Dane Campbell
Great show Gary! i didn’t get down on this secret pack, but i am totally planing on getting my hands on the next pack. I think its a great idea so im going to bring the next one to my tasting groups meetings so we can break them down along with you!

QOTD: So my birthday was September 22nd and my tasting group and i had a special theme for my b day which was my birth year 1985 they really brought the thunder! we tasted some really killer stuff like 1985 Veuve Clicquot Reserve Rose and 1985 Chateau de la Tour just to name a few it was unforgetable.

Also im working at a fantastic restaurant on the south shore of long island that i think you and Lizzy would really love, we have very thoughtful list which the chef/owner composed himself im his sommelier in training. You haven’t done a long island list yet!!! ill “link up it up” so you can check out the menu and list on our website it would be really cool if you could come have dinner, rate the list, and then make a guest appearance with my tasting group! we meet every Sunday after the restaurant closes so we start tasting at like 1030 …… so email me and let me know if any of this would be something that your into!

Thanks, Dane Campbell
September 30, 2008

RyanB
Thanks for the shout out for Heather and I! It was for our birthday’s. Her’s in Sept and mine in Aug. Appreciate it!

We’ve all been working a ton, but continuing to enjoy our weekly Wine Library shipments
September 30, 2008

CBone
Gary, great show today.

QOTD: I’ve been stressing out the our country will go down the drain if we elect John McCain and Palin! So, I’ve been campaigning for Obama, my girlfriend and I have been planning our wedding (though not yet engaged we will be soon)and I have been thinking about good but cost friendly wines to buy for the reception. Any suggestions? The wedding has 150 +/- people coming (we estimate) and I thought I’d like two reds, one white, and a sparkling. My taste is varied, though I like the veggies. But, I also like fruit. I love Cotes du Rhones, many Napa Cabs, many Zinfandels, Chinons, American Pinot Noirs, most Washington Reds, and many Bordeaux. Whites, I enjoy California Chardonnay, New York and Alsatian Gewurztraminer, white Burgundies. Sparkling, I’m wide open. But, I like lots of things, though I tend not to enjoy Australian, Spanish or Italian wines so much, but those attending my wedding might. And I might, too.

What else…working, missing my family back home in Buffalo (I am in DC) and enjoying life in general. Hoping and working for the best!
September 30, 2008

Omallley
QOTD: Enjoying life – just got back from a wedding on the east coast. It was great to visit with friends and family who we live far too far away from.

I also had a chance to taste an incredible icewine from Nova Scotia (Vidal/Ortega Icewine from Gaspereau Vineyards, in the Annapolis Valley) that rocked my world. Sweet, but with *ripping* acidity. It was beautifully balanced…just a great experience. The cooler growing season than those in Ontario/BC mean you get much higher acidity levels, especially in the icewines. You’ll be seeing some pretty impressive sparklers to come out of the area in a decade or so. And…well…I’d love to see some more Canadian wines on the show That does it for me!

At any rate – great show, and good to see you were so pumped about WLTV.
September 30, 2008

Amarone
Thank you so much for taking my advice and trying my friend Sara Goretti’s Sagrantino. I love it and saw that you seemed to too! So when are you going to actually come to Montefalco and try the wines on location. As I mentioned before in my past emails, I live here in Umbria just 20 minutes from Montefalco and would be happy to take you around to the wineries & my friends Enoteca for lunch to try the wines. I am a sommelier and speak fluent Italian & English so I could be your translator.
Think about it…
Again thanks for trying our Umbrian Jewel.
Salute, Amarone
September 30, 2008

RichG
QOTD: Tailgating!!!
September 30, 2008

Jimmy T
Bro, great show. I wasn’t able to participate this go round so I can’t wait for the next one. Been super busy hustling at work. Trying to make sure that my hustle doesn’t cheat my fam because that is the most important thing. Holla!
September 30, 2008

thecobalt9
congrats on the JETS!

didnt get the secret pack and am BUMMED i didn’t – will DEFINITELY get the next one as this is a great format.

keep up the good work!!!! LA loves ya baby!
September 30, 2008

LuvsChandon
I’ve had the Syrah on order for awhile waiting for cooler shipping temps. Hope I enjoy as much as you.

Me? I’ve been recovering from a broken foot, sitting around drinking a lot of wine (and reading lots of blogs and wine mags!) Cheers!
September 30, 2008

BobbyTiger
Had fun watching the video. Regret I could not drink along, but consider me a buy on the next one.
QOTD- My beautiful wife and I recently celebrated our 43rd anniversary………we have a friend driving up from FL. to spend a long weekend at our home……….and one of our sons will be flying in from LA to cut a promotional video. He, (Chef Nathan Lyon), currently hosts “A Lyon In The Kitchen” on Discovery Health and FIT TV, and soon will be seen on TLC’s “Real Simple, Real Life”. Yeah baby………real proud. Life is good.
September 30, 2008

master1228
QOTD: The last couple of weeks have been crazy, our entire division is moving from Cornell Medical College in the UES of Manhattan to SUNY Downstate in Brooklyn. So, I’ve been working like crazy to try and tie up all the loose ends before we leave Cornell. I just spent the day in Brooklyn getting on their payroll and company physical, basically going from building to building to fill out forms. Tomorrow the movers are supposed to come and pack up all our stuff and Thursday and Friday will be spent at all sorts of orientations.

Great episode Gary. I can’t wait for the next NYC meetup, I had a great time at the last meetup I was able to get to (live live Conan watch at Bounce). Make sure you mention when it will be on an episode of Wine Library TV before the next meetup.
September 30, 2008

Bob
Working on my 3 ball billiard game, and still working on getting below 3 shots. Mott is still the man, come back to Virginia for another championship challenge in my basement.
September 30, 2008

Dex
Can you send secret packs to the state of Utah?
September 30, 2008

Lois and Greg
QOTD:Staying home, paying people to repair our house. Staying home, knowing that the secret pack was delivered to my office today (60 miles away). Staying home, knowing that we will be in Florida from 10/8-14, so will miss that open house, super tasting, etc. But our Jets won big time.
September 30, 2008

Peter
We just found some 1995 El Molino Pinot opened it and found it to be incredible. Still fresh and very good with food as it has the acidity to make a more of the food. I have a number of these guys so I will see if they are equal. Thanks
September 30, 2008

Sean McCann
QOTD: Now that I am back in Canada, and am of legal drinking age here, I am really getting into wine.
September 30, 2008

Joshua Smith
First true Gary V/Wine Library episode experience. I got Californication season 2 last night (only TV show I watch) and you tonight- after catching your Keynote from 2.0, which by the way was killer. Glad to say that the girl and I (and hopefully some her family, as I think quite a few of them will appreciate the show) will be catching you much more often. Keep it up my man, that keynote was just right on and I’m glad to have finally caught a show. Well done.
September 30, 2008

Marc
Secret Pack Update! Today I opened the Sagrantino and mmmmmmm nice! This is not for the weak though. As GV said, it has a strong bitter ending which actually goes away after being opened awhile, or drinking two glasses
I like this one…and I only wish I had the patience to let it sit for 5 years, but for me the best time to drink any wine is the moment you open it!
September 30, 2008

Shawn_944
Hey Gary, Excellent Show, i loved the variety you brought to the table, only one thing I have to mention I have noticed as of late, you don’t have the energy to your intro we have all come to love… other then the live show the other day… Keep up the awesome work.

QOTD: Working for free, nothing like working for free, i am trying to dig my way into a future job opportunity. This is the job I want and I am positioning my self for it!
September 30, 2008

E dog
Great show! I just was just watching a game of football(soccer)and had a 2005 Bordeaux with friends. Nice blackberry and cassis flavours with a hint of “shiraz-like” sour cherry on the finish. Lovely !A little young and tanic, but plenty of potential for improvement. I would rate it 89 at the momment. I have another bottle of the same wine that I will open around may/june, I hope to see a 90/90+ wine then !
If you read this, just want you to know that I think that what you do is great and eye opening for wine fans around the globe. I brought back a selection of French wines which I am sharing and enjoying with flatmates and friends in Scotland.
I am trying new wines and discovering wines that I wouldn t have dared to pick up if it wasn t for this show !

Big up! from all the French and Scottish vayniacs !
September 30, 2008

Susan B
So far, I have tasted only the Rivesaltes. It is really good and reminds me of a late harvest zinfandel I had from Temecula. Can’t wait to try the other 3. They sound from your descriptions like wines I would enjoy.
September 30, 2008

BobMac
QotD: I’m making my own wine.
October 1, 2008

Bobo36
good show. bought the syrah from your shop have not drunk yet.
QOTD: working keeping the economy running; tasting diff wines; getting lawn back in shape; planning choices for my 2nd annual Christmas dinner blind wine tasting.
October 1, 2008

T. Holland
Did not order the secret pack due to some recent changes in my life (see QOTD), but have been enjoying some good WL recommedations from previous Secret pack episodes. Just had the Prada Ayalo 2006 a few weeks ago- loved. Actually, went out & bought 2 more bottles.

QOTD: Had our second child about a 6 weeks ago (baby boy). Getting to know the little guy & working things out with him & my 2 year old daughter. They seem to be getting along well. Needless to say, I am not getting much sleep & am running low on the fundage. Also with wife nursing, it is tough to have wine together unless we get a rare quiet moment. Also had a trip to the ER b/c the little guy had a fever. Very scary, but he ended up being fine. Outside that, just looking forward to MLB playoffs- GO SOX!!!!!
October 1, 2008

T. Holland
Oh yeah, Go RED Sox! Forgot the White ones got in too…
October 1, 2008

BruceErik
Ok, so I left a comment last night about the Syrah, stating how turned off I was with the stinky nose … sewer drain. I let this sit for almost 24 hours at room temperature and, alas, that stinkiness was gone! I cannot tell you why it’s gone, but I now discovered a nose much more like what Gary describes … more fruit. In fact, the “Slim Jim” aromas were no longer noticeable either. But with all that, I still am not a big fan of this Syrah. Just too oddly vegetal and lacking interest for my palate.

BUT! I opened the Sagrantino tonight and I LOVE THIS WINE!! Love the tannin attack, love the fruitiness, love it’s boldness and alcohol. Gary, you struggled a bit to describe a certain aspect of the aroma. I picked up on something a little different that may help. I can only describe it as “Bazooka bubble gum!” and perhaps more accurately as grape flavored bazooka bubble gum. Very subtle, but it’s in there. I pick up the sour cherry you describe, along with celery stick and pomegranate. And chalk … that sensation of mineral dustiness that eliminates all traces of wetness in the mouth. Love it!!

Never had a Sagrantino, but Italian wines remain my favorites. So happy I got the Secret Pack, and was able to experience this delightful red. If you only knew what I went through to get this delivery as a resident of PA. Yikes!!

Well worth the trouble.
October 1, 2008

Phil G
Those looked good, nice choices.

QOTD – watching late, catching up on things – on everything… been busy.
October 1, 2008

Jeff
Gary,

I view you on my iphone at work so I often don’t comment. By the time I do view the show sometimes the episode is 1-2 days old. Anyway, you always say drink with friends and loved ones. So, with that in mind I came up with a idea in regards to the secret pack: I’m taking the wines to a conference I’m attending, getting together 4-5 friends of mine, plugging my iphone into the tv there and we will all taste along with you. I can’t wait. Perhaps you will have a few more viewers too. This won’t be until thur. or fri..so I don’t know if I will send you a comment..you will probably have read through all the comments by then. Anyway, thanks! I have to mention I think you forgot to put that cruise certificate in with my wines!!
October 1, 2008

SARA
Hi Gary!
I’m Sara Goreti from the Goretti’s winery.

Thank you! It’s a very big pleasure have my wine (Sagrantino di Montefalco DOCG, Goretti)in your Wine TV!!!

I hope to meet you soon!

Have a great day!

S.
October 1, 2008

Fabio Rodrigues
Yes Gary, it was my birthday.

Thanks for the shout-out.

I hope someday everybody here in Brasil will be able to get a Secret Pack and taste along with you.

Best regards,

Fabio Rodrigues. (Distrito Federal, Brasil)
October 1, 2008

Jayson Bryant
Can you send secret packs to New Zealand?
Great show.
G’Day from NZ
October 1, 2008

stephen
Harvesting grapes and making wine in Virginia. outside of that, sleeping when we can.
Nice show, really interesting mix of wines, looking forward to seeing what people think about them
October 1, 2008

theemptyglass
QOTD: I just got back from giving a talk at a conference in Croatia. I had a really good trip. Although I’m jetlagged and I’ve caught a cold. oh well, it was worth it. I had a lot of Croatian wines, and some of them I thought were very good!! Our organizer was very careful to choose different wines every night so we got the whole gamut of what Croatian wines were like, it was really neat. Unfortunately, I’m not so good at reading Croatian wine labels, so I can’t recommend specific bottles. (I do have some pictures if you want tho) However, I really do think that you should do a show on Croatian wine, I think that there is something for everyone in that little country.
October 1, 2008

Casey Lee
i was watching episode 2 just now. . gary didnt rinse in between tasting. .hmm
i wonder if he just never did that. . and someone told him to or what . .
October 1, 2008

WineWoman
QOTD: Lesson Plans galore—students are back. Bought a new computer in spite of the economy. Lost our 15-yr. old Samoyed named Justin–toasted him on Sat. night while out to dinner with family and friends with none other than some Justin Obtuse Port. Drank a great array of wines that evening including a Bridlewood Viognier(pineapple juice) and an ‘85 Martinez? Port.

Went to dinner last night at a BYO (Fresco in Clark NJ–great food)Brought the Goretti. Red pepper and sun-dried tomato-esque, definitely evolved in an hour–very RUSTY and blood orangey BLOODY(like DEXTER)exactly like biting your lip or the inside of your mouth. Good Halloween wine. A little tar with a floral finish and more cat-pee than burnt rubber to me and yes, cherries. Excellent food wine.
October 1, 2008

Ray Slakinski
All of these wine’s sound right up my alley but none of them are available in Ontario and WL can’t ship to Canada/Ontario

Hey Gary, how about some reviews of Ontario wines and maybe talk about why you can’t ship up here.
October 1, 2008

Ken F
Gary, retired and it is all good! Golfing today, inventorying my cellar a little later, taking the in laws to dinner tonight and leaving for our cabin just outside of West Yellowstone in the morning. See you on the cruise!!!

Ken
October 1, 2008

hasbeen
QOTD: Watching the markets and listening to friends’ advice that “this too shall pass.” But it is crimping my search for a place in Italy to retire to.

I was a guest at a dinner the other night where a horizontal of several 89 Bordeaux First Growths were the main event.
October 1, 2008

JR Moreau
QOTD: Big job interview in Chicago tomorrow for a renewable energy company. Wish me luck dude! Getting flown out tomorrow morning and coming back tomorrow night so I can work Friday because I’m just that kind of employee.
October 1, 2008

Brad G
Been going to school. It is nice that I still have been having wine even though I am on my own now. Love the show.
October 1, 2008

robertfrancis
Have been working hard on my own website and building that personal brand that we all strive for – PP so true GV so true !

Loved your Web 2.0 speech

Any chance of you shipping secret packs to ireland ??

Would be killer
October 1, 2008

Justin Viger
I thoroughly enjoyed this episode even though, being Canadian, I could not taste (and smell) along with you. I am excited that you are going to be part of the web conference. It will be my first web design conference because I don’t have to travel.

What I have been up to? Not much. Although I thing I am going to buy Iron Man today on Blu-ray, even though I won’t have a Blu-ray player for another week.
October 1, 2008

Derek F.
Wish I could have joined the fun with the secret pack, man I hate MA.

QOTD: I have been really busy with work, working about 56 hours a week, catching up to you Gary..LOL!!
Also been building my wine collection with some 05 Bordeaux that I have been ordering from wine library…having it shipped to a friend in RI.
3 bottles of Chateau Larrivet Haut Brion Rouge “futures”, and 2 bottles of Chateau Vieux Pourret.
October 1, 2008

Derek F.
OW ya, also been learning how to use my twitter, now I cant stop, so much fun…so many great people…..@Derek7877
October 1, 2008

Andrew D
Excellent show Gary

Why goes a screw-cap symbolise poor quaility???? For me I look at wine sealed with stelvin as being better. I’d think obviously the producers care enough about the wine to seal it with something that’s going to get it in better condition to the consumer and keep it that way. I buy a fair bit of wine to cellar and if something’s got a cork I see it as a reason not to buy that wine. You talk about changing the wine world, why are you encouraging outdated myths of the superiority of cork?????

Cheers
Andrew
October 2, 2008

Brandon Snell
QOTD: Working hard, playing hard. Been preparing to play tenor saxophone in our community theaters production of “The Buddy Holly Story”. Should be a blast.

I will have to get back on here and post what I think about these wines.
October 2, 2008

Oklahoma Michael
QOTD= Love me the Montefalco!! I had a date over to taste along with the show and, she loved the last wine. Thanks Gary. Damn I wish I had bought some chocolate.
October 2, 2008

kathyintex ( kathyd )
Fun show…
QOTD ~ What am I up to? HMMM – Well, I am researching wines for a blind price-point tasting for my wine group. Trying to find the highest point reviews for the lowest buck, and then comparing an $8 90 pt. wine against a $12 90 pt wine, and then against an $18-20 90 pt wine. So – lots of research going on today at my place.
Salud`
October 2, 2008

Barbara
Gary,
I ordered the secret pack (didn’t get the free cruise ticket inside – SO upset about that since that was partially why I bought this one in particular – oh well) and am planning to do a wine tasting party with these 4 wines and about 5 other friends. I read through all the posts hoping others might say what foods they liked with these wines. Gary, you mentioned light salads, fish, shrimp with the Albarino and chocolate, cheese, cheesecakes with the Rivesaltes, but was hoping for ideas of what to pair the Syrah and Sagrantino with (never had a Sagrantino).

Might I suggest that you definitely mention what foods to pair with the secret pack wines (and if you ever post on here, what you suggest with this particular pack before I have my wine party)?

Hoping I can get to the cruise somehow!! Thanks! : )
October 2, 2008

pawncop
This was my first secret pack and I am just thrilled. So much fun tasting along with you. Had to do it in a couple of days segments due to constraints.

Loved the Albarino, never had one before, the Syrah was great (your comment of the marshmellow, cotton candy component was right on). The Sagrantino was most interesting, will enjoy it over the next few days, and the Le Goumand was out of this world. Looking fowward to the next opportunity to try wine with you.

QOTD – Working, both jobs, never a dull moment. Hospital work has been way too busy, and the cop thing is my version of the neverending story. Way too many stupid people making my way too busy.

Glad you are back, looking forward to the next episodes.
October 3, 2008

Scott3428
Cards should have beat the Skins? You’re overrating the Cardinals. Their secondary was nonexistent against the Jets.

The Redskins played terrible against the Giants and Campbell was still learning the offense. Then we have Saints, Cards, and Dallas fans saying they’re gonna crush us. Skins never get any respect.

Chris Horton, Defensive Rookie of the Month. How about your old pal Santana Moss? Watch out if he stays healthy. HTTR

Congrats to the Jets and a great performance by Favre.
Keep up the awesome work on the show Gary. (sorry for not talking about wine haha)
October 3, 2008

John Cabot
Hey Gary, we are right in the middle of crush. The winery is full of fermenters and the quality looks great for we’ve brought in, so far.

I know you get wines from people all the time, but I got to ask you what you thought, if you have already popped them, of our three 04 Syrah’s? I would love to send you the 06’s, from a very smoky, wild fire year. These Syrahs bring some serious Slim Jim action, bacon fat, and cured meat/venison notes, I know you will love. Everything is good here. Hope you and Lizzy are well out there in NJ.
John Cabot
Cabot Vineyards
October 3, 2008

davidB
Been away for a while, about two months. Sold the house, now renting and looking for a new place while watching the housing market……not good. I just happened to log on and saw this ep, which had a wine i recently purchased, the Syrah. Loved it and went back to my LWS to get more. Good to be back.
October 4, 2008

Dr. Lance
Geez, I wish we could get the secret pack here in Hawaii. Is there a way? There doesn’t seem to be, but I would sure like to taste wines with the the rest of the lucky Vaniacs. Sometimes, the island “paradise” isn’t all that.
October 4, 2008

Achilleas in Cyprus
Unfortunately, am 5500 miles away so can’t get the secret pack
Turned 40 a month or so ago, thanks for the shout-out.
Had about 10 episodes stacked up and so watching them all.
Been enjoying some new friends and some new wines. Met a relative that’s a Veyniak too.
Basically enjoying life.
October 4, 2008

Dan-o
I did not participate in the Secret Pack due to my travel schedule. Do like Albarinos and certain CA Syrahs.
QOTD – Prepping for my 20th anniversary!
October 4, 2008

thisIslandEarth
Gary,

Just had the Albarino for dinner with the family. Steamed clams and broiled scallops. It was excellent. However, when mom pulled out her super family famous double chocolate cake for dessert we popped the Le Gourmand Rivesaltes – you were the star of the show! EVERYONE loved it. It really brought the thunder with the chocolate. Thanks for some great secret pack picks.
October 5, 2008

JayZee
Once again I did not participate in the Secret Pack, but I very much enjoyed the show.

QOTD: Spent about ten days in Quebec City on business and had a wonderful time as well – great city, good restaurants, decent wine selection despite the Canadian distribution system. Now catching up on WLTV episodes while on business in Geneva, Switzerland for about ten days.
October 5, 2008

Lau
QOTD: Tasting lots of 2005 Bordeauxs for the first time (having a hard time with the tannins with my young palette), besides wine I’m having fun with our website yayart.com where we are pushing digital art to the physical world.
October 6, 2008

Jessica
Great episode Gary! As for the QOTD: My last few months have been spent preping for my trip. I leave in 5 days of India! I’m gonna be there for about 2 months and I’m very very excited!
October 6, 2008

YoungDave
QOTD: I’ve missed you too, G-man! I was away in France and Italy for 2 weeks and have been trying to catch up on my life here in LA. Im almost caught up with WLTV episodes, and I have som e good new for you soon…
October 6, 2008

Lawrence Leichtman
Been on the road for the last 2.5 weeks and still not back home yet. For me, the Sangratino is a killer wine. Not big on any of the others. Still waiting to see the VIP package for the cruise. Have missed seeing any news about the cruise lately though we may have been one of the first to sign up.
October 6, 2008

Scott Breffle
Gary,

I finally sat down on my BDay to taste the secret pack with Mom, Dad, sister, and a cousin. We always love doing these together.

All wines were in general a hit.

The albarino was the most interesting I’ve ever had.
The sagrantino and rivesaltes tied for the overall winners. Popular among everyone.
We are still not sure about the syrah. The nose was a little odd.

My sister, who is not yet a big wine drinker loved the rivesaltes. Maybe this will be her bridge wine!
October 7, 2008

Steve
Love it so much! Take care
October 7, 2008

ShawnDK
Keep it up Gary! I haven’t missed an episode in over a year. Big ups from Denmark.
October 7, 2008

Richard Shaffer
Gary:

Thanks for the shout-out on the birth of our new son Zeke Henry.

He really amazes me!

Richard Shaffer
October 10, 2008

wannaBconnoisseur
Would love to try that Sagrantino!
October 15, 2008

ted
The Copain syrah is amazing for the price-point. I just had a Chapoutier from 1996 (lermite) and I’d put this in ALMOST the same league…but $100 cheaper.
October 15, 2008

Randy Smith
Just had the Syrah. I thought it had a little funkiness at first sniff. I do however get the pomegranate and blackberry jam mixed in with the dirty socks. This is definitely going to be a staple in my cellar. This is not your Australian Syrah.
October 18, 2008

victor
victor

Couldn’t resist peaking- Will have to wait to taste secret pack in Florida
tomorrow when I go on holidays and have these wines and others waiting for
me at my hotel! Yes Canada! You can order delivery of these wines to your
American hotels you visit while on vacation &/or business!
October 18, 2008

Kristen
Wish I could’ve tasted along!

QOTD: Been chilling in Bordeaux and working the harvest! It’s been sweet!
October 19, 2008

YoungDave
QOTD: BUSY trying to revamp our winelist! So behind on episodes, but I’ll catch up soon!
October 21, 2008

Keith
Still working through my Secret Pack. Just finished the Syrah and started the Sagrantino. Gary, good picks! Loved the Albarino the most so far, but really like the Syrah (some coca cola fizz action in my cheeks! My mouth that is!). I’m also a sucker for dry, sour Italian wines, and the Sagrantino is awesome, I probably never would have tried on my own. Looking forward to the next pack…I like the ‘recommendation’ approach to the packs.
October 29, 2008

Randy Smith
Just drank the Sagrantino. I opened it up last night and had one glass with a manicotti. The tannins ripped my face off. Only after 3 hrs of decanting it was still too tight. I did get the sour cherries and the floral component. I left it out on the counter overnight and now the tannins are more manageable. The sour cherries are now just cherries and the bacon fat has come to the forefront on the nose. A little bit of smokiness and pepperiness is also present. I would love to see where this is in 2-3 ys. A great, complex wine. What can I say, I’m a fan of sagrantino now.
October 30, 2008

Mark La Bonte
Have watched but not tried the secret pack yet from episode #548. Trying to set up a tasting with friends and want to pair with food. As another comment I saw asked, do you have any recommendations for the Syrah and Sagratino?

Also, been wanting to thank you for turning me onto Rieslings; incredible, ripping stuff.
November 7, 2008

yowens
That Sagrantino is something I’vee gotta find. QOTD: Trying to stay awake! Thanks for all the shows, Greg
December 31, 2008

Jay
I finally got to tasting the pack today (12/30/08). I wanted to have some of my good friends around to try it but ended up trying it all by myself. I am glad I did. I enjoyed the all but must admit the third one of the bunch was my favorit. I can’t wait to share the rest with everyone tommorrow. Thanks for putting together a great pack.

QOTD: Looking for a job that involves the futhering of my wine education.
January 22, 2009

MIke Harvey
Hi Gary! I’m just catching this episode (Jan ‘09) and wanted to post some big ups to you on the selections. I was especially jazzed to see the Goretti Sagrantino. I had the opportunity to visit the Goretti winery last May while on a trip celebrating the big 5-0 with friends and my daughter.
The Sagrantino wowed me. Like you say, very complex nose and palate.
The Goretti winery also participated in a dinner here in Cleveland put on in conjunction with LPSC where I picked up a couple more bottles.
I served my 2003 over the holidays with a grilled lamb chops with wine reduction. Nice pairing and my bottle didn’t seem to need as much air.
The star of the my holiday dinner though was their L’Arringatore (80% Sangiovese, 10% Merlot, 10% Cigliegiolo). In Umbria, the bottle we took back to the hotel was really tight, but two subsequent bottles were great. I also enjoy their Il Moggio (100% Grechetto). Cheers!
January 22, 2009

Dessert Wine Nerd
I love these episodes but kick myself because you cant ship the packs to the state of Washington. Id love to be tasting them along with you. Still a good show and hope the fellow Vayniacs enjoyed the wines. QOTD: Not much. Kind of drifting right now. Working some heavy days and when it comes to my days off I just feel like being lazy around the house. I am going to the Mariners fan fest this Saturday ( first time ive been able to go to one ) so Im excited about that. Hopefully I’ll be able to touch the grass!…. something Ive wanted to do since I was a kid. Thank God we have grass and not turf.