Christmas Wines and Episode 600..Secret Pack Time

Christmas Wines and Episode 600..Secret Pack Time – Episode #600

December 24, 2008

Gary Vaynerchuk gives the Vayner-Nation a huge announcement for them to watch on X-mas morning and tries the secret pack on this 600th episode.

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Comments on this episode(681) Leave a comment ›

“Plain Point big yes yes for this wine- would buy again…” by Frank
“Congrats on 600 Gary AND Mott. Nice to see Mott sit in for a bit, I k…” by Dessert Wine Nerd
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Wines tasted in this episode:

2007 Bob’s African Sauvignon BlancSouth African Sauvignon Blanc
2005 Rhone Rebel GsmVentoux/Luberon/Nimes
2005 Chateau Plain PointOther Red Bordeaux
2004 Chateau Puech Haut Tete De Belier RougeLanguedoc-Roussillon

Links mentioned in today’s episode.

Gary Vaynerchuk Monthly Wine Club

681 Responses

December 24, 2008

Brandon M
600 episodes and I still have no clue how Gary Scores is related to SS Chris.
Is this finally going to be the heat episode?

Happy Holidays Everyone!

P.S. #1 is so lame
December 24, 2008

Grapestompper (Dave)
Congratulations on episode 600!!!!
December 24, 2008

MattieJ
Congrats on 600… More comments once I finish watching
December 24, 2008

SS Chris
what is going on?
December 24, 2008

Jaybird76
Happy Holiday everyone, 600 is awesome but 400 more is epic
Enjoy the secret pack, wish I had bought one!
December 24, 2008

GoHskrs
Gary & Mott, congratulations on episode #600 and on the Today Show appearance tomorrow. Couldn’t think of a better time to drop my first comment on WLTV than today.

Merry Christmas, etc. to all the Vayniacs!
December 24, 2008

Christophe
Rock on 600! See you on the cruise
December 24, 2008

Brandon M
Gary Vaynerchuck has changed.

(vay)(iac) for life!
December 24, 2008

Kevin Carpenter
Sitting here at work on Christmas Eve is a bummer, but this show definitely made my night.

HAPPY 600!!!!

Merry Christmas to all!!!
December 24, 2008

Grapestompper (Dave)
Awesome!Looking forward to Today. CRUSH IT GV!
December 24, 2008

SS Chris
Gary, why did you force Suzanna to remove the 9452000?
December 24, 2008

SS Chris
Gary, STALLION says you’ve changed….what say you?
December 24, 2008

SS Chris
Gary, BarrelMonkey is looking to change his screen name….any suggestions?
December 24, 2008

SS Chris
Gary, Why is MOTT such a yellow dawg Democrat?
December 24, 2008

TimF
If this bans me, so be it: SS Chris was the best guest in the history of WLTV!
December 24, 2008

mrzitro
Congrats on ep600

Feliz Navdad

top 15
December 24, 2008

Susan
Gary & Chris, Time some of the other original Vayniacs made comments…….. 600 !!!! WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
December 24, 2008

mrzitro
errr….Navidad
December 24, 2008

TimF
The cheese isn’t responsible for the smell at Wine Library — it’s Kahuna’s gas!
December 24, 2008

Kristen
Congrats on #600 GV! Wish I had the secret pack, but at least I bought the Plain Point when I visited! Can’t wait to watch…
December 24, 2008

TimF
There’s white powder on my Port cork — should I return it?
December 24, 2008

Brandon M
Christmas is the time to give…where’s Cooley?
December 24, 2008

TimF
What is going on?
December 24, 2008

TimF
Who’s Gary?
December 24, 2008

Brandon M
The house is always so full of the great smells this time of year. Fresh baked goodies, cinnamon, and of course, Tannins.
December 24, 2008

Zeek27
Awesome – 600 – wish we were able to get the secret packs in Tennessee….

Seasons Greetings to all…. Go Titans
December 24, 2008

Shawn_944
600! and it only feels like yesterday we were sitting at 499 hitting 500… Great Job GV, keep up the great work!
December 24, 2008

Susan
Gary – A JETS GLASS!!!! WOW!!!!!
December 24, 2008

Kristen
yay! The Today Show!!!!
December 24, 2008

Edward Salonia
Gary, thank you for 600 episodes! I hope you have a happy and healthy holiday!

I will be DVR’ing the today show tomorrow.

QOTD: unfortunately I missed out on this secret pack…
December 24, 2008

Jay
QOTD: My secret pack experience is lame because of shipping laws here in WA.
December 24, 2008

wayno da wino
top 30?? WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAW !!!!??!!
December 24, 2008

TimF
Giants > Jets.
December 24, 2008

Susan
Gary – On The Today Show tomorrow around 8:00 am ???? Will record this one!!!!!!
December 24, 2008

TimF
I love the smell of tannins in the morning!
December 24, 2008

Susan
Gary- This is a FIRST!!! I have one of the wines from the secret pack……WOW!!!! YEAH!!!!!!
December 24, 2008

TimF
Squawk Box > Today Show
December 24, 2008

Susan
Gary- Ordering one of Bob’s wines soon as well……..epic!!!!!!
December 24, 2008

Brandon M
GGFG
December 24, 2008

TimF
Secret Packs = Major Scam.
December 24, 2008

Timothy
Congrats on episode 600!
December 24, 2008

Susan
Gary & Chris, CONGRATULATIONS on Episode # 600 !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! FAB!!!!!!
December 24, 2008

Kade Dworkin
Gary and Chris, congrats on making ep 600. It’s been a great 2008 following you guys and I wish you and everyone else in the Vayner-nation an amazing holiday season & 2009.
December 24, 2008

Brandon M
Secret Packs > Clon %
December 24, 2008

mgray84
Twittered this to you but loved how you expressed what the win was saying to your mouth and palette. Also talking to those tasting with you was classic. Great aspect of the show. Great to see the all mighty mott in there
December 24, 2008

Carilius Maximus
Congrats on 600!!Cheers!
…
How about a contest to create a secret pack selected by a Vaynergeek.???
December 24, 2008

Brandon M
Maximus…have you cleared the use of the word “Vaynergeek” with SS Chris?
December 24, 2008

TimF
Clone % > Clone 5
December 24, 2008

BobbyTiger
Merry Christmas to most of you, and,
season’s greetings to the remainder.

Congratz. to you Gary for #600. (And to think we almost didn’t make it past 500).
Sorry, I couldn’t do the secret pack, but in VA, you have to sign for the package, and, I pretty much work during the day. Enjoyed the show non-the-less.
December 24, 2008

Brandon M
Bobby…have you seen Monrovino’s VA Tasting room guide?
December 24, 2008

Mark
Great show! I have the secret pack, and after watching, I changed what I’ll be serving tonight at our xmas eve party. Keep up the great work!
December 24, 2008

Mr.Ambassador
Really enjoy watching the secret pack tasting though I wish you could ship to Washington State so we could enjoy the full experience.

Faithfully viewing along and hoping for another 600 episodes!

Happy Holidays to everyone at WLTV!
December 24, 2008

Susan
Merry Christmas To All!!!!!!!
December 24, 2008

SS Chris
Gary, I don’t know if you’ve ever considered this…but I think there is a conflict of interest with you rating wines that you sell!!
December 24, 2008

DaveyDonut
I hope you put The Today show online… I have no TV.

I had a recent Languadoc wine that was fantastic, and you guys used to sell it! Have you had the 2006 Les Obriers de La Pèira Coteaux du Languedoc Les Terrasses du Larzac? RP scored it 93 which usually tells me to stay away, but he was right on this one.

Merry hoho day… Portland got 2 feet of snow and we have no plows. Buses aren’t running tomorrow and none of my family can get out of their homes (NW snow isn’t like NE snow, so quit calling us wusses!) so my family is actually canceling Christmas tomorrow! WTF! Can you do that? I said we should take cabs to my sister’s house, but nooooo…. they say we can get together this weekend when it melts. Bah… that’s not Christmas… So I get so spend Christmas alone! Lame… I think I’ll open a profound bottle of… something.

QOTD, I didn’t get it.

David
December 24, 2008

Justin Bahr
Loved this episode. I wasn’t watching for a while but this episode has hooked me back in. As always Gary, you brought massive THUNDER!!!
December 24, 2008

TimF
Gary sells wine, seriously? Then how can he rate them? That would be like asking a used car salesman which is the best car on the lot. Geeze.
December 24, 2008

Susan
WHO are you and WHAT have you done with Gary Vaynerchuk??????? Buffalo?????? ARE you feverish?????
December 24, 2008

cgatesman
Languedoc wines have always fascinated me, and I always get that same feeling you did. They seem so complex and interesting, that they go beyond what my palate can handle. Oh, but I so do love them!
December 24, 2008

Griz4life
QOTD: I will be getting my secret pack when it arrives from STL…I’ll comment back when I taste…
December 24, 2008

Suzanna
I know there’s Secret Pack, but is there a Double Secret Pack?

Oh, and can you give a shout-out to my kitty cat?

Congratulations on 600!
December 24, 2008

Dr T in NC
Hope to catch you tomorrow on Today!
December 24, 2008

Kerry DeVrient
Awesome!!! I am a TOTAL newbie to the “Vayniac Nation,” as well as, a relative newbie to fine wines, BUT, I love this!!! The first episode I viewed however, was the one with Jim Cramer on investing. I am VERY, VERY interested in this area of wine purchasing!!! Gary, please???????????? More on this!! And BTW, congrats on episode 600………PLEASE…600 more!!!! OK!! So, I am now a Vaynerchuk addict!!! What can I say?? Merry Christmas!!!!!!
December 24, 2008

Joel M
You made it. Nice work. Look forward to the Today Show episode. Merry Christmas to you and your family.
December 24, 2008

jjmabaseb
Merry Christmas to you, and congrats on episode 600.

Didn’t do a secret pack this time, but I’ll probably do the next one.
December 24, 2008

PSirah Tampa
Great show! I didn’t know you were doing the Secret Pack; I haven’t been watching like I used to. I’ll have to go the the shop website to see if I can figure out how to order the next “secret pack” so I can join in on the fun!
December 24, 2008

wayno da wino
Yo G & Mott, FAAAAANTAAAAAASTIIIIIC 600th Episode !!! Merry Christmas,
Happy Hanukkah, Happy New Year & All that Good Stuff!!!
Yo G, the Jets WIIIILLLLL STOMP da Dirty Fish this weekend (to satisfy
me 10 & 6 preseason Jets Prediction)…..GOOOOOOOOOO JETS !!!
December 24, 2008

Jesse
WOOO 600!! nice job my friend. Great post. I will try this package. I watched this here at my business, but I have posted your link on my blog for many other people to enjoy. Cheers

Jesse
December 24, 2008

TimF
Languedoc = wine lake.
December 24, 2008

Anthony L.
Merry Christmas to all. Didn’t get the secret pack but enjoyed the episode anyway.
December 24, 2008

John
THANK YOU GARY!

Funny story, I recently got my dad into watching WLTV, and last night he mentioned the “mysterious Mott”, because he had never seen an episode with anything more than his hand seen on camera. Episode 600 delivers the true face of the man behind the camera!

Great episode!
December 24, 2008

TimF
Whoa! Are there two TimFs?
December 24, 2008

Mark Fitzpatrick
600 and rollin’

Another great show. Always nice to see the Mottster on camera. He’s such a modest ham…

***** And SS Chris *****

I’m not jumpin’ on you now. You just asked a questionne…If Gary weren’t a straight shooter it could be a conflict. BUT, I’m sure you know he’s also trashed wines he’s sold, and trashed wines with the wine makers sitting right in front of him.

So geez, Christmas Eve’ let’s look at all the JOY Santa Gary Vee brings us all. Yes he’s selling a crap load of wine. Someone’s gonna do it.

Can you think of anyone more deserving to be that someone?

I can’t.
December 24, 2008

LeonWashingtonsBIggestFan
Gary, this episode made me really happy!
Love it when you throw Mott into the mix!
He’s your only guest that isn’t afraid to disagree with you, and for that, I love these episodes!
You’re always keepin’ it real man
December 24, 2008

SS Chris
Mark Fitzpatrick,

fyi, there is evidence that Gary looks at which wines provide the greatest profit margin to Wine Library……and then schills for those wines.
December 24, 2008

MikeN-In-BC
Merry Christmas Garry, Mott and to your family’s. Congrats on the Today show. More great exposure!!! 600!!! episodes !!!!! yahhhhhhhh!!! Keep them coming. Oh, and the invite up to Canada from us is still open if you remember the email. Again, all the best, and i cant wait till 601.

Mike
December 24, 2008

theemptyglass
Merry Christmas Mott and Gary!
December 24, 2008

FTBoomer
Merry Christmas and Happy #600
December 24, 2008

MattieJ
QOTD: Drinkin the Bob’s SB… Getting very pronounced Green Pepper on the mid palate and oodles of Acid on the finish… Also apple on the nose… Tomorrow I’m breaking out the 05 Bordeaux…
December 24, 2008

Jimmy T
GV, missed the Secret Pack again due to the crazy economy but thanks so much for keepin’ it rockin’. Merry Christmas!!!!
December 24, 2008

TimF
Yeah, Gary just trashes those wines to keep up his credibility. Raves about the wines where there is lots of money to be made.
December 24, 2008

Konstantin
Thanks for the great show
Merry Christmas to everyone!
December 24, 2008

Stu McLaren
Great episode Gary.

Looking forward to the year end recap

Bring the thunder baby!
December 24, 2008

Alex Mielnik
Congratulations on 600!… Merry Christmas Gary and to you as well Mott. Good to see you today! Love the show and your inspirational vibe…
Alex
December 24, 2008

Jay
Gary this episode was a blast! Loved it. Merry Christmas and here’s to 600 more!
December 24, 2008

manonthemoon
Always a good show when Chris gets airtime.
Merry Chrismas to all.
December 24, 2008

Brian W.
Gary what a great year! Had the chance to meet you in Houston in June and have had a blast getting to 600 with you! Looking forward to the next 600+.
December 24, 2008

Rickie
Happy Holidays! and congratulations on 600!
December 24, 2008

AxelF
Great episode 600!
Nice Wines.

Merry Christmas to all!
December 24, 2008

Frank J
Great episode Gary. Congratulations on reaching the 600th episode. This is really a huge milestone. Keep doing what you are doing and spreading positive messages through your show. Happy Holidays to you and Mott.
December 24, 2008

DannInNH
Another super show. Also, great seeing you last week (Saturday) at the store picking up my ‘05 Futures. I did not get the package, but the Puech Haut Saint Drezery seems like a winner. You didn’t mention the importer of that wine – Jeffrey Davies – which might just be another reason to make the purchase.
December 24, 2008

Ben N.
Great show Gary, and Merry Xmas to everybody.
December 24, 2008

Rowland
hoot hoot! ill catch ya later. love to the fam.
December 24, 2008

ChequeredManiac
Come on 600, lookin forward to chunkin’ a bit of steak with that 2005. Happy Crimbo from Ireland.
December 24, 2008

Shuf
Another great show, feels like we came over to your house for the holidays. Congrats on 6oo.
December 24, 2008

Alex
great show!
December 24, 2008

Dale Cruse
Happy holidays to all my pals at the Wine Lib!
December 24, 2008

CommentPolice
TimF and SS and Brandon and all other “old timers”. Enough! This is not the place! We can all see through you…bunch of fuckin haters! So, what I’m trying to say is: FUCK OFF!!! and let the man have his well-deserved glory!
well done, Gary!!!
Here is to 600 more!!!
December 24, 2008

jammindude
I can’t get this stuff because of WA state shipping laws, but I wanted to say that I will definitely be looking up that 2004 Chateau Puech Haut Tete De Belier Rouge. I’ll find it somewhere….
December 24, 2008

Karl Laczko
Good show, great to see Chris in front of the camera for the big 600!

Merry Christmas Gary, Chris, everyone at WL & the Vayniacs, enjoy the holidays!
December 24, 2008

Alan and Gayle
QOTD: Secret box..My story….Can’t be delivered to Georgia………UGHHHHHHHHHHHHH I was literally on the phone begging them to send it to us..

Anyway, Happy Holidays,,,,and it was great to see Mott (aka: rock star)
congrats on #600
December 24, 2008

Dominus
Thank you my man for 600 great shows! Looking forward to 600 more.

Unfortunately, I did not participate with this Secret Pak since I’m not home in my own “domain(e).” But I still enjoyed the show.

Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah to all and especially good luck on Sunday.

Cheers!
December 24, 2008

Cris
Gary, thanks for bringing the Thunder!!! Keep up the great work and Happy Holidays to all!
December 24, 2008

SmokeyUST
What is up with this guy scoring wines he sells.
And why does he look like an elf?

Did he escape from Santa’s shop???
December 24, 2008

Jonny D
Greetings from Dublin. Happy holidays to all you Vaniacks, and to Gary and Mott. Have just recently discovered wine library tv, but am already passing on the word. That Chateau Peuch Haut ‘04 looked delicious, although I’m definitely a Bordeaux man myself. Looking forward to 601!
December 24, 2008

Antonio Touriño
Hey Gary! Merry Christmas and great 600th eppie of the Thunder Show! Greetings to you and your family. Keep up the good work!

Mott! Thanks for your work on the show! Happy Holidays to you too.

To all the peeps at WL, Happy Holidays!
December 24, 2008

Simon
Hey Gary. Congratulations on the 600th EP, you rocked it out as always (big up to the Mottster too). I’m in the UK so no secret pack but the show is always a joy regardless.

Happy holidays and and here’s to the next 600.
December 24, 2008

TimF
All glory to Gary!!!
December 24, 2008

Julie
Congrats on another prime time exposure, you really should cover yourself. Break a leg tomorrow morning. Do you feel lucky… well do you. Make my “Today”, GV! Hope you don’t get the Kathy Lee’s segment… she is a toughy!

Ship to MN soon!
December 24, 2008

Kevin K
QOTD: I had the Bob’s last week. One more bottle will be consumed tonight. The GSM I think.
December 24, 2008

Brian
Happy Holidays and congratulations on 600. And here’s to another 600!
December 24, 2008

Kevin K
If Gary gets his wish of 600 comments, it will be a Christmas miracle! =)
December 24, 2008

Jess
Merry Christmas!! Great show and congrats on #600! We are leaving wine and cheese for Santa tonight!!!
December 24, 2008

OttawaB
Congrats and Merry Christmas GV. Nice to see your notes on the Puech Haut …. I have the 2003 and 2004 kicking around my cellar …. very good stuff.
December 24, 2008

Vinny
Hey Gary – Merry Christmas and congrats on 600 kick-ass episodes of WLTV. Best to you and your family and have a great New Year, too.
December 24, 2008

glenn
all that glorious Mott and no love for The World Champion NY Giants and their wild W over the Carolina Kitties???

Mazel Tov on 600. we do need a educational Languedoc show with maps and pie charts dude. was a region i was just beginning to peek around with real interest when i moved to California in 99, then i became Cali-centric, another lemming.
December 24, 2008

RANDI
GARY!!!
Much love to you, the crew @ Wine Lib. and all the Vayniacs!
xoxo
RANDI
December 24, 2008

Sophia
You rock my wine world. Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
December 24, 2008

AaronB
Congrats on 600 episodes and the Today show. Have a merry Christmas!

QOTD: I never get the secret packs, sorry. I would have to sign for them and I work during the day. Plus, I don’t trust my neighbors.
December 24, 2008

YoungDave
QOTD: Didn’t get this secret pack, but…

MERRY CHRISTMAS, BIG G.!! HAPPY NEW YEAR and, as I have every holiday for 600 episodes, I wish you and your family well. I hope you are all safe and together this holiday season. Cheers.

TODAY SHOW TOMORROW– DVRed!
December 24, 2008

Tim
Great show as always Gary. Merry Christmas and God bless you, Mott and everyone else.
December 24, 2008

OSCAR FALCON LARA
Happy Holidays. So cool of you to say “we are family” , that is absolutely amazing.

Here’s to 600 more. Cheers !

I haven’t had any of the wines you tasted here but I like Mas de Daumas Gassac from the Languedoc, it’s just as you described the last wine, full rich heavy form, just adorable ( if you like strong full bodied wines ).

Season’s Greetings to Everyone!
December 24, 2008

Gio
Gary’s favorite new word is “play.”

Happy Holidays and congrats on reaching 600! I think I’ve watched most of your episodes.
December 24, 2008

guymandude
great show.500 more comments and were there.enjoy your show always, and spread the thunder!all the best to you and yours
December 24, 2008

loretta feeney
Good Ep. I often wonder how long these wines have been open before you shoot the shows.
December 24, 2008

StevenV
Big thanks to GV and Mott for another episode of wine goodness. Been watching for about 100 episodes and am floored by the consistent energy and content. Kudos. Happy holidays to all.
December 24, 2008

Hido53
Gary -

QOTD: Though I didn’t get the secret pack (sorry!), I thoroughly enjoyed this episode. Happy Holidays to you and everyone at WLTV as well as all the Vayniacs out there!
Gonna have some second-to-none West Coast Dungeness crab and some New Mexican Gruet bubbly tonight! Can’t wait!
December 24, 2008

jonomck
Nice one Gary. Have a great x-mas!
December 24, 2008

Marshall
I Loved that movie Rounders. Anyway, congradulations on 600 and have a great holiday.

P.S. I’m also suddenly in the mood to have a Southern French wine.
December 24, 2008

Brook
Gary & Mott,
Haved never tried a secert pack but love to watch and can imagine tasting with you. Have a wonderful holiday!
Take goog care,
Brook
December 24, 2008

JCN
Happy Holidays Gary.
December 24, 2008

sharon
Happy Holidays!
December 24, 2008

Emily
Gary & Mott,
Loved the show, although we didnt get the secret pack b/c we’re in Canada we enjoyed with our own glass of Sancerre. Introduced Gary to the fam this Christmas and we’re snowed in here but luckily have some nice bottles to enjoy. Have a wonderful Christmas and here’s to 600 epic thunder shows!
December 24, 2008

Kyle Willis
Gary, in light of your 600th episode, I bought 7 completely different wines from all over the world, none of which I’ve tried before. I can’t seem to find any of the wines you have on the show at the stores near me, so I just try things that are similar varietals and regions. I really do love to taste wine now. Thanks gary!
December 24, 2008

evergleam
Congratulations on 600!!

Merry Xmas!
December 24, 2008

Jay
QOTD: No secret pack (trapped here behind the Zion Curtain…), but Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to the entire staff!
December 24, 2008

KenP
GV, congrats on your 600th.

I’ll catch you tomorrow.

Happy Holidays. Peace.
December 24, 2008

Heath Payne
Another great show! Congrats on turning 600! By the way, Willamette Valley Sauvignon blanc is starting to make a play. I’m a big Loire valley (RIP Didier Daguenau), and NZ fan and I am liking what I’m seeing coming out of Oregon. I even worked with a ‘Kiwi’ this last harvest who tried some and was impressed, so check it out. J. Christopher and Patricia Green Cellars are a couple of producers doing it up well.

cheers,
Heath
December 24, 2008

Rajiv
Thanks for 600 eps Gary!
December 24, 2008

Kyle Suehiro
Hey Gary!
Congrats on 600 awesome WL episodes! Thank you so much for putting in the huge effort in education and quality. Please thank Mott as well! The show wouldn’t be the same without him.
I hope your holidays go well.
Thanks to you, I just got in a whole case of Anwilka and will be sharing a few bottles with friends and family over the next couple days. I opened one bottle yesterday (and drank a bit of course) and will save it to taste with one that we open tomorrow. Gotta share a bit of that GV education with my fam.
Once again, thanks a ton from Hawaii! You gotta come out and visit! I’d love to take you surfing!
Kyle
December 24, 2008

senator
Figures that this would be the secret pack I missed out on. I guess I’ll have to pick up a short case of the Languedoc. Merry Christmas bro!
December 24, 2008

Eddie Brown
Mott’s cool.
December 24, 2008

AL
Gary, I always watch your show here (not Itunes) because I buy wines directly here when you recommend them.
I wanted to let you know that a couple weeks ago when you did the ustream live recos on wine I bought a bottle then. (wanted a fruit bomb around $40)
My wife and I will be enjoying that tomorrow on Christmas. I told her it was very special because the big “G” himself gave me a personal recommendation on this bottle. (oh, yeah, she thinks I got some connections! LOL)

THanks again for all you do and I look forward to your Today Show appearance.
–AL
December 24, 2008

romo
we just finished our third secret pack together with GV.

we are happy to see value rhones in the mix, as we already had bought other GSM blends for xmas. we all gathered around the laptop and swirled and spat this xmas eve.

bob’s sauv blanc: we liked it but not as much as the NZ SBs. loire reflection is spot on. not enough lime and fruit flavors to cut through any foods.

rhone rebel: cherries! capital G for grenache. this is a chocolate-cherry dessert from carrows or bennigans where they use cheap ingredients and forget the whip cream.

plain point: when will i find an 05 bdx that is NOT good? great complexity for a fronsac and for this price point. this is the value GV brings to the vayner nation.. i would never pull a $25 fronsac off the shelf without a recommendation.

puech-haut: color shows a seriousness unlike the other three. nose is of a foresty middle-aged bordeaux, but the palate is all syrah. was not expecting such structure from a SGM. finish goes on and on. bravo.

we are anxious to see how these wines perform tomorrow after a day of air.

thanks!
December 24, 2008

Chris F.
Merry Christmas from the great snowy Northwest.Missed out on the secret pack but it looked delicious,good job once again Gary and congratulations on your 600 episode!
December 24, 2008

Ken
Congratulations on 600, Gary. Thanks for always putting on a great show, and Merry Christmas.
December 24, 2008

Mark
Hey Gary! I’m glad you put up some under $10 wines that bring the THUNDER. For Christmas this year I’m drinking an ‘01 Montagne St. Emilion Chateau Coucy $11. Also, you nailed that comment about my significant other getting me a decanter for Christmas. Happy Holidays!
December 24, 2008

shawnandlu
Great episode Gary, I feel a deep sadness that I didn’t get the secret pack. I didn’t know you were going to pretest the wines. My only consolation is that you indicated that you would be pretasting the wines for the Gary V wine of the month club I am going to join the C level. Please Gary pick out some winners for us for January! Happy holidays to all.
December 24, 2008

shawnandlu
P.S. Mott stole the show. Mottlibrarytv coming soon.
December 24, 2008

EBRIUS
LIFE..not to be MISSED. ENJOY. Thanks Gary in all that you do. We are all in this together…HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

V Ä Y N I Ä C S guild on Darkspear server..World of Warcraft. PST ebrius for INVITE.

MOTT…you PWN man. Although I never got the MOTTster Hoodie..I look foward to it in 2009.

QOTD..I missed the secret pack…but never to late Gary for the QOTY. Sum up your best wine of 2008.

HO HO HO!
December 24, 2008

lifestooshort
SS Chris, who doesn’t love a good quiz?

Why is MOTT such a Yellow Dog Democrat?

a) Because Republicants had 8 years to get it right, and couldn’t have gotten it more wrong.
b) BEFORE George Bush, zero Americans beheaded abroad. AFTER George Bush, er, not so much…
c) BEFORE George Bush, national debt at roughly 5.7 trillion bucks. AFTER George Bush over 10 trillion.
d) Gary Vaynerchuck is a Democrat (although I’m guessing not a yellow dawg, more like burgundy hound)
e) All of the Above.
December 24, 2008

Weston
You dont ship to Canada and I dont have Cable so no Today show live hah. Peace~
December 24, 2008

Matt
Okay Gary…you finally got me to stop lurking on iTunes on this one. Great show, perhaps sometime next year I’ll finally get to enjoy a secret pack with you. Keep up the good work. Especially Mott! Laters.
December 24, 2008

John
QOTD: What to my wondering palate should appear, but Gary and Mott and the secret pack of the year. Every wine was very good. The Puech-Haut was as delicious a wine as I’ve ever had. You learn so much sniffing and whorling with Gary. Happy 600!
December 24, 2008

dan
no secret pack, you can’t ship to maine! i will be up tomorrow to watch you on the today show, have fun with the ladies!
December 24, 2008

RonD
No secret pack – why can’t you ship to WA state?

We had a Paul Hobbs Argentinean Cab tonight, Felino I think. Great value but a bit simple overall although it is more old world than new which I like.

Please send some of your rain to Seattle, we have had enough snow for the next 20 years this week.
December 24, 2008

wayno da wino
GOOOOOOO JETS JETS JETS !!!! GOOOOOOOOO JETS JETS JETS !!!!!!!
STOMP STOMP STOMP on da SLIMMY DIRTY FISHES !!!!!!!
WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAWHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO !!!!!!
December 24, 2008

Absolut Lahmi
Watched the big 600 in Istanbul, visiting family. Even though i did not have the secret pack, it still made me want to enjoy a glass with you. AWESOME episode.

I’ll be here for 700, 800, 900, 1000…….
December 24, 2008

rimarfish
Congratulations # 600 episodes!!!
Merry Christmas Gary. We want 600 more!!!
December 24, 2008

PeterT
See you tomorrow on the Today Show. Hope you mention “growers” Champagne during your bubbly segment.
December 24, 2008

Harry
Thank you Gary!
I’ve been pouring wines for all sorts of friends and until then strangers, and have to get some of these to share with soon. Btw, Mirabelle Rose is showing spectacular now for a decent value. And the Merry Edwards Sauv Blanc 07 is spectacular, perhaps the best California Sauv Blanc I’ve ever had for a very fair value (although it’s hard to find).
Happy Holidays
Harry
December 24, 2008

abqdeb
Thanks and congrats on 600 shows Gary! I didn’t buy the secret pack, but enjoyed the episode anyway. How about a “not so secret pack” where you tell us what the wines will be and then we decide if we want to buy and taste along with you? Just a thought….

Happy holidays!
December 24, 2008

Subdaimon
Congrats Gary, 600 is a huge accomplishment. Happy Christmas and Merry New Year. Btw, soon enough your episodes will surpass your post count on the forum
December 24, 2008

Buddhachu
Merry Grinchmas and a Happy Who Year!

DVR set for tomorrow.
December 24, 2008

BeaEllen
WOW, 600 episodes, Congrats. When I’m not digging you, I’m twittering you, or I’m just hanging on Facebook or MySpace watching your every move. I can’t be too connected to you Gary. All right, I’ll say it, I’m naming my first born after you, seriously. Scratch that, I’m naming my first, second and third born after you, who cares if there are a few girls thrown in there, they can live with being called Gary. I love wine, I love this show and I hope to see you all on the ThunderCruise.

And SS, you’re just angry that you were fired and replaced by Gary Scores. Quit your whining and just accept the fact that he bring so much more pleasure to Gary than you do.
December 24, 2008

Keith Brown
Gonna try and help you get to 600 comments. Liked watching it even though I didn’t get the secret pack. I’m the only one here that even drinks wine. However, I did set my DVR to record your Today Show appearance. I don’t have kids at home anymore, they’ll be over later in the day, so I’m NOT getting up in the morning… Merry Christmas to Gary, everyone else at Wine Lib and all the Vayniacs!!
December 24, 2008

bfrankphoto
Merry Christmas buddy!
December 24, 2008

kenny_k
Merry Christmas GV!
December 24, 2008

J3rome
Hey, Gary. Happy Holidays. I hope you get some awesome presents and stuff. Give my love to your family. I hope you get 600 comments.
December 24, 2008

LaLaLori
I want to try that 2nd wine now since I’m a red wine hater. Love Lori.
December 24, 2008

scottg
Gary–Mazel Tov on 600 shows. Nice seeing Mott in front of the camera. QOTD: I didn’t enjoy the secret pack at all. Oh, wait…the State of Washington wouldn’t let me order it If you’re going to do a New Years resolution show, let that be the first one–work to abolish all interstate shipping laws discriminating against wine.
December 24, 2008

John Farrin
Thank you Gary for all your generousity!
December 24, 2008

Joanne
Woo Hoo! Enjoyed your 600th show and will go out and search for the 2004 Chateau Puech on 12/26.
December 24, 2008

CraigD
Hey Gary hope you make 600! Long time iTunes watcher and since it is Christmas I wanted to let you know how much I enjoy your show. Love the passion and the education. Keep up the great work an Merry Christmas to you and your loved ones!
December 24, 2008

CC_HTown
Good show. Merry Christmas, Gary, to you and your family!
December 24, 2008

mateja
I think getting to 600 will be easy because let’s face it, the whole country is on the internet right now.
December 24, 2008

CuriousInStLouis
Ya know…I’ve never participated in any of the secret packs and I usually end up regretting it. Especially the time you included a sauterne in the pack…I’m still smarting from that one. Maybe someday…

Happy Holidays to all the WL staff and the Vayniacs!!
December 24, 2008

Rowland
hehe, “lets make wine love, friends.”

wow gary, you have an almost Hindu cosmological karma thing with the jets huh? you really take into account what time they and other teams are playing as an indicator of the outcome of a whole season? but actually, having family from old Russia too, i know how superstitious you peeps are.

MOOOOOOOOTT! the BesT.

nice jets glass.

lol (im totally not being critical) but you really have to see yourself on film holding out a spit bucket for someone.

it is pazaz, its gotta be!

qotd: please son, ill write 600 comments if your not gonna be on on monday. I didnt get a secret pac, too poor but i did enjoy some Hudson Valley baco noir from benmarl with my ham and taters, my plum wine isnt ready yet. So like i said, i have an awesome idea for another wrist band id be willing to trade for the next secret pac (hopefully new years? my birthday it Jan 1) if you think its good enough.
December 24, 2008

SacramentoCharlie
600 is great but did you hear how Winestein got his snow & ice covered satellite fixed ?
December 24, 2008

John Cannata
Gary – I don’t typically leave a comment, but Im trying to help you get to 600. Happy Holidays! I’ve learned a lot over the past few weeks that I have watched. I try to pay it forward by sharing the experience on twitter (@jcannata) and with friends outside of twitter. Enjoy the show. I’ll try to catch you tomorrow on ‘Today’.
John Cannata
Frisco, TX
December 24, 2008

Ivan
Merry Christmas Gary!
December 24, 2008

Bryan R. Adams
Congrats on 600. I was on the NJ turnpike this evening driving to Piscataway for a Xmas Eve dinner and I saw a few of your billboards. Now I think my wife is gonna start watching you (I mentioned the wine and candy bar ep).
I look forward to trying the wine that Mott said tasted burnt. Love it.
December 24, 2008

Jesse
Wine cant be sent from New Jersey to PR so I shipped the last secret pack to a miami address and took 2 boxes to a small party. By the end of the night I had learned “the pregnancy dance”. dont mix wine with champagne; not a good idea.

600!!! woot!
December 24, 2008

Beardo
Happy Holidays Gary (and everyone at Wine Library).

QOTD: You don’t ship to Montana so no secret pack for me, but I work in a wine store so I’ve got plenty of great stuff to drink tomorrow. See you on the Today Show!
December 24, 2008

Brandon S.
I missed out on the secret pack this year, sadly. But the trip to NYC for NYE is going to require a visit to the store.

SUGGESTION- DIGG ARMY ON EPISODE 600. Part of me hates that site, but it brings molto numeros. Do it. Thanks for 600.
December 24, 2008

Valentin
Hi Gary. Congrats on No. 600. Keep up the good work!
December 24, 2008

vinoBlue
Catch ya tomorrow on the Today Show GV. Enjoyed the extended cameo from the Mottster, but I’m kinda surprised about the lack of hoopla – it was the 600th episode after all! I wish everyone the best – happy holidays to you and your family!
December 24, 2008

Robert Howells
Gary, Merry Christmas to you,Mott and everyone at Wine Library.
December 25, 2008

Jazzylee77
My family was drinking Gallo Muscato tonight. Aaaaaaaaaaaagh!!!!!
December 25, 2008

Ray Barnes
Nice job again GV, and congrats to Chris and yourself for a lot of good hard work and dedication. I wish you all a most joyous Christmas and a safe holiday. Gotta say Gary, I sure like it when you get pumped up over a strong offering from the Languedoc, it reminded me of that tasting you did of the 2003 Mas de la Barben Les Calices which became recommendation #101 in your book. I assume this wine is going into next year’s edition.

Regarding the Patriots-Bills game, I will be rooting for the Patriots. I am also taking the Jets over the Dolphins. I read earlier that the Jets were pelted with snowballs as they were leaving Qwest Field last Sunday – which is despicable of them to do. That is adding insult to injury. Regardless of who wins the AFC East, I want what could be Favre’s last game to be a victory.

QOTD – didn’t buy it, sorry.
December 25, 2008

Mac
We’ll be watching tomorrow – although at 8-9 probably tasting bacons and coffees, not wines
December 25, 2008

tom burritt
Hey Gary:
Congrats on 600! Being a Buffalo fan, I’m so happy we can both root for the Bills this weekend. My heart was ripped out many weeks back so I know what you mean.

Can’t wait to spend the holidays with my Folks who are flying into Austin, TX to visit! Looking forward to sharing a very special wine with him!

Looking forward to the today show tomorrow!
December 25, 2008

Little Jonny H
Neat that you had a SAfrican SB on the show, as I just tried my first this afternoon at a X-mas gathering! Mine was definitely lacking the characteristic acid that I love about SB, but good to see there are more traditional efforts out there. Love the selections for Xmas/600! Congrats on the 600 milestone!

QOTD: Wish I would have bought it!
December 25, 2008

Goncasurus-Rex
gary good show, I cant get the secret pack where I live… that sucks, but even so you exemplify what christmas means, a connection to life.
December 25, 2008

WineWoman
Too much wine in the hizzy to drink any of the secret pack yet. Though I made a special trip to WL Tues. evening to pick-up my pack that Justin made special for me. Parking lot was so full that flashlight-yielding men directed us to a space around the corner. Also bought some cheese, the Cowgirl is stinking up my fridge. Now that you and Mott tasted all the wine for me, I know exactly when and what to serve these wines with. Just had a 2003 Chateau Valcombe from the Cotes du Ventoux the other day–it tasted like you were eating rose petals. I loved it. Gary, thanks for all you do. Fantastic Episode #600. I’ll be watching you with Meredith and Ann. They like to drink. Cheers! Merry Christmas!
December 25, 2008

Brandon M
CommentPolice….love you bro. You actually had everyone fooled I think.
December 25, 2008

digitaldean
Gary, congrats on #600. Like I called it, the Mottster would make a cameo!
Agree on the SA Sauv Blancs. One of my first steps back into expanding my “pal” was a Sauv Blanc from the Swartland region. Excellent buy at 7 bones from Sebeka.
Did not get a Secret Christmas pack but thanks for the Rhone Rebel. I probably give that a shot.
Great that Gary’s on Today Show. Lookin’ forward to viewing it before I leave for the Christmas family gathering.
Merry Christmas and a rockin’ 2009 to all! Gary your Jets aren’t losing in the fashion my Pack has the last 5 weeks. My football heart is ripped out!
December 25, 2008

alex kang
another awesome show, and merry christmas to all
December 25, 2008

Eliot (in the Lou)
Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, Happy Chanukah, Happy Kwanzaa, GV and CM! Great episode.

Mottster, strong work! Always great to see you on camera. And the zoom work was spot-on.

Seriously, Gary, thank you for changing the way we approach wine. You’ve expanded my wine world by convincing me that it’s OK to use my own vocabulary. It sounds small, but that’s a huge deal.

HAPPY 600!!!
December 25, 2008

Ralphie G.
I can’t lie on Christmas…I haven’t watched the episode yet, but as soon as I get off the ship I am going to download it…If it is as good as the other episodes I’ve seen (Still playing catch up-currently just broke into the 500’s) I’m sure it will be outstanding! It actually pains me to watch your show while I’m stuck on the ship, as the U.S. Navy has yet to take the lead of the French and build a wine bar into the ship. MERRY CHRISTMAS !!!
December 25, 2008

dusanmal
600th on Christmas, you couldn’t do it better… Everything best to ‘Chuk, Matt and Families…

QOTD: Haven’t ordered Christmas Pack but one related curiosity. As preparing to watch this episode, for some (precognition?) reason I was thinking about adding to my comment on the episode (precognition already starting as I knew I’ll leave a comment today!) a question about what would ‘Chuk consider a good Languerdoc to try… What a deja-vu at the end… Trusting WLTV taste, I’ll be trying this one, definitely.

?????? ????? !
December 25, 2008

dusanmal
Re: My first comment: “?????? ????? !” in my original post should be “Merry Christmas !” in Cyrillic, but apparently the comment engine does not get that font…
December 25, 2008

skribbles
Great show GV and of course to the Motster. Congrats on 600 and Merry Christmas to you and every one at Wine Lib. Sure you’ll have no problem getting to 600 comments especially when lurkers like me come from iTunes to leave a one.
December 25, 2008

catherine.
happy 600th! When I found out this episode was going to be a secret pack episode I was a little disappointed because I didn’t get a secret pack so it’s not really as fun, but this episode was GREAT! Mott sat down with us and tasted some wine.

great job guys, lots of love, happy holidays
December 25, 2008

ONEWINO
Great show, keep up the good work.
December 25, 2008

Fred
Happy 600 & Merry Christmas!

See the episode later, in a rush.:)
December 25, 2008

CABDRINKER
What did I miss?
December 25, 2008

kbeavs
Gary, great show. I really enjoyed your description of the last wine – although I’m not currently receiving the secret pack, I feel like I got the experience of the wine through your eyes. And I’ll definitely go pick it up at the store next time I’m there. Happy Holidays to you, your family, and all of the other vayniacs out there.

I came up with my own QOTD because I’m not a secret pack receiver: Best drinking quote?

“There can’t be good living where there is not good drinking.” – Ben Franklin
December 25, 2008

Robin C
Looking forward to the Today show.
I guess the Jets are no good for you after all.
December 25, 2008

NBaisley
can’t wait to see you on the Today Show later:) Rock it man…Be a HUSTLER!
December 25, 2008

Brandon
I’m one of those people who watches the show on iTunes, but I wanted to stop by and say Merry Christmas to everyone @ Wine Library!
December 25, 2008

Matt
Great show, wish you could ship to KY, I would have gotten one! I think I’ll be sleeping when you are on. I’d get up to watch, but I haven’t slept in almost 48 hours!
December 25, 2008

dkp
happy merry christmas. . . make sure mott links up the today show for the expats around the world.
December 25, 2008

Per Storm (Denmark)
Great 600th show.
Living in Denmark (Scandinavia) you make me look for the Saouth Africa Sauvignon Blanc – and also the red Languedoc sounded great – I want to taste it.

Merry xmas – and a happy new year – looking forward to your shows in 2009 already !
December 25, 2008

Benjamin
One of these days ill get a secret pack… i feel left out
December 25, 2008

Glen,....winecrazy.com
Great show Homey….Family indeed!!!…..and the Mottster as well. Ian and Dennis and the whole crew. All of your employees are just great. You really have a great staff. Everyone in the world should be as nice as you and the staff there at Wine Library.

Merry Christmas to all the Vaniacs and Gob Bless. Happy Hanukah Brother and tell Dad I said the same.

Love ya.

I’m watching tomorrow….
December 25, 2008

Brian P.
Merry Christmas Gary! Thanks for doing the Thunder Show for 600 episodes. Here’s to 600 more!
December 25, 2008

jaredlevy
Happy Chanukah Gary. Didn’t get the secret pack but wanted to wish you, Lizzie, AJ, Sasha, and the entire Vaynerchuk clan a happy and healthy holiday.

Congrats on 600…just think, only 400 to go for 1,000 episodes….how awesome would that be?

Idea for guests in 2009: Robert Parker (shocked you haven’t scored this one yet), Steven Tanzer, and maybe Kevin Zraly?
December 25, 2008

Eugene
Thank you for the 600 great shows. Any response from the Kiona winery the other day? Ill called, some chicka answered, wasnt to happy with me.
Happy holidays
December 25, 2008

Matt
Happy 600th and Happy Holidays, Gary and Mott! Great episode.

Cool to see a South African wine up there. Gonna try find it in the stores.

Thanks again for an awesome show guys.
December 25, 2008

Charles
OK, you insisted, So will leave a comment! Enjoyed your show ( even though didn’t have the secret pack to enjoy with you,,[damn!]-only a desert wine[Chateau Guiraud 2005 ] that I can’t even enjoy cause I’m saving it..[damn!} Will probably tune in tomorrow as well. Merry Christmas and God Bless. (Out)
December 25, 2008

L2
hey gary.
I PROMISE!!! you would get a big kick out of this:
Domaine du Cayron Gigondas ‘05
Pllllease do it on the show… it’s a CRAZZY wine..
oh, and do more dressner wines please..
great effort,
thanks!
December 25, 2008

panicphan
Gonna get the whole family in front of the TV for The Today Show! Now, show me the bubbles!
December 25, 2008

John
Merry Christmas, Chris and Gary.
December 25, 2008

ev
Pretty sly @ 9:28 snagging the big glass and dumping that stupid Jet’s one. Go Chad!
December 25, 2008

Sohail
Wishing you, the family and all at Wine Libary a Great Christmas, Happy New Year and phenomenal holiday season.

With best wishes to see you succeed at the highest level!
December 25, 2008

David Benjamin
Wish I could have experienced the wine pack but alas…I’m in MI. That hasn’t stopped me from spreading the thunder and getting everyone in my network who enjoy wine to experience your show. Looking forward to checking you out on the Today Show. I know you’ll crush it!

Ideas for future shows: I know you have gone to a few football stadiums and are interested in visiting more. In leiu of the Lions going 0-16(like they’re going to beat the Packers at Lambeau for the first time since 1991)we need to bring you to Ford field. As you know, Michigan has some great wine.
December 25, 2008

Dan from Stuttgart, GE
Congrats on your 600th show Gary. I will have the Today Show on this wonderful Christmas morning.
December 25, 2008

Adam Hansen
Merry Christmas Gary!! Will be watching this morning on Today. Good Luck and Have Fun!
December 25, 2008

Jason C Jones
Who is Gary V?

what is going on?
December 25, 2008

Mark
Gary-
Great show. Congrats on the 600th show. I have been watching about 6 months now and have not missed a show. I really enjoy watching your show. Keep up the great work. Merry Christmas!

Mark
December 25, 2008

M
I don’t have a secret pack.

I’m on a mission to expand friends’ palates. I make my friends give sniffy sniffs. Thanks for the wine knowledge that I can share.
December 25, 2008

guymandude
just saw you on Today show,great job, they having fun and you brought the thunder. merry christmas.
December 25, 2008

Derek F.
Merry Christmas Gary and Mott, thanks so much for all you guys do!!
I know I have said this before but this is the one show that makes me SOOO HAPPY…just love everything about it.

As I am typing this I am watching my man Gary on the Today Show..you CRUSHED it bro!!!!

QOTD: No secret pack for me…MA.
December 25, 2008

KAHUNA
600 episodes of crap
December 25, 2008

Kris
Great job on the Today show. You are now a favorite–your evals of the “bubblies” were excellent, smart and funny. Look forward to visiting your site. Thank you, Happy Holidays!
December 25, 2008

Terry Brennan
From a pats fan in w/mass ,show 600 was a classic looking forward to the next 600 Merry Christmas and have a great next year.
December 25, 2008

lawschooldrunk
Happy 600th! Congrats!

Happy Chanuka, Gary!
December 25, 2008

Sassodoro
Happy Holidays and Happy 600!

I have been with you since about episode 200. My life has gotten crazy in the last year, so I’ve only been watching sporadically and/or lurking lately, but I’m still a big fan. Congratulations on episode 600!
December 25, 2008

Scott Stav
Great show Gary and Mott. Just seen the Today show segment that also kicked ass. Keep it up I just started watching about two weeks ago. “I’m lovin’ it”. I’ve done my part now do the Friday show. pleassss. Thanks.
December 25, 2008

Jason C Jones
Kahuna, you’re just an obese dude from New Jersey, you don’t count.
December 25, 2008

Colleen
Happy Holidays and congrats on 600. I sure hope you don’t stop now because I just started watching! keep it up!

Alas, I had no secret pak, but I have ordered some Moscato and some Gertz so I’ll enjoy that soon.

DVR’d the Today show just snuck away from the “fam” to watch it. You do such a good job of being yourself. You don’t tone it down for people who don’t know you or your Big personality. It was great- you bring the flava!

I’m gonna go Clink it up! (my wine glass that is.)
December 25, 2008

monkd
Great show! First time I’ve left a comment. Keep it going.
December 25, 2008

KAHUNA
600 episodes of obese crap
December 25, 2008

Ian Leong
Merry Christmas!

QOTD: Too bad I couldn’t get to buy a Secret Pack, unless you change your International Shipping policy *hint*hint*. But still this was an awesome episode. Can’t wait to see what is in store by episode 1000?!
December 25, 2008

52 VINTAGE
Congrats on # 600. Today show was terrific.
Merry Christmas to you and Mott.
December 25, 2008

mikek
Gary & Chris, Thanks for the 600! Best to you & your families during this holiday season! I wish you health & happiness in 2009! Thanks for “bringing the Thunder” year round!
To all at the Wine Library; great group of people, thanks for all the help… you guys are awesome! Best wishes to you too!

QOTD: I have the secret Christmas pack, but have not yet opened it up. I will open up the 2005 Chateau Plain Point, for the fillet mignon at dinner later today though! Cheers all! Merry Christmas!
December 25, 2008

paul
#247! Not first.
December 25, 2008

*/^_^\*
happy healthy holidays to all

go hug ur family
December 25, 2008

Bobinnati
Congrats on episode 600!! Alas, I did not do the secret pack, but enjoyed watching every minute. I have gotten a little carried away with wine buying lately, so, with the gentle “encouragement” of my lovely and patient wife, I am on a SIWBM. I will have to wait for a couple of months to buy any of this episode’s wines, but they will definitely hit my wish list!
December 25, 2008

Al
Merry Christmas Gary and Chris and your respective families. Thanks so much for your 600 episodes. Hopefully there will be 600 more.
December 25, 2008

Herm
Merry Christmas, I loved the show even though I didn’t get the secret pack….Thanks for doing so many great shows….I hope you have 600 more…
December 25, 2008

Rex
Gary, you are right on the money about the Puech Haut. This wine (Tête de Bélier) is excellent at all stages of its evolution and is mind boggling at 8 to 10 years judging from the 1998 I had last year. The good thing is the price is very stable (and actually went down a bit from a couple of years ago) since people are hesitant to shell out more for a Languedoc wine. I’ve tasted five vintages of this cuvée and the consistency is remarkable. If you can, try to get your hand on the top of the line, limited production “Clos du Pic” altough this one requires patience, it would be very much at ease against top Rhônes or Bordeaux in a blind tasting 10-15 years from now. The Tête de Bélier white is also excellent.

Congradulations on 600 episodes! I wish you 600 more if you can handle it, I know your fans can!

Olivier from Montreal
December 25, 2008

Paul LaReau
Here’s my contribution to #600. Having gone to school in Strasbourg, I did the whole route de vin thing, even drinking the nouveau vin from one of the repurposed fountains. Upon returning, no one knew what I was talking about when I would ask for reisling or another Alsacian wine. I was so blown away when you admitted being an acid-head (not the 60’s definition) and loved Alsacian wines. I have found a kindred spirit. “That being said,” I have two questions: 1) When did it become legal to ship to Indiana? (I did not see it listed in the banned areas as I have in the past. And my border runs into Illinois frequently are futile.) 2) Could Mott make an iPod friendly text resume of episodes, so that I can load your selections onto the iPod and take them to the store with?
December 25, 2008

Ben
Happy 600th. I can’t wait to try the Peuch Haut Tete De Belier Rouge.
December 25, 2008

Waynestreet
600 was just as good as #1 I hope you have a wonderful time with your family this holiday season and look forward to another 600. All my best, Waynestreet
December 25, 2008

Bryan Choate
Gary & Chris…Great show! Starting watching the thunder show in November when I found Gary on twitter @garyvee. I’m looking forward to the 1200th show and some big Cabernets. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!
December 25, 2008

M
I missed the Today Show…..Mott….Link it up (please/thank you).
December 25, 2008

TimF
Ooooooooh, 600 episodes! Blah, blah, blah. Not hard to do when you have diarrhea of the mouth.
December 25, 2008

MikeyK
Surprised my older bro with the pack at gift giving time. We will enjoy it for dinner with some delicious ham. My folks will also be watching your show for the first time. Big ups to Mott! But Gary is still going strong. For the Jets… I feel your pain being an Eagles fan. Merry Christmas, I look forward to more Thunder in 2009.
December 25, 2008

F Jackie Martling
Wow, for #600 that was pretty disappointing. Mott, get a trim “longhair!”

Happy Christmas!!
December 25, 2008

ChrisR
Awesome secret pack. Too bad I didn’t get in on it. However, for Christmas I got lots of Gary V wine club taste-along goodness, so I’ve had a very very good Christmas. Happy holidays, and thanks for inspiring and changing lives and bringing this special bit of happiness into my life.
December 25, 2008

Andy
Happy Holidays G ………… Salut and cheers to you & Lizzie
December 25, 2008

W H L
Very new wine enthusiast, love all your shows. Tons of info for beginners like myself,keep up the good work. HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL!
December 25, 2008

Lucas
Hi Gary,
I am from Brazil and a friend of mine told me about your show. This is the first time I watch and I really liked it. I also watched the “wine palate” episode and it was hilarious and instructive! I will try it.
Congratulations.
Happy holidays,
Greetings from Brazil.
Lucas
December 25, 2008

Patty Wilson
What the????!!!! I bought the Holiday Six Pack, thinking it was the Christmas Secret Pack the last time I was in the store. Oh, well, we have some new wines to drink. I have no idea how to get the Secret Pack. I can’t order for shipment. I have to order online and then come in to pick up.

Who knew the Holiday Pack was different than the Secret Pack? Guess I should have.
December 25, 2008

Jordan
Didn’t get the secret pack but wish I did. It was nice seeing Mott on the show. I did get to spread the thunder with my girlfriends brother. He is new to the wine world and looks forward to seeing more shows as well as past episodes. He asked how he can train his palate and I referred him to the past episode where you have all of the food and cigars and dirt. Merry Christmas everyone.
December 25, 2008

Arjan
Congratulations on the big 600!
December 25, 2008

Ross
Great show as usual.
Happy Holidays Gary!
December 25, 2008

maximagxe
Hi Monsieur Vaynerchuck,

Merry Christmas from Shefford, near Montreal. It’s my first time (surely not the last) writing to you. I find your show to be extremely pleasant and very entertaining plus as an added bonus very thought provoquing. I was wondering how you would compare the Château Puech-Haut Tête de Bélier Coteaux du Languedoc in the 2003 vintage compared to the 2004 you tasted on your show?

The reason I am asking is that we still have the 2003 in Quebec but will only get the 2004 next year!

Many thanks for your time and long live Wine Library TV.

P.S.: Your show has a very good audiance in the french speaking communities in the province of Quebec, you really should do a show on Apple Ice Cider or even Quebec Ice Wines, which I trully enjoy. Let me know if you need information on any of these I would be happy and previledge to help you.

Cheers,

Normand Whitehead
Shefford, Quebec, CANADA.
December 25, 2008

Ross
Good job on the today show, dude!
This was the first secret pack that my wife and I tasted. Trying to educate my palate and nose.
Interesting to taste the wine and compare what I was tasting, what my wife was tasting, what Mott was tasting and what you were tasting. We’ll drink the Chateau Plain Point with our rib roast that’s in the oven as I write this.

Happy Holidays to all!
December 25, 2008

AprilTwoCats
What a great day for Vayniacs! Gary on the Today Show in the morning, the Christmas Secret Pack simul-tasting in the afternoon, and a wine from the Secret Pack with dinner tonight. It was wicked evil that the Today-chicks knew they had to sniffy-sniff before they tasted! Do none Vayniacs know what “bones” are? We will definitely be drinking prosecco instead of champagne this year.

The Secret Pack show was enlightening for a number of reasons. Having Mott representing the “common palate” made me feel better when I didn’t taste what GV tasted, whether that was the intent or not. Being able to do my own sniffy-sniff and sippy-sip before he did showed me where my preferences agree and disagree with Gary’s, so I can be guided in the future when deciding if I’m going to buy a wine featured on the ‘cast. Last, it was cool to give my husband a big hug at the end of the show because he introduced me to WLTV, as Gary suggested.

This is my first time signing on and I’d like to thank Gary and everybody at the Wine Library (I shook GV’s hand in the store a couple of weeks ago and thanked for rockin; my world, but that doesn’t count) and I hope he has the passion to take it to show 3600!
December 25, 2008

Sonia
Thanks for 600 Gary!!!!
December 25, 2008

Chris Braun
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you and yours, Gary — and to everyone else out there. Enjoyed the episode and the Today appearance this morning.

QOTD: I’ve never gotten a secret pack, but have signed up for the GV Wine Club, so am looking forward to tasting with you.
December 25, 2008

Ian Maffett
Great show, as usual. All of Saturday’s recommendations were big hits (and all gone). Great to see Mott on the other side of the lens. Merry Christmas WLTV.
December 25, 2008

Trevor
Thanks for using up my entire Christmas bonus. It’s going towards the last two wines!!
December 25, 2008

Pz
Love the show Gary, just recently started watching. I love your passion. Happy holidays!
December 25, 2008

Heka
Thank you for all these 600 amazing episodes. I’ve only just gotten into wine and these episodes have taught me alot. Greetings from Finland.
December 25, 2008

Paulo
Great showing at the TODAY show!!
December 25, 2008

wanderoff23
Hey Gary,

Long time watcher, first time poster! My wife turned me on to your podcast on i-tunes, and we are a daily consumer… many good tips… 2005 Bordeaux… aged Beaujolais …sauternes… (please forgive the spelling )

We currently live in Switzerland, so the nice varieties of European wines is always appreciated. If you are ever looking for some evening wine enthusiasts in the Zurich area, drop us a note, we would love to have you taste some of our favorites!

Take care, and keep on expanding YOUR palate!

Andy and Tina Laiho
December 25, 2008

Maggie and Steve
Sad to say as our first go at a “pack” we were disappointed… maybe we missed it but we don’t think so… we were surprised these were the wines Gary wanted to hang his “thunder hat” on for so many who take the leap and buy through him this time of year.
Not sure we’ll go “secret pack” again… and not a strong endorsement of the wine of the month club we were contemplating.
But Merry and Happy to you all!
December 25, 2008

Bored Doe
Merry Christmas everybody!!!!!! Loved the today show Gary
December 25, 2008

DCaseyLee
merry christmas gary merry christmas episode 600 i cant believe it congrats gary youre tha man !
looking foward to a great 09 with you its going to bring thunder alllll year round and more to come we all know. thats gary for what you do and have a wonderful new year !!!!
December 25, 2008

Iuri Almeida
Good work Gary, I hope we get 600 comments, you deserve it.

I have not had the secret pack wines, because, you know, you don’t sell to Brazil! But I’m out in the search of Languedoc to wines thanks to you tip.

Great holydays to everyone!
December 25, 2008

Griz4life
Merry Christmas/Happy Holidays for Gary and everyone else!!!!! It’s snowing here in Montana!
December 25, 2008

Lawrence Leichtman
I did not have the secret pack but had the last two wines already from previous GV recommendations and liked them both. We watched with lunch hear in New Mexico. Saw you on today and enjoyed it.
December 25, 2008

Lawrence Leichtman
Also, glad to see Mott on camera as much. Happy Holidays to all.
December 25, 2008

Susan B
Enjoyed the Today show today as well as episode #600. Only tasted one of the wines in the Secret Pack so far–the Rhone Rebel. Thought it was good easy drinking wine. Went out to eat and to a movie today, so looking forward to tasting the other three wines in the future, especially the one from the Languedoc.
December 25, 2008

E dog
Hey Gary,

cool show… unfortunately i m in France right now and have no secret pack…

nice to see Mott staring as a guest for episode #600 !
December 25, 2008

Colin Nicol
Gary,

Another great Christmas tradition thanks to you. These wines were amazing, my favorite was the last wine, it was also the favorites of everybody else who joined.

Today I had my immediate family as well as my god mother and another great friend that joined us for the tasting. We decanted the 3 reds for about 90 minutes which I think was a great addition.

Thanks again so much for setting this up.

-Colin
December 25, 2008

Jorgen S
Happy Holidays to all!

I am fortunate to be in Italy with my wife’s family (as usual on Christmas), so I have so far had a lot of nice food and wine. Going up to Valtellina soon to try some new exiting Valtellina wines.

Cheers
December 25, 2008

Ohio Bruce
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you and yours!
December 25, 2008

apj_bobswineguy
GV’s 101 WINES!
Gift from my brother! Will have to watch this episode later but the 1st few chapters of the book have me pumped.
I have taken & passed several sommelier exams but I feel that many times I AM out of touch w/ the average (majority) of wine buyers. I needed this book. And I am already a big WLTV fan. A Vayniac.
A long-suffering Cowboy fan too. Not sure these past few yrs are any less painful than 5-11 w/ Quincy Carter! (haha)
December 25, 2008

Jess
Congratulations on 600 episodes and Merry Christmas! Thank you for expanding our minds and palates. Looking forward to an awesome year of thunder!
December 25, 2008

Rob Basso
Gary, I love your show! Congratulations on #600. Have a great Christmas and the best for 2009. Thanks. Rob
December 25, 2008

Stan Reitan
I thought Mott was a little younger due to his voice. You should have given Mott a glass just like yours. I have a friend who has been to France several times and he has corrected me on the pronunciation of the Longuedoc region. He claims it is pronounced Longdock. Thought you might want to know this. Good episode but a little weak on the excitement factor. Keep it real and they will come, especially when you are talking about wines that you picked for your secret pack. Keep it up it is a good reference for me. Stam
December 25, 2008

KW
Congrats on the 600th episode and the Today show!
December 25, 2008

R. Dorough
Rockin Show GV! Keep bringing it.
December 25, 2008

Bill
Great show GV, and Mott!
December 25, 2008

elliottf
Merry Christmas, Gary! Great show and very happy to say I got to experience it with my wife, my parents, and my grandmother.
December 25, 2008

the2urbs
just don’t see me drinking the old world style.. i missed the wine pack… not willing to drop that kinda cash sight unseen….
December 25, 2008

Brad
Thank you so much for doing wltv every day. I can’t begin to tell you how much you’ve done for my palate. THANKS!
December 25, 2008

David T
QOTD: I didn’t get a secret pack And I missed your Today show appearance because I didn’t watch it until Christmas evening. But I’m drinking wine this Christmas and loved Mott as the guest!!
December 25, 2008

JC
Merry Christmas Gary n Mott! Life’s been crazy lately n I didn’t get a secret pack. I’ll try to stop by the store before years end.
December 25, 2008

Drew M.
Loved #600 and hope we get at least 600 more. Thought the Today appearance was terrific…Ann seemed especially into the proceedings. “The bubs” aren’t for me, but a lot of fun anyway.

I have the Rhone Rebel and Plain Point at home and have been enjoying those…loved your review of the Languedoc and will seek that one out as well (probably from you!).

Merry Christmas to you and the family.

dm

QOTD: Haven’t tried a secret pack yet, but my honey bought a 1-year sub to the GV wine club so I’m looking forward to those.
December 25, 2008

TJF
Merry Christmas to Gary V. and Mott! Great to see Mott on that side of the camera for number 600.

I missed out on the Secret Pack this time around; caught the announcement too late. I’ll be hitting up the Wine Club come January, though – looking forward to that and the next Secret Pack!

Most definitely one of the best shows I’ve seen as of yet. Keep on ignoring these comments that tell you to cut the football stuff out – It’s exactly that kind of stuff that makes this the best wine experience on the net!

-Tim
December 25, 2008

Dan Manu
Happy Holidays Gary!

QOTD: Didn’t get to try the secret pack cause I’m watching from outside the US.. instead I’m stuck drinking those garbage over oaked Aussie reds you’re referring to
December 25, 2008

Fulltime Lurker
I’ve been contemplating the MOTT Cam (TM) for awhile now, quietly in my head. I was thrilled to hear you mention it a few EP’s back and think you should try it. Happy Holidays, Gary & Mott. All the best to you and yours.
December 25, 2008

Susan
Gary, You did a fab job on The Today Show!!!!!!!! Right out of the park!!!!!!!!!!
December 25, 2008

Mike Nally
Congrats on episode 600 to everyone involved in putting together WLTV. Here’s to 600 more! Wishing everyone a safe and happy holiday season.

P.S. Gary… You killed it on the Today show!
December 25, 2008

Kelly Goff
Thanks for #600 and many more!! Happy Holidays! No secret pack for me this time, AND I missed the Today show cause I didn’t watch till Christmas night. But, I was too busy watching my kids open presents anyway. You will probably post it up here within the week and I will watch then. Hope you had fun doing it!! LOVED to see Mott again!
December 25, 2008

Kate the Great
Congratulations on the 600th episode. Hubby and I loved it. We didn’t get the secret pack, but are seriously thinking about sharing the experience in the future. We shared the Wine Library TV experience with my parents on Christmas and they loved it. Look forward to a couple more Vayniacs in the future.

P.S. – hubby did get me a wine decanter and some wine glasses for Christmas. Good to see Mott on the show. First time for us.
December 25, 2008

jr
Thanks for keeping us enthused. WLTV is a great format for perusing the enormous wine world. Love it. Missed the Today show, hope you can post a copy.
Health, Happiness, Joy & Laughter…
December 25, 2008

C. Miller
Today (Christmas) was my first time watching, and I am HOOKED!! What a fantastic teacher you are. I love red wine, Cabernet and Merlot being my favorites. I tend to stay in the $20 – $30 price point so my chances are higher that I get a good wine, and I’ve found several that I like. But thanks to you, I am becoming a student of wine, and I feel like I can take more chances and explore a greater variety. Congratulations on 600, and all of the national attention you seem to be getting looks to be well deserved.

Happy Holidays and a wonderful new year!!
December 25, 2008

Will Mon
I didn’t get the secret pack this time, but we drank a bottle of Private Reserve Beringer from the year I was born and it was an awesome experience. The cork was pretty much stuck in the bottle though. I was giving my Aunt/Uncle a decanter for Christmas and asked them to open their present early but then ended up not using it. Instead we poured it through a flour sieve and then through an even finer sieve used to strain oil from soup.

Hope this helps get it to 600!
December 25, 2008

Kilian
Hey Gary and the Mottster,
been watching quite some time now and every other day when I take the bus to school you bring the right amount of thunder so that I can start my day. The chinese people around always look confused, cuz showing emotions (like laughing out loud) in public seems to be no go here in Hong Kong. Never left you comment before, since Itunes does it all for me…. Anyway, will have a nice wine with family friends tonight….
thanks …. Happy holiday
your german friend in HongKong…
December 26, 2008

CC_HTown
600 baby! We can do it. Its like watching 100 all over again. Seems like just yesterday. Great show, dude.
December 26, 2008

Brock
Hey Gary

We can’t get your secret pack in Canada (I wish we could!).

Congrats on #600!

Enjoy the holidays

Brock
December 26, 2008

ChrisV
QOTD: Watched it at home by myself like most other WLTVs! Being in Oz, can’t get the secret pack. Downed a few good wines with the folks yesterday though.
December 26, 2008

Dustin
Didn’t get the secret pack but congrats on Episode 600.

Here’s to 600 more!
December 26, 2008

late-start
Gary,

Congrats on #600 and looking forward to many more.
December 26, 2008

Mai N
I missed the Today show, but enjoyed this episode.
Congrats on hitting 600! Thanks for sharing your passion and knowledge over the years and have a good holiday!
December 26, 2008

Brian Barrick
Congrats on making it to episode 600. I’ve been watching since #400, and I was at Crushpad for the taping of #500. And I actually got the secret pack this time around. Tried the first three bottles, saving the last one for the weekend.

Been drinking Sauvignon Blancs from Touraine (instead of the usual Sancerre) and South Africa (expanding the palate), so it was the perfect time to try the Bob’s African. This one was well balanced, had a hint of saltwater taffy on the nose, nice guava and melon flavor components. Good acidity, but not as sharp as most of the others I’ve tried. Nice texture and viscosity, touch of residual sugar, and a dry, dusty finish. A steal at this price.

The Rhone Rebel was delicious, food-friendly yet easy to quaff on its own. A tremendous value.

With the Plain-Point, it was obvious from the first sniffy-sniff that the Oak Monster was in the house. The taste of wood was totally dominant on the palate. Too bad, because it seemed like there was some great fruit hiding in there, but the new oak was just overwhelming and ruined it for me.

Here’s to the next 600 episodes. Merry Christmas!
December 26, 2008

Ben Janssen South Australia
Merry Christmas all.

Good to see Mott with some solid input!
December 26, 2008

spencer
watching in HNL. Congrats on #600
December 26, 2008

Purple Toothed Bandit
What up Gary!… Congrats on the big 6 hundo!! Can’t wait to see what’s in store for 2009. I shared the Secret Pack with a couple of close friends earlier this evening and it was a great time. One of them doesn’t drink wine that much and the other one does but they both equally enjoyed the experience! All three of us were loving the Languedoc with passion and the others in the pack were great picks as well… Keep up the good work!
December 26, 2008

NC Carl
great show, i’m headed over to twitter to see if someone has linked up your today show appearance.
December 26, 2008

danseng
I Tivo’d the Today Show appearance and plan to watch it tomorrow. Congratulations on your 600th episode!
December 26, 2008

ChinonRouge
Good show. I wish I didn’t live in a “no ship” state.
December 26, 2008

Orion S.
Thank you for 600 excellent episodes. Wasn’t able to get the secret pack this time, maybe next time.
December 26, 2008

stephen
600 Shows, NICE! That is a hell of a lot of wine, what do you do with all the open bottles, no wonder you are always so pumped.
Happy holidays to all
December 26, 2008

Snkypete
Happy Holidays GV and Mott! Thank you for all of the knowledge and excellent service received @ WL from a wine newbie! I promise not to scare you and scream Vay-Ner-Chuk! the next time I see you on the tram in Vegas
December 26, 2008

Phil G
who would have thought two guys from Jersey know what burning garbage smells like…

merry christmas GV and Mott – and congratulations on 600 shows!!!
December 26, 2008

BPBoston
Congrats on 600 Gary. First time poster, 3yr viewer, so Merry Christmas. Big ups to bacon fat and barnyard! And would you PLEASE locate some more CLIO!!
December 26, 2008

Matt O
Gary, congrats on episode 600. Long time watcher, first time commenter, thought it was an appropriate time to drop you a line. Didn’t have the foresight to purchase the secret pack, but wish I had, sounds like that Languedoc was a keeper. Mott, nice cameo.
Happy holidays and again, congrats on this milestone, looking forward to another 600.
December 26, 2008

tml
Another great show! Looking forward to a fantastic 2009!
December 26, 2008

Salvatore
Hey Gary,

Time to say… Hats off to you.

We’ve been doing blind wine tastings at Christmas; before dinner; For four years now. Inspired by you!! We all share one common observation! It certainly is not easy to make clear conclusions about judging wine in blind tastings.

This years ground rule was $15-$20 price range red wine.
Our ratings … California Zin #1, Rosso Di Montalcino #2, Valpollacella Ripasso #3 and French Bordeau #4.
Also some comments; some of these wines were tough to drink alone.
Then as we drank them with a roasted prime rib; they all tasted so much better. More fruit and deeper flavors seemed to show through.

It was challenging but a lot of fun. Already planning another tasting; for Easter.

So Thanks Gary for making wine tasting & appreciation so interesting. You certainly opened our minds to trying many different wines.
December 26, 2008

Knick
Gary, great show. Enjoyed your segment on the today show. Keep bringing the thunder!
December 26, 2008

JJ
Congratulations on 600 Gary and Mott!!!!

I’ve been hooked on your show every since a couple months ago (around episode 550). You have sparked my interest in wine and am enjoying life more because of the experiences I have had drinking good wine with my loved ones.

Keep it up! Bring the thunder into 2009!
December 26, 2008

Mike B.
Awesome show. Congrats on 600. Finally brought another lurker in to the light. Looking forward to another great year of Gary Vee!!!!!!!
December 26, 2008

paryb
lots of fun today Gary, though I didn’t get the pack, I really enjoyed the show.

We had an awesome Christmas, lots of toys!
December 26, 2008

Chris Bartow
I was hurting this year for money, so I ended up passing on the secret pack because I’m new to wine and I was afraid it was going to be to crazy for me.

Now I’m kicking myself for not getting. I did pick up the Plain Point and Wine Library for a friend about a month ago though.

I gotta get my hands on the GSM. Maybe a trip to your store a little later today.
December 26, 2008

David N
Thanks Gary for doing what you do. Congrats on #600.
December 26, 2008

thisIslandEarth
No secret pack – I am currently out of work. But, I feel blessed for my family and wish everyone a healthy/happy holiday. Thanks GV for opening up the world of wine. Mott u rock! Also, thanks to ALL of the great WL folks. I think everyone would agree that the WL Order Department and the entire staff is a 1st class, top-shelf operation. You guys are the BEST.
December 26, 2008

Neil
Congratulations on the 600th EP. I didn’t buy the secret pack but enjoyed the show nonetheless. Keep up the good work!
December 26, 2008

Nic
Comme d’hab: chouette show, instructif, qui donne plein d’envies, notamment celle d’embrasser toutes celles et tous ceux qu’on aime. Longue vie à WLTV, et bien du bonheur à vous deux, Gary et Mott.
December 26, 2008

Bal H.
Congrats and Happy Holidays to you GV!!

QOTD – Haven’t tried the Secret Pack yet. Had it sent to Colorado and will be there for the Super Bowl. Hopefully my Giants will be in it as we taste the wines. Can’t wait to try the Peuch Haut!!
December 26, 2008

Mark S
Congrats on 600! Which I would have purchased the secret pack.
December 26, 2008

Julian
Hey Gary, great episode, can’t wait to get my hands on the 2004 Chateau Puech Haut Tete De Belier Rouge.

Happy Holidays, & congrats on the 600th!
December 26, 2008

MattE
Gary, always a pleasure watching the Thunder Show! I had a revelation over the holiday about a taste along with Gary game that I need to email you about. Congrats on the 600 and looking forward to 600 more.
December 26, 2008

Ian Maffett
Man, it’s going to be tough to get to 600 comments at this rate… Will we get to see episode 601 before 2009? 600 should be the WLTV threshold… Start V2 or something different for the new year – V2 Ep1
December 26, 2008

TWalk
I cooked up a storm…and watched a little today show with the fam…Thanks for the GV….keep it rollin boss
December 26, 2008

Sean O'Neill
I just wanted to drop in and say Congrats on 600 bud. 09 is going to be my wine year… and a big part of that is you. So thanks, happy new year, happy holidays and keep up the great work
December 26, 2008

JeffWalnuts
Great show, great wine!!!! Thanks forall the shows!
December 26, 2008

Ian Maffett
Dammit – I’m going to have to keep coming back here every 30 minutes to check the count. I am pretty sure GV is serious about not moving on until his goal is met.
December 26, 2008

Alex M
On ya Gary. Congrats on 600, you don’t look a day over 550.

QOTD: No secret pack, postage a little much to Europe. Had a cracking ‘05 Cotes du Rhone Villages Chusclan for Chrissy dinner though.
December 26, 2008

Judee
Love how you can even get newbies to wine like me to get fired up about trying new ones!!!! Love the secret packs.
December 26, 2008

Kyle
Nother great ep, I wish I could legally buy wine! Anyway, please, please, please keep filming more episodes!!!
December 26, 2008

Ryan R
A Happy “Hustle” Holidays to everyone! It was worth it just to see Mott finally.
December 26, 2008

Jeremy
Congratulations on the 600th Thunder Show!!! Christmas Pack was great. Enjoyed the wines even more than the Thanksgiving Pack.

Happy Holidays!
December 26, 2008

Cariann
Hey, hey! Happy 600! and Happy Holidays !! Can’t wait for 1,000… Thank you for all you do.
December 26, 2008

Ian Maffett
Another 30 minutes… only 2 comments. Man, oh man… everyone is busy with the after Christmas sales, that’s what it is.
December 26, 2008

Momo
Loved the epiode, Gary! Happy Holidays to you and Mott!

QOTD: Didn’t get a secret pack, but it looked like good stuff!
December 26, 2008

Nick Montes
Congrats on he big 600 my friend. Cheers!
December 26, 2008

Susan
Gary, Still haven’t tried the Rhone Rebel yet….will watch again and comments more when I try that one…………………..
December 26, 2008

Pete
congrats Gary! Keep going, I’m not done learning!
December 26, 2008

John
Congrats on 600th episode! I loved this episode especially.
December 26, 2008

halogoggles
The first time I watched this it completely went over my heard that the 2005 Rhone Rebel Gsm was one of the wines. I think I was too distracted by MOTT! But really, when Gary had the Twitter free shipping special mid-December this wine was on the list, and cheap, so I added it to my cart. Always glad when a wine I purchase is featured on a show!
December 26, 2008

Jon
Great episode, you have to keep it up.
December 26, 2008

Robert L Stubbs
You make Wine sound so fascinating and interesting. I really Appreciate your raw enthusiasm for what you do.
December 26, 2008

DaveSanClemente
My palate thanks you for helping me feed it great wine (and avoid yucky ones). My wallet, on the other hand, wants you to stop immediately ’cause I keep spending on great wine.

Please, don’t listen to my wallet. It’s just jealous.

Keep the shows coming! Congrats on the first 600 episodes.
December 26, 2008

ATLANTA WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
no.361
December 26, 2008

ohdoctah
you want 600 i’ll show you six hundred lol
December 26, 2008

Jim Parker
Great episode! Comment 361 right here baby! Who are the Jets and what wine goes best with fish???

- jim
December 26, 2008

Jeremy Villaroman
I need to start participating in these secret pack bundles. Great show by the by!
December 26, 2008

Susan
HELLO!! LURKERS!!!! Make comments so that we can move on to the next episode!!!!!!
December 26, 2008

Susan
LUKERS!!!!!!!!!! LURKERS!!!!!!! PLEASE make comments!!!!!! SOON!!!!!!
December 26, 2008

Rani Haykal
Great Show!!!

This past 100 episodes definitely flew by. Can’t wait for the next 100+ episodes. Congrats on the tremendous success.

QOTD: Didn’t get the secret pack but viewed the show as usual and enjoyed every bit of it.

–RH
December 26, 2008

Susan
Gary Thanks for 600 episodes!!!!!!!!!!
December 26, 2008

Susan
It might be dark outside, but it’s light in here…. Thanks for all you do Gary!!!!!!!!
December 26, 2008

MajorWoody
MCAAHNY

Bummer they didn’t put up Gary’s segment on MSNBC.com. They put up almost everything from the today show there. Somebody, quickly find a good video link.

Huge fan from a couple of months back

Now on to 601…
December 26, 2008

Amanda
In the year 600 The Persians began to use windmills for irrigation, I wonder if there was a rise in vineyards…
Happy New year!
December 26, 2008

J
Gary – I wanted to email you, but I couldn’t find your address anywhere.

Anyway, I just wanted to say thank you for putting out all the great content and caring so much about everyone. It’s great to see someone so enthusiastic about life.

No matter how many messages you get like this a day, it’s not enough.
December 26, 2008

Nate
Gary, love the show. Keep it up. I’d like to be able to take part in the secret packs but I live in lame-ass PA.
December 26, 2008

Angie A. Swartz
Can’t wait until there’s 600 comments so I can tweet back to @AndrewEglinton So love you, your Ustreams, your show and your philosophies. Mostly I love when you sing Womanizer and “YOU” on UStream. Can you do that again soon! Looking forward to seeing you in Vegas in TWO (countem) TWO weeks! Hope I can interview you then too! DUDE, you so rocked the babes on the TODAY SHOW and got their palets and their SNIFFY SNIFFS working again! Thanks for a good time on Christmas morning!
@aaswartz
December 26, 2008

tigerkite
Droppin’ straight wine justice, like always.
December 26, 2008

Chris
I really enjoyed all the wines in the secret pack, and I’m looking forward to the GV wine club. Congrats on 600 episodes! I hope you’re up to 600 more.

Merry Christmas to all.
December 26, 2008

Bitz
This is the first time I’ve watched this show (yes I give you full rights to spam my email for saying so) but I have to say you have really pulled me in… I’m definitely going to go back and watch past episodes and I’ll continue to watch future episodes. I appreciate your enthusiasm, opinion, and great knowledge. Well done. Like a steak.
December 26, 2008

Cuncher
Thanks for all your hard work, and have a great New Year!
December 26, 2008

Josh S
Has anyone posted that today show clip yet?
December 26, 2008

dan
saw you on the today show yesterday, gary! thanks for continuing to preach the value of smelling the wine, like you said, something that is vastly ignored by most of the American wine drinkers!
December 26, 2008

Angie A. Swartz
Wrote a blogpost about you Today: “Gary Vaynerchuk (@garyvee) Dazzles The Today Show (and What I Have in Common With Matt Lauer)” at http://tinyurl.com/884gj9
December 26, 2008

Braden Douglass
Gary-v you kill the crap out of my twitter feeds but I still love the hell out of the attitude toward life, the net-cast, and Wine. Keep inspiring the rest of us, peace.
December 26, 2008

Mark
Thoroughly enjoyed this episode, even though I couldn’t get the secret pack this was a very enjoyable format with just you and Mott.
It was nice having him on screen as much just to be a second opinion and 2nd palate to reference. And the Chateau Puech-Haut is now on my want-to-buy list.
December 26, 2008

Ian Maffett
Well, 10+ this time. Better but at this rate, Gary will be collecting retirement before 601… I have tweeted and posted and have no one else to tell… help!
December 26, 2008

Susan
Gary, Put a link to this episode on twitter….Will keep RT !!!
December 26, 2008

Jeff K
I have a fever and the only cure is more WLTV.
December 26, 2008

C.
WEll well, you have done well, and we certainly, clearly appreciate it. 600 is not so far off, don’t forget the little people when you get there.
Ps, the site looks great. ~ Best
December 26, 2008

Nic
Congrats on making it to 600 Gary! You’re an inspiration to me!
December 26, 2008

Dr_Funkenstein
great episode and I hope everyone had a great holiday!
December 26, 2008

Dan-o
GV – what you said at the end really summed things up – It should not take an epic ice storm or a holiday like Christmas, Hannakuh (sp?), or New Years to bring about good will toward one another. Talk the talk and walk the walk for 365 days per year (366 during Leap Years). We only have this one life – be good to one another!

QOTD – You can’t ship to MA, therefore I can’t share. However, I liked the choices from the various regions. I don’t know the producers, but I like the Ventoux, Fronsac (one of my first Bordeaux purchases was Canon-Fronsac), and Languedoc! Peace!
December 26, 2008

jaredlevy
Doesn’t everybody get it? Gary won’t tape another show until we leave 600 comments! Blow it up!
December 26, 2008

Phil Lorenzini
Great episode as always, how about a few more beer episodes!
December 26, 2008

Mark
Keep bringing the THUNDER!
December 26, 2008

Abe
Keep up the great work G-man! Your a great source for inspiration =)
December 26, 2008

Mike Z
Congrats on 600 and congrats on the Today show. Meredith and Ann seemed impressed with you. and most of all, it looks like they had fun! and nice move bringing Mott on! I feel that he relates well with the newbies out there.
December 26, 2008

Rick D
Congrats on making it to 600! Can we get to 1,000????????

Thanks for the B’day shout out. Unfortunately I was just a little under the weather Xmas day, but still managed to have a great time and put on a feast for the whole family.

I have been enjoying Languedoc wines so much that they rate a category in my wine inventory list. I have found numerous wines of this region to be delicious and most have a super QPR.

Happy Holidays all.
December 26, 2008

Beau Lebens
Here’s your comment Gary, you deserve it. Good to finally see Mott (that was the first time I saw him), and great that you’re laying out some ways to get people started on red wine.
December 26, 2008

Nate
Hey Gary, trying to get you to 600. Can’t find your appearence online, I was too much in a druken hang over to get up to see it, hopefully you’ll link it up later.
Wish I could have the secret pack, but I’m one of the many people who got the axe this month from my job. Maybe next year
December 26, 2008

SoCalDaveL
Didn’t get the xmas-pack, but spent some good quality time at the in-laws. Relaxing by the tree. Watching “A Christmas Story” over and over and over again while playing around with the kids, enjoying a so-so Zin w/ cheese and other assorted snacks and generally having good, quality family time.

Other than that the prediction is… The Jets will beat the dirty fish on Sunday… but the Pats will also win beating out the Bills and taking the playoff spot. The Jets find a way to disappoint fans even with a 10 win season and let’s face it, as Jet fans we all would have jumped on a 10 win season at the start of the year and accepted it as a good thing.

So goes the life as a long-time suffering Jets fan.
December 26, 2008

yorgos
even I don’t care about wines, I just watch you because of the energy you emit!

happy new year to all!
December 26, 2008

Susan
Gary, You did a fab time of explaining the varietals and educating the world about champagne on ‘The Today Show’ !!!!!!!!!!!
December 26, 2008

MattM
Great job on The Today Show. It was fun, funny, and educational.
December 26, 2008

suikagirl1
Celebrating 600 with Mr. Mott was the *only* way to go, Gary! Without our tech gurus we’d be looking pretty shabby… Hooray for the tech crew!! mmwah!
December 26, 2008

Drew M.
Already left one, but just doing my part to get to 600. GV…thanks for telling it like it is.

Angie…great job on your blog post…I need to tell a some moms that I know about your site!!

Short of 600 posts, how many bottles of the Languedoc would I have to buy to get WLTV back on the air?
December 26, 2008

yourfrienddownunder
Wow. Brining the thunder down on Ice wine. Good work Gary. I have been drinking emulated ice wine for ages but have not yet stretched to some of the real jus. Bring on episode 600.
December 26, 2008

Rick D
Gary,

On Xmas eve we had an Italian dinner that I paired with a several Italian wines including the Antoniolo Gattinara Osso San Grato 2003 that you featured a few months ago. This wine was dynamite. The whole family enjoyed it. We followed that up with a Ciacci Brunello that also rocked the house. A great start to the holiday festivities. It’s always fun to share such great wines with those who are close to you.
December 26, 2008

Richard Ritter
Congratulations on 600. Good balance, well structured, great length, solid mid-palate, and an excellent finish! (as always).

Happy Holidays! Give YOUR family a huge hug from all of us in MY family.
December 26, 2008

Shannon
Great episode Gary! Congrats on the Today show appearance – it looked like you had a great time!
December 26, 2008

James
Been Watching the show for ages. Well done getting to 600 and such a great show.
December 26, 2008

mauijet
Mele Kalikimaka from Maui! A warm, bright sunny Christmas day, yesterday, here in the islands. Gary where were your gloves for the Cham-pain episode? It hurt to watch. Today on the 26th it’s raining but warm. Good day for WLTV and #600. Congrats
December 26, 2008

Aaron Alvarez
Loved the show for a year or so. First time I’ve ever left a comment. Weird I know. Anyway I love it! keep it up, I think it’s amazing what you are doing for the wine world. BbbllWhammy!! Happy Holiday’s Y’all!
December 26, 2008

Dino
Had to come out from being a lurker to congratulate Gary on #600. I visited France this fall and loved my visit to the Languedoc. Toured Chateau des Hospitaliers and was very impressed. Solid wine producer in a solid wine region.
December 26, 2008

Nate
Hey Gary – thought this would be a good time to let you know that your work ethic is truly exemplary – most of these “Web celebs” can’t hold a candle to you. Great job on winelibrary.tv, WineLibrary, and all of your other side-projects (PleaseDressMe, Garyvaynerchuk.com videos, TV appearances). Congratulations on 6-0-0.
December 26, 2008

mauijet
Just watched the Today Show segment on Viddler. Nice. For xmas eve we popped a Schramsberg – 2000 J. Schram Rose! Not a value play, but very delicious. Want to try their non-vintage “Mirabelle” rose, which was higher rated, and only $35!
December 26, 2008

Mari
The show is awesome. Hurry up and do another episode!
December 26, 2008

Chris B
This was my first time findin’ y’all as a podcast. Absolutely love the energy and the information – thank you *so* much for the effort you’ve obviously put into this.

Have to admit, I’m a bit sad to not see 600 comments yet- c’mon people!

PS: Gary – I realize that it is already relatively inexpensive, but can you think of a budget (<20 USD) wine that can approach the glory of the Chateau Puech Haut from this episode? Hard times means less wine and I’d love to be able to enjoy something similar on my tighter budget!

Happy Holidays!
- Chris “Boosch”
December 26, 2008

Matthew Hale
Didn’t get the Christmas pack but kind of wish I did. We did drink lots of wine though and had a good time. Looking forward to participating in the wine of the month club.
December 26, 2008

Troutmonster
Episode 600 was epic…cheers to 600 more! Keep up the good work, and happy holidays Gary
December 26, 2008

bygdawg1996
Awesome show!!!
The secret packs always make me want to move out of PA.
The Today Show clip was awesome i hope they make you their permanent wine consultant.
Merry Christmas to all!!!!

I can’t wait to get the signed books for the family.

Let the Thunder Roll

Matt
December 26, 2008

daniel shearon
Gary!,
got the book for Christmas! love the show, I am excited about wine because of you. thanks and all the best from my family to yours!

ds
December 26, 2008

yourfrienddownunder
Gary. I wish I lived in the US so I could get in on the secret pack experience. I don’t have enough carbon credits saved up to ship to Australia yet. Great show. Hope you had a great Christmas.
December 26, 2008

BWicked
Gary,
Thanks for the show and for an exciting year.
December 26, 2008

Zac Johnson
Congrats on hitting episode $600!
December 26, 2008

Cathy
Gary, first time I’ve watched & found it very informative. I always buy wine when I visit my folks & will need to branch out a bit. Pretty much buy the same types of wine most of the time! I missed out on the secret pack – will need to watch more to find out about the secret packs!
December 26, 2008

Pony
good episode gary. just bought 2 of the wines from the show.
December 26, 2008

Matt
Loved the show. Never seen Mott before. Kind of a bubbly kind of guy. Great work!
December 26, 2008

Arcy
Gary, thanks for 600 amazing episodes. Here’s to 2009 and more WLTV. Keep up the good work.

Rock on.
December 26, 2008

MagnumGourmet
One more to get you to 600 comments.
December 26, 2008

Geoff W
Hit the big 600! Keep up the great work Gary
December 26, 2008

Gerry V
A lurker no more Gary,

Enjoyable, I’ve been lurking for several months now and it is time to give you your dues. I’ve got to say Gary, you’re somewhat of a George Bailey the way your changing people’s lives here. What a wonderful life you have.

What a great show guys. Fortunately I was able to order the secret pack in time to follow along during the show. Being able to taste the wines during the show was incredible helpful. The ability to sample the wines at the same time really brings out the contrast between them. This helps me appreciate the differences and improve understanding my own palate. I largely agreed with you on the wines with the exception of Rhone Rebel GSM. This one did not do much for me.

This was also the first time I saw Mott so it was great to put a face to the name. Cheers Mott!

Graduations on 600!

QOTD – A good friend and colleague of mine came over for Christmas dinner. He appreciates good wine but has never seen the show. It was time for some Wine Library TV Missionary work. After a delicious dinner my wife prepared, we lined up the wines and played the show. We followed along, sampling the wines determining our own take on them and if we had the same opinions as yours. No, we did not hug as you suggested but opted for another glass of wine instead. My wife even sampled two of the reds and really liked them. We had a great time and really enjoyed the show. We ended the wine adventure with a tasty desert wine (2005 Moscato d’ Andrea Muscat Canelli) that my friend brought over. It went very well the hot apple pie and ice cream.

Feliz Navidad Gary, Mott and Vaniacks
December 26, 2008

urbwes
I did not get the secret pack (in a sate that doesn’t allow shipping). Thank you Gary and Mott too for such great content. Keep it up.
December 26, 2008

M
I’m thinking about all of the wine I’ve discovered by watching WLTV. And I’m thinking about the wines I’ll discover in 2009.
December 26, 2008

torquey
Here’s to at least 600 more episodes!
December 26, 2008

DanM
Writer’s block. Keep up the good work Mr. Vaynerchuk.
December 26, 2008

MG
Can not wait to do the secret pack. I had my SP shipped to a buddy in MO and then he shipped it to me in MN. We are going to have a Viewing of #600 on New Years eve night, I can not wait. Please have NJ change the laws so I can get it shipped direct. I get wine from CA why not NJ?

Have a Happy Holidays!!!
December 26, 2008

Matt B
Great Episode Gary, good to see Mott on the other side of the camera.
December 26, 2008

Grapestompper (Dave)
We’re not at 600 yet so no new episode? Keep posting!
December 26, 2008

Goncasurus-Rex
hey almost 600 comments, keep it up! lurkers get out and comment come on now gary gives us so much and asks so little! P.S. good show Gary V. P.P.S. my girlfriend got me your book for the X-mas signed and all! I loved it thank you much for the signing thing it makes the book all the better!
December 26, 2008

Dan Manu
Come back to us GARY!!
December 26, 2008

RANDI
Gary!
Just wanted to add a congratulations on the 600th episode and to thank you again for bringing so much education and entertainment..you give a lot..and I know that isnt always too easy!
Also, I loved seeing you on NBC! Great segment! Im telling you….you need the big screen!!! Book’s done…TV’s a walk in the park..we need to start the film career!!!
xoxox
December 26, 2008

nolongeralurker
GV!!!

Thanks so much for all the hard work with the Thunder Show. Looking forward to seeing more of it in the New Year. Keep hustlin’!
December 26, 2008

Val
Great show! Keep up the good work.
December 26, 2008

cbleary
Good show. Congrats on 600!
December 26, 2008

Justin L. Ove
Congrats on episode 600!
That Languedoc wine sounds awesome. I recently tasted a Spanish wine that reminded me of syrah based rhone wines. It was called Petalos, and it was 100% Mencia. Best wine I’ve found all year for under 20 bones.
Merry Christmas Gary and Mott
December 26, 2008

Hawaiian Vayniac
No secret pack…too expensive to ship to Hawaii. Had a wonderful Christmas at home with wife and girls. Drank 2005 Chappellet Signature Napa Valley Cabernet and made a great prime rib.

Vayniacs…bring out the comments!!! More episodes please Gary!!!!
December 26, 2008

James
Hooray Wine! Got introduced to the show through the Tool website, now one of my favorites!
December 26, 2008

Jared S
Gary,

Congratulations on your 600th show! I’ve been a lurker for about a month, and this is my first comment. I love your passion. It is truly contagious. Your shows are always educational and entertaining. I definitely consider myself a vayniac and am trying to recruit new vayniacs every day. Hopefully one day my state of North Carolina will produce wines worthy of being on the Thunder Show. My wife just bought a couple of wines that you make mention of on your website so I am looking forward to tasting them. Again, congratulations on the mile stone and please, never lose the passion to help us amateurs expand our palletes.

Jared
December 27, 2008

JimChem
Good show. You have inspired me to think about Languedoc again.

Jim
December 27, 2008

Mark W
Love your shows, grats on 600 shows.
December 27, 2008

Cuppers
Great job accomplishing 600 and on the Today show … now tape another episode
December 27, 2008

Mari
Yay Gary!! 600, that’s incredible… keep the good stuff flowing!

Can you guys LINK UP your Today Show segment? I missed it, and I’m guessing a lot of other people did too.

I love love love the Rhone, and would love to see some more Rhone-esque stuff in 09… can we also hear a bit more about terroir and how that influences composition and structure? I find that the most compelling thing about wine…

Merry Christmas and THANK YOU!!!
December 27, 2008

Jan
My first time, got to you by doing a search on moscato d’asti. LOVE your attitude! Hope they bring you into the White House to give the sommeliers a talkin-to.

Happy Hanukkah!
December 27, 2008

max
going to your moment. Great job on today show.
December 27, 2008

Withnail
Great ep – enjoyed it a lot!
Really nice to see/good idea having Mott in the co-pilot seat for #600.
December 27, 2008

John D.
Congrats on 600 kickin’ episodes Gary! What a journey. Loved the show. I always learn something new on your show. Will definitely have to check out the last wine. Here’s to 600 more! Cheers!

QOTD: I didn’t get a secret pack, but I had a chance to introduce my younger brother to 2 new wines he’s never had before. The first was 100% grenache (Atteca). The second was a simple, but nice tasting 2003 Bordeaux. He liked them both very much. We chatted a bit about different varietals, how wines change with the vintage and different regions. I stressed to him he didn’t have to spend mucho dinero to find a pleasurable wine. I think he’s coming around.
December 27, 2008

Eric Holm
A Wonderful episode, Hopefully these will continue for years to come as the education is appreciated. If you will change the PA laws so you can ship the super pack the we wont have to wonder how great it can be. Some traveling music!
Thanks
December 27, 2008

Kristen
The “today show” was very entertaining. You are awesome! You make wine interesting, all the best to you this season and have a great New Year!
December 27, 2008

joe
you had me at GO BUFFALO. Love your show, just foind it today. You make it okay for my dumbass to love wine while actually having an opinion. Keep up the good work.

Love the work ethic.

Joe
December 27, 2008

apj_bobswineguy
I think you ARE changing the wine world. Esp now w/ the current economic woes.
You sell good times! Good times w/ friends & family.
like the wines or not, a viewer would have to appreciate the enthusiasm you bring.
Your msg (it seems) is enjoy the ride! The fun in wine is the trial & error. The hits & the misses.

Love that Mott says no when he doesn’t get it. that makes it all the more real when he does agree.
Also, got a kick out of seeing how much you appreciated Mott getting into the show.
December 27, 2008

Kellen
wish I could get the secret pack in Canada! Loved the show anyways! Looking forward to a lot more!
December 27, 2008

Rob Martinez
Congrats on 600!
December 27, 2008

Jonathan Fuller
loved it. didn’t get the secret pack, but got a bottle of South African Sauvignon Blanc today. Excited to try it.

Also, just cracked a bottle of 2005 Madeiran. 90% Tannat! Its just incredible! This wine is huge. Your episode inspired me to try it, and boy am I glad I did!
December 27, 2008

Sally
Thanks for the great shows… from all the way up in Alaska.
December 27, 2008

dawei
Thanks for the smiles Gary.
December 27, 2008

Lurker1000
Good work Gary.

Merry christmas
December 27, 2008

M
I hope we get episode 601 before 2009. We’re getting close to 600 comments. GV said he wouldn’t tape a show unless we reached 600 comments. Maybe they could show us a pre-taped show if we don’t reach 600 comments before Monday!
December 27, 2008

ChrisV
Just saw Gary on the Today show, very nice job. I think best TV appearance yet, I found some of the others (with licking rocks etc) a bit cartoony… just my opinion!

Also, everyone has to leave more comments because Gary said in an email that he’d do a show idea of mine soon… so get commenting
December 27, 2008

Dr. Dan
Didn’t get the secret pack and didn’t get to watch the Today show, but really enjoyed this episode, viewed on the 27th. Always good to see the Mott-ster in front of the camera.
December 27, 2008

Patty Wilson
I posted earlier that we got the Holiday Gift Pack instead of the Christmas Secret pack, but I wanted to let you know that we watched you drinking the Secret pack while we tasted the reds in our Holiday Gift pack.

Actually, two of the three reds, we’d bought before, but it was nice to try them again. (only two of us drinking, so we just tasted and we’ve been slowly drinking the three bottles over the last few days)

Domaine la Lorentaine 2003 Lirac – I bought a couple of bottles of this after you raved about it on one of the eps. Just as good as when we brought it home before. Black licorice. which I only like in wine…

Villa Carata 2004 Sannio Aglianico – I picked this up at Wine Library, because I haven’t found many Italian wines that have piqued my interest, so I was trying to expand our palates. Liked the logo on the bottle. Hadn’t opened the bottle we had, but we liked this–probably the least of the three–but we still liked it.

Domaine Humbert Freres 2005 Pinot Noir – nice light color, light flavor, but not watered down.

We were pleased with all of the wines. Well, we tried all the reds. The whites we’ll get to eventually.

But after watching the episode, we sure would have liked to try the Secret Pack.
December 27, 2008

Achilleas in Cyprus
Shame I can’t get the secret pack 6000 miles away – that last wine would have been wonderful to try.

Merry Christmas and Seasons Greeting to one and all from the sunny island of Cyprus.

A.
December 27, 2008

ChrisBerto
600!!

Oy Vay-niac!

Happy Holidays all!

Gary, continue to bring the Thunder!
Keep the faith, the Jets are making the playoffs! (Now I KNOW I’m delusional…)
December 27, 2008

Richard
Yes Mott is the king of WLTV
December 27, 2008

Andrew Mager
Gary,

Excellent episode. I was watching it on the NY Thurway travelling from Springfield, Mass. to Rochester, Ny.

Here is a picture of Episode 600 on my iPod in the car:

http://flickr.com/photos/mager/3139384013/

Hope you have a wonderful holiday!
December 27, 2008

mikek
c’mon…only 115 more to go!

Happy Holidays to the Vayner Nation!

Look for the new web series on WLTV…Moments with Mott!!

What a fun episode. BTW – the Chateau Plain Point..ROCKED my face off!
December 27, 2008

Ray Melendrez
Great show Gary! Big fan now because of MJK of caduceus cellars.
December 27, 2008

paryb
hope you Vayniacs are having a great weekend!
December 27, 2008

mark
Gary-
I just watched you on the today show, very nice. I am looking forward to your next show. I hope you get the 600 you need soon.

Thx,
Mark
December 27, 2008

tml
Just saw Today Show appearance. Nice job! Hope to episode 601 soon!
December 27, 2008

cesar
Gary, you were great at the Today show. Hope to see you there more often. Love the way you throw the wine in the bucket.

Cesar, Atlanta, Georgia
December 27, 2008

catheybleu
this is my second comment. Great job on Today. I’m glad they gave you more time and even more glad that lady brought up the sniffy sniffing so you could tell America to smell their wine!
December 27, 2008

dafo
I only had the Rhone Rebel. My friends loved it, and it’s only $8, a great deal.

Saw the Today show, it was pretty sweet. Guess they finally let you finish a whole segment on TV.
December 27, 2008

Ian Maffett
Nearly there – only a little over a hundred to go… I think we can do it. I want to see one more before the new year.
December 27, 2008

mark
When are you going to start posting on http://garyvaynerchuk.com/ again? I love your few minute rant, advice, or what ever you want to talk about. The last one was Dec 5th, I really enjoy listen to it while I take a break at work. Get on it..

Also, I just bought a few bottles of Caymus 2006. It was recommneded to me from a friend. I dropped $60 bones per bottle. I was wondering if I should sit on this wine for a year or more, or should I drink it now? I bought 2 bottles in case I decided to drink one now. But I was looking for your advice…

Mark
December 27, 2008

Chris Rufkahr (@freewinetasting)
I watched this episode on my Treo last night before going nighty night! Another great episode. I hope to host a secret pack party with my brother, his wife, my boyfriend, and other local St. Louis wineauxs soon.

Had a great Christmas. Got to drink some Staglin Cabernet on Christmas Eve with my brother and family. Gary is right, sharing a bottle of red with family and friends is a great thing. (Especially if you didn’t pay for it.)

Congrats on Episode 600!!!! You rock Gary Vee!!!!!
December 27, 2008

jaredlevy
We want Gary! We want Gary! c’mon. If everybody leaves one more comment, he’ll come back!
December 27, 2008

Brian Williams
What a load of rubbish. This type of marketing ignorance can only do harm to the industry.

Little knowledge and a load mouth will not educate or earn new customers
December 27, 2008

gotsha
Happy Holidays GV. Thanks for another great secret pack that we can’t drink in Illinois. I love politicians!!!
December 27, 2008

PJS
Merry Christmas and a VERY Merry 600!
December 27, 2008

Josh Williams
I’ve been starting the day off with the thunder show for about a year. Congrats on episode 600. Your enthusiasm is contagious. I’m looking forward to many more episodes.

Thanks!
December 27, 2008

mike
my first comment! happy holidays everyone.

something tells me the 600th commenter will be getting something special from gary. . .
December 27, 2008

stevo
I did the secret pack tasting for the first time with my wife, her parents and her brother. It was a blast. We paused the show and gave each wine a sniffy sniff before you did to see who could pick up the scents that you did. For the last wine, which rocked by the way, my mother-in-law says “rhubarb” and we are like “what in the hell is rhubarb”…and then of course, you said it smelled like rhubarb. She was so pumped about it. We enjoyed all the wines and are hooked on the secret pack. Can’t wait till the next one. Thanks!
December 27, 2008

Tom T.
No secret pack for me but the Puech Haut sounds like a winner!
December 27, 2008

marco
Looks like a great pack. Congrats on 600!
December 27, 2008

Bruce
Ironically this was my first wine show I saw. Congrats on the 600th. Heres to 600+ more…
December 27, 2008

Z
first secret pack. totally awesome. how about a wristband for the holidays?
December 27, 2008

Ze Pereira
Thanks for the great presentation. I am a novice in wines, but I am getting to enjoy thanks to my wife who got me started. My curiosity to learn brought me to your show and I am glad to have landed here. Keep up the good work, Ze
December 27, 2008

rikta
i was kind of surprised on the first two ,i do agree with all what u said ,i was expecting a dryer sauv blanc and a more complex rhone ,i havent tried the bordeauxs im exited 4 the last one the big boy it i’ll suit my palates better …congrats on the 600 and merry christmas.
December 27, 2008

Hello Vino
Congrats on #600, Gary V!!!

Looking forward to hundreds more. Maybe a taping from the Boston Wine Expo in January? See you there!
December 27, 2008

Lois and Greg
Have not broken out the secret pack yet. Hoping to do so at a family gathering next weekend.
To all, enjoy the season, the holidays and the new year.
Got my alleged Jets playoff tickets in the mail yesterday. Hopefully, they’ll amount to more than a gag gift.
One step closer to 600.
December 27, 2008

csideranko
First time post. Loved the secret pack. Just doing my part to get Gary to 600.
December 27, 2008

Aaron
Great show, love seeing Mott on there. We haven’t opened the secret pack yet, waiting for some family to get back from holidays…
December 27, 2008

AT
Happy 600 Gary – Thanks for all you do!
December 27, 2008

wayno da wino
600 Comments or Bust……
YABA DABA DOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO !!!!!
December 27, 2008

jbarker
600, Great Job Gary! Rock On!
December 27, 2008

nelsonmaud
greatttt showwww.goooo600
December 27, 2008

Bev
Hey Gary! Merry Christmas! Here’s my question of the day…How can we change the laws so you can ship to Kentucky? Would love to be a member of the wine of the month club and/or get the secret packs. I do love your tasting thoughts…they make me more thoughtful of what I’m drinking. Hugs and kisses!
December 27, 2008

Tom P
Gratz on 600 epic episodes!

The passion and the information is alway appreciated.

I did not have the opportunity to buy the secret pack.

LOL – trying to help out the GV nation with a comment to get us over 600 for the 600th episode.

I know that GV and WLTV had change the way that I do wine, I try more and go in different directions than before, so thank for the help on the way!

Happy Holidays to everyone at WLTV!
December 27, 2008

Chris Hansen
Merry Christmas Gary. TY for 600.
December 27, 2008

Ian Maffett
We’re getting close. Might get to see 601 this weekend. I wonder if he has it taped and waiting….
December 27, 2008

tony
great episode gary. merry quanza
December 27, 2008

Big D
Gary,
I didn’t get the secret pack for a wine tasting but I did invite some friends over to watch the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade (100th anniversary). We had a great time and I offered a wine experience by supplying 4 pinot noirs from the left coast for them to taste with the main course of pork roast. All the wines were made by Siduri and they were all 2006. I had an Oregon Willamette Valley, a Sonoma Coast, a Santa Lucia Highlands, and a Bien Nacido. They enoyed it but I don’t think they concentrated too much on the wine. They were having a pretty good convivial time and the wine came in second or third in their priorities. Most thought the Sonoma Coast was the best but at some point someone mixed up the bottles so it is not exactly statistical proof. Oh well, As long as they enjoyed the party!?! Congrats on 600 and keep them coming.
December 27, 2008

bigrow
Hey Gary! great show as always. i am officially no longer a lurker – 600 is in sight. here’s to 600 more.
December 27, 2008

Moselman
So, Brian Williams – you wouldn’t be a Canadian sports commentator, would you? The quality of the comment indicated you might be one and the same…
December 27, 2008

Richard Ritter
Number 522, I think. Just doing my part to try to get us to 600 before the next episode.

X-Mas was at my brother in laws. We made our own secret pack for everyone attending. Started with Casa Lapostolle, Clos Apalta (2006) not the 05, then moved into the Raymond Generations 1997 Cab Sauv and finished with Switchback Ridge 2005 Merlot (best of the bunch).
December 27, 2008

VinoVamp
Working up to 600 comments. Long time watcher, keep rocking the free world.
December 28, 2008

Lauri
Hey Gary!

Congratulations on the episode number 600! Even though I don’t drink wine at all, I watch your show quite frequently as I enjoy the enthusiasm and energy you bring to the show, and your way of taking care of people and the community is very refreshing. Keep up the good work and looking forward to the 1000th episode of the Thunder Show!

Cheers!
December 28, 2008

Winekat
Hey Gary,
Great episode. Congrats on #600. Unfortunately I didn’t buy the Christmas Thunder pak but have gotten one of the previous ones. It sounds like a really good one though.
QOTD – We had an ‘05 Duckhorn Merlot with beef tenderloin for Christmas dinner. It was too die for!!!
Happy Holidays.
December 28, 2008

BotaBag
6hiiiiizyyyyyy.
December 28, 2008

jim
Lobby the MD House of Delegates to let us mail order wines! We’re only two states away!
December 28, 2008

my2cents
Fun episode. Congrats and all that for #600!

Missed the secret pack this time. Watched while drinking some port with some cheese.

Looking forward to a slow week off and catching up on drinking a few wines.
December 28, 2008

Debbie Catchings
Congratulations on #600!!!!!
December 28, 2008

Only 533 on Sunday?
Where is every body?

I didn’t get the Secret Pack. Been disappointed too many times by Gary. I’ll only buy wines that I’ve had before. Oh and only 90+ rated wines under $15.
December 28, 2008

Jlair
A little story… (to help get to 600 comments, thanks to twitter!!)
My dad bought me the secret pack for Christmas. That is GREAT!!! The crappy part is that my dad and I cant get together to taste them until the middle of Jan. So I cant watch this episode until then! I hope all of the wines are amazing!!! I cant wait to watch this show and taste these wines!!

Thanks GV for the great wine show that I love to watch every day! Keep it up!

My wife wants you to do an episode on gourmet soda. just would love to hear your thoughts!
December 28, 2008

Kevin Trottier
I run small Italian restaraunt. The staff is having the Thunder Show poured on them regularly. Of course we’d love to see more Italians featured but I could use some help first. How do I get servers to tap deeper into their pallate vocabulary? I’m tired of pre-service tastings where they use the same descriptions over and over.
December 28, 2008

Leigha
Interesting situation.
December 28, 2008

Brian Barrick
Just opened the Puech-Haut from the secret pack tonight, and it was outstanding. The ripeness of the fruit, combined with incredible concentration and balance, really sets a high standard.

And I must say I really appreciate the QPR of the first two wines. Most of the under-$10 wines that I come across are borderline undrinkable. You found two that almost anyone can enjoy during the holidays or for everyday drinking, without breaking the bank. Thanks for sharing.
December 28, 2008

apj_bobswineguy
GV’s 101 Wines – love the info boxes (meet the grape, etc).
VaynerNation, Buy someone this book.
Vayniacs are working hard to get you to 600 comments.
Go Cowboys! Big showdown in less than 15 hrs.
December 28, 2008

Andrew
Go Patriots. I’ll have to uncork a bottle if the Jets win today. (And if the Pats win, too, of course.)

Congrats on the milestone.
December 28, 2008

paryb
Go Cowboys indeed! alls we got is the ealry game. As they say, lets start a New Mexico Chile Holiday!
December 28, 2008

Andrei Kharlanov
Hi, Gary!

I love your personal show on http://garyvaynerchuk.com/ Hope to see new episode before New Year’s Eve. Leaving you a comment just to say thanks.

And my greetings for you in Russian: ????, ??????????? ?????? ????! ???? ?????? ??? — ?????? ? ?????????. ?? ?????????????? ? ??????? ????.

You can use Google Translate (http://www.google.com/translate) to translate my greetings
December 28, 2008

Neil
An EPIC episode! Great to see the Mottster on cam. “If you havn’t burnt leather, you havn’t lived, Mott.” I missed out on the secret pack. Wish I had me a bottle of that 04.
December 28, 2008

Andrei Kharlanov
Ups. It was “Gary, Happy New Year! Your personal show is the best on the Internet. Do not stop next year”!
December 28, 2008

MS
Great show Gary – happy 600! I am no longer a lurker!
December 28, 2008

Susan
Chris, We get to SEE you in the episode and not just hear you!!! WOW!!!!! What a concept!!!!!
December 28, 2008

Brent
Loved the show Gary. The rogue sounded so great I bought me one…can’t wait till it gets here. gratz on 600 (and many more)
December 28, 2008

Jennifer
Wonderful as always. I can’t wait to see more!!!
December 28, 2008

theemptyglass
I’ve already commented but wanted to get us that much closer to 600 comments. I havent been drinking as Ive been under the weather, but I did have a little bit of champagne for xmas, a cava named Segura Viduas, not one to drink with the girls by the name of it (Certainly Widows).
December 28, 2008

Brent
Amazing job on 600 Gary…Keep it up.
December 28, 2008

mikek
C’mon Vayniac’s! About 60 more and we’re over the 600 mark! Let’s get ‘er done before “gang green” disappoints (yet again) at 4:15 !?! Gotta give GV something to feel good about right?
December 28, 2008

BF
Awesome, GV.
December 28, 2008

Dustin Clark
Hey Gary you are right, I have 74 episodes on my zune and I never really thought about leaving A commet until you ask me to, Sorry about that I will start leaving more from now on, I love the show. I am A selftaught chef and I learn alot about wine and wine pairing from
watching your show. I thank you for that. And you almost made me A football fan. ALMOST.
And Gray where did the Root beer Episode go?

I hope you don’t mind if I drop my brother and sisters web site http://www.sterjay.com if anyone is looking for custom art check this site out.
December 28, 2008

Eric
First comment on this site for me. I’m also waiting with dread for the Jets game. I like seeing Mott every once in a while.

Question for the Vayniacs: What varietals has Gary recommended for people who like Pinot Grigio? I know I’ve seen at least one episode where he recommended other white wines but I can’t seem to remember which episodes.

Wouldn’t it be great if there was a section of this website that said, “If you like x, you’ll like y?”
December 28, 2008

Eric Laz
Gary, Great show and congrats on 600!! I just found your blog earlier this year, but I am hooked. I am a huge Jim Cramer fan and put you right up there with him. Your enthusiasm and passion for wine makes it a pleasure to watch. I am spreading the Thunder to all of my other Mad Money friends.
QOTD: Tasted the Secret pack on Christmas day with my wife and Sis. My sister enjoyed Bob’s Blanc and my wife really liked the Rhone Rebel. I, like you, was really impressed with the Puech-Haut. This is exactly what I look for in a great wine; however it was not my wife’s style. Oh well more for me

Keep up the great work and count me in for the Gary V wine of the month club!
December 28, 2008

Gerry V
So I’ve had a change of heart with the 2005 Rhone Rebel Gsm. When I tasted it on Christmas day, I did not like it much at all. I had a couple glasses again last night and it was much better. Not sure if it was becuase I was mixing things up so much on the 25th or that it has had a chance to breath. I’m digging the tannins in it now. Glad I did not poor it out.

Salud
December 28, 2008

Tom Langan
Didn’t get the secret pack, so I can’t give you my breakdown. Just wanted to leave a comment, wish GV and the crew at WL a Merry Christmas and a healthy and prosperous New Year, and thank you for all the great recommendations and savings throughout 2008.

As usual, GV, you were great on the Today Show. Loved the pairings you did with the sparkling wines.
December 28, 2008

AaronB
No 600 comments yet???!!! Maybe this will help.
December 28, 2008

Jordan
Gary, maybe you should give out a prize once in a while to those who commented two or three days prior. Do it whithout an announcement a couple of times and there will be tons of comments later on. That is just an idea.
December 28, 2008

Jazzylee77
I think I’ve watched 200 episodes in the past month. Maybe 3 comments. Should I just comment 197 times on this one to even it out?

So the first Wine smelled like junkyard fire? burning rubber and steel? Made me think of driving past Hammond Indiana on the way to Chicago.
December 28, 2008

Dustin from OR
Hey Gary and everyone at the Wine Library, Congrats on the success and the 600th episode. I hope to come and visit if I ever get out to Jersey
December 28, 2008

BW
GV,
Hey, been away from WLTV lately – super busy time of year. Glad I caught this episode. Missed out on the secret pack, but ordered a couple bottles of the Ch. Puech Haut – sounds spectacular. I noticed on the WL page that Michel Rolland & Claude Gros are involved in this project – that’s some good pedigree & it sounds like it delivers the thunder based on your tasting.
December 28, 2008

Ryan
Gary, Thanks for everything you have done with WLTV. I look forward to the GV wine of the month club!
December 28, 2008

sunny k
Congratulations on eposide 600

Keep upthe good work.

walt K.
December 28, 2008

Andre
558! So close to 600!
December 28, 2008

Sonia
Hope it counts if you already left a comment. I want some WLTV on Monday….
December 28, 2008

Karl of Packer Nation
601
December 28, 2008

Kathy Hughes
Congratulations and thank YOU for 600 WLTV episodes, Gary. Every episode has been a winner. Sorry to have missed you on the Today Show on Christmas a.m.; hope that Mott will be “linking it up”. I don’t want to miss a word of what you had to say about the bubbly. New Year’s Eve is bubbly night….and I want to be prepared. Wishing YOU ALL the BEST in the New Year, Naples Kathy aka Champagne Lady
December 28, 2008

Adam B
Congrats on 600 episodes Gary. Just wanted to relay that I bought the Bodega 2005 Atteca Armas based purely on your episode with Jorge Ordonez, and brought it along for Christmas dinner. It was a huge hit, and completely overshadowed any of the other wines we served (including a really nice ‘98 Merryvale Profile), with the BIG exception of the ‘05 Doisy-Vedrines Sauternes that was our dinner apertif. It’s taking everything I have not order a case of that and cellar it (probably because I lack a cellar!), but holy cow I can totally see how that would be your #1.

Anyway, here’s to another 600 episodes and expanded palates!
December 28, 2008

M
Buffalo lost
December 28, 2008

italianwinelover
awesome episode! you bring the thunder…congrats on the 600!
December 28, 2008

Smahlatz
Harry is my brother, Janice my mistress and Suzette my dessert – you sir, are a disgrace, Good Day!!!
December 28, 2008

JudeMurphy
I don’t get secret packs- I live in Ireland! : (
It’s still great to watch these shows though!
It’s almost at 600 comments, we’ll get there!
December 28, 2008

Mike In WV
Great episode Gary! Hope you have a great New Years!
December 28, 2008

Karen Sugarpants
Hey GARVYVEEEEE! Merry Christmas from Canada! Am watching the CSI marathon on Spike TV and keep seeing your mug at every commercial so I had to stop in and say hi!
Congrats on 600, on all your successes and here’s to a very inspiring 2009 to you and yours.
December 28, 2008

brorjace
Congrats on the 600! Great guest btw, we all need more Mott time. I didn’t get to watch the Today show, but hopefully it went well for you. Happy New Year!
December 28, 2008

Colleen
Happy Holidays – hope u plan on continuing the videos! I know its gotta be mind-numbing, answering the same questions over and over, but some of us just got here!
December 28, 2008

Brandon
Sorry to hear about the season being over but can’t wait for more wine library’s. Thanks again for doing this.
December 28, 2008

Jayjay
Been lurking for the past month and absolutely love the show. Even got a few friends hooked on it as well! Keep it up Gary and btw we love the BLIND TASTINGS! Happy New Year!
December 28, 2008

Joe
Wonderful job this ep as always Gary, keep on expanding palates!
December 28, 2008

Brian
Don’t really care that much about wine [yet] but I just saw a talk from a conference and I had to find out about Winelibrary.

THANK YOU for giving a shit.
December 28, 2008

Eric Z.
Might as well add a comment here to help us get to 600.

Gary, you should do a tribute to Ehren Jordan sometime and taste Failla, Neyers, and Turley side by side — same guy, such different wines. (Good timing, too: SF Chronicle named him Winemaker of the Year.)

Found a liquor store in my city (Chicago) with some crazy older wines — bought a ‘97 Edmunds St. John syrah for 16 bones: singin’!
December 28, 2008

ex-lurkdawg
Thank you so much, Gary and Chris, for all of the great episodes. I liked that Chris made such an appearance on this one. It seemed fitting to me. I didn’t get a secret pack and now I kind of wish I had.
December 28, 2008

nelsonmaud
gary keep up the great work hope you get to another 600!!!i did enjoy the blind tasting too,was fun watching
December 28, 2008

gubby
Nice job with the sparkling wine on the Today show! Also, this got me motivated to try more Rhone wine. It’s been too long since my last chateauneuf du pape.
December 28, 2008

guymandude
almost there, sorry your jets lost but my dolphins won. hey, we were 1-15 so i ‘ve felt pain.come one guys get to 600 for gary ,he’s gonna need it.
December 28, 2008

Jazzylee77
It’s a chili and Riesling night! Well I started, with a beer, but decided I needed something more tart.
Are we there yet?
December 28, 2008

Jazzylee77
Ditto on the blind tastings. You were nailing those price points!
December 28, 2008

Doug
Great to see and hear from the Mottster! Would have sent a secret pack to Illinois for the big family xmas, but state law prohibits. Maybe Blago will fix this in his final days in office Best of luck on your next 600, and keep ‘em coming!
December 28, 2008

DrEdwardo
Happy Holidays Gary, Mott and everyone else at WLTV.

Edwardo
December 28, 2008

Ian Maffett
Just 10 more comments required.
December 28, 2008

Ian Maffett
I don’t want to have to do them all myself.
December 28, 2008

Ian Maffett
I’m telling others. Have you?

http://twitter.com/IanMaffett/status/1083136906
December 28, 2008

Jazzylee77
I’m trying to pace myself and see if I can hit the 600th…
December 28, 2008

Ian Maffett
Gary’s probably watching this right now to see it hit 600… I am just hoping he doesn’t ask for 1000 next year.
December 28, 2008

Josh O
Thanks for another great episode!

P.S.

Its official, the lions went 0-16 !
December 28, 2008

Ian Maffett
I have to say, the Jets wine glass looks good on video. Looks heavy.
December 28, 2008

BobMac
Merry Christmas, Gary. Hope your 2009 is even better.
December 28, 2008

Ian Maffett
Will there be a special wine show for New Year’s Eve?
December 28, 2008

Ian Maffett
I hope duplicate comments count or we’re in trouble.
December 28, 2008

Ian Maffett
…and…
December 28, 2008

Ian Maffett
I think we made it!
December 28, 2008

Josh O
600 FTW
December 28, 2008

Jazzylee77
I asked a bartender at a Ruby Tuesdays last night “Which of these Chardonnays do you think has the least oak?” He had no idea what I was talking about. Told me it would probably be the sweeter wines that were at the top of the list instead of the drier wines toward the bottom. Of course since I only started drinking wines again a couple months ago… well, a couple months ago, I would not have known about over-oaked Chards either, and at least he was being honest and taking his best guess. I went for a dry one, Frei Brothers, but told him if it was full of Oak I would be diving across the bar claws out in my best “Oak Monster” impression. That was when he pulled the night stick out and beat the crap out of me in a back alley.

Not really on that last bit, but I can’t just post.. “Hey here is another post toward 600!”
December 28, 2008

Jazzylee77
Wooo Hoooo We made past 600!!! How ’bout a little Kool and the Gang?

Yahoo! This is your celebration
Yahoo! This is your celebration

Celebrate good wines,come on! (Let’s celebrate)
Celebrate good wines, come on! (Let’s celebrate)

There’s a party goin’ on right here
A celebration to last throughout the years
So bring your good wines, and your laughter too
We gonna celebrate your party with you

Come on now

Celebration
Let’s all celebrate and have a good wine
Celebration
We gonna celebrate and have a good wine

It’s wine to come together
It’s up to you, what’s your pleasure

Everyone around the world
Come on!

Yahoo! It’s a celebration
Yahoo!

Celebrate good wines, come on!
It’s a celebration
Celebrate good wines, come on!
Let’s celebrate

We’re gonna have a good wine tonight
Let’s celebrate, it’s all right
We’re gonna have a good wine tonight
Let’s celebrate, it’s all right
December 28, 2008

Scott Cronce
Due to the weather I didn’t get my xmas pack here in California until Saturday. I’m a little confused, my 4 wines don’t match this episode.

The invoice says… SKU 43117 “Wltv Secret Christmas Pack 2008″.
In the box I have…
1 – 2006 Monteflores Merlot
1 – 2004 Montirius Gigondas
1 – 2005 Green Groves Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon
1 – 2005 Clos Du Prieur

Anyone else have this happen?
December 28, 2008

Doc S
@ S. Cronce – We got two boxes here. One with the wines listed for #600, and another with the Thunder Cuvee white, a Torrontes, a Bourgogne Rouge pinot noir, and the B. Shifrin Howell Mt. Zin. They showed up a few days apart. Weird.
December 28, 2008

David Dadekian
QOTD: I didn’t get a secret pack this time around. Thank you for a great show though. I’ve been “offline” and I see you’re already past 600 comments so I’ll just add congratulations on show 600 Gary and Mott. I did catch the Today Show on Thursday morning so congrats on that too. Thanks again.
December 28, 2008

dafo
600! Wow!

Anyway, sorry for your Jets GV. And Patriots, 11 wins and no playoff? (Playoffs? Are you talking about playoffs?) Part of me think it’s ridiculous, but most of me is fine by it.

All that matters now is that the Colts are going all the way to a Manning-Manning Superbowl. I’ll drink to that one.
December 28, 2008

Nancy Bentley
Just visited my mom in Holmdel NJ and were excited to figure out there’s a real wine store that Gary owns! Not just an Internet wine store! We will definitely visit on our next trip! Gary, I’ll bring you some home made Kinkead Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon jelly!
December 28, 2008

Jazzylee77
Not only did I Digg, Stumble and Twitter it,
but I also propelled it at Propeller.com
slashed it at Slashdot.org
nerded it out at Technorati.com
gave it a taste at Del.icio.us
read it at Reddit.com
Big match: Oakmonster vs Tagza at Tagza.com
farked it all up at Fark.com
heard it on the vine at Newsvine.com
unfurled it at Furl.net
swik.net would not load for me
made a connotation at Connotea.org
Links Marker wouldn’t let me in
dizzed out at Sphinn.com
faved it at Faves.com
Mister-wong.com couldn’t log in… but I see 8 others bookmarked
Spurl.net server not responding
Netvouz.com server not responding
Diiged it at Diigo.com
Backflip.com down for maintenance () maybe they shouldn’t be doing so many back flips
Did it with my bibs on (Oh my!) at Bibsonomy.org
Folkd it up some more at Folkd.com
Did the WineLibrary chachacha at Linkagogo.com

Indianpad.com is taking forever to load. Okay, I’m beat on this for now. Remaining on my list, go ahead!
Plugim.com
Myjeeves.ask.com
Buddy Marks
Connectedy
MyLinkVault
Google Bookmarks
Jumptags.com
Fetch
OYAX
A1 Webmarks
Bookmark Tracker
myVmarks
Mixx.com
Wirefan.com
Dizzed
Symbaloo
Ximmy
Erollover
YuppMarks
Health Ranker
Ka-Boom-It.com
December 28, 2008

Greg B
Big G, Big ups to your 600th Ep Man! Love what you do, Love what you do. Thank You.
Jets and My Bears same results. Shoot me now.
December 28, 2008

Jazzylee77
What wine pairs well with dried up fruitcake?
December 29, 2008

wayno da wino
Yo G, me condolances on the Jets loss. But Ya gotta admit, they
improved over last years team…….
December 29, 2008

ScottEJ
Been on vacation and looking forward to Puech Haut.

Hope your holiday was good. Mine was awesome.
December 29, 2008

Richie Pollard
Congratulations on 600 not out Gary, go for the grand bro,I have’nt forgot your hot spiced shallots, just having trouble shipping fragile food items to the USofA. Yours Aye Richie, Bootneck till I die.
December 29, 2008

Pierre
from up here in Quebec, Canada, happy holidays to all and thanks Gary for all the shows!
December 29, 2008

Oklahoma Michael
qotd= hhhmmmm lets see……OH yeah NO secret pack for me because DHL went out of business AAAAAHHHHHH come on
December 29, 2008

thisIslandEarth
The only thing worse than being a Jets fan is being a Bills fan…
I feel your pain G. The only cure is a new episode of WLTV
Congratulations on 600!
December 29, 2008

Susan
Gary, You have over 600 comments now…Is this enough??????? I hope it is!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
December 29, 2008

J Dubb
Happy Holidays Gary, Mott and the WLTV crew.
December 29, 2008

Jayhitek
QOTD: Didn’t buy it. You guys can’t sell to Mass!
I also watched this on Monday the 29th.
December 29, 2008

Brittanny
Hi Gary and Mott! I hope you guys had a great Christmas. I don’t drink a lot of wine (not because we don’t want to but because my boyfriend always comes home with beer instead of wine). Next year we are going to start trying out new wines thanks to you and your show. I’m going to get him your book and a decanter for our 5 year anniversary (January 21st!). I got my boyfriend into watching your show and he’s since shown it to all his co-workers and his family. I think they watched this episode together on Christmas.

Thanks for making such a great show. Things have been a little tough lately but watching your show always makes me smile.

Also, the Jets broke my heart. I’m a Patriots fan but I was sure as hell rooting for the Jets yesterday.
December 29, 2008

Brittanny
Also, a question. Now I’m just a cheap person when it comes to certain things so sometimes when I’m out at a restaurant and I want to order wine I’ll order White Zinfandel because it’s always the cheapest thing on the menu. I’ve grown to like it a lot but I always get made fun of for drinking it. Why is it such a joke to drink it? I seriously don’t know. Any insight would be great.
December 29, 2008

luvgrapesqueezings
Fun show GV!!!! I hope you and your family had a wonderful Christmas, and I hope you have a great New Year!!!!!!
December 29, 2008

Cuse Wino
Congrats on 600 and another great year of WLTV!
You continue to deliver knowledge and entertainments and we are all better off for it.
Our best to you and yours this holiday season.

GV for Prez in 2009!!!!!
December 29, 2008

BK
Gary,

Congrats on 600 shows. Thanks for doing what you do for everyone.
Hope you had a wonderful holiday!
December 29, 2008

Vinacull
Gary, congrats on 600 EPs! ROCK ON (in the style that only you and Pat Benetar know so well).
December 29, 2008

Lb in KS
my story starts with me ordering the secret pack, then I go to check out, then it say’s no, we don’t ship to your state, then I scream NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. end of story
congrats on the 6 oh oh GV! I can’t lie…makes it hard to watch the secret packs when I can’t play along. argh Hope everyone had a most excellent Christmas and will have a safe New Year.
December 29, 2008

Rick O'Shea
Congrats on 600! Sorry about the Jets.
December 29, 2008

94+
Two years ago someone brought a bottle of 2004 Chateau Puech Haut to a dinner party at my house; FABulous wine!

I was so excited to see it reviewed here. I’m looking forward to finding another bottle or two.

Congrats on 600. Glad to see 600 comments too!
December 29, 2008

Sarno
Congrats on 600! Go Phins!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
December 29, 2008

Jazzylee77
Mott! Don’t be Bogarting all the “cuddles.” GV needs some too.
December 29, 2008

amgryger
Congrats on 600 episodes!
December 29, 2008

SteveW
The Jet’s coach Eric Mangini was let go. Gary – you outraged, happy, sad? What wine goes best with a coach’s departure? You know, they say there are only two kinds of coaches in the NFL… those who have been fired and those who will be fired.
December 29, 2008

Ray from Campusfork
King of Vblog!

I love your energy!!
Keep producing!

I don’t understand how the Patriots with their record did not get it.

Out here in the Bay Area, we have some good mascot wine.
Come by.

Happy Holidays
December 29, 2008

Karol
GV saw you on the Today show – great job. Mott good to see you in front of the camera. Hope you both had a wonderful Christmas and best spent with family and friends. Congrats on 600! BTW – no more crying about the JETS – you could live in MI – with the worst team ever — Lions 0-16!
December 29, 2008

Jason
Congrats on 600 episodes of the Thunder!! Best of luck for the next 600!!
December 29, 2008

Beth
Hi Gary and Mott. I download WinelibraryTV from Miro so I don’t know if I get counted in your total downloads or not but just wanted to say I love the show and hope you’re not stopping at 600. I’m in Mississippi (home of Brett Farve and Manning clan!!)and sent wine from WineLibrary to a friend in VA this Christmas. Hope to buy from you again soon. Thanks for all the great exposure to different wines and your entertaining presentation. Keep it coming in 2009!
December 29, 2008

Marc-China Wine Tours
Was that Darth Vayner?

Congrats on 600!
December 29, 2008

Wineegrl
Finally got to watch some episodes!
Congrats on 600, and so happy you didn’t stop here!
I’ve been using your webisodes as creative fodder and all-around springboard for energy.

Happy New Year to everyone involved over there! You guys rock!
December 30, 2008

Omallley
Excellent episode. Great to see Mott behind the table tasting with you, GV.

Congrats on the 600 episodes!
December 30, 2008

Phil M.
I love the Thunder Show and what you guys are all about. Thank you Gary and Mott.

Hey Gary, I’m only shaving if the Eagles lose. Here’s to a big hairy Philly Superbowl win!
December 30, 2008

Jon
Gary! Congrats on number 600. First time poster, long time watcher. With this episode, we just added three more citizens to the Vayner-Nation (brother, mom, and dad). It just keeps getting bigger. Keep up the great work and thanks for all the great picks!
December 30, 2008

Neener
Happy Holidays Gary! Congrats on making 600 shows for our edification. I’ve only been a Vayniac for the past 100 or so, but like to think I’ve brought a couple of dozen of my friends into the fold too. I’m a little bummed that I missed the Today Show since I JUST saw the episode with the announcement…but I’m sure you and Mott will “link it up” in the near future. I wish you and yours much happiness and success in 2009!
December 30, 2008

Chippewamike
Coming to this show late, but wanted to say thanks Gary for all you do!

Cannot get the secret pack because I LIVE IN MICHIGAN

Had a great Christmas with family, hope you did too. Looking forward to New Years!
December 30, 2008

Roberto (rarojas)
Congrats on 600, way to go!!! I can claim to be one of the few (or maybe many, that would be a good question of the day, by the way) who have watched all 600 !!!

best in 2009
December 30, 2008

Tom G
Great episode. I don’t dig not knowing what I’m buying, so I never go for the packs…still I love watching you review them!

Not shaving til the Eagles lose.
December 30, 2008

Phil
Bring the Motster on more. That is the first time I have seen him. Nothing what I thought he would look like. I thought he was about 25 years old.
December 30, 2008

Rod Hannon
This is the second year in a row that I’ve done the ’secret wine pack’ tastings with my wife, father-in-law, and mother-in-law over Christmas (which, in our family, last the entire week between xmas and New Years, and includes the birthday of my father-in-law (Poppa Jack, 12/29). You rock our world! This year’s pack was exceptional. We spread it out over 3 days and enjoyed each bottle as much as (if not more than) the last. Can’t wait until next year!!!
December 30, 2008

Keith
So Mott, what did you think of that last wine? I love it when Mott joins in the tasting, even if it’s off camera. I’d like to see a link to the Today show under your national TV appearances.
December 31, 2008

Benj
QOTD: Didn’t do the secret pack, and for once I was actually in the US, but looks like I missed a good one! Happy holidays everybody.
December 31, 2008

Scott
Mott is the bee’s knees!
December 31, 2008

kBear
More Mott!
January 1, 2009

Kristen
Yay, finally got to watch the episode! One of my friends got her parents to watch when I was on the Thunder Show and on Christmas they saw you on the Today Show. You have some new fans. They’re even getting the Wine Spectator now!

Happy Holidays and New Year everyone!
January 1, 2009

Kristen
PS- The Mottster *is* legendary!!!!
January 1, 2009

Brandon
congrats on the 600 didn’t buy the pack but had the rouge it was amazing actually im a geek squad agent in palm springs and i have many well off customers and they are always so surprised at my wine knowledge thanks to you one of my customer gave me one of his many bottles of the rouge all in all i got about 60 different bottles during the season
January 2, 2009

Jai
A half-hearted congrats on #600. I’d give the whole heartfelt congrats, but with #4 “throwing away” the Patriots’ playoff hopes this past weekend (family’s from Boston), I just can’t bring myself to do it. At least my ‘9ers took it ya. Anyway, I’m now finally catching up after falling behind mid July and since struggling slowly, but surely, to gain ground on episodes. Why do you gotta be so darn reliable? Those few days of non-episodes were huge!

QOTD: Never bought a secret pack so I can’t comment on that experience, but I’d like to (maybe someday?). I can share these thoughts though… Being single makes it a bit difficult to do it. I guess I could try to put together a party, but I have no “wine friends” and the fact that you do these packs for holidays it wouldn’t work. anyway I know “do it with family”, but with a “wine snob” (can’t be bothered with your “silly” show, his words, not mine – I tried) in the family and the other loving their “safe, reliable mass market” wine I’m out of luck. I guess I could experience it on my own over a week or so, but I don’t trust myself with 3 or 4 wines by myself. Plus, I’m not really looking to fall behind again.

Just a thought, but maybe a secret pack just for secret pack’s sake. Why do they have to be holiday/event related? Or maybe every once in while you could announce a wine ahead of time and maybe do a one bottle laid back friday “taste-a-long with Gary” episode. You could even tie it your wine club selection for that month or something. I know how you are about your branding / marketing haha. Just an idea. If you do do something like that, I even promise to overcome my extreme shyness and get out to a San Fran event (maybe even meet you) next time you come out. I couldn’t bring myself to attend a few of your past ones. Sorry.

Truly though, a big congrats on the show. 600 is huge. I love it so much I refused to skip episodes to catch up. That’s gotta count for something. Thanks for everything you do to promote the accessibility of wine. And for getting this kid, who knew nothing, didn’t care to know, about wine at least trying a wine or two here and there and enjoying the experience. I wish I could smell, taste anything in the wines like you do. Wine generally tastes like wine to me. Oh, here’s a story for ya…

I tasted a fruit in a wine this past christmas, I got so excited I tasted something “I was like I know this taste”, I had to give it a few more sips before figuring out it was blueberry. I felt so accomplished, I was proud. I wish I remember now what that bottle was (all I remember is that it was a heavy red – it was “the snob’s” selection), because for the rest of the bottle I savored it as if it were the best wine I’d ever had simply, because I was able to identify something – anything! Thanks for that, that’s all because of you.

Anyway, again thanks for all the great shows. Looking forward to another great year of enjoying them.

P.S. Does quality (or simply endless) make up for lack of quantity? I tried
January 2, 2009

pawncop
Congratulations on the 600th episode. Did not get to obtain the secret pack, the wines sounded great.

Good to see the Mottster on.

Sorry I’m so late, with my comment. Had to work the holiday’s, we can’t take off during this time, kid’s still get sick and we have to be there for them.

Hope you had a wonderful holiday.
January 2, 2009

JayZee
Congratulations and thanks for the first 600 episodes of WLTV. It has been a great run. How long can it go? I hope it can last another 600 episodes!!

QOTD: I am remiss in that I didn’t get a Secret Pack. But I did enjoy the show and, of course, the Mottster, the true superstar of WLTV.
January 2, 2009

Rich
Gary,
Saw your Dad out in the miserable weather directing traffic and people walking on the frozen ground on Christmas eve in his Jets Jacket, unbelievable. Felt like I was shopping in a Mom and Pop store, alas, an unbelivably huge one. I had some Full Boat Cab a week before and wanted some more, one of your associates asked me if I needed help, so I asked for it, he went to ask someone else about it, and who does he go to, Gary V. in the flesh. You told him Green Groves took the place of Full Boat(same juice he said) so I guess I can trust I will have the same experience with the GG….LOLOL
Happy Holidays and congrats on 600(been watching since about 60) thanx for turning me into a Wine Lover and helping me get value for my dollar for all these years!!!!
P.S. flips me out to go back to about episode 40 and see the serious nature the program used to have(you have not been as tough on the wines as you used to be, just to note)
January 2, 2009

Eric
Congratulations Gary on number 600! I haven’t had the chance to see many episodes recently, but I made a point to catch this one. Thank you so much for bringing so much thunder to my wine world.
January 3, 2009

Sharon
Hi Gary – Well, I live in MA, and of course you don’t ship to Patriots fans.
Thanks so much for WLTV!
January 3, 2009

Nik
Congrats om getting to 600 – keep up the good work!
January 3, 2009

anna
lovely to see mott on the show! he’s a much better guest than most. and, in a year of watching, that was surely my favorite closing shot.

congratulations on 600, gary.
January 4, 2009

Kevin Trottier
You really ate a gingerbread house? Loved the red I-tal show. Sorry showing with the Gaja, I liked it when I tried it but I’m learning. Any love for grappa? One look at the Nonino women makes sales. Bring the Thunder
January 4, 2009

Andrew D
Cheers Gary

Happy 600th Episode. Fantastic that things have gone so well, for so long.

All the best
Andrew
January 4, 2009

kaybee
Happy New Year! Enjoyed the episode with Mott.
January 5, 2009

nnothing
the today show was great…. showing all those bubbles with realistic price points… really feeling prosecco right now.
January 5, 2009

MattUD
Congrats on the 600th episode, I was out of the country, so I did not have the secret pack.
January 5, 2009

Panosh
Great job Gary. I am not sure anyone in the podcast/internet production industry has gone this far.

Keep it up

Ken Panosh
January 7, 2009

Jon
Gary,

What a great 600th. Congrats. I wanted to order the s Pack but IL would not let me. Hi to Mot and all the crew in NJ. Thanks for all you have educated this year. I have been super pleased with the gainey reisling from the book. More bubbles and reisling in 09 por favor.

Thanks again,

-Jon
January 7, 2009

CBone
Gary, congratulations on #600! Great job. You bring much happiness and wine confidence to many. Well done.

QOTD: Never done a secret pack, but I have had that Rhone Rebel before. Pretty good stuff.
January 8, 2009

Griz4life
So I just had a South African SB…not the one on this episode (it awaits for me in TN as I sit here in the tundra of Montana). I was a little uninspired. I hope Bob’s is better…
January 8, 2009

Dave Kinney
My wife turned me on to your website–you’re a lunatic–I’m hooked….

Happy New Year!

Dave

P.S. As for the Jets… I feel your pain brother. I’ve been a Jets and Mets fan (glutton for punishment, no?) since the mid 60’s. Except for what, 5 years all told, it’s been torture. Guess I’ll just have to drink more wine…
January 9, 2009

Drewine
Thank you and congrats on 600!
January 10, 2009

Joe
Gary, Thank you so much for the xmas secret pack show. My brother showed our family the Thanksgiving show (without the wine) and we decided that night to get the xmas pack and, as a family, become part of the VaynerNation in December. I had emailed you in early December about getting the secret pack in Minneapolis (can’t get it shipped here, WEAKSAUCE!) and you and your crew did your best to help me out. It was looking bleak and then I realized my brother lives in Brooklyn and he could buy the pack and check it on the way to MN. By the way, as you asked we did thank my brother for introducing WLTV to us…it has brought much entertainment and excitement to our family and more importantly my parents are now being more adventurous and trying new wines. OK, back to the xmas pack tasting. We all sat around my brothers laptop in the living room…linked it up to the stereo for true Thundershow sound…and began! Gary, it truly was a great moment for my bro, sis, parents and I to be together on a cold Minnesooota night laughing, sniffing, whirling, sharing our feelings on the wines and noticing how all of our feedback was different just like all of our personalities. It was also great to see our parents in a truly happy state (could have been all the wine) and so relaxed that my dad even began to admit halfway through the show that this reminded him of trying different types of pot in the 60s. WOW, we were laughing almost to the point of tears together. Finally, we tried the Chateau Puech-Haut. GARY! WOW! blew us away! I wish you could have seen the look on all of our faces…I’ll remember it forever. And with that concluded our fantastic evening. Secretly, I told my brother when back in Brooklyn to buy a couple of bottles of the 2004 Chateau Puech-Haut (if he can find it, I see your sold out) and store them. We’d love to surprise my parents in 5 to 10 years and drink that again as a family to relive the memories. Thank you again for all you do!
January 20, 2009

Chad B.
Gary,

I’ve been slacking and haven’t watched an episode in several months, but I came back to experience some THUNDER and want to thank you for this great episode. I’m hoping to make a little time to get caught up, because “a little bit of you” certainly helps me get excited about and reminds me of the important things in life.

Many Thanks,
Chad
January 20, 2009

yowens
Congrats on 600 GV!
January 25, 2009

lawschooldrunk
congrats on 600, gary!

since mott was your guest, he should have asked the QOTD!!!
January 31, 2009

Dessert Wine Nerd
Congrats on 600 Gary AND Mott. Nice to see Mott sit in for a bit, I know hes a bit camera shy. Once again I ARRRGGGHHHHH that I cant get the secret packs, but its still fun to watch how things turn out. QOTD: No secret packs!
February 6, 2009

Frank
Plain Point big yes yes for this wine- would buy again