A Master Sommelier From Germany Stops By To Talk Wine

A Master Sommelier From Germany Stops By To Talk Wine – Episode #605

January 7, 2009

Master Sommelier Hendrik Thoma from Germany stops by and chats wine, german wine and shows us his great personality.

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Comments on this episode(423) Leave a comment ›

“I missed the favorite song question at the end there. ,…” by Bob78
“Terrific episode. Great guest, great Bulava video tacked on at the en…” by Daria Kushmelyn
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Wines tasted in this episode:

1992 Zilliken Saarburger Rausch Spatlese RieslingGerman Riesling
2007 Cartagena GewurtztraminerOther Chilean White Wine
2006 Becker Pinot NoirOther German Varieties
2006 Donnhoff Oberhauser Brucke Riesling AusleseGerman Riesling

Links mentioned in today’s episode.

If you want to contact Hendrik

423 Responses

January 7, 2009

Jimmy T
Haven’t watched but breaking the rule to be #1!!!! Holla.
January 7, 2009

kaybee
ha ha
January 7, 2009

John Farrin
3
January 7, 2009

MagnumGourmet
Top 5…Woo Hoo!
January 7, 2009

Erik K
Guest was great….but please, let the guests speak…I am so tired of Gary cutting off the guests comments show after show after show…pathetic.
January 7, 2009

Vanguy
Cool!

Love the super long eps…will settle in and watch this when things quiet down later tonight.
January 7, 2009

Daniel Kemp
QOTD: I don’t, but I read that Trader Joe’s in the USA has some that people like. One would be 2006 The California Wine Party Franc Merlot and I think it’s $4.99
January 7, 2009

*/^_^\*
qotd: i couldn’t. maybe that jesus guy if he was still around….
January 7, 2009

Subdaimon
Germans Love David Hasselhoff
January 7, 2009

KenP
Top Ten!
January 7, 2009

John in Miami
Really enjoyed it. My wife says it’s the best guest so far. OOTD: I liked what */^_^\* said. I’ll go with that.
January 7, 2009

Buddhachu
I LOVE German wines!

Qualitätswein mit Prädikat for the win!
January 7, 2009

Terrance
Argh! Just missed the top ten. But loved the episode, the neat wines, and most importantly the awesome guest. One of the best eps so far. I’m feeling a Gewurtztraminer craving coming on.
January 7, 2009

kaybee
Supah, supah, supah!
QoTd
It can be done, Yoda, but not in this galaxy!
January 7, 2009

John Farrin
Nice show as usual. Great ending Mottster. Have had about 3/4 of a bottle of 2007 Saint-Esprit Cote-Du-Rhone and can’t remember the QOTD that you asked 2 minutes ago. Oh well
January 7, 2009

urbwes
QOTD: it can be good, but not great

Gary, You have really stepped up your game in the guest interaction. I absolutley loved the back and forth you had with Henrik. Your interviewing skillz bring the thunder!!!
January 7, 2009

manonthemoon
Another great show, and the ending is classic.

QOTD: I don’t think it is possible, unless it is totally by luck since you could not devote enough time and effort to make the wine for 8 dollars.
January 7, 2009

sharon
Hmmm I see a sit-com in this…Dueling wine nerds.
qotd: Yes.
January 7, 2009

John Farrin
Okay, went back to the episode. QOTD: Great wine? Maybe not, but very good wine, yes. With the bumper crops often achieved in California, excess fruit is often sold to producers that can make VERY good wine for $8 or less. ie: 2005 Capolan Merlot $4 one time buy at Trader Joe’s.
January 7, 2009

Z
QOTD: garnacha de fuego – good (not great) and under $8. great show. gary, keep keeping it real.
January 7, 2009

Spencer Fry
My favorite WLTV episode ever! (And my first comment.)
January 7, 2009

KW
QOTD: I haven’t tasted a good wine for less than $8.00.
Fun and lively guest.
January 7, 2009

Zinfreak
Define Good!
January 7, 2009

Dr T in NC
An excellent, knowledgeable, interesting guest. Thanks for having him on.

QOTD — I don’t think so, at least in the US

PS — nice add-ons
January 7, 2009

Zinfreak
Oh, Great show, and great ending!

Hendrik sure lucked out getting his first job at Auberge. I try to have a drink on their porch at least once a month in the summer. Absolutely in my top 10 of Napa Valley, maybe top 3.
January 7, 2009

Bill
Great guest. Really good chemistry. I’d like to see Hendrik on future WL eps.
January 7, 2009

Eric Laz
Great Episode, Thanks for bringing on such a fascinating guest. I would love to see his TV show. Do you think it will be dubbed in English a la the original Iron Chief?

I was a little disappointed that you didn’t translate a little better; Henrik’s description of the different types of Auslese. He made a mention that the Donnhoff was not really an Auslese. Is he referring to when the grape was picked or the quality of the grape? I don’t know a lot about German wines and that is something I was really interested in learning about. Other than that, another great interview.

QOTD: I don’t believe it can be done anymore with the rising costs of commodities, fuel, labor, etc. It definitely could have been done within the past decade but unfortunately the days of inexpensive great wines are over…IMHO
January 7, 2009

Little Jonny H
This was a fantastic show. Not only did we get candid male German tactics (and the phrases behind them), but the throwing stuff compilation by JonB was ridiculously well done. Kudos to all (especially Jon)

QOTD: It would be tough, especially in the old world or North America. Maybe in S. America… The way I see it, you would have to have paid off all serious overhead (mechanical pickers etc), and bottle in tetrapacks. You definitely wouldn’t be able to afford hand-picking. $8 is tough. 10, probably.
January 7, 2009

Miko
Yes, I agree with everyone, Hendrik was a wonderful guest! Nice tack-on, Mott!
QOTD: Maybe great Value at $8, but not great great wine.
January 7, 2009

Susan
Gary & Chris, Hendrik Thoma? WOW!!!! Can’t wait to see it!!!!
January 7, 2009

Matthew Hale
QOTD: I suppose a great wine could cost under $8. It may not be profitable but someone could certainly do it.
January 7, 2009

Michael
I propose a change in the rating system. Instead of one score for the whole wine, why not rate each aspect of the wine. Color, acidity, mouthfeel, fruitiness, and over all flavor, maybe not these specific aspects but something similar.
January 7, 2009

Susan
L8 episode…….
January 7, 2009

Josh O
Wow just wow, if this show was a wine I’d give it a 96+. You need more guests just like Hendrik, animated and fun. The chemistry between you two guys was amazing, I was smiling the whole episode. Hendrik reminds me a lot of a German physics professor I had a year ago.

The only downfall was that you did not let Hendrik speak enough and give more German wine history.

I can definitely see the roots of a Food Network or Travel Channel wine-based show, where u go around the world tasting wine and talking to sommeliers.

Thanks for another great show.

QOTD: No i do not think its possible to make a quality wine for under $8, at least not in America.
January 7, 2009

Kirk (aka: slave2thevine)
QOTD: I do not believe that it is possible to make a “very good” wine for under $8 and still make a profit on the wine on a regular basis…unless the land was already paid for, and the wine was made by using others equipment. However, I do believe that it is possible to find very good wine for under $8. It is just not always consistent.
January 7, 2009

Al
Wonderful show again today.
January 7, 2009

Big D
Good episode, really enjoyed it.

QOTD: I think a pretty good wine can be made for under $5 but not a great wine. Occasionally the grapes and the terroir can come together such that even the mass producers can come up with a pretty good wine (not usually though).
January 7, 2009

guymandude
yea ,i don’t think so but, i’m pretty sure it comes in a box
January 7, 2009

Subdaimon
QOTD: A great wine or just a good wine consistently, no. A good wine where you catch lightening in a bottle and get lucky, yes.

Franzia may disagree
January 7, 2009

DannInNH
Another great show. What it proves it that everyone’s nose and taste are unique and one should not be intimidated because they cannot detect the same as somebody else. This was borne out numerous times during the taping.
Hendrik is a great guest and should be back more often.
January 7, 2009

Jay
wow cool show! Herr Thoma is quite an entertaining guest and it was cool that Gary was pretty laidback this episode
January 7, 2009

Matt
Amazing show, what a nice way to start the guest apperance for 2009. Gary, you must travel to Germany to do a wine library episode with Hendrik. 40 minutes last like 5. Big up here!

QOTD: Really difficult to say but there’s probably one out there that no one’s talk about.
January 7, 2009

MattieJ
QOTD: Stranger things have happened… Anything is possible.

Great guest, but my absolute favorite part of todays epi was the last 2 seconds… “Link ‘Er Up Vaynerchuk”…. Mott in Giants hoodie… PRICELESS!!! Still laughing
January 7, 2009

barrel monkey
QOTD: It definitely is possible. I’ve had a great CA viognier for $3.99:

Bears’ Lair 2006 – one-tone nose of pure papaya, med-body, excellent flavor extraction and best of all: zinging, mouthwatering acidity. Not complex, but very, very good and clean.

Is it common? I think you just have to get lucky.

So to answer your question: You can find a great wine for under $8, but you’re going to have to taste through a ton of crap to get there. And the next vintage is almost guaranteed not to be as good.
January 7, 2009

Dominus
Überraschen! Ich liebe diesen Kerl. Dieses war ein ehrfürchtiges Erscheinen!

Hands down, your best guest to honored us with his presence and your interviewing skills were superb.

QOTD: I think it would be very difficult if not impossible but who knows, we are always looking for that special gem.

Again, great show and a stellar ending by Jon.

Auf Wiedersehen!
January 7, 2009

BrentB
QOTD: You know, I think it is possible to make a great wine for $8. I think it could really only happen if some small producer caught lightning in a bottle on a side project or something, though.

What a great episode. My grandparents are from Germany and I’m going to call them tomorrow and ask about their experience with German wine!
January 7, 2009

Brian Barrick
Wow Gary, that was an amazing show. Hendrik is a terrific guest, and the two of you were obviously having a great time together. The energy level was tremendous, and I learned quite a lot about German wine in the process.

QOTD: Good wine can certainly be made for $8, but making great wine is such a labor-intensive endeavor that I doubt it can be done profitably at such a low price.
January 7, 2009

dkp
gary,

one of the best shows so far, , , again.

i know you’d kill me for this but i think the ‘’sweet spot” for a bottle is $30-40.

in my experience most bottles below or above that havent given me too much satisfaction.
January 7, 2009

Peter (Mila's Dad)
What a new year’s gift, real entertainment.

As to the question of the day: I’m going for the more fun answer, which is what wines seem to consistently deliver for 8 bones or less. I think these two wineries, which I’ve tried, have so far the best track record of putting out that value wine. Whether they should continue to do so…well, I’m a bit of a Marxist, so…….probably not. Would rather see, say, health products produced at amazing prices.

1-Porca de Murca Portugese red, last I tried was the 2005 and 06. A Douro, if I remember right, more like 6 or 7 bones. Some tang, some structure, decent tannins, it doesnt belly flop. I don’t know how they do it, other than some very poorly paid people. The reserva, for about 10 bucks, is a ridiculous steal.
2-La Linda Argentine tempranillo–also in cabernet, malbec, pinot noir–others? It’s Luigi Bosca’s value line. Gary reviewed the tempranillo and loved it–I’ve seen this wine in good restaurants in Buenos Aires. These are all a bit sweet for me, so I prefer the Portugese. Having seen the poverty in Argentina, I hope they pay their workers something decent.

Perhaps you can do a part 2 of a show with Hendrik, with his question of the day continued? It’s a great question.
January 7, 2009

JS
In my opinion, this was the best WLTV episode I’ve seen since I began watching around episode 250. Fantastic guest, good camaraderie between you two–I think he should come back every month…

Also, laughed my ass off at Jon’s video.

QOTD: Answer I think is obvious…Trader Joe sells a FANTASTIC $4 bottle of pinot. CLEARLY, that is the height of excellence.
January 7, 2009

Joe Ban
FANTASTIC Episode, the chemistry was incredible between you two!
January 7, 2009

Tommy Vernieri
That was a fun episode Gary. I haven’t watched forever, this one was a good one to come back on. I always love it when you have guests.

That older Riesling sounded like a great deal. I think part of the issue for me is that I can’t imagine that all Rieslings age gracefully for 15 years so is seems like whenever you get into older wine it takes more research to know you’re not going to be buying something over the hill.

QOTD:
Under $8? I’ve had good wines under $8 (2004 Bodegas Aragonesas Campo de Borja Crucillon, 2003 Domaine Lignères Corbières La Baronne) but great wine seems so far away from that.
January 7, 2009

David Dadekian
QOTD: I would doubt it. I’ve had decent wine at that price point, but I wouldn’t say very good or great.

Hendrik was a fantastic guest, perhaps one of your best ever. I think it helped a lot that Gary asked really good questions and stepped back to let Hendrik answer them. But he was also a very intelligent and realistic person. Thanks very much to all of you.

Thanks also to Jon for the very, very, funny clip show. I watched it yesterday and laughed out loud a couple of times.
January 7, 2009

Robin C
I think soccer is a great game. I even played on a team when I was in graduate school. I’m not an athlete at all, but I have many interesting memories.
I love Germany. Nice to have a German guest.
I’m glad you’re doing white wines. I’m very fond of them.
I love it when you get philosophical. I’ll have to try my whites at room temp. It’s really eerie that Hendrik thought the auslese tasted of basil, as as I had just thought that my Chenin Chardonnay had some basil, but then I had no idea where that came from so I felt unsure about it, but now I think that maybe I did detect basil.
QOTD: If someone could have done it they would have done it.
January 7, 2009

Susan
Gary & Chris, So far this episode is so epic!! Really like this guest…..must invite him back for another episode soon!!! Of course, since I am so German, that makes me biased!!!
January 7, 2009

Marshall
Best guest ever
January 7, 2009

Holla Boy
Gary and Mott, this is probably one of my most favorite episodes!!
GREAT guest gary!! you guys have great chemistry and are a blast to watch together!!

Gary you have got to get this guy on WLTV more often!!!
January 7, 2009

Dan
Great eppisode, great guest, I absolutely love german riesling.
QOTD: In the current state I would imagine it would be very hard and almost impossible to create a great wine at that price point, however I think once places like China and India start making more of an impact on the wine industry, these prices not only will be very possible, but good wine will be made too.
January 7, 2009

anna
i agree with josh o – this duo has the makings of a travel channel show.

the best guest/guest-interaction ever on the thunder show. hendrik is terrific. what a wonderful episode! usually the long ones feel long – but this really didn’t.

and i doubt one could find “good” wine in the us for under $8, but i used to drink lovely wine in spain in that ballpark. hard to calibrate “good,” but the quality to price ratio there is remarkable.
January 7, 2009

amgryger
Great guest today! I recently had the Donnhoff at an offline and really enjoyed it.

QOTD: I’m not sure that I can answer that question, because I don’t really know what it actually costs to make the wines that I have thought were “great.”
January 7, 2009

Chris Bartow
Amazing episode with amazing video on the end. This guy needs to come back and do a weeks worth of episodes with you.

QOTD: Yes if you adjust for value. $8 bones that drinks like $30 bones is amazing.
January 7, 2009

YoungDave
QOTD: 8 US Bones? Tough. Maybe a couple that I’ve found from the Languedoc at wholesale, but hardly anything from Europe at retail because of the euro-dollar exchange, and hardly anything from the US because of over-pricing. Good wine: VERY very few. Great wine… I gotta say NO.
January 7, 2009

wsquared
Possibly my favorite episode ever. I hope Mott does buy the monthly plane ticket.

qotd: I think it’s possible to make a great wine for $8 but not to sell it at that price. My 5 gallons of Walla Walla Carmenere is coming out to about $6 a bottle, but the grapes were free, and I’m not sure if the Wine Spectator would rate it 90+.
January 7, 2009

Brent B
QOTD: Depending on what you like i believe it is totally possiable.

Great show Gary and great guest. The video was amazing too. Kudos to the editer.
January 7, 2009

Rick O'Shea
Awesome show. One of my top 10 favorites.
January 7, 2009

Jordan C
Gary, Great Episode as per usual.Sorry to stray from ur work but I have something to say. I work in a liquor/wine store and needless to say I try alot of wine. Not that I’m better or tried more than anyone else but I get exposed to alot of wine. My girlfriend loves white wine so I try alot.(which I love because I’m more a red drinker. Besides sparklers which i adore) And I myself decided to try a “value” Cali Sauv Blanc. I see no value here at all. Bogle Sauv Blanc. No acidity, No flavor… blah. To say the least. Why do i keep trying to find something that I know isnt there? Do I really need to name names? Its Just ugly in Cali at least value yet alone higher priced cali Sauv. I see why and where u stand. Yet again sorry to stray. JC
January 7, 2009

bill wrollcia
yo gv, Great show, i saw the other clip of you throwing stuff yesterday on You Tube. Awesome, i will be making my own one soon!!! Hendrik was awesome, funny, smart, and sort of looked like boris becker, gv, you could be pistol pete sampras, maybe a table tennis throwdown in the wl parking lot. Winner takes all, or maybe the donnhoff, Thanks guys

Bill
January 7, 2009

John Cabot
Great show. Hendrik obvously had fun and was a great guest. Love the throwing stuff bit.
Hope you had a great new year and spent some good, quality time with your family. It;s what life is all about.
Cheers,
John Cabot
January 7, 2009

PeterT
fantastic show. Learned alot and laughed alot at the same time. That’s what life should be all about. Definitely in my top ten. Please have Hendrik on again in the near future.
January 7, 2009

SteveW-Colorado
JohnB – Great job on that vid! I’m sure that took some time.

GV – I liked the discussion on temperature of wine.

Hendrik – Keep up the good work over there in Germany. It’d be interesting to know how often an average German household drinks wine… once a week? daily?

Peace, SW
January 7, 2009

Bellissimo
Long time lurker, first time commenting…

Great show. Loved the chemistry/banter/personalities. With all the US TV networks ripping off UK shows (Changing Rooms, The Office, Top Gear) what we really need to see is Gary & Hendrik’s Big Wine Adventure. Just don’t remake the Champagne bath scene.

QOTD: If it’s going to happen its either going to come from Spain, South America, or some class in Oklahoma.

Keep up the great work.
January 7, 2009

Larry Lucas
Without doubt, this is the best episode — ever!
January 7, 2009

SteveW-Colorado
After reading some more of the comments I agree with these two being able to pull off a Food Network show on wine or Travel Channel or whatever. Someone needs to view this as the pilot for a weekly wine show.

Picture it. They visit wineries in Bordeaux, then the next week in Tuscany, then they hit up the big boys in Walla Walla!
January 7, 2009

RANDI
GARY!!!
I love Hendrik!!! Im writing him to tell him so!

QOTD: Under $8? Technically difficult, but possible…and since palates vary.. I think it is possible to make a very good wine to some…

?

xo
January 7, 2009

David Benjamin
QOTD: I think it would be very challanging to find good $5 or 8euro bottles of wine that would be considered really good. Many could be considered drinkable but wine is like a car…the nicer ones always cost more.
January 7, 2009

Susan
Gary & Chris, I like soccer!!!!
January 7, 2009

Susan
QOTD: No, I don’t believe it is possible to make a great wine at under $8……maybe good but not great!!!
January 7, 2009

Rani Haykal
Great Show!!!

Definitely one of the best guests on the show.

QOTD: Honestly, I really dont think it is possible to make great wine under $8.00. When factoring in the cost of everything it takes to make wine from the fruit source, facilities, man hours, etc., I just dont believe a great wine can be made for such a low cost.

–RH
January 7, 2009

jdappel
Old world meets new world. Tremendous. Great, great show.
January 7, 2009

KenA
Great show! One of the most entertaining and insightful guests.

QOTD: I would agree with most people by saying you could make a good wine for $8 but not a great wine. I feel there are a lot of very important factors that come into play when a truly great wine is made that are extremely hard to duplicate at that price point. That said, taking into consideration the fact that everybody has their own unique palate, I think it would be possible for some one to find a wine they feel is great for $8.
January 7, 2009

SteveW
Great show! Hendrik Thoma was a great guest, maybe the best ever.
QOTD: Good wine maybe, Great wine for $8 is not possible. As for some other comments about Trader Joe’s selling great wines for under $8 I have found this to not be the case. I had many terrible wines from Trader Joe’s, they buy much of their wine from distributors/wineries that are trying to unload wine that they can’t sell, usually for good reason.
January 7, 2009

JimChem
I think you found your match. This guy was great.

QOTD: I don’t know. Grapes are expensive, glass is expensive, labels are expensive. $8 would be hard to do well. It would have to be from somewhere in the world where land was cheap and the climate was good and the owner didn’t want to make any money.

Jim
January 7, 2009

Mike in Wisconsin
Great Show! Hendrik is AWESOME! Gary, I think you are right in saying that most Americans do not understand German wines. It would have been nice to have Hendrik do a German Wine 101/102 brief wine class. Label reading, Kabinett, Spatlese, Mit Pradikat, etc. Maybe next month when Mott pays the airline ticket, so increase Mott’s Salary!!!!!
January 8, 2009

William
This was an amazing episode. I thoroughly enjoyed it!
QOTD: I don’t think it would be possible to make a “great” wine under $8. I have had some decent wines at that price point, but never anything that I would consider “great.”
January 8, 2009

George Masiello
Thoma could start his own show!
January 8, 2009

christopher foley
Great show guys!
QOTD: Yeah, Gascon Malbec 7.99. cono sur carmenere was another bottle I enjoyed at 7.99. Not to say these are 95 or 92 point wines, whatever that means, but for the price point they do well to show a good wine can be produced at a lower price point.
NO NO NO Trader Joe!
January 8, 2009

Chris in Tulsa
GREAT SHOW! Hendrik ist sehr gute!!!! I’ve been to Germany several times on the Mosel and Rhine and loved the scenery, people and wines. Germans I have found are so, so friendly and cool. Hendrik is a typical German you would meet in Germany. Cool and friendly!! Bring him back for more of his expertice and fun.
QOTD: Not gonna make a very good wine for that amount unless it’s donated by master wine makers and prime vineyard owners. Maybe in Chile or Argentina with low labor cost it could happen. California NEVER!
January 8, 2009

ArcticWolf
Great episode. Definitely one of my favorite guests. Learned a lot and thoroughly enjoyed the back and forth. You two have got to do another episode soon. Great duo. This is one of those episodes I’ve got to make sure my friends watch.

QOTD: I think it’s possible to make a good wine under $8. The problem is, it depends on the drinker. I’ve got friends that love cheap wine and can’t stand what I bring home. For me? Under $8 just isn’t there yet. Eventually though, I think producers will get there.
January 8, 2009

Stan the Skeptic
Finally someone to prove Gary wrong about wine. It always seems that Gary just pulls aromas out of the air and makes things up that I find to be a little more theatrical than realistic but the guest, a REAL CERTIFIED wine taster, seemed to disagreed with Gary about some stuff on this show. I find it interesting…….
January 8, 2009

Michelle Moye
Best. Guest. Ever.
January 8, 2009

OSCAR FALCON LARA
QOTD: It is possible to make ‘GOOD’ $8.00 USD wine if you take into consideration the varietal or blend of varietals, the vinification and the pressing, totally possible, for sure but maybe outside of the US.

BTW, I do like soccer.

Good Show.
January 8, 2009

Greg B
Big G, Great Episode. I learn so much when you have guests that bring the Thunder. He would make a great Co-Host, but then again so would so many of your wonderful guest.

QOTD: I think maybe you could if your were someone who lives in one of the top Wine regions of the world and made the Wine at home and sold it on a corner like a Lemonade Stand. : )
January 8, 2009

MFries
Gary – THE SINGLE BEST SHOW I HAVE SEEN! I laughed out loud during so many parts of this episode. This CANNOT be the last visit for Hendrik.

I took the holidays off from watching and you reeled me back in!!

strong work
January 8, 2009

Micha
Outstandig episode Gary, and a very smart guest hendrik thoma.
QOTD: at this limited pricepoint, you can be very lucky to find some “OK”-tasting wines, that don’t hurt you. But sure far away from “Great”. I often recommend to drink a good beer instead

Greetz from Germany
Micha
January 8, 2009

mikek
Mad props to Jon B on the 2008 “throwing” review! Captured one of the reasons WLTV is so damn much fun!

QOTD- GOOD wine is available,(IMHO) at that price point from Portugal, Chile and Argentina…GREAT wine…not on this Terroir!

Hendrik was a great guest! Thanks for sharing with the Vaynor Nation! I will give the German Pinot a try!
January 8, 2009

my2cents
Fun fun show. Awesome guest! You could have him join in via the internet once a month, that would be cool.

It is possible to make good wine for a low price when you have a high volume of fruit. To have that you have to have land and to have land you have money and if you have money you don’t have the time to make wine so you have to hire someone who doesn’t give a rat’s ass and that my friends is why smaller producers and smaller plots/lots from large producers seem to produce better fruit and better wines. Say you had 100 acres of grapes and 80 were pre sold to a big producer with the remaining saved for yourself. Wouldn’t you take better care of the vines that were for you and then also take greater care in the making of the wine compared to a large producer buying fruit from many sources.

It takes the same time and energy to make crap as it does to make silk. Having to pay the same bills with smaller production means higher per bottle prices. Appreciation for the effort is what we pay to experience. The higher the effort the better the experience.
January 8, 2009

WineWoman
QOTD: Great episode. Hendrik looks like my neighbor. Great guy and passionate about the wine as you are, Gary. Liked the Hurling Objects video tag.

An 8-buck-Chuck can be done, but probably not consistently. Luck would have to enter the picture. The wine would be one-dimensional, no complexities or nuance of flavor. On second thought, my answer is no…
January 8, 2009

Scott EJ
Nothing beats a couple of wine guys sitting around breaking down wines. One of your more really authentic shows. Thank you,

QOTD: I’m gonna cheat by a buck: Santa Rita Reserve Cabernet Sauv. Taste it, you’ll see.

S.
January 8, 2009

Robert B.
Das war die Beste Episode, die je gesehen hatte. Wonderschon! Great fun. Ich habe die Zilliken 1993 geprobiert. 1993 war ausegezeichnet! Outstanding. The two were very dynamic and fun to watch. The interaction was great. Both of them are real characters.
January 8, 2009

Shuf
Another great show. Hendrik was definetly one of your better guests. It would be great if he could have a recurring role on the show, possibly showcasing german wines.
QOTD: I think it’s possible to make an interesting and well-made eight dollar bottle of wine. The problem would be the consistency. Gary has probably had several that would fit the discription but consistent replication would seem too difficult. Sometimes everything just comes together.
January 8, 2009

Mike V.
One of the best shows ever! I like your “agressive foreign policies”.I do agree with Mike in Wisconsin, You missed a great opportunity to have someone very entertaining and with lots of insight explain the many classifications of German Rieslings.

QOTD- many serviceable “pizza” wines in that price range. NO ONE in their right mind would produce a “great” $8 wine.
January 8, 2009

Dustin
Great show! Great guest! The video at the end was awesome.
January 8, 2009

Josh S
Great conversational episode… Loved it

QOTD: I’ve spent a fair amount of time around “I don’t like wine, i drink rose, etc” people lately, and I find that a super new-world fruity wine is a great way to bring to them to red. With that in mind, there are quite a few super fruit-bombs under $8. Most recently was the Rosemont Shiraz which tasted like drinking strawberry jam. Does that make it “great”? no. not really. Just worth keeping around…
January 8, 2009

Travis
Amazing episode – best guest ever!

QOTD: $8? Sure, as long as it’s not-for-profit, no advertising, and all volunteer labor. (with no middleman/distributor) Imagine how much just those few elements add to the price verses the ‘core’ PRICE of the wine… Otherwise, better plan on $15+ for GREAT wine.
January 8, 2009

TWofPasadena
GREAT show.

Hendrik ROCKED as a guest. I had to go and open another bottle to finish this episode (hello Advil!).
January 8, 2009

shawnandlu
Hendrick, my man, you had me at “who is Ryan Seacrest” We can only dream.

QOTD: yes I think it can be done but only in special circumstances. I think that it could be done in a third world country were real estate and labor costs are still relatively inexpensively. Also the winery would have to be new enough that the reputation had not driven up demand and price yet.

P.S. the ending video absolutely rocks!
January 8, 2009

Michael D
Great show, Gary! Like many of your other viewers and fans, I enjoy guests who help us learn more about the complex subject of wines. Hendrik Thoma was such a guest. Also, he has the personality to mesh with yours and not wilt in comparison, as some of your guests have done. Great episode.

As for the QOTD, no I don’t think there is such a thing as a great wine for $8 or less, but some are OK. Here in the Phoenix area, wines probably cost a little less than in N.Y. or N.J., and stores here are legally allowed to discount prices, unlike [I believe] some states. The result is that we here in AZ probably get some better prices on wines than do many of your viewers. In the past 6 months, I have been able to find a few wines in the $8 to $10 dollar range that were better than expected. A recent example was a Chateau Ste. Michelle Columbia Valley Riesling on sale for $8, which was quite pleasant. For the money I think that Argentinian malbecs and cabs offer some very good value. Santa Julia Reserva malbec [about $12]comes to mind.
January 8, 2009

Rhonda
Loved this episode. I need to throw more stuff, clearly it would make for better days…
January 8, 2009

Brandon Rodak
Tremendous show today, bringing the Thunder as always – It was like two dueling fountains of wine knowledge spouting off and nothing could be more entertaining while still being truly enlightening.

Also, kudos to you for the manner in which the Cork’d hacking incident was handled today. Being so forthright under undue stress was refreshing and something other hacked retailers (hint, hint – TJMaxx) could learn from – In other words give me the truth and do not send some PR lackey out to spit some arranged “company line”.

Finally, thanks for my “101 Wines” copy which you signed. I was fortunate enough to follow you on Twitter and was able to take advantage of the cool offer.

Keep the good work coming. Enjoying it immensely already in the ‘09!
January 8, 2009

Ian Leong
Sickest episode yet, easily one of my favourite. Maybe it’s because I’m a Riesling nut and I’ve lived in Germany for a period of time. Surprised there were only 2 master sommeliers in Germany, who’d thunk it? I cringe everytime Gary pronouces ’spatlese’

QOTD: I would think in the US it would be easier to find a good wine under $8, but given the taxation laws in Singapore, you’d be lucky to find ANY wine under $10 USD. But for the US, I’d imagine it’s kinda hard to make a GREAT wine under $8. If you do know, hook me up.
January 8, 2009

Jeremy Burns
Another great show Gary… Loved Hendrik on this episode you should fly him out once a month as you both talked about! Good stuff
January 8, 2009

Griz4life
AWESOME GUEST!!!!

Gary, that was an amazing show, one of the best I’ve seen in awhile.

QOTD: I do think you can make a great wine for $8. I think it takes the moxy of a wine maker and a wine producer in that they have to agree to buck the trend of only thinking a great wine can be of a certain price point. I believe that too many people believe a superior product can only be created by a high ‘faked’ demand. That demand is created by an elitist consumer clientele. You create a high demand from high clientele (ie. very low production) you create high profit.

I understand there is a necessity for high quality in this case, but very many clients believe that exclusivity overrides quality.

I call bullshit.
January 8, 2009

jason
Great episode…Gewurzt in Chile, what an eye opener… Even if it sucks I still agree with Gary on experiencing it!

QOTD: Can you make a good wine under $8? Answer, I’m not sure you can plan to. That said I would argue this 2006 Dynamic Red Table Wine fits the mold. Still generally speaking nearly impossible to so vintage after vintage…

@Daniel Kemp I’ve really enjoyed the Franc Merlot at $5. Ranked it at #2 in my most recent Top 10 list. Nice intro to Cab Franc, especially for newcomers.

@John Farrin had the Capolan, not a huge Merlot fan but impossible to complain about at $4…

@JS Trader Joe’s has a fantastic bottle of Pinot Noir for $4? Surely you jest. I believe I have seen them all. Do tell, spare me at least a bottle!

@SteveW Agree there is a lot of “excess dumping” going on at Trader Joe’s. Worked well for Charles Shaw until they tried to scale it and still works well at times. Just never vintage after vintage. The Chariot Gypsy is my current case study to see if you can retain the magic at the price point from vintage to vintage.

@christopher foley The Gascon Malbec, really? Wasn’t a fan! Love Trader Joe’s but they never get it done on Malbec. Go get some Pascual Toso and get back to me…

Cheers all!

Jason
January 8, 2009

mikek
Just watched this episode for the 2nd time … “link it up, Vaynerchuk”! at the end of the clip, has GOT to be made into a tee shirt! You have GOT to LOVE the MOTT!! (still LMAO)!!
January 8, 2009

Panchismo
MMMMMMMM tufff, Im Chilean in Chile, talking about chilean wines, my opinion is that they are all in the 5-8 USD prize range compared globally with the rest of the world out there wines…

I know its a very negative prize response, Im horrified with the high level of dishonest wines chilean oenologist love to prodce and export. Total lack of passion for truth, total copy-paste wanna be, total “·$!%$/&·/, exept for no more than 5 wines that rule!

Like Villard Pinot Noir from Casablanca, Meli Carignan, Kai Carmenere, Casa Marin Syrah (11,7º alcohol 2008), Almaviva Epu Cabernet-Carmenere. Thats it Gary, from me as a Chilean I have to raise a black flag because I love my nation, but I dislike non natural, painted like hores no-dimensional wines.

By the way, grate show, the german guy is absolute fun, a camera strike!
January 8, 2009

theduffy
WHHHOOHHHHOWWWW !!! Amazing show! Hendrik Thoma was a great guest!!! Can’t wait to see his TV Show over here!

Marlene
January 8, 2009

Werner Elflein
Sorry, but what exactly was the question? “Great” wine under 8$, “very good” wine – or what? Whatever, it’s very difficult to give any qualified answer to this question without having defined what you mean with “very good”. Does “very good” equal at least 85 points for you?

Werner
January 8, 2009

Vanguy
GREAT episode! Very good guest.
You are coming across as really ragging on California these days;
not sure what that’s all about.
Thanks for continuing to inform and inspire.
T
P.S. The “2008 throwing” video at the end was excellent!
January 8, 2009

Vanguy
QOTD: Not in today’s economic world
January 8, 2009

Beverly
GREAT EPISODE!!! Bring him back again…very charming and great personality. Thanks, Gary!
January 8, 2009

Joan
Gary- I love your show. You know so much and are such a wealth of knowledge but please, work on your pronunciations! Château d’Yquem = E-Kem, the d is silent. It would be like me pronouncing your favorite team “The Yets”. The German stuff is very difficult and you did a fabulous job today. Thanks for making the world a more interesting place to live in. Have a great day!
January 8, 2009

Frank
I was super pumped when I saw an episode with Hendrik as a guest being online and directly jumped into it. This show is one of the best shows and Hendrik is definetly the best guest ever! Gary and Hendrik together bring the ultimate thunder!

A week ago I had a Pinot Noir from Knipser (Pfalz) in Germany and liked it a lot.
January 8, 2009

Chris Sonjeow
Great episode Gary and Hendrik! I’ve been trying to catch up on episodes…this was a nice conclusion to my WLTV marathon.
January 8, 2009

DirtWineKen
Great show!! I’m thinking of applying for dual citizenship as a Vayniak and a Thomiak. When does his online show begin?
January 8, 2009

Chris Braun
Great episode. Thoma is a terrific guest — very knowledgeable and comfortable on camera. (And I loved the video at the end.)

QOTD: It depends on how you define “great”. I don’t know that one could make a really memorable wine, or one that most people would choose over a lot of higher-priced options. But there are wines in that price range that are good to drink. And — more importantly to me — there are wines I can learn from.
January 8, 2009

NathanN
Great show! the 40 min just flew by.
QOTD: Got me thinking about some cheap wines that I have had. ‘04 Razon Vasacro Rocked and it was $8.99 thats close enough for me.

SOCCER RULES!
January 8, 2009

Chris Sonjeow
Lol, QOTD: “Take the knickers by storm” ~ Hendrik Thoma, Master Sommelier
January 8, 2009

Patrick
By far the best episode I have watched in my short (6 months) time of watching the show. Hendrik was by far the best guest you have had on besides Mott!

As I am still getting into wine, I would say you can’t make a good wine for under $8. I haven’t had enough for my palette to be good, but I haven’t tasted any really good cheap stuff.
January 8, 2009

medo
Hendrik is the man! Great show and a great representer for German wine (if Gary let him speak !

@QOTD
I think 5€ is really the border for Quality wine. Had some good one below, but really only a few.
January 8, 2009

Phil G
good show!

qotd – if someone made truly great wine at a low cost to them – they should be able to charge a premium for it, no? But, i feel like the following factors would help make the good $8 wine possible: 1) great vintage/weather, 2) inexpensive local labor rates, 3) large scale winery (the one wine isn’t paying for all the overhead and equipment)
January 8, 2009

italianwinelover
Hendrick You are AWESOME!! So glad you came to visit the “nation” – you are welcome ALWAYS!!!! Thanks for being as excited as GV about wine!

QOTD: Very challenging and depends on what PAL your talking about!

GV-Great interview…you totally rock the house with all the rite questions!
January 8, 2009

Ryan D
QotD: Yes I think it is possible… depending on the location. But chances are if it is a truly great wine… it won’t be for less than $8 for long!

Great show.
January 8, 2009

bygdawg1996
Hey Gary
This is my favorite show of alltime including the grandfinale video. I loved the fact you called him (and everyone else)out on how they prefer to buy wine warm then drink it cold. Great conversation and interview through the whole show. This was the perfect way to start my day. I wanted to hear the german version of the WLTV tagline. Thanks for bringing THUNDER today it rocked

Qotd- i am sure it is possible considering all factors but in reality not gonna happen.

“Take the knickers by storm” Hendrik Thoma You rocked it

Thank You
I am gonna watch this again!!!!1
January 8, 2009

Eric
Gary – I am an admitted lurker, but had to comment. By far my favorite show behind your episode shot at Cleveland Browns Stadium (Yes, I am a lowly Browns Fan). Hendrik was fantastic – you must have him back, love him! Show was informative and very entertaining!

QOTD – I think it depends on the varietal. I have had some decent shiraz from Australia that came in under $8, though I know it’s hard to mess up a shiraz. Overall, though price is based on perception, supply and demand. You could put crap in a bottle and sell it for $50, but it’s still crap.
January 8, 2009

Josh
Great show, Gary. This is definately one of my favourites without a doubt. Hendrik was a great guest – hope to see him on the show again.
January 8, 2009

flgrl
Hi: Fantastic show. This is your best guest yet. One thing, I know you’re excited Gary, but allow your guests to speak once in a while. Keep up the great work…..from a loyal fan.
January 8, 2009

Brandon
Great episode Gary. Loved the guest.
January 8, 2009

RieslingRon
Hi Gary,

Kudos for this episode. By far the most interesting, informative and entertaining show of the previous 604. I have been watching for the last several years and this was “over the top”. Your guest was fantastic and really put the tasting at a new level. Very interesting play/comments back and forth between the two of you.

QOTD: Not realistic to expect on a full time basis, but occasionally I think it could happen.
January 8, 2009

catherine.
ok,hendrik NEEDS to come on the show more! he’s like a german gary! My favorite part was when you two were arguing about the soap/star fruit smell…that is exactly what this show is about. everyone has a different opinion and what one person likes doesn’t have the same impact on everyone.

QOTD: I don’t know much about the wine making process BUT i do think there is a point where quality gets compromised for a cheap price.

AWESOME GUEST! bring him back GV!
January 8, 2009

KevO
OK, you got me on this one. I really liked you having Hendrik on the show, what a terrific personality, might make a great cross-Atlantic simul-cast tasting series at some point. The after-the-show show was hysterical.

QOTD:
There are so many options in the under $8 range for us in Central FL, very drinkable yes, terrfic? not like a BV Georges De LaTour or a Gaja anything.
January 8, 2009

Alex
Nice one,

of course there are plenty of good wines under 8 Euro, you just have to find em. Many not so “famous” winemakers deliver good quality for little money. And even for those who are only looking at Parker Points only, there was a 92 PP wine advertised for 8 Euros in Germany this week.

Greets,

Alex
January 8, 2009

J-Cat
Danke Hendrik! Best episode yet, Gary!
January 8, 2009

jimkay
Ha ha. He says “Cal-e-for-kneea” just like Arnold Schwarzenegger
January 8, 2009

Mike Calmus
You can make a great wine for under $8, but it’s got to be in like a 250 ml bottle.
Seriously, though, I think it’s possible, but nobody does it because of the volume required.
January 8, 2009

Jayjay
Great show Gary. Hendrik had the perfect combination of wine knowledge and personality. You guys rocked it! But let him talk more next time! Thanks!
January 8, 2009

MattUD
This was an amazing episode, probably my favorite guest of all time. Saw the throwing video yesterday, but had to watch again, great job Jon.
January 8, 2009

P-Duh
Loved the episode. Just getting into wine as a young 21 year old it’s really fun and inspiring to listen to the jargon and geography. What an amazing amount of knowledge you two shared… I kept pausing the episode and looking up all these different words! Great stuff.

QOTD: Being from Michigan there are new and fairly young wineries that are producing some decent wines for under 8 bones. They’re sort of hidden jems for some of the locals but I think you should check ‘em out.
January 8, 2009

Tim
Definitely the best guest (outside the WLTV staff, of course) that I’ve seen in a while! Great show, gentlemen.

The video at the end was awesome

QOTD: Difficult, if not impossible – I think the closest you could come would be getting lucky in one of the younger regions in South America, and $8 is a stretch even there.

TJF
January 8, 2009

JayZee
What a freakin’ great show!! Excellent in every respect. Yet another excellent guest. Hendrik was super.

QOTD: Well, I certainly can’t make a great wine for under $8. I think you could make a great wine and give it away, but, no, I don’t think someone can make a great wine and sell it for under $8 and make a living.
January 8, 2009

joel delon
As a french actor in the french wine industry (Languedoc) i think you can make a truth wine under 8$ does not mean good but loved gary’s opinion about wine truthness ! too many wines hide their essence that’s why any consumer has to explore the hidden part of the wine
thank you gary for this show… from south of france
January 8, 2009

John Cannata
As always, your video was very informative. I am still learning and appreciate your show. The video AFTER you show today was great. Love the ending! LINK IT UP VAYNERCHUK!
January 8, 2009

DF
QOTD: Probably not one that will knock your socks off, but for 364 days out of the year you can drink an under $8 bottle and be happy. Try Dona Paula Los Cardos Malbec and google my favorite food blog, Andy’s Diner/Malbec for more choices.
January 8, 2009

Herm
Great show Gary…..I enjoyed your guest an his German perspective…..I think it is possible to find great wines for $8.00….it’s all about your palate when all is said and done…
January 8, 2009

Nath
Grea Show, great guest. Under$8- Yes, Non Vintage blends can achieve this in my opinion. Later
January 8, 2009

terrypk1
this guy is amazing. YEAH THANKS GARY.
January 8, 2009

Leephus
Great show! I don’t know how you keep it going GaryV. Guest was great too, really enjoyed Henry.

QOTD – Possible not probable
January 8, 2009

Leephus
Great show… again.

Apologies – Hendrik, not sure why I put Henry. LOL
January 8, 2009

nelsonmaud
great show ,good guest
January 8, 2009

Greg Z
Fantastic show Gary. Mottt, awesome ending! Gary, you said that you like some of the wines that you diss. Start giving a double score, first one compared to the varietal expection and the second for the enjoyment factor that ingores the baseline expectation.
January 8, 2009

M
Great guest.

QOTD: No, I cannot make a great wine for under $8. HaHa. Hopefully others can. All wines I drink are under $20. Many of them I consider great. Although I haven’t compared them to more expensive wines.
January 8, 2009

gubby
Great guest, right up there with Ian, Robinson, and Kramer. I have had a nice wine under $8. It was a South African merlot with nice balance and an interesting black pepper nose and finish. I enjoyed it.
January 8, 2009

TommyB
What a nice bloke! Can’t believe he never had a Gewurtz before though! And why have you only had 3 Gary! Ah.. who cares! Keep it going through 2009 fella,s. TommyB, Plymouth, UK
January 8, 2009

Laura
I Love Love Love the GaryVee Wine Nerd. Thoma was awesome – CoHostHimUp!
He totally up’d your game and we all benefited from that.
January 8, 2009

KWC
Love the episode, and I just bought some of that same donnhoff (for too much at another store). Guest was great. If you can make a good wine at that price, I haven’t had it, oh well. It just doesn’t seem likely, how can you take the time to love a wine and then sell it for that little.

PS The Cartier looks exactly like the watch I almost bought last week, now I can’t because people will think I’m a stalker, thanks GV.
January 8, 2009

CBone
Nice show! Under $8 is tough, but I think it can be done, sure. If someone enjoys a wine, isn’t it then a good wine?
January 8, 2009

Yvettew
This was a great episode! Hendrik, you should definitely co-host with Gary once every month, haha.

QOTD: You might be able to make a pretty good bottle of wine for around $8, but in terms of the quality that some wine makers produce, I don’t believe so.
January 8, 2009

theemptyglass
QOTD: Why not? I mean good cheap wine won’t be made by thinking that it can’t. It only limits your possibilities. I think if enough wine makers try to make good cheap wine eventually they will figure out ways to do so. And I will keep trying cheap wine, because how will I know they aren’t good, unless I try. (And I can afford to do so, whereas I cannot afford the risk of more expensive wine.)
January 8, 2009

shawn
1st time posting long time fan.Great show had a good laugh at the end.
The interview was perfect i could have watched you two for hours.Thanks
for all that you’s do.
January 8, 2009

diego
I has some farmer wine that I bought from a stall at a market in Paris that was pretty good. It was some sort of blend. 5 euro and it had great terrior and honest fruit. What kills the price point I think is the need to distribute and produce a lot of a cheap wine. If you can keep it small you have a better chance….but then again exclusivity yields price increases.
January 8, 2009

RobM
Interesting episode, who would have thought a Master Sommelier to be less critical than the merchant.

Also, Gary I was wondering if anyone alerted you to the recognition WL and you got on Boomer and Carton this morning. Boomer referred to you as the Sommelier that signed the book included with his wine club shipment he received from Carton for Christmas. I have to say though, someone gives Boomer a WL gift and the best you can do is a signed book? Maybe something a little more creative could have gotten one of them on the Thunder Show.
January 8, 2009

diego
Oh and I forgot to mention Vinho Verde. You can get dirt cheap bottles that are a fascinating and fresh. Did I mention they we’re cheap? Like 4.50$ in some cases
January 8, 2009

Jeff Vogel
Hendrik–next time you’re in Kaiserslautern, drop an e-mail. Gary–this show was classic! I hope you were serious about having Herr Thoma on as often as possible. When I saw you were drinking Becker’s Pinot, I thought it was Fritz’s Pinot Noir Tafelwein. Shame it wasn’t; I would have loved to have heard your (and Hendrik’s) thoughts on it (and its price point: 85 Euro ex cellar). But glad you were able to taste the estate Pinot nonetheless, not to mention another Helmut Doennhoff classic. Wait till you taste the ‘07…it literally will make you faint.

QOTD: While we’re on the topic of Doennhoff wines, Helmut makes it very apparent that great wines are available for little money. His QbA Rieslings are some of the most riveting examples of broad estate-bottled Riesling, and that at under 9 Euro. This gives rather broad context to a tricky question: In the local currency–assuming you’re paying in it, without conversion–many a great wine can be made and had for under 5-8 Euro. It takes some research, but there will always be a new venture out there just trying to squeeze itself into a little sliver of shelf space, or an old one trying to resurrect its image for a new qualitative era. And if we remain diligent and discerning, one day we–with a little bit of you, Gary–will discover that $5-10 treasure trove…and the wine world will never be the same again. Peace!
January 8, 2009

TWalk
Great episode Gary….and an awesome guest…I would say it would be quite difficult to produce a goooood wine for under eight dollars and make any serious money off of it. But who am I?
January 8, 2009

Derek F
AWESOME Episode guys, i would rack this one up in the top 10.

Its soapy..its not soapy..its soapy..its not soapy..I SAID IT SOAPY DAMN IT!!
January 8, 2009

BruceP
QOTD: Can you make good wine for <$8? Probably. Can you make great wine for <$8. No. Great wine would require too much selective vineyard management and hand sorting of the grapes to be done for less than $8. Maybe if all of a sudden they can grow really good grapes in China that would change, but I doubt it.
January 8, 2009

Helloandwelcomeeverybodyonwinelibrarytviamyourhostgaryvaynerchuckandthismyfriendsisthethundershow
Please, do let the guy talk–and regularly on the show–and pay him the darn ticket Also, thanks for not interrupting. If you need to be so hyperactive, please be so kind as to finally hit the lens at last

My best bet for a decent bottle of spicy terroir wine for that price-point would be something from the Longuedoc.
January 8, 2009

Ditch
Great episode you guys….Hendrik has got to be the most charismatic German EVER! Definately get him back on….and then you two should go on tour.

QOTD – Not sure if its possible as I think the price along would put off the consumer from buying it

Gary….when are you going to New Zealand?!?
January 8, 2009

Redmeat
QOTD….Yes I think it can be done for $8….I have had many Spanish,Argentinian,Portuguese,and even a few French wines at $10 or less that were wonderful, many of which hit the High $8 range…the one that comes to mind as the closest to being “great” was the Luzon Jumilla which scored a 87 and to me was closer to a 89..

The main obstacle is the Marketing…I believe many wineries are afraid to price their wines under $10 in fear it is a negative to be Labeled a “Value Wine”

Charles Smith makes MANY wines under $10 that are very good…Great if you score them on a quality VS price scale…
January 8, 2009

Jay
QOTD: I would assume it has to be possible. I just don’t know how much you’d make.
January 8, 2009

Kellen
One of my favourite episodes of all time for sure!
QOTD: anythings possible…like others said I think marketing and the consumers attitude to “value wine” comes into play…
—I’ve had some great wines from around $9-$12 Canadian, so that’d be 8 or under elsewhere.
January 8, 2009

Mark
Favorite episode all time. Don’t be scared about the long episodes, us hardcore Vanyiacs love them. Its really neat seeing other wine experts sit with you and see how they think the wine is compared to how you do.
January 8, 2009

brewbuzz
Great episode. I don’t drink many Rieslings, but always enjoy a well made one. Big thanks to Hendrik for his appearance…..I enjoyed his point of view. Keep up the good work….I’m going to look a couple of these wines up for purchase!
January 8, 2009

BobbyTiger
Perhaps I have enjoyed one of your shows more than today’s, but I sure can’t remember it.
A great show for me. Hendrik was fantastic. Obviously knew his stuff, his comments were enjoyable, and he worked well you. I look forward to his return.
QOTD- Absolutely Hendrik. I’ve had a few.
January 8, 2009

SS Chris
Great Episode…..Hendrik rocks!! Need to set up another Tribeca offline next time he comes in

And, who are kidding, you got that fake Cartier on the street for $20 bucks!!!

Oh…..and when you 2 started yammering about the best temperture to taste the wine, you forgot to score the Becker Pinot!! Sent you and email w/ the T/N.
January 8, 2009

Spiderfarm
Neat Show. Nice curve offering a German Som a Chillean Gwurtz. Refreshing to see he hadn’t tried the varietal from OFF continent. I Love Gwurtz. Isle St George Ohio is planted in Gwurtztraminer. Old Mission Penninsule in Michigan has won some acclaim for Reislings recently. Good point on asking Whether German Reds have any following. Both of you have travelled and met the winemakers and visited different regions. You sometimes let those memories affect your praise for those wines – Lest you get punched in the mouth or, rather “some place else” -when you return. The after show segment showed blind tastings. I only recently “tuned in” during the Holiday’s. I’d like to see how you approach a blind tasting – Does Mott pick the bottles? What a hoot!
January 8, 2009

Chris
Hey Gary. Just wanted to say that I think this was a great episode. I love it when you have company because the viewer gets to watch you and your guest(s) discuss the wine as it also brings it a different viewpoint. I know when I drink with friends I tend to enjoy the wine more and learn more about it because we discuss what it tastes like.
January 8, 2009

SS Chris
Oh….almost forgot…..MOTT is hysterical at the end!!

TommyB, When Gary & Hendrik were talking about the # of Gewurz’s they’ve tried in their lives (3 & 1 respectively)…..they were talking specifically about Gewurz’s from Chile.
January 8, 2009

Snogging
By FAR…my favorite episode. Please bring him back once a month : )
January 8, 2009

NJ-Vettester
QOTD: Jets win another Super Bowl before you’ll be ablel to make a great wine for under $8.

Great show – loved the ending. GO GIANTS!
January 8, 2009

Paryb
Oh man Gary, you guys out did yourselves on this one. Great great episode, and the last one was great too, if this is what 2009 is going to bring, I’m in it baby!

QOTD: Great wine under 8 bones? nah. But I am always stoked when I find something tasty in that price point. Makes a great party/third/serruptitiously drinking out of soda cups at a bbq in the park wine.

Last one I was nuts over was “The Slammer” by big house…my local store bought a pallette cheap and was selling it for 5 bucks a bottle that was pretty tight.
January 8, 2009

F Jackie Martling
Gary, it is all abut you, isn’t it. Your tag line at the end of a show should change to ME, with more of ME will change the…….
Hendrik was great. “Star fruit”!!! Soapy!!! Loved the Mineral Smack Down!
January 8, 2009

sam
Rock on baby! That clip at the end was superb. Gary is such a kid…that’s one of the many reasons we love him.

Keep throwing stuff!!!

And keep having fun guests such as Hendrik Thoma that color your show.

QOTD: I’m no winemaker, but I haven’t come across many great wines under 15$ (Canadian). It might be possible, but it seems rare…

Pröst!
January 8, 2009

Toby (DK)
One of the GREAT shows!

Hendrik is the most “energized” German I’ve ever seen – and I have met and talked to quite a few! (>Germany and Denmark is right next to each other)

I really DO hope this guest will return in the near furture (6-9 months)…
And by the way – how about having a re-visit from some of the all-time-great guests, like: Joanne, mr. Davis, Matt…

QOTD: YES, absolutely. I have had plenty of very descent and honest wines, made to be drunk within a few years of production, in both Italy, France and Portugal, which were within, the talked about price range!
(Good question though’ )
January 8, 2009

Iuri Almeida
Amazing episode! Gary, you should definitely, have more guests of that level on your show. I mean people who are serious wine professionals like you two.

QOTD: I’m brazilian, here in Brazil we have huge taxes on wines, so in the 8 bucks, or 20 brazilian reais, zone it is extremely difficult to find good/great wines. However, I’ve maneged to find a fell, some of them produced in my country, as Rio Sol (83 pts. WS), and Miolo’s Quinta do Seival Trempanillo, to name a few. Some chilean carmeres and cabernets can also be found here in that price range.
January 8, 2009

Mike
Great guest. I wanna see his show now. Awesome “throwing” video. Now we just need an Oak Monster vid.
January 8, 2009

DKBlurker
Sommelier Hendrik Thoma was a fab guest! He is very knowledgeable about wines, obviously, his enthusiasm and love of wine made a nice match with your more direct approach, Gary. Fun watching him drag you up the “ratings ladder” kicking and screaming. Made for an awesome show.

QOTD: Wines less than $8, you’re lucky to get drinkable. Great for less than $8 is so hard, WOW, cannot think of one. Good for under $8 is possible, still a tough find. Last one I can recall was a simple Sauvignon Blanc from France (Guy Saget, Touraine) because it went well with spicy Asian food.
January 8, 2009

John
I have been to Germany about 20 times and have never had a glass of wine in the country, because I’m drinking Beer.

Great Show.

QOTD: No, There is to much cost involved in developing a fine vineyard and all the associated activities.
January 8, 2009

BobMac
Best guest ever?

QotD: Possible but unlikely. If it were good, it would be a total accident.
January 8, 2009

john maki
great show, great guest & glad to see an old wine!

john
January 8, 2009

Omallley
Great to see some Rieslings…(and a great guest, btw).

QOTD: The follow up question, for me, would be “How do you define a great wine”?

Are there some delicious, well made examples of wine for $8 or under? Definitely. Are these going to be wines that you can cellar for years, or will change how you think about life? Doubtful. But, of course, they might change how you think about wine…
January 8, 2009

paul
QOTD: I have no idea. I’ve had some good inexpensive wines, but I don’t make wine so I don’t know if I could make one. (Too analytical an answer?)

To answer your chalkboard question: I love soccer. I referee soccer at the collegiate and semi-pro level. Wish I could play better, but that’s the way it is. As the saying goes: I’m blind, I’m deaf, I gotta be a ref.
January 8, 2009

Harry
Great show once again.
I do think it’s possible to make a good, if not great wine for under $8. Cremants from Bourgogne, Ports from OZ, decent Chenins from CA all come to mind as good bottles I’ve recently had under $9, and could be even better.
Perhaps if more people embraced boxes, thereby reducing packaging and shipping costs, we’d really see a revolution. Tetra-pac power!
January 8, 2009

Provenzano D.
No more lurking this is my first post and I have to say that this is best episode by far!!!!! You and Hendrik have some great chemistry. Bring him back one a month for the Gary V.S. Hendrik show.
January 8, 2009

Kodi
That was a really enjoyable show.

Gary -you are doing a great job of working with your guests more and not cutting them off… thank you for taking our comments after Randall’s visit to heart!!!!

Hendrik – thank you for stopping by. It was nice to see how passionate and enthused you were just from a sniff – maybe even more animated than Mr “Sniffy-sniff” himself. Please come back again some time.

QOTD – Not in California. Maybe somewhere else where everything is cheaper. And even then not sure how sustainable it would be.
January 8, 2009

Justin B
What about homemade wines? I’ve just started making wine at home and I would bet you can get some wonderful wine for under $3 a bottle.
January 8, 2009

Richard Ritter
Great show, great guest, great ending. WOW! That was fun. Thanks!

QOTD: Great? No. Serviceable? Yes.

Hey Gary, Lizzy doesn’t want you to around people who are sick??? Are you not telling us something? Is there a little one on the way??? You’ve been doing a lot of baby references lately!
January 8, 2009

jakemachina
By far the best guest you’ve ever had on the show. Hendrik is one cool guy! Have him back every time he’s in NY!

QOTD: Yes, it’s possible to MAKE a great wine for $8, but not possible to buy one. If it’s great, why not sell it as such?
January 8, 2009

Rowland
WHAT! Dammit Gary, when some foreigner says that New York doesn’t produce wine YOU NEED TO EDUCATE THEM!

OH MY GOD, this guy needs to take his German customers to the Hudson Valley! They would love it! Its the Rhine of America, a true New Europe.

You should have given him a Hudson Valley Traminette to try. Or how about some wines from New Paltz (Whitecliff or Adair).

Yea for real, $17 is pushing it for a bottle of wine.

ick IHOP is gross.

QOTD: yea im sure its possible to make great wine and sell it for less than $8. But the real question is can you make money selling wine at that price? on what scale? where?

NICE one Mott!
January 8, 2009

Pablo Nyarady
Gary,

Outstanding show! – Henrik was extremely enjoyable, and there was excellent chemistry between you two… The show actually inspired me to go down to the cellar and pull out an old Riesling, which I have not done in years… Fantastic show, see ya in Boston in a few weeks… Pablo
January 8, 2009

EternalChild
LMAO MOTT!!!!
January 8, 2009

dkp
this show was so fun i had to comment twice.
January 8, 2009

AbsolutLahmi
THIS SHOW WAS A BLAAAAASSTTT!!!!
Very few other episodes i enjoyed as much as this.
Hendrik has GOT to make a second appearance! Possibly the best guest yet. WOW.
January 8, 2009

MikeN-In-BC
WOW!!!…… Awesome guest, you have to bring him back. Great episode!
QOTD: Is there an answer??? I think that it can be done. As to why i think it can be done. If it couldn’t be done than why are we debating about it. i think if it couldnt be done than we are narrowing the art of wine like crazy.
Anyway, 2009 Wine Library has been awesome, I love the idea of your own rating system, or just screw the whole Parkerized system.
Keep it up Gary, you rock!
January 8, 2009

AbsolutLahmi
OH dang-
had so much fun, forgot the QOTD:

Yes, it’s DEFINITELY possible.
Vina Borgia from Spain, 100% Grenache, under 7 bucks! It’s all black pepper, red fruit, spice in your face!

GREAT WINE? Depends on who’s tasting it
January 8, 2009

impromptuwine
In my top ten favorite episodes
January 8, 2009

Jazzylee77
Hendrik was cool. Stop by again sometime!
January 8, 2009

Jazzylee77
QOTD

Well sure! You’ve seen the replicators on Star Trek, right? Just around the corner, the best wines in history for $2.00
January 8, 2009

Mari
Bring back Hendrik! What a cool cat!

QOTD: I guess that depends on what you regard as a “good” wine — I’d think you may be able to make it, but you might not make a profit. So in that case it would never be made. Although I’ve had some pretty great wines around 12, which is still fair!

PS, AWESOME video at the end. Great job this past year. Gary, your face at the end of the Champagne episode is FREAKIN ADORABLE.
January 8, 2009

Laura
I agree with Rowland above…NYC may not have vineyards….but what about The Finger Lakes? You might pour him some Dr. Frank next visit.
January 8, 2009

Kelly Goff
BY FAR one of my all time favorite episodes! Hendrik was awesome, one of the best guests, and then the video at the end sealed the deal. This is why I keep watching! And your great too Gary….

QOTD: Definitely possible, probably not easy though
January 8, 2009

benny z
gary, you should become a master sommelier

answer of the day – grow you own grapes and make your own wine

when my wife first heard the term sommelier, she had just started waiting tables in an upscale restaurant, and she goes “what is that? french for wine steward?”
hey at least she guessed it.

and the real answer is the marques de riscal rioja rose $7.50
January 8, 2009

BW
Once again, great show !

Hendik, you rock! Thanks for coming on!

GV, keep the guests coming …. any chance of getting the “Big Kahuna” himself on (RP that is) ?????

QOTD: I have bought some very good wines under $8 – wines I would score in the 90 pt range. To get to be in the “great” catagory – you need to be in the 93 or above range in my book. Just did a quick sort of the cellar database & found my least expensive 93 pts or above is the 2006 Glaetzer Wallace ( Shiraz 80, Grenah 20, 93 pts Jay Miller) for 19 bones. An extremely good deal, but over twice the target cost. I did have a bottle in Australia – Possums Vineyard Shiraz I believe – which James Halliday gave a 95 pt score to (I find he is usually a bit generous), but was about $15 Australian or just over $10 US, That is as close as I have seen. I also understand that there is some subsidies in Australia – so the price point (+ the weak Australian $ vs US $) may not be a fair comparison. Even with those factors – it still didnt make the cut.

In talks with my boss who has a vineyard & his winemaker, the TLC & extra labor – both in the field & the winery – are key in making a stellar product. This is why most stellar wines are relatively small production – they have to be to maintain the quality. Labor like this doesn’t come for free and has to be reflected in the price of the bottle.

So, I would say that in theory, yes it may be possible, but in practice, it is impossible & I have yet to see it yet. That being said – GV if you find a wine that fits the definition, let us Vayniacs know as many of us are all about QPR.
January 9, 2009

brooke
I have to try the Chilean Gewurts I’d love to see something about Fingerlakes (central NY) Riesling, Gewurts, etc. I’m not a professional, so I would like to know if these are actually any good. Also, a newer winery here (Bloomer Creek, I think) has a pretty decent Pinot Noir.
January 9, 2009

Alex M
One of the best ever! And awesome video at the end… Mott should start throwing the corks back.

qotd: it is possible, but when it happens, everyone will buy/drink so much that they will tire of it quickly…
January 9, 2009

Kent
Germans are awesome. I went to Düsseldorf as an exchange student about 4 years ago. I had loads of fun. I didn’t have any German wine but I certainly tasted quite a bit of beer. When I was there I fell in love with Hefeweizen (Germans call it Hefeweissbier) and Dunkel, beers I never even knew existed before then. Gary asked Hendrik about how young Germans look at wine, I think I can touch on that. When I was there it seemed the kids my age in Germany didn’t have any interest in their wine at all. But then again, young people in every country are that way.

Gary, you should do another “Beer Library” episode and taste some German beers with a guy like Herr Thoma.
January 9, 2009

Kent
Oops, forgot something.

QOTD: I HOPE!
January 9, 2009

Justin L. Ove
That show ruled!

QOTD: Under 8 bucks? It’s possible, but very unlikely. Anyone making good wine is going to sell it for as much as they can. Very few producers sell for less than what they know they can get per bottle.

Link It UP Vaynerchuk!
January 9, 2009

ron souza
Episode #605, w/trailer, I score a 97!!!! Great show.
Can you make a great wine for eight bones? Yes!!!!! If your a home wine maker in California.
Keep up the strong work.
January 9, 2009

Adam B
Awesome episode. I like the cohosting idea!

QOTD: I like what someone else said, it’s possible, but it probably wouldn’t be sold for $8. I’ve had good wines for $8, but never a great wine at that price.
January 9, 2009

Devin M.
Wow Hendrik rocks. The guy is one of the few people you’ve had on that could keep up with your energy. Looks like you’ll have to get rid of the Irish Spring and switch to Zest though. QOTD: I don’t know, maintaining vines is not cheap.
January 9, 2009

Matt
This was BY FAR my favorite host. Loved him. Love you Gary. As for the question of the day…I think too many people nowadays are so worried about making a KILLING, not a living. Almost everything you buy is completely overpriced for what it is, even in wine. I truly believe you can make a good wine for 8 bucks.

And yes…I like to play soccer. However watching is pretty damn boring.
January 9, 2009

Chris F.
Well I have to say that was a great episode.Hendrik was damn funny and obviously knows his wine.Gary pulling the Cartagena Gewurztraminer out of nowhere was great,Chile really has some great wines,the Concha y Toro Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon is one of my favs and the terroirs in their wines is fantastic.

As far as making a great wine for under 8 bucks I agree with alot of the other posters,alot of the pricing is in packaging.But mostly it has a lot to do with the growing season and the availability of good grapes.The charles shaw 2 buck chuck is a good example.California’s overabundance of grapes in the 90s,and vineyards planting vine after vine with little demand and a huge supply of good-quality low-cost grapes very inexpensive wines were being produced.I have personally had several wines from all over the world that cost under 8 dollars that were great,the problem is most of them weren’t consistently good from year to year and most of them were not cellarable.
January 9, 2009

rimarfish
Great show. Great Guest.
QOTD: I think is possible, but not great, just a solid good wine.
January 9, 2009

Gerry V
What a couple of wine snobs!

I’m joking of course. Hands down, this one was the Thunder.

Wonderful guest,

Youz guyz must come from the same vine. Gary, you seemed slightly calmer paced at the beginning (only the beginning). Hendrik was boisterous and animated as you always are. It was obvious you were not only having fun but really taking it in. You both are very talented energetic, high octane guys with a lot of knowledge and experience and it delivered well. I give the show a 98. I had to watch it twice. Would love to try the dessert wine.

Otro, Otro,

Jon Bulava, nicely done, you Nailed it!

QOTD: I got to believe so. The way I’m spending money on wine now, I’m only going to be able to afford an 8 boned bottle of wine when I retire. I’d really like it to be a good one.

Salud
January 9, 2009

Wes
This is my first comment! This was terrific. I think Gary was right, Hendrik should be a guest once a month. Maybe he could do some cooking, also! I liked the wide variety of wines. As to the QOTD, I’ve had some very good sub-$8 bottles. They don’t appear often, but when they do it’s fun! Cheers!
January 9, 2009

Sonia
LOVED it! Gary, you are freaking rock, Hendrik kicks a**! You definitely need to have him on again. I think this is my FAVORITE episode so far!!!! (I only just discovered The Thunder Show about a month ago, though I’ve been catching up on early episodes… I’m up to episode 140) JonB’s video was great! Thanks Gary, Mott, Hendrik and JonB for such a great episode!!!

I would really like to say that a great $8 wine is possible… but I don’t know, I’m not gonna hold my breath.
January 9, 2009

Valentin
Hi Hendrik, a big shout-out from Zurich, Switzerland. QOD: No it is not possible to make a great wine at this price point but a “honest” good wine that you enjoy with your everyday’s meal. Sometimes you can really make bargains that are out of the roof. The winemaking has be taken to a point of perfection that still keeps me being astouned.
January 9, 2009

Gio
QOTD: I don’t think it’s possible without taking a loss. The process and attention to detail of making a “great” wine is too costly.

I adore (but my girl does more) German wines. Hendrik was an excellent guest. I suggest more guests that are Master Sommeliers. Another great episode… Mott in the end was CLASSIC!
January 9, 2009

vinosseur
Hello Gary!

I love it when you have guests! Hendrik was great and started the show with one of my favorite wine makers in Germany, Geltz Zilliken! Great to see you taste an older vintage from Zilliken which I think is a bargain at that price!

QOTD: There are more and more wines showing up on the shelves at the lower price range that impress me. I usually select small wine makers who are really just farmers to find the great value. Usually these wines are unoaked (which saves money) and unfiltered.

Thanks Gary and Hendrik
January 9, 2009

Zeek27
Great guest – Great Show – Great Fun….

Liked the discussion regarding correct temperatures for drinking – continues to be a big discussion at our house….
January 9, 2009

Mats Fröling
This was a great show! One of the best.
January 9, 2009

Eric S.
Great guest, you should try to get more master sommelier’s on the show. I like the idea of getting this guy to come back more often. I enjoyed his comments when he reviewed each wine, kind of reminded me of a guy announcing a golf match in that quiet voice around the green when they are about to putt, it was pretty funny. As for question of the day, as for my favorite wine under or around $8 is definitely Smoking Loon.
January 9, 2009

pivu
QOD – as I stated everwhere else: great wine for < 8 bucks – not possible, however you should be able to find a really good and honest wine for this value. This might be not the biggest “experience”, but it’s definitely more than just “effect” as Hendrik stated in Germany a couple of weeks ago.
January 9, 2009

dafo
This is probably one of my favorite episodes. Hendrik is awesome! He really should co-host with you now and then.

QOTD: Yes, but not easy by any means. Gary, you need to do an $8 show.
January 9, 2009

SteveW-Colorado
When a person selects a wine it’s best to choose a wine that is strong enough to stand up to the foods you’ll be eating it with.

Similarly, it’s best to choose a guest who can stand up to the host of the show. Hendrik did just that. He didn’t cater or pander to GV, but rather he complimented him. They work well together – a good pairing.
January 9, 2009

JigglyJock
Great guest! I really enjoyed his knowledge and different palate perspective.

QOTD: I hope it is possible to make a great wine for cheap, but I would imagine the winery would not make much money. I guess you could make your own wine for around that price.
January 9, 2009

Jayhitek
QOTD: Ask Gary.. He charged me $37 for the Vayniac Cab.. Where is that by the way.
January 9, 2009

wayno da wino
WHOOOOOOOOOA, FAAAANTAAAASTIC Episode!!!! Hendrik was a Blast!!!

qotd: Of course, but people, by nature being the Greed Mongers that
they are, will pry as much money out of you as they can…..
January 9, 2009

SurfCityJay
You brought the THUNDER with this episode… Hendrik was great… REEEEEEEAAAAAALLLL passion, I mean BOATLOADS….wish we could of heard who he was with in Napa… Im sure there’ some great stories there…

You should try to get 2-3 other Somms from around the globe.. it would be great to see/hear their stories and see their passion…

Oh, and the JohnB video was great too… saw it the other day via Twitter…

QOTD: great wine for under 8 bones… possible, highly improbable…

2009 is going to be a GREAT year… thanks!
January 9, 2009

Lady Baltimore
Hendrik and Gary have great energy together. Loved the humor and the way they had different viewpoints. Really great episode.
The vid at the end was hilarious! Thanks, Mott!
If anyone can make a great wine under $8, I’ll buy it!
January 9, 2009

Franky
hendrik is a great guy. rieslings rocks. thanks for show from berlin
January 9, 2009

Rick E
Hey Starsky and Hutch, this was hands down the best episode I’ve ever watched (and I’ve been on board since the launch). It’s the most comfortable I’ve ever seen GV with a guest, and the banter seemed totally organic as well as informative.

Love the spirited debates on flavors (”What you mean, soap?”)

Can’t wait to describe my next German white as having honey and apples, and next red with cherries and minerals.

Truly interesting comment about German winemakers not making money off of the highly sought after ausleses, and perhaps even downgrading berenausleses in order to sell.

And “taking the knickers by storm” has been officially introduced into my go-to lexicon.

Echoing everyone else’s sentiments, you need to make Herr Thoma the Alec Baldwin to your SNL.

QOTD: I do think you can make a good (not great) wine under $8. See Finca Luzon from Spain and Berco Do Infante from Portugal…
January 9, 2009

dz
While watching the national championship game last night we had a bottle of the 04 Ch. Ste. Michelle entry level cab($10 or $9 if you buy 6 at Vons) along with the 05 Picampeau,05 Pontac Lynch,98 Tertre Daugay and it more than held its own. While all the wines tasted completely different they were all equally excellent and complemented my grilled steaks to a tee. I first had this wine by the glass($15 ouch!) at Smith & Wollensky in Manhattan on New Years Eve and was amazed. A decent inexpensive Chardonnay I tried recently was the 06 Chalone for $7. Its not too sweet or vanilla flavored which makes it a rarity these days.
January 9, 2009

CHICAGO MARK
VERY GOOD SHOW…START TO FINISH…UNDER $8 ? IVE YET TO FIND ONE. PROBABLY NEVER WILL…THEN AGAIN I DONT MIND ALAMOS MALBEC OR WOLFTRAPP.
January 9, 2009

Trevor G
QOTD: I’ve had some killer Cava bubbly that I grabbed for under 8 bucks.
January 9, 2009

jimmy
great episode, love learning more about wines from that part of the world.

under $8? hrm, i just got some quaffable ‘04 bordeaux online for $5.98 a bottle. deals are there to be had!
January 9, 2009

Grant
Yes, it is possible to make a very good (perhaps not great) wine for $8. Here is my challenge on this point: Get a bottle of Marquis de Monistrol rose brut cava. Mix it is blind tasting of not totally bone dry rose sparkling wines and see how you rate it. Or try it with some carmenere bottles, like the “lowly” Terra Andina from Chile. Or certain “basic” level malbecs from Argentina. It can be done. Unfortunately, though, you often have to taste a lot of frogs to find a princess, but it can be done – whatever your particular stylistic and varietal preferences. As long as you do not confine “very good” to mean very complex (which is really a different thing), there some very good wines at or below the $8 level.
January 9, 2009

CW
Ja ja, Tolle Show ! So Germany is a good example of the unter 5 euro Frage. If you live close to where the wine is made, then the answer is yes. If you go to some winemaker’s websites on Mosel, especially small producers, you can find some amazing declassified Kabinetten for under 5 euros. Once they get here we’re on to about 15-16 euro. The real question is… can quality grapes, skill, materials and shipping (tax!) add up to a quality wine for 5 euro. It can, but it is the exception to the rule.

re cheap Pinot, it is still possible to get a $18-19 Pinot Noir from Oregon that is all the things Pinot should be, but it helps to be in Oregon (I’m not . Bitte besuchen wir einmal und einmal
January 9, 2009

Michael
Thanks Gary. What a great show! Hendrik is such a cool guy! Unfortunately American TV and cinema usually portray Germans as dry and angry. That is not true and Hendrik is a good example.

Boy, it is REALLY hard to find good wine under $8. The only wine I recall which was around $6 four-five years ago was the 2001(?) Di Majo Norante Sangiovese, which I ranked 88-89 points.

Keep up the good work Gary.
January 9, 2009

Weston
Great Episode you two need to work together more often.

QOTD:
The real question is it possible to make great wine for under 5 euros and make money off of it. Well I guess it depends on the land cost if you are paying cheap land costs then Yeah it would be easier. and Whites are always easier then making a red for cheap So I guess in theory it is possible. But generally I say you do get what you pay for (excluding name regonition) it takes money to get low yields to hand pick and hand sort fruit unless you are getting cheap illegal work then your under 5 euro is being made illegally and not just not fair.

Peace~
January 9, 2009

AMM3RD
I love the video at the end!!! AMM
January 9, 2009

Higs
Hendrink ist sehr gute guest! Excellent show. I enjoyed some German wines about twenty years ago in Rudesheim after a Rhine river cruise while serving in the Army. Germany is a beautiful country with great wines. qotd: great? maybe not great for eight bones.
tchuse!
January 9, 2009

Bernhard K. Austria
I know it is possible to produce wines which make a lot of fun to drink around 5€!
But just the wine!
No bottle No Closing No Labels… Than It is possible! Great episode! Cheers Bernhard K.
January 9, 2009

CaseyLee
Was für eine großartige Gast! Dies war eine gute Show
die nur Deutsch Wein ive hatte, war ein reisling…nichts Lust
HES, sondern ein cooler Typ nicht ganz sicher über das Ding um den Hals
aber immer noch eine gute Bewertung. Dank Gary!!!
\/\/
January 9, 2009

Ryan
Great show. Loved the guest.
January 9, 2009

Nicholas Lazarus
Classic episode! Fantastic guest!

QOTD: Not from my experience, at least not in this part of the world.
January 9, 2009

ChrisR
WOW!!! An instant classic. Absolutely looovvveeeee Hendrik, a sensational guest! You should definitely pay for his ticket to come on once a month. This is a phenomenal way to begin 2009!

So happy to hear you guys talk about old riesling. I had the privilege of trying a 22-year-old riesling spatlese when I graduated college, and it blew everyone’s socks off. Ridiculous how good it was! If anyone out in the Vayner nation is sitting on some 10+ year-old ries, they are one smart cookie!!
January 9, 2009

Sharon
Hey, that was a GREAT episode. Totally enjoyed your guest, who brought out the wine nerd in Gary, which I enjoy too!
QOTD: Nope
January 9, 2009

Andy
QOTD- It can be done……. Mass produced and good quality fruit and steel fermintation .
January 9, 2009

thisIslandEarth
One of the best most enjoyable WLTV episodes of all time! Herr Thoma was awesome. You guys were great together.
Mott – awesome. C’mon Vayniacs – don’t you just want to give Mott a hugg?

p.s. Sorry Mott – Eagles beat Giants this week in my upset special.
January 9, 2009

HuskerJamie
Wow, awesome show guys. I’d say probably no way to make an $8 wine above 93 points.

There’s no way the academy snubs “Great Moments in Throwing Stuff” right?
January 9, 2009

billyg
Best guest ever.

QOTD: Yes it could be done, but unlikely. Maybe in a box at an equivalent of $8/bottle.
January 9, 2009

nelsonmaud
wow just read corkd was hacked on tech crunch sorry to hear :>(
January 9, 2009

Rick D
Fantastically fun show. Really enjoyed Hendrik. Love the energy and the knowledge.

Once a month – absolutely a great idea.

QOTD: I have my doubts, but if someone could I would like to try it.
January 9, 2009

John
Please nominate this show in the “best episode ever” category.
January 9, 2009

EricB
One of the best ever!!!
loved Hendrik, loved the wines, loved the video at the end! all classic
QOTD: maybe a once-off “accident” but not consistently.
January 9, 2009

Benj
Amazing show, with a fantastic guest! My LWS has like half a dozen of Donnhoff’s wines so I’m definitely going to be checking a few out (as soon as I raise the funds!).

QOTD: $8 is just under £6 at the moment I reckon. I have definitely had very enjoyable wines at that price point, but to me ‘great’ implies the possibility of legacy, and for that it generally needs the ability to age. That said, few people age cheap wine so maybe we just haven’t given them a chance yet! So I’d say good: yes. Great: perhaps, but very unlikely.
January 9, 2009

Lois and Greg
Absolutely a great episode. Good info and a lot of fun. Two guys you would enjoy hanging with, talking wine.
QOTD: Yes
January 9, 2009

J Crazy
RIGHTEOUSNESS!!! This episode, top 10 at least! I loved it, “Do you get soap?”

Answer: “No!” That’s a guy who trusts his pal.

The video at the end was f’ckin hilarious.
January 9, 2009

J Crazy
QOTD: Sure.
January 9, 2009

Joel M
Way to mix it up GV. Hopefully, there will be more shows featuring people with other points of view about the goings on in the wine world.
January 9, 2009

Michael Schoonmaker
Best. Episode. Ever.

I’m gonna leave a loooong comment, ’cause this episode has that much to love in it. A little context first – I’m a video game developer.

As far as a rating system goes, Gary, I’d be interested to see how the “Scrum” system would fare. In scrum, you try and give an initial rating to each task you have ahead of you on a scale from 1-21 of the Fibonacci Sequence. That is, you rate small tasks (or pazzzzzzz wines) as a 1, then comes 2, 3, 5 (medium), 8, 13, and a 21 is that 94 pointer from this episode – something that shouldn’t be missed. I don’t know that I’ve ever seen a wine rated at 10 points, but it’s pretty easy for me to think of wines that would deserve a 1, and I’m tasting a wine right now that I think would deserve an 8. Again – the really special wines have a special category: 21.

QOTD: Yes, yes, and again yes. If you have a little extra time, check out indie game development. These developers are creating video games with the same quality as the $50-60 commercial titles, but selling them for $5-20. What fills in that gap? Passion. I find it impossible to deny my gut feeling that someone who is PASSIONATE (with my best Gary impression) enough can’t create truly spectacular wine and sell it for just enough to be able to follow their dream. If that person was that passionate, you’d see that wine at that price point or just above. Granted – not as many people would be able to enjoy that wine, sadly, but I think it would be a spectacular effort nonetheless.
January 9, 2009

Ray Barnes
I wish you had let your excellent guest talk a little more, but overall it was an excellent show. I would suggest in the same kind of situation to let the guest give the names of the wines. That vignette at the end was fun and Chris’ final shot was well done too.
January 9, 2009

Ray Barnes
One afterthought – the Zilliken Saarburger Rausch Spatlese is a superb wine and definitely a great demonstration of the ageworthiness of fine German Riesling. While I have not tried the 1992, the 1994, last spring, was delicious stuff indeed. Over the Christmas season we uncorked a 1959 Rheinhessen Auslese, which was still very drinkable, if a little past its best.
January 9, 2009

Robyn
Sehr gut! A good drinkable wine under $8 is possible. I have no shame in going for Rosemount Shiraz and enjoying it. A complex wine under $8, I don’t think so. You guys are great. Gary, please keep this German dude around at any cost!!
January 9, 2009

Dr. Dan
Great guest. Were you guys separated at birth?

QOTD: Perhaps, if you don’t want to make any profit.
January 9, 2009

SoCal
Great Show!
The chemistry of this show was the best guest episode yet.
QOTD: NO
January 9, 2009

CABDRINKER
Great episode Gary – I really liked this one.
January 9, 2009

JJ
Really enjoyed the show! Great guest- makes me want to be a master sommelier!

QOTD: No way, but you could find enjoyable wine at that price point
January 9, 2009

Pierre
Great show guys!

QOTD: It should be possible to do so in less known regions
January 9, 2009

randyshakes
QOTD: Maybe

I like soccer. Can England take Beckham back now?
January 9, 2009

Doug
One of your best episodes ever, for sure! Please bring Hendrik back soon; you guys are great together.

QOTD: Only by accident; a great wine is inherently worth more than $8.
January 9, 2009

Kevin K
QOTD: I don’t think so. At least I haven’t had one.

P.S. Hendrik is perhaps my favorite guest so far. He seems so fun.
January 9, 2009

Kevin K
Nice remix. I Love the Mott-ster at the end.
January 9, 2009

pete C
Great episode. Welcome to Hendrik. Does he know Brian Julyan, another MS from England? Had the pleasure of meeting and dining with him and his wife on a cruise this summer.
January 9, 2009

Zinfreak
Hi Gary,
I’ve already commented on how monumental this show was. Bring back Hendrick!!!!!

But I can’t contain my glee because Banknote Wine Co just won Best-of-Class in the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition!!!!!!

Its going to be a great weekend!!!!!!
January 9, 2009

jonomck
God I love your shows like this.

Please, Gary, for the love of God

YOU HAVE A MASTER ON THE SHOW!!! LET HIM SPEAK!!!

That is all
January 9, 2009

Laurie in VT
Fantastic guest and episode. Thank you!
QOTD: Yes, possible, but not consistently so.
The collected clips at the end were hysterical. Mott at the end was just tops.
January 9, 2009

Laurie in VT
BTW, if you could have Hendrik as a frequent guest that would be sweet.
January 9, 2009

David T
Amazing guest, I’d chip in to have him back. Hendrik, let Gary know whenever you’ll be back Stateside and stop in!

QOTD: I don’t know if a great (above 90pt) wine can be had for $8, but there are certainly some values to be had for that price- two of my favorites (within a buck or two) from the past 6 months are from Washington: the 2006 Hogue Cabernet Sauvignon and the 2006 Columbia Crest Two Vines Vineyard 10 white.
January 9, 2009

KenP
Quite an elegant ep.

QOTD: Not a serious question. A small winery could not make money, a large winery would not find it in their commercial interests to produce a high quality product in direct competition to their quotidian swill.
January 10, 2009

vinoBlue
QOTD: I think great wine at $8 is possible, but only under exceptional – and unfortunately, unsustainable – circumstances. For instance, in a developing wine region (e.g. South Africa) great wine could be produced that is simply unmarketable at higher prices due to a lack of branding and inherent lack of history. Also if a country was suffering from a terrible exchange rate things could get a bit crazy. However, in general I think the answer is: unlikely.

In other news, bring Hendrik back to WLTV as soon as you can get him. Since he’s working on that new project for Bravo (presumably in the States) that shouldn’t be too difficult. But my vote is affirmative for the first regular WLTV guest. Also, to everyone who thinks GV talks to much – you’re just plain wrong, esp in this instance.

Great show, better clip show, and big ups to the Mottster!
January 10, 2009

Kevin Trottier
Great show. luv za germans and the buying at room temp debate.
January 10, 2009

apj_bobswineguy
QOTD: CAVA?!? maybe…
January 10, 2009

apj_bobswineguy
The guest episodes are my favorite.
Everyday people like the knitting girl or the Masters like Jancis, Hendrik and the others (or when your dad drops in).
Really good info mixed w/ some outrageous comments and enjoyed the food pairing notes that Hendrik gave us.
Great guest!
January 10, 2009

Rob R
I’ve only been watching for around 150 episodes, but this was my favorite. Great guest and great wines. And what a great clip at the end. “Link this up Vaynerchuk!” That had me rolling. I may be partial since my last name is Rausch
January 10, 2009

Heka
Very nice guest. I liked this episode alot.
January 10, 2009

Zach
Great episode and great guest. You guy had a great chemistry together and the show was one of the better ones. We laughed, we cried, we wanted more. Get him back to be a regular.

Oh yeah, nice choice on the wines too…lol.

QOTD – GREAT wine for under $8.00? Probably not. But a very good wine for $8.00 I think so.
January 10, 2009

Lance Bradstreet
Fantastic episode, one of my favs, really like the guest, and liked learning more about German wines!

QOTD – Yes, and I think most of the really decent 8 dollar wines seem to be coming from South America and South Africa. I am at a point when I am out shopping for wine I head straight to the South American region shelf to hit up the deals on the wines I know I am going to enjoy. So the answer is yes, but a little foggy, because the 8 bones is really coming from a under valued currency situation when compared to the U.S. Dollar and the Euro, but I’m not going to complain!
January 10, 2009

MattM
This was my favorite guest show yet! Video at the end was also great.
January 10, 2009

wayno da wino
This Episode was soooo GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOD…….I think I’ll watch
it again !!!
January 10, 2009

Steve
Excellent episode and fantastic guest! You guys had great on screen chemistry.

QOTD: Probably yes, but not for long. It seems there are some really good South American wines and a few newcomers in Portugal, maybe Cava from Spain that are really very good at that price, BUT, once they deliver the goods, the price will go up over $10.

It sure is fun finding them, though. Keep spreadin’ the Thunder, Gary!!!!
January 10, 2009

Jim in Atlanta
Wow! What a great show. He is more animated than the German people I know. You should have him back soon. QOTD – I seriously doubt a really good wine can be made for under $8, but we can always hope it happens.
January 10, 2009

TROC
You two make a great team. Great show! Best under $8 wine has been Riesling, Scheid vineyards had a sale. Now, to try and find some Donhoff.
January 10, 2009

Ohio Bruce
QOTD: I sure hope so! We had a ‘value’ tasting NY Eve of 10 under $15 wines and many were quite decent, though none were “great.” However, that was a GREAT show!
January 10, 2009

Glen,....winecrazy.com
Great Great GREAT show Homey!!!!! Here’s to another great year!!!

You are a great guy my man!!!!!!!!

Keep having fun doin what you do and I’ll keep having fun watchin you.

Thanks for all you do and the effort you put into your show.

You ARE….CHNAGING….and HAVE CHANGED…The WINE WORLD…!!!!!!!!

With Love & Respect,

Glen

QOTD: I think they can….but why would they when they can make an $8 bottle of wine and sell it for $40…. HAHAHA
January 10, 2009

Glen,....winecrazy.com
Opps…. you ARE CHANGING!!! I hate typos!
January 10, 2009

tigerkite
Hey Jim in Atlanta. I’m in Germany and I’d definitely agree. Germans are not an animated bunch, a fairly reserved group of people.
January 10, 2009

Eli
I was expecting Hendrik to be a snob, but he was GREAT. Nicely done.
January 10, 2009

Callie
Having a guest like this on the show is such a treat! It’s nice to see another point of view.

P.S. Now that I’ve watched 100 or so episodes to catch up…I think I am ready to come out of lurker status.

P.P.S. 90% of the Germans I have met have all been really animated, tigerkite….and surprisingly I’ve met most of the in Atlanta, Jim.
January 10, 2009

Antony
Great guest. A gentleman who deserves an answer… but it’s a tough question that’s complicated further by exchange rates. Living in the UK, things have gone crazy of late. The pound has fallen about 30% – maybe 40% over the last couple of years. French and Italian wine has definitely got more expensive, American has always been at crazy prices. I guess $8 is like £5 which is always like a landmark price for me only it’s probably really more like £4 because of the high duty we pay. Anyways… to answer the question. YES! It’s possible in two ways. 1. A supermarket offering a crazy deal. Very often these are on dodgy Australian wines and alike but there’s occasionally an offering from somewhere like Chile that’s genuinely good. Whether it’s a good deal for the winery is another thing. 2. Honest simple wine. It’s possible to buy stuff like Gamay that’s young and uncomplicated, unadulterated and fine to drink. There you have it dudes.
January 10, 2009

Jessica St
I am a new viewer and love the show. A couple of years ago a tried to explore wine and found it over welling. Then I watched the show and decided to just explore my pallet and not worry what other people think.
January 10, 2009

Doc S
Great guest, great episode, great clips, and Holy Mott!

QOTD – I’ve had serviceable, good wines at $8, but nothing so far that’s really had me looking for more. I’ve had lots of success in the $10 range, though – there’s more tasty vino out there for a ten-spot than one would think.
January 10, 2009

Dan-o
Good show and really interesting guest!
gotta love aged Rieslings!

QOTD – NFW!
January 10, 2009

Jess
My favorite episode ever! I freakin love Hendrik! His passion and good natured humor are awesome. You guys are really good together. Thanks for a great episode. QOTD: I believe! I haven’t had one yet, but I think it’s possible. Especially in these times, when people are looking for value.
January 11, 2009

Noellems
I heart Hendrik! Having a guest who holds up their end of the conversation so well makes for terrific viewing.

QOTD: I agree with the other posts–very good wine is possible under 8 “bones,” but maybe mostly due to unfortunate circumstances in other countries and currency fluctuations. I will pay a bit more for quality; quality in both the wine as well as the working conditions and fair wages for those who produced it.
January 11, 2009

Jay
Please bring Hendrik back! Best WLTV guest BY FAR. This guy brings the passion that Gary V has created this shown around. Not only that, but was unafraid to challenge Gary on a few points helping to reinforce the concept that each palette is different.

I think a lot of people will agree with me, he’d be a great monthly guest.
January 11, 2009

Chas
That was easily the most enjoyable episode of wine library I have ever watched. You two have a great dynamic reviewing the wines side by side.

QOTD: Like others have said I believe there are good wines coming out of South America that are 8$ and under.
January 11, 2009

Andrew D
Hey Gary and Hendrik

Awesome show guys. I really enjoye the honest discussion and Hendrik’s general enthusiasm.

QOTD: Maybe … Gary V always talks about the context under which you drink wine and I’m sure a us$8 bottle of wine drunk on a beach in Greece could be ‘great’, but take it out of that context and I’m sure it wont have the same appeal. US$8 is about Aus$10 and I struggle to tink of wine sold in Australia that I could describe as great. Maybe something like Yellow Tail and Jacobs Creek gets recognition for being important, but not great. I don’t think it’s impossible and I’d look to Portugal, eastern Europe, China and maybe the Middle East for poterntial ‘great’ wines at the price. I don’t know…

Andrew
January 11, 2009

Matt R
a) AMAZING video…. Great stuff

b) It’s barely two weeks into January and “Link it up, Vaynerchuk” may just have to be the quote of 2009.

c) QOTD – Not only can a wine be made for >5 euro, it’s happening. I saw episode 545 and the strong recommendation on the ‘07 Steenberg Sauv Blanc ($7), swung by WL on my way to Newark airport, and got a couple bottles. I served it with my signature catfish baked in banana leaves with a wine/butter/lemon/garlic sauce to some friends with very expensive tastes. Unprompted, they complemented me on the wine, said it was paired perfectly, and a superb wine in it’s own right. They asked me how much it cost, I told them $18, and they agreed I got a bargain. I laughed. Next time in Jersey, I went back to the store and bought the last four bottles WL had in stock.
January 11, 2009

Roberto Nr.3
Hi Gary,

good show!

Who likes soccer —-> the “german national wine soccer team”

More information? Contact us!
January 11, 2009

Pete
WHO LIKES SOCCER?
Apparently the whole planet, since it is the most popular Sport on Earth, second is Cricket and Third is Rugby.
For those who doutb Cricket, here is a simple calculation, most popular sport in, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, England, Australia, South Africa, Carrabean, add those numbers up, pally! Cheers!
January 11, 2009

A dumb Rhine king
Wow Gary. That was one of your top (top top top top) episodes!! Granted I haven’t seen them all … yet. You are definitely getting better at letting the guest do some talking

I love how energetic and charismatic Hendrik is. He seems like an awesome guy to sit down and share a meal with. Definitely have him back.

I’ve only been to Deutschland once for some great Bavarian ale. Next time I’m there I will have to check out their wine industry.

QOTD: Easy way to make wine for under €5 or $8 – grow the grapes and make it at your home if you can. Even something that would be scored a 60 by a critic will taste like a 95+ point wine to you. It’s all about the experience.

The tacked on video was flippin hilarious!! Fantastic job Jon!!
January 11, 2009

Jordan C
Went on a rant last time and didn’t say how great the show was. Great guest and you guys just worked together. Keep em coming my friend. By the way did you happen to my birds take care of your NY counterparts? haha Thanks
January 11, 2009

Norm O'Genski
Even though I have been in the wine retail business for several years and co-wrote a handbook on wine, I find you show refreshing, interesting and your honesty to stating that they are your opinions is to be respected.
I would like to hear more terms on structure and balance, not just the “components” used to describe. It would take me to a higher level of wine speak as well as anyone else that is abit up from the beginner level. Keep it up! Gary for President!!!!
January 11, 2009

tennsomm
great show, amazing interaction with hendrik and good info as far as discerning palettes and “judging” wine more shows like this wouold round one the extremely informative ones

QOTD: under 8$ not so sure…right at 10$ absolutely, i honestly think after import taxes and greed and retail markups it just isnt going to happen, straight from the winery, or in the same town there is a good possiblity.
but also to ensure that the pickers and vineyard workers get a fair wage is another reason to look at price, in areas like south america and south africa fair labor practices are noty always high on entreprenuers lists of to do!
the absolute best deal i have found to date is Bodegas Castano HERCULA monastell Yecla Spain @ $9.99 (at a 10% case discount it brings the bottle cost to 8.99!!)
January 11, 2009

Brian
Best episode yet! Hendrik rocked it! Best guest on the show yet! Keep up the great work!
January 11, 2009

Cam's mom
LOVED the show today. I agree, Hendrik would make a terrific co-host! Love his personality and charm.

QOTD: I don’t know anything about making wine, but I know a wonderful bottle for around $10. Pine Ridge Chenin Blanc Viognier blend. I really cannot say enough about this bottle (LINK IT UP VAYNERCHUK)!! I just purchased a case (and it will not be my last).

Keep up the great work. You’ll be hard pressed to beat this show!
January 11, 2009

digitaldean
One word that I have to label this episode.
Ausgezeichnet!

Listening to a Master Sommelier who comes across as a fantastically down to earth guy.

Great episode, liked the end video with The Great Escape theme!

QOTD: Yes, it’s possible. But for one to find it on their own would be VERY difficult. This is where a wine group or sites like Cork’d or WL forums comes in VERY handy.
January 11, 2009

Wyld
Cool Show, fun to get the international feel.

QOTD: $8-12 is my price range, so i would say no, its hard to find good ones in that range, anytime i go under, they have been so-so to bad.

You can get Columbia Crest Two Vines for under $8, and when you hit them right, they drink very well, but i find their window very short. Really good… not sure about that.
January 11, 2009

Murso
Hendrik uber alles!!! Vielen Danke mein freund. Spent a good deal of time in Hamburg as our base while my band toured Europe for 3 months, many years ago and stayed with friends at Langdunsbrucken and Altona. Your city is most awesome, but mein Deutsch is schlimmer und schlekt.

QotD – Yes!!! great wines are, as I noted in earlier episodes, available well under $10, from people such as Jorge Ordonez (Luzon/Verde, and numerous others). In Germany ,we can get good/vg (at least) wines from Rudi Weist, and numerous bereich wines,such as Wm Bergmann and guys of that nature. The Lurtons do cheap/vg on several continents, by now. but great from North America requires the discovery of small scale, and very talented blenders of inexpensively purchased juice, like Peralta, for example, off the top of my head… And easier manged varietals, as in some aspects of Sauv. Blanc’s versatile characheristics play to economically manipulated advantages. Ugni Blanc and Petite Manseng in France can do the same. But thse all yeild good/vg,…maybe not quite great. Prost!!!
January 12, 2009

marty6001 (Phil)
Gary, I have to say its great to see you interacting with the other professionals in the world, but the show is SOOOO much better when its you and the wine. One can tell that this is what your bred to do, taste wine and enlighten your fans!!!
January 12, 2009

CaptainOats
Gary, can you wish my friend Chris a belated happy birthday. His birthday was on the 10th of Jan and I forgot to request the shout out. I introduced him to you a few months back and he now loves your show. Thanks!
January 12, 2009

Lord Nouda
Hey, I’m from Hamburg! Excellent show. Gary, make sure to visit Hendrik on your next Europe trip and get him onto the Thunder Cruise.

qotd: I think a good wine for 8 bucks and under can happen only with luck. Planning it would just lead to exploiting workers. And honestly: producing a good wine, i.e. non industrialized production, takes a lot of time, knowledge and man hours of hard work. And consumers should appreciate that by paying for it.
January 12, 2009

Pete G
Think you set the bar alittle high for the start of ‘09. What a Great
guest. No wonder they are giving him his own TV show – he’s the German GV.
Shlitfa Shruma!

QOTD: Good, drinklable? Yes. Great? Nyet.

PS – Hendrik should definetely be a guest to bring back on a regular basis
January 12, 2009

Carsten Laade from Hamburg
Jolly good – wine entertainment at its best!!! Such a drive – faboulous – Boths guys reminds me to a great Pianoplayer,called Glen Gould, who was also very special in his expression and his kind of playing piano – These guys are showing in a perfect way how we should talk about wine : relaxing but full of passion- loughing but seriously- respectfull!!
We need more of of these discussions!!
Iam as well a gread admirer of elderly Riesling vintages , espescially from Germany (Mittel Mosel) and I tell you something – drink riesling vintages 1993/94 or 2001 from great producers, esp. from the MittelMosel (Reinhold Haart or Markus Molitor – Heymann Löwenstein) and your wine heart makes a jumping jack flasch!!

QOTD: Of course there are a lot of wines under 8$ but the questions should be:
How much worth is a bottle of wine for you ? It is not the point that we couldn´t afford a bottle of 10$ or more!
To enjoy a fine bottle of wine is much more than drinking Alcohol, it is also the respect for the producer who works hard in his vineyard to get a individuel quality.
Wines should taste after the area it comes from (Ursprung or Heimat) they should stay individuell like a fingerprint.
Of course if you drink wine every day you will come soon to the point that a
15$ or 20$ wine is to expensive for dailly pleasure? But if you will enjoy it just 3-4times a week Iam asking seriously: What the hell are 50$ a week for having really fun!! Often we spend our money for nonsens!! Why shouldn`t we spend money for good taste??
January 12, 2009

Carlitos
Good episode! Gary remembered his lesson and started behaving nicely letting Hendrik talk. But then went back to his “Vaynerways” and tried forcing him on the temperature “issue” and the soap and Hendrik as a polite guest let him do. Bad Gary!

BTW, I think your argument of drinking wines at room temperature to “be able to get all the nuances and flaws” is “flawed”. If I told you that you should have “fridge cold” lobster bisque or “room temperature” ice cream to be able to get all the nuances and flaws would you always have it that way??? I understand those are extreme cases and that it makes it easier for you to get more flavors and aromas and come up with outrageous similes and comparisons, but I would argue that wine has to be drunk at a temperature that brings maximum enjoyment and not maximum “flaws”. IMHO.

QOTD. You can make it and sell it at the winery for that much. But it’s very difficult for consumers in the US to get it. Wineries in the US have too high plus they charge at the winery MRSP for it instead of giving a break. Plus they have managed to convince us the consumers that it’s too expensive to produce quality wines, vineyard management, low yields… They have us in blind folds. So that category is out. And for imported wines you have the three tier system with three middlemen and transportation making money. In Europe you go to the wineries and wine is sold at the same price a distributor would get. You can fine very good wine at that price. Maybe not memorable or hipercomplex but absolutely honest, with terroir and typicity. And yes, some of them even sell in a long lasting bag-in-a-box or (o mon dieu!) in bulk!
January 12, 2009

Combsy
great show gary, I think it can be done in a few years. the problem is the $8 is not going to be worth much soon…it will be like making a wine for 2 bucks. however, I don’t doubt with a renewed interest in wine amongst the young americans we could get some agriculture/engineering geeks to figure out better ways of making wine for cheaper.
January 12, 2009

Clubby Hans
Clubby Hans from foggy Germany is writing:
Great Show Gary, awesome guest Hendrik, perfect entertainment!
I’m sure, that it is very difficult to transport the flavors of wine into TV but you both as a team were able to do it! Hendrik with his fine, trained nose and Gary with his entertaining qualities and enthusiasm.
QOTD: To find the “ultimate wine-bargain” seems to be a sport for many, even wealthy people. Wines cheaper than 8 bucks will never bring the depth and length since so many people have to make money with it: producer, label printer, bottle maker, importer, transporter, sales men……so what. Invest more money – have more fun. Every bottle might be the last one in your life
January 12, 2009

cahe
Great show . You’re getting better with the guests! I like the longer format a lot. And – another portion of knowledge is absorbed by mi braincellz . Keep it up, and thank you.

QOTD: I think you can. I’m drinking one right now
January 12, 2009

Bob in Nashville
QOTD: Yes, but only from an underappreciated area that hasn’t yet been “found” (or perhaps has been forgotten), and at that price it won’t be off the map for long.

Great guest. Great subject matter. German wines are so underappreciated probably because so many of the ones that make it to the States are cloyingly sweet and overpriced. They have some great trocken wines–some like in Franken found few other places: Kerner, Bacchus, Rieslaner–great way to expand your palette. Bring out some bocksbeutels!
January 12, 2009

Renato Fonseca
Gary,

Your best show ever…great german guy helped a little!!!! Hey, if you ever have the chance, try out INNOMINABILE (2006 – five varietals), a serious effort from Santa Catarina (planted at 1400m above sea level) from Brasil, would you believe it?!?!
January 12, 2009

Dominus
Sorry Mott for the G-Men’s loss. Next weekend games will be total disasters.

Goooo Eagles? Who really cares?
January 12, 2009

Saftig
What a great episode!!!! I lived in Germany for over a decade and get very nostalgic about their wine. It’s lighter, fruitier and so food friendly. Thanks to Hendrik for letting me walk down memory lane. Great show. Please have Herr Thoma on again, really entertaining and engaging.
January 12, 2009

gotsha
QOTD…Where labor is cheap, under 7 bones good wine is possible. Let’s have a show on Chinese wine.
January 12, 2009

Grapedigger
Great show Gary. Hendrik Thoma is very cool and entertaining! I love German Rieslings and I am looking forward to try some other varietal from the region.
To answer the question of the day, Yes I think it might be possible to make a very good wine at under 8$, provided that soil and climate conditions are perfect. Obviously this wuld not generate a lot of profit as the yield would be expected to be low, but hey it’s certainly possible but again with limited quantities.
Cheers & Happy new yr. Awesome video at the end by the way
January 12, 2009

Dino
Great guest but my favorite guest is still Joanne Colan from Rocketboom. Bring her back Vaynerchuk!
QOTD: Maybe not great for under $8 but very good. Bought a Chilean Meritage from Costco this weekend for $7.99. Google Cameron Hughes.
January 13, 2009

nnothing
QOTD: I think there are a lot of very good Spanish wines in the $8ish range… I don’t know about great but definitely enjoyable.
January 13, 2009

EF
Is your new years resolution to do the minimum amount of shows and still have a following?
January 13, 2009

ex-lurkdawg
Thanks for another great episode. I really enjoyed this guest and would like to see him on the show again. I really enjoy the sometimes contrasting opinions of two experienced wine professionals.

qotd: No, I don’t think so. I want to say yes and there are plenty of adequate (acceptable to good) wines at or below that price, but even those I think are only from certain less popular regions and grapes (some Portuguese whites among others). As far as very good or great wines below $8 retail, I have yet to find any. In case it is possible, I’ll keep checking on Chile, but I don’t expect to find anything that fits the bill.
January 13, 2009

PACO
ONLY THREE SHOWS IN 13 DAYS ON JANUARY !!!!!!! THIS SUCKS!!!!!!!
January 13, 2009

Josh S
PACO: You obviously take your free content very very seriously… If you’re suffering GV withdrawals, you could watch his keynote from yesterday: http://blog.affiliatesummit.com/2009/01/12/video-of-gary-vaynerchuk-keynote-at-affiliate-summit/
January 13, 2009

Chippewamike
Awesome show. . . just got to it. BTW Gary where are you???

QOTD: Good wine for $8. . . yes. . . great. . . no.
January 13, 2009

Leigha
..right now I am having some seafood chowder chilled…for sure some flaws I think I may have paid to much for it.

Interesting show…maybe they should switch seats??? Just a thought.

Amount of shows…Hmmm…you know its always good to over deliver then under deliver…so be careful about the expectations you set up…..I guess WE ARE NOT CHANGING THE WINE WORLD until G.V. gets back to it……..

The BBD is calling, so excited to here the excuses and….and and
January 13, 2009

Andy Cross
Great show, keep the guest coming. Gary we need you back!!! I am lost without the show!!! Is everything ok!!!!!!
January 13, 2009

Matt
Great episode. The first I’ve ever watched. Need to drink more German wine!

QOTD. Sadly, no. Most everything I taste in the $8 range is just ok, everyday drinker stuff.
January 13, 2009

Peter from Sweden
Best show ever! You just got to have that guy on the show again. The two of you became very intensive together. Lovers? No, seriously, you were very entertaining.
January 13, 2009

my2cents
WOW 10 pages of responses since I left mine. Feels like waiting for another season of a tv show. I thought that was why I was here in the first place.?

I hope Gary had a fun time in Vegas and has some time with family before getting back to the thunder of things.Got to tend the garden of relationship first and foremost Gary, then the vayniacs.

That said, I feel a great disturbance in the force when I don’t get my WLTV!

I do realize I have become quite attached to my evening viewing of WLTV. After the kid is asleep and I can’t bare the thought of uncovering the regular tv, let alone actually turn it on for wine’s sake! Sometimes a glass of wine and a snack accompany me and other times a cup of tea. I look forward to the few minutes we share. When the shows run long as with great guests, like Hendrik, it makes it even more enjoyable. Thanks for the time.

I am writing this in anticipation of an impending show, I hope I hope, perhaps Motted together after a hasty taping in a hotel room or elevator.It’s 12:45 on the west coast but having never paid attention to the timing of the show releases I have no idea when to expect one to pop up or even if one will.

The nation waits!
January 13, 2009

CS
Garys missing in action.
January 13, 2009

Lawrence Leichtman
Fun episode and great fan video especially Mott at the end. Under $8 and great. Yeah in 1975.
January 13, 2009

Drew
Best episode ever! Mr Thoma is great. Informative, entertaining and a great complement to GaryV. You need to have him back again, and incredible respect for being a Master sommelier. It’s gotta be incredibly tough to pass that test! Keep them coming Gary we all need our fix! Oh, and yes you can make a great wine for 5 bones. It will eventually come down to science, always does. Something will emerge from the geek squad to make it happen as long as there is interest and honest intent.
January 13, 2009

Gabriel
Gar,

You gotta bring this guy back. He’s awesome.

Congrats about your baby. +1 to the Vayner Nation.
January 14, 2009

Matlatzinca
“Storm the Knickers”

Best. Quote. Ever.

Under $8 for a *great* wine? Define great. It is so situational. I could definitely have a great time with Rancho Zabaco (right around $8) with some friends. Wouldn’t drink it without them, though.
January 14, 2009

John
Maybe a fantastic winemaker can do it, but it’s definitely not a simple task.

Great episode.
January 14, 2009

pawncop
What a great episode! I think you did a great job Gary of sharing the table with Hendrik.

QOTD – It can be done, but it is not easy. (Pretty stock answer huh?)
January 14, 2009

Nik
Very interesting guest and a great show all-round!
January 14, 2009

Alan and Gayle
What a great episode, fun to see battle of the palates. Gary, way to hold your ground…LOL

QOTD: NO!! You can’t make a good wine for less than $13!!!!!
January 14, 2009

Brian
Great episode, really like the interaction. Oh yeah,nice watch.
January 14, 2009

bangkokbabay
Question of the Day??????????? Hendrik Thoma What wine do we find under $8.00 USD…………?

Crane Lake, Napa CA
Petite Sirah – 2005

$5.00 USD!!!!

This is an Absolutely Fabulous Wine! – Hands Down!
January 14, 2009

C-Lo
QOTD – Great sub $8 wine? occasionally yes, but consistently, nope~ (if you do find some though, please let me know!)

Go get those knickers Hendrik!!! Awesome show
January 15, 2009

Budzinski
Sensational show. This is the essence of wine on video. Pure, emotional no extra blabla. 1) Wonder how I can get this Gewürztraminer from Chili – here in Bonn/Germany. 2) Coolest wine-guest I know. Because Hendrik is Germany’s top wine model. Nobody else in the world – maybe except Claudia Schiffer or Heidi Klum – could get me to lick a stone. Hendrik did.
January 15, 2009

soleil
he is absolutely adorable!!! great show!
January 15, 2009

Ryan Dinkelman
Hilarious video at the end! Totally classic use of the music from The Great Escape. Loved the guest, awesome show, more more more! Here’s to a great 2009!
January 16, 2009

DaveyDonut
Hey, do I win a prize for being the first one to recognize your watch as a Cartier in the comments of the last episode? Well, I would certainly hope so!

Fantastic guest today! The episode was so long that I had to wait until I had 40 minutes to watch it, but glad I went back and did so. I have some of the 2005 Donnhoff Oberhauser Brucke Riesling Auslese… probably won’t splurge for the 2006 as it’s roughly TWICE what I paid for the 2005.

QOTD: I have certainly had very drinkable wine for under $8… but I’ve never scored anything above 89 points. But still, 89 for $8 is pretty awesome.

David
January 16, 2009

Johnnyutah
Top 5 show of all time!

QOTD: A great wine could not be made for under $8 in an area such as Napa, Margaux, Nuits St George, or the Mosel due to costs of labor, land, ect as well as the relative high global value of their dollars. Perhaps in Australia or South American this could be done. So what one would need is to bring a world class viticulturalist and winemaker into an extreme value area and then maybe…
January 17, 2009

Tobias
Infrequent commenter but not a lurker.. who thinks soccer is a far more exciting game to watch than Am.football.

Good show. Mr Thoma was a good guest (and quite modest never to mention his somm world championship, cuvées and Laguiole special edition) but I wish GV would develop his listening skills with guests. The occasional abdominal breath, Gary, it will take nothing away from the passion.

QoTD: A spohisticated wine can’t be achieved at that price point, but there can exist servceable more large-scale productions. Obviously far cheaper wines can please vast numbers of wine drinkers, and who can judge?
January 17, 2009

Dawn
Really liked this episode. Great guest. Nice banter…

Also enjoyed the video that was “tacked” on!

QOTD: Don’t think anything more than just ok for $8.
January 17, 2009

Dawn
Forgot to mention… I think it is quite sad that wines from America are unknown overseas!!!
January 18, 2009

Roland
Nice show. I liked the contrast in purpose. Hendrik focuses on how a wine can be matched to a meal and value within a variaty and Gary has a more absolute perspective on the wines being tasted and how they compare to other wines at their pricepoint.
January 19, 2009

elliott
This guy is fucking awesome…. Enthusiastic europeans make me laugh
January 19, 2009

pierazzo
excellent guest, excellent show.
5 dollars: difficult yet possible, but definitely not in Europe.
ciao a tutti
January 19, 2009

JJB
I’ve been lurking it up for a while now, really liked this show and thought it’s about time i left a comment. Great show, great guest, agree with Drew that you work well together, and liked the extra vid at the end!!

Dawn, don’t worry, U.S. wines aren’t unknown over in Europe, certainly not in UK anyway. Here restaurant wines lists are likely to include California Chardonnay and a quality Napa Cab/Sauv for instance. Also plenty of Zinfandel and White Zinfandel in the shops. Had a nice Washington State Merlot recently too.

However, we do seem to get more wine form other New World Countries, especially Australia, NZ and Chile (from where i tried a nice Gewurtz recently!)

QOTD: Decent wines yes, and i’d like to think there is a great wine for each palate out there somewhere – fun trying to find it too!

Keep up the good work GV..

Love “Soccer” !!!
January 19, 2009

Kristen
Hendrik was such an awesome guest! It looks like you two had a great time. He should definitely make the trip back for another episode! I loved Germany when I visited. People were so nice there and Hamburg is such an amazing city! Unfortunately I missed the Xmas market by one day…that just means I have to go back!

QOTD: A good $5 wine? Perhaps something serviceable, but what with the cost of labor, etc I don’t see a “great” wine coming from a $5 bottle, unless someone is doing wine drinkers a service and taking a loss on each bottle! Maybe in South America you could get a rather good wine for $5, but I’m highly doubtful. If you find one, lemme know, I’d love to try it out!
January 20, 2009

Heather W
Vielen Dank, Hendrik! What a great episode. I love Hamburg, I went to a really good restaurant there last time. Ristorante San Daniele in Poppenbuettel. I especially loved the reference to Ricola, as my boyfriend is Swiss and I love to recite the commercial. Wer hats erfunden? Schweizer. LOL.

QOTD: Can’t think of anything off the top of my head, but anything is possible, right?
January 21, 2009

tuscanbob
Super episode. Just got back from Munich and that city obviously runs on beer. I’m looking forward to exploring more of Germany in the future.

QOTD: I have had plenty of good (sometimes very good) wines at the $8 price point (most notably from Spain) but I can’t call any of them great.
January 21, 2009

thomas reynolds
if there was it wouldn’t be under 8 bones for long. Question back Is anybody trying to make a great wine at under 8 bucks a throw? Is anybody tasting the 8 and under offerings? How much would they charge for the next vintage if the 8 dollar previous vintage got a 94? As for regular people, who is trolling the 8 and under rack with a pallet that could substantiate the greatness? or perhaps it just helped you enjoy a great evening. Nonetheless we can all enjoy searching and then stocking up on whatever we deem great. If it is great throw your wine guy the extra 2$ change from that 10 spot.(or wine gal) Thought your guest was great
January 26, 2009

yowens
What a great guest! ONe of my favorites!
January 27, 2009

JudeMurphy
Hey I completely got out of the habit of watching wltv but I’m getting back on track!
QOTD- Probably not but you never know what tricks the producers are pulling for profits!
January 31, 2009

Dessert Wine Nerd
Fantastic episode. Hendrik Thoma is now my favorite guest on thow show so far ( of course, not counting Mott… no one can top him ). Hedrink was a LOT of fun and offered so much in this episode. His sense of humor was great and I loved how you two played off each other when “arguing” about the wines. Of course, my German heritage is happy to see a great Master Som from Germany and the German wines on the show do so well. QOTD: As long as the passion and heart is there, and greed isnt involved, I do think its possible. …..Loved the movie at the end, with music from one of my top movies of all time!!….. That’d be “The Great Escape” for all you that dont know.
February 3, 2009

Bimi
You wantet to have 400 comments – here you go. Good show, schön dass es mal ein Deutscher zu dir geschafft hat

And thanks to the guy who did the short clip, loved it!
February 3, 2009

Jackie
Loved loved Hendrik in this episode. He should definitely do more episodes.
February 6, 2009

chukhead-ted
that was a sick video!

GV–keep the guests coming!!! You should get more master soms from nyc!!!
February 15, 2009

Alex
This was a great episode very interesting. This guy is the man. Gary you should have more episodes on Chilean wines. I don’t understand why you haven’t, they are some of the best in the World. Please dedicate one whole episode to Chilean Wines. That Gewurztraminer was just the tip of the iceberg.
February 15, 2009

GP
Saw this episode when it came out–keep thinking about it, came back to tell you: one of your best, GV. You 2 guys swirl my world!
February 18, 2009

Alex Coppice
If you want to taste a great dessert wine. Do try Moncalvina Moscato d’Asti (http://www.coppo.it/English/i_vini/moncalvina.htm) It’s amazing wine. Goess well with ice creams and specialy with Rum Raisin Ice Cream! Do test it in one of your shows!
February 21, 2009

Tony
Best show ever!!! Best guest!! Tough question!
March 3, 2009

Ivonne
I came across this video through the German Wine Institute, as I’m studying wines of Germany for the WSET Diploma. Positive feedback: The guest was a treat to watch, a wealth of information, and had lots of interesting stories to share. The wines that were picked were a good mix of wine styles, grapes, and good cross-section of wine production in Germany today. Negative feedback: let the guest talk, and stop interrupting! Oh yes, and the pesky point assignments. After being in the wine industry for many years, I’ve concluded that it’s best to start weaning the American (and world) consumer off the travesty of the point system. This is someone’s hard work, blood, sweat, and tears you’re assigning a finite number to, and should treat it with more respect. The WSET trains students to use a scale of “faulty, poor, acceptable, good, very good, and oustanding” with a requirement to always justify these quality assessments (balance, concentration, complexity, and length). This seems more respectful.
March 3, 2009

joerg
nice show hendrik! wunderbar dich auf dem internet wiederzufinden! can´t wait to taste the wines too!

cheers, joerg
March 14, 2009

Andre' Lafleur
“Victory through harmony” Arsenal all they way!!!!!
March 17, 2009

Adam J
I have already seen and loved this episode…awesome show…but i just had the 2002 Zilliken Saarbuger Rausch Spatlese and it was utterly delicious. just thought I’d share!
March 21, 2009

Green Pea
This episode kicked A$$… Good job to all!!!
March 25, 2009

drew benz
Just had to chime in and say thanks for a fantastic episode. That was fucking thunder right there. One of the top episodes in WLTV history.

QOTD – Yes, it is possible. I am drinking some solid wines in Argentina right now for under $8 US
April 3, 2009

AbstruseJuice
I’m a tremendous fan of this episode, Hendrik was a fantastic guest with a great personality. The banter between Gary and him was great.

Also, the fan video at the end was awesome, it made me shed a few tears from overwhelming laughter, thanks for the experience.
April 11, 2009

Uni Student Bremen
Very interesting…
Nice entertainment…Hendirk its a very funny guy…
greetings from germany
April 11, 2009

Cmyk
I need to be happy a botle of wine and this great video…
April 13, 2009

Karen
Great show, great guest host but Gary, puh-LEASE stop interrupting while your guest is speaking!
May 18, 2009

looper
That guy is awesome. Hilarious episode. Only problem was his inability to be honest about the wines. But I can understand, his livelihood depends on his German connections.
QOTD: Had a Bogle for 7.99 and a Penfolds for 6.50 (little too much oak) but both were quite serviceable and under 8.
June 15, 2009

A German Riesling Tasting – Episode #689
[...] A Master Sommelier From Germany Stops By To Talk Wine – Episode #605 [...]
June 16, 2009

castello
I’m not sure how I coulda missed this episode but thanks for linking it up with the other German youngster. Greatest ep I almost never saw. Storm the Nickers! I listened to it twice but didn’t hear it till I read it in the comments. Big ups to the Vayniacs! GV good job. You only interupted him 12 times. The German view is awesome.
Way to Tack it on MOTT!
June 17, 2009

Ilse-Belgian living in Spain
Wonderful show, and great guest. More of these!

QOTD (a long time afterwards) : what I see in Spain is that some wines can be made for under 5€, but of course they are only from the major grapes (in Spain : tempranillo)and from areas where the conditions are optimal for wine making. In Belgium wines are also made, but it will be difficult to make a good one for under 20€, so…
June 25, 2009

Hayden
ADVICE ANYONE – About to start a new career in wine sales, for a German wine company called Pieroth Wines in New Zealand.
I have a history in sales but no knowledge in wine, although i do enjoy red wine, What are the most important things to learn about wine??

I start in two weeks so just trying to get some tips…..thanks anyone.
July 13, 2009

Daria Kushmelyn
Terrific episode. Great guest, great Bulava video tacked on at the end. I am so grateful for episode #701 which heads-upped me to some faves (of other Vayniacs) that I had missed. You know, if I’m ever bedridden for a prolonged period of time, I will watch all 701 + episodes and pity all those who are not bedridden like me. I LOVE THIS SHOW!!!!!!!!!!

[Sorry, I can't stop myself, I am such a pedantic nitpicker, Gary. It's "by the same token", not "at the same token". Forgive me.]

Daria K from Toronto
October 22, 2009

Bob78
I missed the favorite song question at the end there. ,