Double Blind, Other 46 Tasting.

Double Blind, Other 46 Tasting. – Episode #607

January 14, 2009

Watch Gary Vaynerchuk try 6 wines double blind from states around the country not known for their wine making ability, watch this one, it gets WILD!

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Wines tasted in this episode:

2002 Pontchartrain Rouge Militaire
Dove Valley Cabernet Franc
Pinnacle Ridge Traminette
2006 Heritage Station Estate Syrah
Fieldstone St. Croix
2007 St J Riesling

381 Responses

January 14, 2009

manonthemoon
Nice, always love the blind.
January 14, 2009

SAMMY S
Another Great Ep Gary…..your a champion of your trade my friend….keep up the good work….

SAMMMMY S – spreading the thunder in the land down under
January 14, 2009

Daniel Kemp
Thank you Gary for breaking down how you figure out a wine. I didn’t know smelling was that important when figuring out a wine.

QOTD: I don’t live in a State. I live in a Province in Canada. The province is Ontario.
January 14, 2009

Hinrgman
Didn’t expect to see an episode today.

Great – thanks Gary
January 14, 2009

Vanguy
Thanks for making this Gary!
Looking forward to watch after the UM-ILL hoops game.
January 14, 2009

Mr. Green
Another episode?……Sweeeet!! Luv it
January 14, 2009

Anthony L.
Gary, great episodes. It is very cool to hear about the other 46. BTW thanks so much for the shout out to Nicole. You really made her day.
January 14, 2009

John Farrin
7
January 14, 2009

manonthemoon
Nice effort, the wines turned out about how I expected. I might actually visit a couple of local places this weekend on my way down to the rent’s.

QOTD: The old dominion, VA
January 14, 2009

TWalk
SW Florida….home of the palm trees
January 14, 2009

Nathan Hangen
North Carolina, not by choice.
January 14, 2009

Scott EJ
Interesting show. Thanks and congrats again on the big news!!

QOTD: IL. And, I’m a little bummed that you didn’t do a wine from this state. Why? ‘Cause they suck and I want the world to know that. Why? Because the idiotic legislature here wants people to think that they’re actually worth buying and hid that in their anti-shipping laws. But, that’s another topic.
January 14, 2009

Banknote
Thanks Gary, That was loads of fun to watch. Your expression when you poured the last wine was priceless! And loved the descriptors, “New bathroom smell”, “Garbage truck on fire”, “Chinese restaurant”. Thats good stuff!

Looking forward to tomorrows double blind! Hopefully things will go better.

QOTD: California
January 14, 2009

Mike in Wisconsin
Thanks Gary for all the great shows and Congrats to you and your wife!Remember your new child (in the making)is a blessing, but don’t forget your wife. Set aside a Date Nite everyweek as long as you can arrange a babysitter, grandparents are great!!
January 14, 2009

Ken A
Great show Gary!! Always great to see wines from nontraditional states. I think you should check out some wines from Connecticut. I have been up to some of the vineyards and there is some stuff that I think is pretty good. My favorite is Stonington Vineyards http://www.stoningtonvineyards.com/. I really like their Seaport White wine. Also I quite like Alba Vineyards from New Jersey.

QOTD – DIRTY JERZ!!!!!!!!
January 14, 2009

Dr T in NC
Wow, a winery I know!(even if it came in last) But that’s (in my opinion) their worst red, although I’ve never seen it that color before! they’ve mostly gotten away from the red hybrids

pronounce:
Ponch are train

while for 15 years across Lake Pontchartrain in N’Awlins (Pontchartrain Vineyards is on the North Shore) now in NC near Yadkin AVA

(and I assure you, there is worse wine made in Louisiana than at PV, at least as of 2006)
January 14, 2009

Laurie in VT
Fun episode!

QOTD: For those who don’t know the U.S. abbreviations, Vermont.
January 14, 2009

SteveF
Gary, Nice show…the blind is always fun!
What Great News…You will be an awesome Dad!!

QOTD: Southern California
January 14, 2009

Couve
What a tease… Let’s see those Portuguese Wines!

QOTD: Massachusetts – SE New England brings the JUICE!
January 14, 2009

C-Lo
Love the enunciation for the intro… lol

this was a great blind tasting! I was cracking up watching you. Hoping that there would be some Vermont wines though… (went to school there and had a few – interesting would be the word)

QOTD – Sunny Southern California

I’m gonna go watch this again…
January 14, 2009

Rowland
“this is a wine show on the internet?” oh you were kidding, wow, feeeew, dont do that. you scare me.
January 14, 2009

shawnandlu
Great show Gary, I laughed my ass off. Way to take one for the team. I don’t think I have ever seen a bright orange wine before.

QOTD: California, we have real wines here. Only France and Italy can even hope to run smack at our wines and even they are jealous of the quality of our fruit.
January 14, 2009

Jim in Atlanta
Great job on the wine varietals. This was a fun episode. QTOD – You can see from my WL name that I live in Georgia, but I have lived in several states in the midwest and southwest. All are good in many respects. We live in a great country and are very lucky.
January 14, 2009

A dumb Rhine king
MN represent!

Great episode. I can’t say I’ve ever bought a St. Croix; I’m sure I’ve tasted that varietal though. Tough break for the “other 46″ on Wine Library TV, but I can’t say I’m too surprised.

You’re totally right though, the more people that start to enjoy local products and put some investment into their area, the better quality their wines will be. You can never give up on your home team.

Don’t give up on us “other 46″ Gary Keep bringing them in!!
January 14, 2009

Brian
I live in Texas! However, a native of Southern California. Nice show, showing off your skills! Its nice to change things up (blind test), this was fun to watch.

Catch ya next time, Brian.
January 14, 2009

DannInNH
Loved the show. Now you know how I feel most of the time tasting wine, with the label in front of me. Blind tastings are very enjoyable to watch.
Are you ever going to make a trip to Italy and taste the wines there as you doin France?
January 14, 2009

John Farrin
You have confirmed my suspicion that you are a dyed in the world masochist. 6 blind from the other 46…STOP THE MADNESS:)

QOTD: Northern California…based on Steve F’s answer I guess we now have 51 states in the Union
January 14, 2009

tim
you needed a TEXAS wine in there! Good show, crazy wine tasting
January 14, 2009

TLR
Maui, Hawaii
January 14, 2009

Dennis Ray Nestor Jr.
OH-IO
January 14, 2009

SteveC
The blind tastings are super duper cool.

Congrats on the kid on the way.

QOTD: Texas (he says with shame).
January 14, 2009

Mervyn
Great show – but you missed out on some good wines from North Carolina! Yadkin Valley AVA – Raffaldini Vineyards, Hanover Park, for example, among a few others.
January 14, 2009

MikeN-In-BC
We need more blind tastings!!!, Common GARY what state….??? BC CANADA, Oh yah!!! Eh!!
January 14, 2009

AbsolutLahmi
HILARIOUS Show…!

QOTD: Ex OK, Now NJ, soon to be NY!!
January 14, 2009

Greg B.
Big G, Fun show Man, but I got to call you out on one thing. I know a lot of Families who are hurting really hard from this currant recession. My house hold has felt the effects of it quite a bit. When you sneer at people comparing it to the great depression, it kind of makes me cringe. I know you have mad love for your audience and only wish the prosperity for them. It just seems that your comments come at a very sensitive time.

QOTD: CA
January 14, 2009

AaronB
QOTD: California!
January 14, 2009

Rowland
nice, dropping the Vidal on #1. i like that varietal. makes a good ice wine.

#2 im calling Seyval Blanc. yea im not all about the mint water.

is #3 suppose to be a rose’?

You should overdub the secret episode! dude that would be awesome!

6 looks like a rose’ too. watermelon juice is clear. Ive tried watermelon wine, looks like white wine.

Traminette is a G’verts cross.

Yo this episode was hilarious. you were like a fish out of water, it was great

QOTD: HUDSON VALLEY NEW YORK
January 14, 2009

Darlene O.
Hey, Gary! Great episode! Love the blind episodes! QOD: I’m from SoCal!
January 14, 2009

DanM
QOTD: Wisconsin.

As someone else mentioned, thanks for taking one for the team. Good show. Nice to see a bit of Grandpa Sasha in the shot.
January 14, 2009

digitaldean
QOTD: The land of the most storied football teams in the NFL, Wisconsin, home of the Green Bay Packers.

This WLTV episode was great. Given the results, it’s on the level of the NFL Films’ Football Follies that I busted a gut watching when I was a kid!
January 14, 2009

KennyMac
Even if the wines didn’t score well, it was a great idea and a lot of fun to watch. Really enjoy the blind tastings. And a very big congratulations on the baby!

QOTD: Another Canadian here, from the province of British Columbia.
January 14, 2009

Hans
Great Show Gary. Congratz on the huge news!

QOTD: Not officially a state but the District of Columbia aka Washington DC is the place that I “rep.”
January 14, 2009

Matt
Reppin KY and the big CA!
January 14, 2009

Glen,....winecrazy.com
I liked the show. WOn’t try any wine…but the show was cool.

QOTD: Da Dirty Jerz!!!!!!
January 14, 2009

Baytenders
You should definitely start every show with an obscure action figure reference. Well done Gary, well done.
January 14, 2009

BWicked
Gary,
Thanks for the fun show.
Congrats on your great news.
Texas (lifelong).
January 14, 2009

Lynda S
originally, indiana. i now live in the mitten state, michigan. st. julian is not that great of a riesling. michigan has other rieslings that blow that one out of the water.
January 14, 2009

Lynda S
also, congrats on the HUGE announcement!!
January 14, 2009

urbwes
QOTD: I’m from Minnesota. It’s great to see Minnnesota get second place in the tasting (even though it still wasn’t 80+ points). We have an extremely harsh climate for growing grapes (wine grapes at least) with hot and humid summers with bitterly cold winters. You should try the Frontenac grape. It was created at the University of Minnesota as a hybrid for harsher climates and does fairly well in Minnesota. At least tastes better than St. Croix, in my opinion. It’s hard to put hybrids or labrusca grapes against the proven varietals, but I might have to try more Minnesota wines (the full line of Fieldstone is available at my Liquor store). Great show and congratulations again on becoming a famly man.
January 14, 2009

Lurker
Detroit what?
January 14, 2009

BobZ
QOTD: Delaware.

Still waiting for that Chambourcin (Pennsylvania Zinfandel) episode!
January 14, 2009

dcpatton
QOTD: Virginia

Fascinating show. Love the blind tastings. Expanding the palate is great!
January 14, 2009

IASHERMAN
QOTD: California all the way.

Gary: Congrats on your big announcement!!!
January 14, 2009

stewart l
With our wine group, we do all our tastings double blind-from anywhere in the world. We guess the varietal, country and year. Best way to train your palate and alot of fun.
January 14, 2009

Josh Williams
Washington.

Great episode. It might just be me, but I almost get more enjoyment when some wines turn out bizaar. The strange flavors and scents are always fun to watch Gary identify.
January 14, 2009

JCN
QOTD: California

Don’t get your hopes up for an ‘all birds’ super bowl.
January 14, 2009

John
Blind taste is tough.

QOTD: ARIZONA
January 14, 2009

TenaciousE
Norton and Cynthiana are the same grape, no? I say because I have had good ones (Missouri comes to mind).

QOD: the reciprocal state of IA.
January 14, 2009

Robin C
QOTD: NM, where we sometimes cross the line from borderline atrocious to frankly atrocious.
January 14, 2009

Benjamin
QOTD: Deep South Texas

Terrible show gary… witch make it great! keep up the work
January 14, 2009

SteveW
I like the blind tastings, it forces you to be totally honest.
QOTD: Washington, one of the 4 States that actually makes good wine.
January 14, 2009

RANDI
GARY!!!
Love, love, loven u!
QOTD: N.Y.C. (with a touch of AZ)
xo
January 14, 2009

mark b
from illinois, but have spent most of my life in washington.
January 14, 2009

Derek S.
QOTD: Washington

Go Cardinals!
January 14, 2009

Matt
QOTD: From a province, Quebec.
January 14, 2009

Octocat
QOTD: Michigan!

Finally some respect for the MI wines Excellent episode, Gary!
January 14, 2009

@Fresyes
Loved the episode! I especially liked the look on your face as you poured the ‘watermelon juice’ <– priceless!
January 14, 2009

JimChem
QOTD: Northwest Washington. New wineries are popping up all over the northwest although most of them are getting their grapes from east of the mountains. They suffer from the same problem that the wineries you show cased today in that they don’t have experienced wine makers. They are people just trying to make a living and know very little about how to make good wine.
January 14, 2009

Joe Fernandez
QOTD: Queens, NY born and raised!!!
January 14, 2009

Jason
Gary- You gotta put some Indiana wines in the next blind tastings. They are up there. Great climates and winemakers here.
January 14, 2009

Dustin
Love the blind tasting shows!

QOTD: North Cakalackie(Carolina) lol
January 14, 2009

4wdave
California — congrats!
January 14, 2009

Chris
QOTD: Texas born and raised; left for a while, but made my way back.
January 14, 2009

ncwinetravels
Gary,

Fun episode…love the blind tastings. Congrats on the new addition (coming soon) !!
QOTD; North Carolina.
btw..any nc winery visits on your 2009 schedule ?

regards,
ncwt
January 14, 2009

Phil (marty6001)
I love this episode. While you are right on track 99% of the time, its nice to see you have to give opinions without knowing what wine it is, much the same way most of us newer folk do!! I gotta tell you, just in the few weeka I’ve been around this site, 13 new wines, and even found one i can outright say NO to. PUT THE GLASS TO BED ALREADY!!!

QOTD: Connecticut… Ok so we not one of the big 4, but our wines aren’t that bad, are they? When ya coming this way Gary?
January 14, 2009

josh lauritch
LOVED this episode! So funny. QOTD: I’m from Brew City…Milwaukee, WI. Now living in Nashville
January 14, 2009

Beardo
QOTD: Montana!
January 14, 2009

coth
Always love the blind tastings. They’re the best shows.

QOTD
Wisconsin. Some day you’ll have to try some Wisconsin wines.
January 14, 2009

TimBoDo
QOTD: Illinois – Chi-town, baby. The best sports-town in America.

Nice to see the MI wines represent – we have enjoyed a couple of wines from Michigan and agree there is potential there. We’ve tasted some MI wines that were crap, but a few are really starting to perform.
January 14, 2009

Tom Mok
QOTD: New Jersey.

I haven’t found any decent NJ wine yet, or NY wine for that matter. Any recommendations?
January 14, 2009

John Michael Cannon
Hey Gary,

This is the first show I’ve seen of yours. Very Cool! You’re a great showman.

Born and raised in North Carolina. Currently living in Plains, Montana.

- John
January 14, 2009

Tim
Lurker making his first comment:

QOTD: Repping the Central Valley of California, agricultural hub of the US.
January 14, 2009

AT
Love the double blind format… I wish 1 our of every 2 episodes was conducted like this.

QOTD: Florida – 70 and sunny.
January 14, 2009

Michael Schoonmaker
QOTD: Reppin’ Pennsylvania, but livin’ in Mass.

Starting to buy into the NE way of living, but I’m too used to being the city boy out in the country.
January 14, 2009

Adam J
QOTD: Colorado, mile high city. I hav tasted some wines from here with a few nice surprises! Nice show, thanks!
January 14, 2009

debbie
Scottsdale Arizona
January 14, 2009

Sarah Cooley
Best Intro Ever!
January 14, 2009

Lorenzo
Home of the Taylor Ham n Egg Sandwich, Tree Tavern Frozen Pizza and White Manna….none other than the NJ
January 14, 2009

john vigil
Congrats again on you new addition!!! California -Northern – Sebastopol

Do you Twitter? follow me at @tennispro
January 14, 2009

Little Jonny
Interesting findings, but unfortunate ones at that! Louisiana and Minnesota are tough places to make it happen, but at least they’re trying!

QOTD: Ohio, and still looking for a consistent red from here!
January 15, 2009

Zeek27
Fun show….

Tennessee….
January 15, 2009

Bruce
From Missouri – more known for our beer but has a very nice wine country. http://www.missouriwinecountry.com/
Bruce
January 15, 2009

Miko
I love the blind tastings, it’s so suspenseful!
QOTD: Right now I live in NYC (and I hope to stay here forever, I guess that makes me a New Yorker!)
Gary, do you live in NJ now? It says NYC on your book!
January 15, 2009

BrentB
QOTD: Illinois

I’ve had a few IL wines, and unfortunately they were terrible!
January 15, 2009

Noellems
You should give that “silent” episode the MST3K treatment–maybe you and Mott together. Hilarious. Fun show, love your energy and enthusiasm and gushing about the pregnancy.

QOTD: Born & raised Louisiana, taught English in Prague, Czech Republic, then to Reno for 8 years, now back in Louisiana. Up here in north Louisiana, we pronounce “Pontchartrain”

/PAUNCH-uh-train/

We don’t pronounce the “r” in “char” like (I think) they do “down south.” Lake Pontchartrain is a gigantic lake with the longest bridge in the world spanning it–24 miles long! It’s really eerie when the fog is rolling, late at night, and you are driving over this interminable bridge and you see the houses on stilts with the cypress trees and their waves of moss dangling over the water, swaying in the breeze… then you roll into the greater New Orleans area, and there is a huge cemetery on the right with the above ground tombs and mausoleums (much of the area is below sea level, so a heavy rain would literally raise the dead–coffins would float up). Creepiness!

Glad to hear you like our state!
January 15, 2009

Indigo
QOTD: Michigan (#1 today)

Bun in the oven eh, congratulations!
January 15, 2009

gubby
Weird show. Kinda funny though.

QOTD: California. Great beer, great wine, great weather. What more could you ask for?
January 15, 2009

Doc P
QOTD: Pennsylvania; home of the hated LCB

Go Eagles!!!
looking for the Keystone Superbowl

loved the show
January 15, 2009

David T
OH-IO!! I would hope we’re getting up there with the Michigan/Arizona/Virginia crowd in terms of our wines! There’s a winery less than 5 minutes from my house with a kick-butt Riesling & Gewurz (they first taught me about Gewurz with gingerbread, which is a great pairing.) I’ve also recently had a not great but not bad Pinot Grigio from a Lake Erie island (90pts BTI, I think they were a bit high) and an ice wine from the eastern part of the state that was a bit syrupy but not bad either! Maybe I’ll have to send you a few bottles to try
January 15, 2009

J Crazy
Straight reppin’ the IB, Ibaraki eastern Japan throw it up! Comin’ at ya from Kashima, home of the Antlers and good octopus.

Back home I make Cali my home with special love for Redding, Chico, Irvine, L.A. and S.F.

In Korea, it was Seoul, Daechi-dong get on the no. 2 line to Shin-chon.

Reppin’ world wide!
January 15, 2009

Tiffany
Hilarious show, just classic.

QOTD: Florida. I feel like I should be ashamed for some reason…
January 15, 2009

JP
California – Congratulations!
January 15, 2009

Brent B
Great show…..ya learn somethign new every day….even if you dont like the wines. QOTD: Texas……Houston to be exact.
January 15, 2009

Cameron W
Fun show.

Living in CA, but moving to WA in 3 days.
January 15, 2009

Jeff Smith
Michigan – Congrats…
January 15, 2009

Bryan
Nice show. Good to see even the master get a little baffled from time to time. Looking forward to another blind tasting tomorrow.

QOTD: Southern Illinois

North of I-64 is basically prairie land. Once you get far enough south, there are a lot of hills, and there are vineyards all over the place.
January 15, 2009

HuskerJamie
Great show GV, nice to get you a little flustered now and then.

QOTD: Lincoln, Nebraska where it’s -7 degrees right now.
January 15, 2009

Sharon
Austin, TX!

Awesome episode. Anytime I can hear “garbage truck on fire” in a wine context, it’s been a memorable day.

Also, excellent keynote at Affiliate Summit in Vegas and congrats on the thunder bun-in-the-oven!
January 15, 2009

craig
Holy mollllzeyssss!
I’ve been there… it’s 20 minutes from my house…and it does suck as bad as vayner. says it sucks.

Amazing guess….
January 15, 2009

catherine.
i was worried about the first 20 seconds of the show today. you were acting like someone died or something…that last wine looked like HiC when you poured it out.

QOTD: i’m from delaware but i live in washington state. i still consider myself an east coast girl all the way
January 15, 2009

ev
QOTD: The absolutely fxcked up state of Western WA. After doing 14 years here, I’m going back to CO.
January 15, 2009

Griz4life
Montana for life hoss!!!! But currently go to school in Tennessee.
January 15, 2009

kailuaboy
Yuck Bad Wines! Another yuck, people that bring bad wines to your parties and drink all the good ones.
QOTD- avid viewer since 2007, Hawaii
January 15, 2009

tennsomm
funny as anything, gotta say i thought you were trying to decide between the tradtional varetials and maybe some domestic ones and the brain went overload

QOTD: living memphis, but born and bread in Bean town BOSTON all the way

sorry know how much you love the Pats….
January 15, 2009

Matt W
hey gary, i decided that if you’re going to share your impending baby news with me, the least that i can do is stop lurking, congrats.

qotd: wisconsin, america’s dairyland, definitely not america’s wineland, at least from the stuff i’ve tasted here.
January 15, 2009

Yvettew
I loved this show! To know that these flavor profiles and types of wines are out there is always fun to watch. More double blind tastings!

QOTD: New Jersey (central)
January 15, 2009

newjersey
Ha! I saw that Baha episode live on Ustream!
I didn’t realize noone else would ever see it…
January 15, 2009

Sandra Sigfusson
Enjoyed this episode. I watch your vids for a few reasons, but mostly for your exhuberant and humourous approach to educating your fans. Well done Gary. Cheers from Canada – S.
January 15, 2009

Joe Taylor (JMT3)
QOTD: California in the house!
January 15, 2009

Denea
Hey there – awesome show! Pretty tough wines for a double blind but well done, great to watch and I love that someone else knows what a Whiffle Ball bat smells like

Oh and I was raised in Washington State but now live “Down Under” – New South Wales, Australia

Cheers!
January 15, 2009

Danilo
Hey Gary nice show!

QOTD. I live in Brazil. State of San Pablo.
January 15, 2009

anna
currently ca. in the past: ia, ny, ri, md, bcn.
January 15, 2009

mikek
Gary…no dis-respect meant by this question. Why did you (or your staff) bring in 5 barely drinkable wines?!? … AND … now what!?!

QOTD- “the garden state” = Jersey … born & raised! (”the reason we fly ‘em in over Newark, is so they stay away”)!
January 15, 2009

vinoBlue
qotd: Michigan – born, raised and my school…GO BLUE!

Gary, sometimes you’re just a glutton for punishment. Whoever picks your blind tasting wines has a vendetta or something…

Prediction: less than 5 shows before the end of May in which we don’t hear about the Vaynerchuk of the future…such the family man GV

-Drew
January 15, 2009

jean-françois
Hey Gary, what makes you think that all your viewers are frome the united states?
I’m from Montreal, Quebec, and love the show!
January 15, 2009

Jeff R
Gary – Congrats on your announcement. I wish you and Lizzie the best for a healthy (and quiet, good sleeper, good eater, etc.) child. I hope you can coordinate your out of town travels so you can be an active part in their life.

Great show, I really enjoyed it even though I do not like wine from the other 46. Your descriptors are classics – a burning garbage truck, mint water, wiffle bat smell, etc.

QTD – Ohio (where I just scanned the web for local school closings as they are expecting the high tomorrow to be 8. No such luck yet although our neighboring county has their major school districts closed.)
January 15, 2009

jim
That was fun, too bad you weren’t a fan of any of them but I think the comment about how you didn’t mean to be disrespectful was good, it’s hard to be honest and try not to offend. Congrats on the pregnancy!

QOTD: Live in Maryland but from New York.
January 15, 2009

medo
Wild, wild show Gary!

@QOTD:

Hessen in Germany.
January 15, 2009

Craig Owen
QOTD: California now, but born and raised in Missouri (go Tigers!).

I’ve never had a Missouri wine, but my very first Missouri Norton is in my fridge waiting to be opened. My understanding is that Cynthiana and Norton are synonyms for the same grape; some bottles label it as “Norton (Cynthiana)”. Cynthiana is also the name of a small town in MO wine country.

I have had a couple of Illinois whites that were surprisingly palatable, albeit simple.

Finally, a very big congrats to Gary and Lizzie on their exciting news!
January 15, 2009

rimarfish
Although the wines were bad, i really enjoyed the show. Double blind and the “other 46″ was so instructional…
QOTD: California. The best place in the world!
January 15, 2009

schubertiad
Hawaii. We have a couple good wine retailers in Honolulu (Tamura’s, Fujioka’s) and some wineries on other islands, but nothing noteworthy is made here (unless you’re into pineapple/grape concoctions).
January 15, 2009

Ryan Fish
Originally from Oregon, fallen in love with Walla Walla Washington wines, but I’m currently living in Montana where there are a total of two vineyards both of which make a pretty decent grape.
January 15, 2009

ChrisV
Great show Gary, feel a bit sorry for the makers but that’s life. Double blind format is great, need more like this. Next time with less ridiculous stuff like St Croix so you have a chance of guessing it

QOTD: South Australia… home of the Barossa, McLaren Vale, etc etc
January 15, 2009

Ozzy
QOTD: West Virginia. Born in Cali, raised and live in WV.

Thanks for the belated Birthday Shout-out! Appreciate it.

http://twitter.com/ozzy
January 15, 2009

Totte
Hi G.V

I havn´t watched the Thundershow for a very long time now. Feels good to be back. Happy to hear that your’e getting a baby.

QotD: I live in Sweden but we some not so bad wine ourselfs here. Will be in NYC for master sommelier exam in August. Perhaps it’s time to put some Scandinavian wines on the show by then ?

Keep it !

Swedish T
January 15, 2009

BobbyTiger
Blind tastings are fun.
Love to see you struggle a bit, but you consistently hit it out of the park.
Real nice show, and am looking forward to tomorrow.
QOTD………….. The Commonwealth of Virginia.
January 15, 2009

Todd
Congrats!
QOtD: Denial (rhymes with smile)
January 15, 2009

Michelle
You can’t love everything can you Gary!

QOTD: I don’t live in any state, I live in a very green(ish) county called Berkshire in the U of the K
January 15, 2009

Chris Braun
Fun episode — enjoy the blind tastings! (As others have mentioned, Cynthiana and Norton are the same grape.)

QOTD: Virginia (where we have some pretty nice wines!)
January 15, 2009

Paul Stonier
QOTD: Upstate NY… Lot’s of wineries creating terrible, sweet wines to please the people that don’t understand wine. However, there’s a few serious wineries.

Good show, could feel the awkwardness.
January 15, 2009

CaseyLee
TEXAS, BABY ! YEEEEEHAAAW !
January 15, 2009

Beverly
Fun show, Gary. Kentucky — we have several wineries, one that I like is Jean Farris…their Cab is great! Congrats again on Baby Vee! Hugs and kisses from Kentucky.
January 15, 2009

MikeyB
qotd: freekin Massachusetts where you can’t send us your delicious grape juice.
January 15, 2009

Andrew D
Awesome show, thanks Gary\

St Croix – WTF, never heard of it before!

QOTD: Mate I live in the town of Yuen Long, Hong Kong

Cheers
Andrew
January 15, 2009

Terrance
The great state of Hyogo in Japan. A prefecture really but great nonetheless. The family lives in WA State though.
January 15, 2009

The Tom
I’ve been lurking for the past 70-80 episodes and this is my first post. Great show!

QOTD: The Commonwealth of KENTUCKY
Bourbon and basketball, baby!
January 15, 2009

Shawn
We figured this show would be a train-wreck when we saw the title as we’ve not had good experiences with wines from outside of the 4. I say WE because this is the first time my wife watched the show with me. She always hears me watching some of the show and says, “it’s that crazy guy again”. But this time she watched and commented without solicitation, “I liked it”. Cool huh? QOTD: Tokyo, Japan
January 15, 2009

David Benjamin
I love the double blind episode and look forward to more as the year goes on. I’m also glad the Michigan wine was the best of the bunch. I’ve had good riesling from the Traverse City region and many up and coming vineyards in Northen Michigan.
January 15, 2009

RieslingRon
Interesting and fun show……….

I’m from New York
January 15, 2009

MannyPants
GA
January 15, 2009

Herm
Hi Gary, Great show……thanks for trying those other 46…..I’m glad to hear that St. Julian scored well because I’m from Ohio and can easily get St. Julian and have done so many times…..
January 15, 2009

Uncle Meate
Wassup G. Vay / Mott
Great show, loved the x2 blind taste. Congrats on the addition to your family, Gary.
From a father of four in Pennsylvaniachuk.
January 15, 2009

Daniel Webbyrå
QOTD: Örebro / Sweden!
January 15, 2009

Tim
This was a GREAT show – even with the low scores and constant disappointment – the blind tastings never fail to deliver massive amounts of Thunder!

QOTD: Colorado, here. There’s a nice little local wine biz from some of the Mountain Vineyards that I haven’t had a chance to get into yet, but about which I’ve heard good things.

TJF
January 15, 2009

Ross
Love the blind tastings. It’s a shame they were all so poorly made.
Congratulations Gary!

QOTD: New York
January 15, 2009

e.fremont
QOTD I live in PA- not a wine loving state. Another interesting show.
January 15, 2009

Joe From Jersey
Hey, just found your podcast and gotta say im just getting into wine and I love all of the insite, because with this show I can skip tasting garbage and start my wine experience with the real deals!!
QOTD: I’m from the dirty Jers South- Go EAGLES!!! BEAT THE CARDINALS!!!! TAMPA HERE WE COME, SORRRY MOTT!!!!!!! Giants no more!hahahah
January 15, 2009

Trevor G
Indiana – born and raised
January 15, 2009

Brandy
I’m from Louisiana, and I’m not offended at all by your comments! Louisiana does a lot of things well. Wine is not one of them…By the way, it’s pronounced “ponch-a-train”

Congrats on the little one!
January 15, 2009

ClingF18
Love the blind tastings! Keep them coming!

QOTD: NC
But, born in Edison, NJ!
January 15, 2009

JJ
Interesting show; never heard of Traminette or St. Croix varietals!

QOTD: Long Island, New York
January 15, 2009

Jamie Sanford
NJ!
January 15, 2009

Benj
Awesome episode!

QOTD: I’m not from any state I’m afraid. I live here in England, UK, but you’ll be happy to know I spent the first two years of my life in Princeton, New Jersey!
January 15, 2009

William
Loved the episode! Congratulations on the new addition!

QOTD: Indiana
January 15, 2009

CBG
Congrats on the great news!…wishing your fam all the best.

loved the show. Can you say “Guinea pig”.

(the “U”) S.FL.
January 15, 2009

920albert
Wisconsin Badgers
January 15, 2009

Ashley
Congrats! Tricky vinos there but interesting to see Michi come out on top. Good effort today.

x

QOTD: IN Hoosier living in Vienna, Austria
January 15, 2009

LennyR
Great show about not so great wine.
QOTD: NYC, soon to be NJ
January 15, 2009

jaredlevy
Very very very cool show. Was waiting for the Other 46 to start again.

QOTD: Just like you, a New Yorker. Long Island, born and raised. Doesn’t qualify for the Other 46, but if you’ve tasted some of the wines from Pindar Vineyards you’d think it was Louisiana swill too.

Congrats on the Vaynerchuk spawn!
January 15, 2009

JP
Love the show once again, Thanks!

QOTD: CA, from Finland.
January 15, 2009

Paryb
Representing O Fair New Mexico over here bro!

I swear I’ll get some New Mexico wine out to you soon buddy!
January 15, 2009

WineWoman
QOTD: The Dirty Jerzzzzz!!!!!!
January 15, 2009

Rob Z
Great episode GV. Bizzaro wine colors btw…the one that was almost orange was straight up crazy.

QOTD: Freezing Cold New Hampshire!
January 15, 2009

750ml
This is one of my favorite episodes ever. More double blinds!

?OTD – Missouri
January 15, 2009

SurfCityJay
a BRUTAL double-blind… YIKES!!!

QOTD: Cali, baby… all the WAY!
January 15, 2009

Bertini
Texas
January 15, 2009

vic_t_or
You have to love double blind!
QOTD Houston Texas is where I BE!!
January 15, 2009

Bal H.
NY
January 15, 2009

Sandy
I was quite disappointed to hear Gary calling the Pontchartrain Vineyards wine a blend. He obviouly needs to ‘bone-up’ on the native wine making grape of America (as opposed to Muscadine, etc. which are technically classified as fruit). Check out what Thomas Jefferson has to say about the Norton Grape.
(Cynthiana in Ark, Tenn, Okl, etc. Norton in MO & VA)
January 15, 2009

BillC
QOTD- Zona.

Go Cards! Fingers crossed but we’ve been disappointed forever down here.
January 15, 2009

Edward
NYS
January 15, 2009

Phil G
Thought you might refuse to drink one of those…

QOTD: New York
January 15, 2009

Scottie P
That was a fun show! Double blind… I gotta try that.
GV, Thinking of any baby names yet?

QOTD: No shipping PA!!!!!!!!!
January 15, 2009

hasbeen
QOTD: Minnesota.
It’s -22 this morning and hasn’t been above 0 for almost 4 days. If we’re lucky we get 12 weeks of growing season here. How does anyone expect to grow grapes here? I applaud them for trying just the same.
January 15, 2009

Amy C
Dear Daddy Thunder,

I live in one of the fearless three (NY doesn’t count here) home of the Mariners and so many other teams you love & hate, anyone? anyone?..yes, that would be WASHington. Columbia River Gorge, our nations 1st National Scenic Area, Stevenson to be exact! Pop, 1236. I live on the north bank and OR E GON is on the south bank of the mighty Columbia So many GREAT wines north & south! Come on out for the annual Walla Walla (3 1/2 hrs to our east) spring Release in May and blind taste a few of the freshies of our great state. We stop along the way at the most scenic wineries too. F.U.N.!!!

Thanks for the double blind, double fine!
~Amy~
P.S. Be sure and take my fatherly advise from yesterday!
January 15, 2009

@sandraschubert
I am here in NY State the lovely borough of Queens. I don’t drink but enjoy the show because it at least gives me some understanding of what the fuss is about.
In the 80’s my friend Marina and family (orig. from Yugoslavia at that time)grew wine grapes in their backyard and crushed them in the basement (yes w. their feet). We’d drink it out of little juice glasses w. dinner. It was just the most delicious drink I ever had. Not overly sweet, smooth no bitterness, and I think the feet gave it a nice earthiness. Me, the non-drinker, could handle it w. a slight & pleasant buzz but my boyfriend(s)(I was young then) would always get sloshed. I have never matched that experience.

Congratulations on baby Vee. What a fun family to be born into.
January 15, 2009

Alex
Why would you do that to yourself!? Maybe next time you can guess fuel octanes by taste. Oh, Germany for now; MI forever!
January 15, 2009

joel delon
Hi gary from a french point of view never seen in my life such a rouge militaire !! was a joke ? let me recall you one of the question of your latest guest sommelier “is a wine under 8 $ can be good” i’d like to answer
you can find as well very disappointing wines at 18 $ !! better stay in the languedoc thank you anyway for this show
QOTD : from Languedoc (south of france)
January 15, 2009

*/^_^\*
more double blind….i command it

qotd: texas (unfortunately)
January 15, 2009

MattUD
Interesting show to say the least, was cool to watch.

QOTD: Delaware!
January 15, 2009

Paul
Cool show, hadn’t seen one in a couple of months but came back for the baby annoucement! I am from the big VA commonwealth, my favorite local wine is the Horton Norton, delicious.
January 15, 2009

Bob
QOTD: Missouri.

Shame the Norton blend did so poorly today. We love our Nortons here in the Show-Me State.
January 15, 2009

guymandude
Always go with your first thought on that guess.

qotd; South Cacalaky
January 15, 2009

P Sirah
Next time try triple blind- with a blindfold on. Then you can have even more fun by guessing the color!

QOTD: Florida! You haven’t lived until you’ve consumed grapefruit wine. The interesting thing is that it’s typically superior to the wine made from our grapes.
January 15, 2009

drydrew
QOTD: NY
January 15, 2009

zach m.
congrats on the baby, good episode

QOTD: My old Kentucky home
January 15, 2009

Kevin Worthington
Nice call on Louisiana!

QOTD: Long Island, NY for my whole life until this past year. Representing Hawaii now. Gotta do a show on some Hawaiian wines, Gary V!
January 15, 2009

Jared Pondelik
QOTD: New York City

Very funny episode!
January 15, 2009

Mike Calmus
QOTD: I live in the DISTRICT of Columbia, but I’m from the great state of South Dakota!
January 15, 2009

Dan
QOTD: Wisconsin!
January 15, 2009

DrEdwardo
QOTD: Ontario for my first 18 years and BC for most of the next 30+. Both *PROVINCES* make decent wines.
January 15, 2009

jimkay
QOTD: NC

Great episode – love the US varietals tasted.
January 15, 2009

Lawrence Leichtman
This seemed like a slow rolling disaster. I rep Virginia and New Mexico both wine producing state.
January 15, 2009

Benry
I rep California!
January 15, 2009

Lb in KS
Excellent show Gary! taint no way I would ever be able to figure the odd variatels….and maybe that’s why it was so bizarre for you? afterall, you did say it was fun for you , educating your pal. Maybe, for example if you tried several different Norton/Cynthiana efforts, you would begin to appreciate and distinguish the good, the bad and the uglys. i’m just saying. I am VERY interested in these offbeat varietals (maybe some time try a Lemberger, no not the cheese..or Zweigelt?) and was glad to see you putting them out there, thank you.
qotd..is it obvious…Kansas!
January 15, 2009

ex-lurkdawg
Maine.
I liked the double blind format. It would be cool to see you do this with more “traditional” wines — maybe some that you’ve had and liked? I’d really like to see you do that Portuguese wine you were talking about. Could you at least tell me what it is? Thanks for another great episode. I am growing increasingly disappointed (especially when you do such obscure wines and categories) that you haven’t done a Madeira show yet. I’d like to see that with a vintage Madeira (hopefully something nice and old — someone can always bring it home and enjoy it in the weeks to come) at the end.

Madeira. Please.
January 15, 2009

WallaWino
Great show. I’ve had some pretty solid wines that come from Michigan. I live in Walla Walla, WA!!!! When you gonna come visit WW?
January 15, 2009

Joe C
‘nother Texan here, but I lived in northern Cali in the 80’s, was a great time being a weekend warrior at the wineries…

I’d love to see a blind test of at least six texas wines, maybe you could find us a good one!
January 15, 2009

Jay
Wow. Not a whole lot to say about that show. At least you didn’t have to pay for any of those…

QOTD: Washington, where we need to get back to the days of Griffey and the Reign Man.
January 15, 2009

Natalie
Congrats on the coming addition to your family! I learned a lot from this episode about how I should approach tasting and describing wines for my own experience and how that can enhance my blog posts. Thanks!

QOTD: I currently live in Washington, but am originally from Idaho.
January 15, 2009

Cellar_Muse
QOTD – Living in Harpers Ferry, WV
January 15, 2009

mrfroopy
that third wine looked oxidized..
January 15, 2009

MorpheousNeo
Missouri in the house here! Hey Gary, want Herm back?

Great blind show, you are good Vman.

CONGRATS on the baby news! Father of 6 kids here says get sleep now, you may never sleep in again.
January 15, 2009

Cuse Wino
QOTD- Around the corner from WLIB in the Dirty Jerz!
That looked rough. Make it up to your Pal by drinking something nice tonight
Maybe some toilet H2O or some water that has drained though a potted plant. Would probably be a
reward for your Pal after suffering through that.
January 15, 2009

Saint
Gary, enjoyed your show. I do hope that your early comment to your father was not reflective of a hidden bias against wines from the other 46. I’m an amateur winemaker and do grow both St.Croix and Traminette. While I’m not too proud yet of my St.Croix, there are several commercial wineries in CT (and amateur winemakers) that do make some great St.Croix. Traminette can make a very nice wine that is often a very good companion to Asian foods. Keep up the good work.
January 15, 2009

mrfroopy
wine+ louisiana+ not a good idea.
January 15, 2009

Tim Wiseman
The Louisiana guess was amazing! Looking forward to more blind, double blind tastings …

QOTD: Ohio.
January 15, 2009

CBone
Nice show! I have been trying to seek out sparkling wines from New Mexico, and have shocked at h ow good they are. I’m sure you’ve tried some, I would love to see a show with some American sparkling wines.

QOTD: Though I live in the USA, I do not live in a state. I live down the street from Barack Obama!! Washington, DC!
January 15, 2009

Wine Maven
Really like the blind tastings.
QOTD: I’m a Jersey boy.
January 15, 2009

brainpain
GV: Great show and I am not surprised the St. J won the show. I have been to their winery in Paw Paw, MI and it is great quality wines for great prices! They even have 25% off a case every few months! Great QPR!

QOTD: I represent the good ol’ Hoosier state (but not the IU Hoosiers this year). INDIANA IN THE HIZZY!!!
January 15, 2009

Suz
QOTD: Georgia!!!
January 15, 2009

M
QOTD: PA, Boooo PLCB. Luckily DE and NJ are a short drive away.
January 15, 2009

Leftcoast
Gary- you’ve got to have someone pour the wines for you! You are clearly using the bottle shapes to guide what you are tasting. You even said you thought one was a Pinot except it was in the wrong bottle!

QOTD : CA
January 15, 2009

Jesse
GREAT SHOW TODAY! The THUNDER SHOW!

Congrats on the baby.

I am from California baby!
January 15, 2009

theemptyglass
QOTD: I live on the MD border, I spend most of my time in DE, so I feel like I represent DE more than MD. So I’m gonna say I rep Delaware =) But I grew up in Napa, CA. But I guess Napa doesn’t need rep, the wine itself can do that!
January 15, 2009

damon aka unknownwine
OHIO
Still waiting for some good wine from here, though the Kinkead Ridge is making some ok stuff out of Ripely. I may grow some of my own grapes and was thinking about traminette. oddly enough.
January 15, 2009

BF
awesome show.. reminds me of when I get bottles from “other 46″ states from relatives.. and then they ask how I liked them. You have to get a little creative sometimes… “Unique” is a word that comes up a lot.

QOTD: Wisconsin
January 15, 2009

fred
please put up a back drop to hide the people walking back and forth to get in the picture.

thank you.
January 15, 2009

Murso
PLEEZE don’t be all serious. I know business, and in particular, monies on the level of a successfull business like yours IS serious, but stuffy people who take themselves all serious are stuck up assholes, who suck, because they think that their success, and money, and seriousness is so much more important than anything or anybody else.
January 15, 2009

CaptainOats
Fred-
Half of the fun is seeing people walk by and other people like his dad walking in during filming. It’s real world. Leave it the way it is Gary.

Leftcoast-
Why shouldn’t he be able to feel the bottle. It’s part of a blind tasting, using everything you can to figure out what the time is.

QOTD: New York

And congratulations again on the pregnancy Gary. Wish you, your wife and family nothing but the best.
January 15, 2009

Alex M
Hilarious show… “This is so clear, not only can I see my fingers I can see my bones”… pissed myself.

QOTD: Beaune, France
January 15, 2009

Steve-O
OK Gary, since you butchered the name “Cynthiana” as “Cynthia”, you’ve got to do an episode dedicated to this varietal. SMILE SMILE!!! It has a huge history and a decent following. Take ONE from 6 states and give us your feedback. I am little biased here because I have 2 acres growing in Tennessee! When it’s bad, it is BAAADD!
January 15, 2009

Ed Voice
QOTD…Michigan…
January 15, 2009

Colin Bmore
Maryland’s my home. and I have to say I have had alot of Maryland wines and the one you had on the show I have never heard of. You need to Try some Boordy Vineyard wines.
January 15, 2009

Spiderfarm
Gary.

Your show has a place. these wines have a Place too.
YOU are very bold. Trust your palate

Norton /Cynthiana – No Way should you have guessed this was from Louisiana! Even if it was Norton and Cynthiana -(American Grapes) – my studies would place it from Arkansas or Missouri. Norton is described as being astringent and the wine is described as having a coffee-like character or essence to them. – You didn’t pick that up? Maybe you lost your focus thinking about Portugal. Sub-consciously maybe the brown-orange color took you to “baked Port” – thus Portugal . Let it go -No way should you have gotten this one.

The St Croix from Minnesota – an Elmer Swenson Hybrid survives -40 degree winters. How fitting you pull it out this week, as we languish in single digit temps.

Traminette – another allegedly winter hardy hybrid, I believe developed at Cornell Univ Geneva New York – Was this the Pa. Wine? How many Traminette’s have you tasted?

The true to form varietals – you got. Syrah, and Riesling

I had gone back and seen your Ohio wines series from last summer. Without being blind, you said the “other 46″w ere often over-priced. The $12 blind price on the Michigan Riesling tells me it’s an honest value.

Very Bold double -blind tasting. It fits for trying to find value wines. I liked it.

QOTD : Ohio – amateur winemaker, amateur viticulturist
January 15, 2009

Jason Dukas
Lurker….I admit that I have been a big Lurker for about a year now.
And today, I find myself compelled to give you double compliment on not only WLtv and all the great episodes, but also the great news on becomming a father.
As a 31-year-old father of a 1-year old, may I offer you a quick toast….
May you have the same passion for your child as you do for wine. If you do, you are destined to be a great father.
All my best
Jason.
January 15, 2009

Spiderfarm
If the bag contained a Mason Jar – would you have guessed a back – roads Muscadine?
January 15, 2009

Brad
QOTD: Indiana
January 15, 2009

Red
QOTD: Colorado

How about hosting some wines from Mexico (not Baja), British Columbia, or the Sierra Foothills?
January 15, 2009

Murso
GEE VEE – that was FUN! You really had me at VOGA- 47pts! EXACTLY! That shite in the clever cylidrical bottle was so bad, I wouldn’t proverbially wash my feet with it. God, and you couldn’t stop the ladies from buying it, even by telling them how bad it was. They LIKE the bottle. Period.

Although for normal purposes, wine is sturdy and stable enough for one to ‘handle’, and even travel, numerous samples, mailed indiviually, are so much less protected from heat/cold/ light abuses than when shipped en masse, a la palattes/ containers. Add to that, that some may be non-vintage, and may be ageing further ‘on deck’ waiting to be sampled, on some well lit shelf, or desk, in a room temp environment, etc. Truth is, Other 46 wines consist largely of hybrids, non-Vinifera (Labrusca, Rotundfolia, etc.), and that is most definately a ‘funk-dified’ world, indeed. I’ll bet we can go ahead, and give most of those wines 5 or six more points on their home turf, before they were ravaged by travel.
January 15, 2009

Nina
QOTD: wiscahhhhnsin. How brave and how fun to blind tastings like that…great!
January 15, 2009

John R
Why you hateing on Philly…They make an all birds Superbowl?
January 15, 2009

Murso
QotD – The Lake Erie AVA of Northeast Ohio. – home to both Vinifera and Labrusca wines of note, and of mediocrity.

The brutal Arctic Blast prevented me from conecting yesterday, So I now wish both you and Liz the best in Health, Happiness, and Family!

The short version of advice, (from a first time Grandpa this past year) is to see to her health and comfort, at all costs and measures.

And sleep now, for after sept., it’s goodbye nappy time!!
January 15, 2009

Goncasurus-Rex
QOTD- rockin it in PA which can (important “can”) make good wine your going to have to do a show on good wines from the “other 46″
January 15, 2009

Dayton Gray
Pennsylvania is my home. I think more PA wineries need to concentrate on ice wine. Leave those grapes to freeze! Down with the PLCB!!!
January 15, 2009

Paul
Representing Indiana here. I’ve actually heard of St. Julian and have had friends tell me to visit it the next time on heading to MI. Great show, I really enjoyed the blind tasting idea. Going to have to use that for my beer blog when I get things going. =D

Thanks for the entertainment!
January 15, 2009

Wenger
QOTD: Queensland (the least known of Oz’s wine making states)
January 15, 2009

Omallley
QOTD: State?
January 15, 2009

Joan
New York.
Fun show to watch. Congrats to you and your wife! Hopefully you’ll get some better samples from the other 46 next time.
Have a great day.
January 15, 2009

Murso
More, Re- ‘bad wines’. like #3- poss. oxidized AND/or maderized. Add to that the possibility of over toasted (charred barrels), and you’ve got…. toast. er, toasted wine, at least.

It would be demonstrative to see the closures for these bottles. With small winery operation costs what they are, you’d think that the guy who wants to take pride in his product would invest in an appropriate amount of closure insurance, but too often at this level, I see inappropriately cheap, shoddy pressboard, and cork made of tiny pieces. It is instructive to know this as a wine buyer, cause I don’t want customers paying for wine that will keep coming back to me as corked, leaked, or otherwise faulty. Responsible winery operations see this, and prevent it by upgrading their closure quality, painfully costly though it may be. The alternative is to forever be known as a mediocre, or even shitty producer, when that might not even be true….
January 15, 2009

Bryan Thompson
Good show. I’m a wine newbie but learning more all the time. Question for you: What do you think of any of the Nebraska wines? Have you sampled anything from Mac’s Creek?

QOTD: Lincoln, Nebraska.
January 15, 2009

Rick D
Odd wines, fun show. Unbelievable you get LA for Ponchartrain Rouge Militaire. Pullin’ a rabbit out of the hat?

QOTD: Arizona GO CARDS
January 15, 2009

Alan and Gayle
QOTD: The great state of Georgia. Our local favorite is Three Sister Vineyards 2003 Cynthianna,Dahlonega, Ga …. solid 92, even for you!!
January 15, 2009

Ines
Loved you at Inman NY last week – FLORIDA! (but born in Caracas)
January 15, 2009

Jason S.
QOTD: DC, baby. It’s not even a state! Taxation without representation all the way.
January 15, 2009

MikeF
I really enjoyed this episode – very entertaining. Nice to see you get surprised by some varietals off the beaten track. I’m from Illinois – the Blogo state.

Congrats on the impending family addition!
January 15, 2009

Robbie
Dirty Jerz
January 15, 2009

mindpirate
Northern Virginia in the house.
January 15, 2009

torquey
QOTD: Austin, TX
January 15, 2009

Bill Emmerich
The question of the of the day was “What State are we from”
Iowa – lots of efforts to make commercial wines here but I have only tated one or two that are drinkable.
Our neighbor Missouri has got some very good wines and some terrfic Nortons.
Love the shows – congratualtions on the coming new family member.

BillE
January 15, 2009

Andy and Edie Hanson
Awesome episode Gary, one of my favorites! It was fun to see how each wine seemed to get worse and your reactions were classic! We’re from Montana which is more well known for the steak you eat with your wine. I’ve had a few wines from here and we should stick with steak!
January 15, 2009

Lord Nouda
Wow, never seen you so affronted by a wine. Usually even appallingly bad wines taste at least interesting (like Skunkor).

You selected those wines from your store, didn’t you? Are people actually buying those weird wines? Or are you throwing them all out after your tasting – and I know everyone has there own palette?

qotd: non-US, sorry.
January 15, 2009

terroirist
Omaha, Nebraska.. and Nebraska wines suck. sugar bombs with really nothing to offer besides a 15$= price tag.

aka mike in Nebraska.. hahah!
January 15, 2009

PJS
QOTD: Michigan, and I’m proud to hear you say that you think Michigan will be one of the next big wine states. I enjoy Michigan wines on a regular basis.
January 15, 2009

Vinophile
STEEEEEELERS COUNTRY!!! (Indiana, PA)

The football is great but our wines…um…suck. So no offense taken. Haven’t found one here yet that doesn’t have some formaldehyde action. EEEUUUWWW!!! And YES, down with the PLCB!

Steelers/Cards. (But an all-PA Super Bowl would be kind of cool, too).

Waving my Terrible Towel!
January 15, 2009

Bill
Great show. Up there with the 2 Buck Vaynerchuk ep.

qotd: NY
January 15, 2009

Ray Barnes
As usual Gary delivers on blind tasting shows, and it seems that 6 mediocre offerings were given their due – although I still don’t know why a wine would get 50 points if it is not completely spoiled and undrinkable.

I agree with Gary’s comment about the chintziness of the commentaries on his prior Big Announcement episode; more than 90% of the viewers not bothering to send a word of congratulations seems pretty mean-spirited.

QOTD – Canada, sorry N/A
January 15, 2009

E dog
Hi Gary ! Good show, i like your blind tastings, they are quite interesting to watch.

QOTD: I live in France and Study in Scotland
January 15, 2009

Lois and Greg
Fun show.
QOTD: The Western Dirty Jerz. Just down the road a piece from 4 Sisters Winery, which is for sale. Any takers?
January 15, 2009

kaybee
Very interesting, maybe there’s a reason they are the other 46.
QoTd
Cali North
January 15, 2009

David
Love the double blind. Even if the wines are not great, I think it is great to give some attention to places around the country. Keep up the blind tastings!

QOTD: WI – Door County has some interesting wines (mostly fruit bombs).
January 15, 2009

Kelly Goff
What FUN! Gotta LOVE Virginia wines…we are putting out some good stuff.
January 15, 2009

RobRx
NJ!!

We can actually make decent fruit/berry wines in NJ. Stay away from the grape wines though…
January 15, 2009

Aaron
Minnesota!!
January 15, 2009

Bill Rodgers, Holland PA
EAGLES – NOT – Cardinals, Gary. Congrats on the new baby…
January 15, 2009

Richard Ritter
That was fun. Those “Other 46″ have a little ways to go.

Congrats again Daddy Vaynerchuck. Don’t forget to read my comments on episode #605.

QOTD: The EMPIRE state.
January 15, 2009

Tim M
I just heard the baby announcement today. Congrats to you and your wife!

Go Eagles!
January 15, 2009

Antony
The East Riding of Yorkshire
January 15, 2009

Chris
What is great about this episode: Smells that I have never seen before on WLTV. Even though they weren’t good wines I had a blast watching!!!!

QOTD: Ontario.
January 15, 2009

Carlos
Florida. The home of the Muscadine grape.
January 15, 2009

Mario
QOTD:From Maryland – living in Virginia – grew up in Florida.

My second episode, G. Dude, like when I was 14 and KNEW (intuitively) that Miami Vice was different, had an edge, and would change television forever…same exact feeling! Been digging in deep into the new web (blog, podcast, social whatever) and sortof got it…sortof. Then I get pointed your way by the nod Seth gave you in “Tribes” – Now afetr episode 606, 607, and sniffing around garyvaynerchuck.com and I completely get it. Awesome – changed my view of the web and bigger still, the world.
January 15, 2009

Nathan
One of my favorite episodes yet. Let’s see some more blind tastings. Maybe different vintages of wines you like next time.
January 15, 2009

Darcey and Cliff
Hey GeeVee … Dar and I are in Virginia here … still digging each episode. Great job today!
January 16, 2009

Vanguy
I LOVED this episode!
It’s great when you go outside the normal realm and taste weird wines.
You did a great job considering double-blind.
Amazing on the Louisiana and the OH/PENN calls.
I guessed Michigan on the last one, but understand it was too obvious for your guess.
QOTD: British Columbia (long stretches in California and Michigan)
January 16, 2009

jr
You ‘Are’ the master of aroma. How does one get ‘Inside a wiffle ball bat’.
January 16, 2009

Weston
qotd: Live in the Province of British Columbia Canada, city Vancouver
January 16, 2009

Hido53
Gary-

Fantastic show today! Really enjoyed it. Huge LOL when your dad peeked in from the other side of the window. Brilliant!
QOTD: California!
January 16, 2009

Kyle Suehiro
hey Gary!
I loved all the funny faces and weird smells and tasting notes! Double blind is craaaazy!

qotd: Mililani (on Oahu), Hawaii woohoo! The surf was huuuuge today & I totally got worked!
January 16, 2009

Purple Toothed Bandit
Nice show! The result is just as entertaining and informative regardless of the quality of the juice! Santa Barbara, CA …… 75 degrees on the beach today!
January 16, 2009

thunderball
State? What is a state? Originally from British Columbia, now living in Osaka, Japan.
January 16, 2009

innA
Hilarious show! Very tough blind tasting for anyone. Definitely looking forward to another double blind tasting with more recognisable grapes and areas.

QOTD – London: UK wines are quite poor in general.. very over-priced too!
January 16, 2009

DF
QOTD: NC, go Wolfpack and Tarheels, friends don’t let friends root for Duke. Our state is trying hard with wine, still needs to find itself.

Extremely entertaining show. Combines blind with unusual varietals and states. What could be better?

PS Congratulations on the new Vaynerchuk. Your life will never be the same and you will LOVE it.
January 16, 2009

nnothing
Iowa…. Go Hawks (the only big ten team to show up for their bowl game)
January 16, 2009

Andy
QOTD– North Carolina here G …..Trying to make some different styles of wine in the old north state.
January 16, 2009

Chippewamike
QOTD: MICHIGAN!!!!
January 16, 2009

tony v
On the “lost” episode — you could use the same wines, re-taste, and over-dub “dvd-extra director commentary” style…?

QOTD: Missouri
January 16, 2009

Tom
QOTD: Michigan! (go blue)

My favorite quote from the episode — “smells like a garbage truck on fire”. Mmmm….that sounds good.
January 16, 2009

DavidC
QOTD: Jersey born and raised, unfortunately now living in MA because of work.
January 16, 2009

Jayhitek
QOTD: Massachusetts
January 16, 2009

J3rome
QOTD: Ohio, but you already knew that. I just figured I would let everyone else know. Stay Warm.
January 16, 2009

CHICAGO MARK
3 guesses !
January 16, 2009

danseng
Arizona, one of the up and coming wine states!

Gary, the “garbage truck on fire” line deserves it’s own t-shirt. One of the funniest things I’ve ever heard you say on the show.
January 16, 2009

Mark
QOTD: District of Columbia via Southwestern Michigan

I enjoyed watching you try some of the other 46. Growing up in Southwestern Michigan where we have a lot of vineyards. I have enjoyed being only 25 and expanding my wine palate from my Michigan roots by watching the show.

Congrats on the baby.
January 16, 2009

AMM3RD
Dirty Jerz! Other 46…I’ve never had a wine from NJ, but two wines from VA both Sucked! AMM
January 16, 2009

JayZee
Okay, I’m guessing that it is NOT “dohv” valley but ‘duhv” valley.

QOTD: O-H-I-O
January 16, 2009

Doug
How many hits does it take to get to the center of a wiffleball bat?

QOTD: Virginia.
January 16, 2009

Eugene
Colorado, a state not yet mentioned on the show with real potential to produce well structured wines.
January 16, 2009

Von P
PA rockin’ it out at -2 degrees today!!!!
January 16, 2009

Brian Barrick
That was one hilarious episode. I’ve never seen you so thrown off balance, yet you were able to pull off some incredibly colorful descriptions. And that Louisiana call was a classic moment.

QOTD: I live in California (Bay Area), so I’m biased, but I just don’t understand your enthusiasm for the “Other 46″. There is one key factor missing, the one that makes the great wine regions what they are: the climate. Even the most skilled winemaker working with the perfect grape varieties is not going to make world-class wines in the wrong climate, certainly not consistently or cost-effectively.

I love to expand my palate, and I’ve tried wines from other states (including New Mexico, Oklahoma and Indiana). They just don’t compete (especially in terms of QPR), nor are they likely to in the foreseeable future. The outcome of this blind tasting was totally predictable. Nonetheless this was a highly entertaining show, and I appreciate the effort.
January 16, 2009

David Dadekian
QOTD: Connecticut, though I’m a mile over the RI border so I should say RI.
January 16, 2009

David
Blinds are the most fun shows – never disappoint! (And Gary amazes)
January 16, 2009

DAv A
Real fun show. Lots of fun doing it, I’m sure. thanks.

QOTD: North Carolina! Come to Raleigh!
January 16, 2009

thecobalt9
Cali baby!
January 16, 2009

Knick & Jaclyn
Gary,

Hilarious show today. Insane with the oddness of the wines.

QOTD: Tennessee
January 16, 2009

Mr.Ambassador
Washington State all the way!

It was entertaining to watch the double-blind format and the results certainly make me appreciate the fact I’m living in Washington State with many so local/regional stand-outs readily available.
January 16, 2009

sam
St. Croix?

That was a weird show. New stuff though.

QOTD: I am from Québec, Canada.

We produce a shitload of crapppy wines (especially the reds). However, there is some potential for the whites and the ice wines. Producers need to focus on what they can do well, not on what other people do.
January 16, 2009

Patt
QOTD: OH, smile when you say it, HIO
We make some pretty decent whites, so don’t knock it!
January 16, 2009

Clifford
QOTD: Sunny Southern California
January 17, 2009

Heath Payne
Gary,

I noticed you mentioned the action figure smell (see my review on Cork’d for a ‘99 Sauvenier).

I try to look for locally made wines in every state I visit. Biggest surprise, was Colorado, pretty good Syrah. Biggest, or rather expected, ugghh, Utah Riesling and Gewurtztraminer. I had an interesting Marchet from Minnesota also.

Cheers,
Heath (aka kieth)

By the way, Congrats!
January 17, 2009

ian k
GV: Great episode again. I think you should do a home brew show. Let a few people bring in wine they made at home.

QOTD: Connecticut
January 17, 2009

DH
Gary,

I wish you did NOT know these wines were from the other 46 until after the tasting. Then your reactions would have been truly blind. All of us are impressionable and the knowledge of “the other 46″ immediately invites assumptions and prefaced ideas.

Still, great shows, very entertaining and I congratulate you and wish your growing family health and happiness.

QOTD: Brooklyn (could be a state)
January 17, 2009

Marie
I live in the Jerz now, but I am from Maryland. There’s actually a festival every Spring called Wine in the Woods that features only MD wines. They’re pretty universally thin, but not all bad! To make up for some of the shortcomings of the grapes, a lot of wineries make other fruit wines that are pretty fun.
January 17, 2009

Derek
Great episode Gary!

QOTD: I live in Minnesota, about 30 min away from Fieldstone Vineyards. I’m going to email them the think to this episode. I’m sure they will be stoked to find out they were featured on your show!
January 17, 2009

Gary M. Toczko
Gary,
Congrats on the new baby. As a father of 4- eleven year olds I do know how wonderful it is when they arrive. Our whole family watches your show together. We are trying to spread the THUNDER at an early age. I am an owner of a winery and vineyard in one of those other 46 states. Also one of those owners you mentioned that is going to push the envelope on quality in our state (PA). We trained under the best winemaker in the Finger Lakes (my opinion) and are trying to bring that knowledge to PA. I guess what I am trying to say is yes expand your pallet on bad-good-great wines but please do not judge a state by a few tastes. Some of the other wines just might suprise you. Keep the shows coming!!!!
January 17, 2009

Tim
Gary you should have know that the best was from the midwest. Our wine regions are growing better quality of grapes each year. You should check out some otherwines from the Leelanau Pennsiula, espically L.Mawby, 45-North, Leelanau Cellars, along with several others.
January 17, 2009

Gary B
Congrats to start with! and another great episode as usual.
QOTD: Virginia about 45min form the Williamsburg Winery.
January 17, 2009

Kate the Great
The hubby and I are from OHIO! And congratulations again on the baby news! We’re a little concerned with you teaching the baby to expand it’s palate too early. Keep stuff out of the babies mouth until it can handle solids!
January 17, 2009

Dan-o
GV – interesting show! We have to expand our horizons and palates – thanks for being the guinea pig!

QOTD – I live in MA, but I am a nomad. Born in Ohio, lived in Iowa, Missouri, CT, RI, VT, NC and now MA.
January 17, 2009

brorjace
Illinois! There is some good wine, not a lot though.
January 17, 2009

rick redekop
I am from British Columbia but my wife is from Washington
January 17, 2009

Greg Noorman
Michigan (State). Go GREEN!
January 18, 2009

jammindude
Washington
January 18, 2009

suzanne
I “live” in Pennsylvania for college, but I really should be living in Mississippi.
January 18, 2009

Andy Johnson
QotD: Virginia

Let’s see a blind tasting from one state or just one varietal.
January 18, 2009

marco
Fun show. Some crazy varietals thrown in there.

QOTD: Washington, where sadly Wine Library does not ship (
January 19, 2009

MikeR in BC
hilarious show GV!

QOTD: not a state but a province… British Columbia! I dare say BC would fare much better on your show. I would love to see BC featured sometime.
January 19, 2009

YoungDave
QOTD: RI born and raised, but now I’m a transplant to Los Angeles, CA.
January 19, 2009

Tobias
I was not offended at all, thanks to my hailing from the good state of Washington…state
January 19, 2009

kenny_k
New York.
January 19, 2009

Vinacull
First ever double-blind tasting and I LOVED it Gary! Some reDONCULUS correct guesses on origin, varietal, and price point – Congrats! Overall this is right about what I expected from “Other 46″ – some good (on the tasting scale), some bad, and some downright ugly. QOTD: Right down the street from you, but I also have to throw in a shout-out for my state of origin and the winner of this tasting: Michigan (”M GO BLUE!”).
January 19, 2009

Marzipan
I’m from Iowa but live in Sweden now. You think Louisiana wine is bad- try Swedish wine. This episode made my day so much better!
January 19, 2009

Jeremy Morrison
Great show. I’m from New Mexico, and amazingly there are a few good wineries in the state. I’d love to see a show about new mexico grapes.
January 19, 2009

MattieJ
QoTD: Ohio
January 19, 2009

my2cents
Gary, whiffle bat and puffy stickers = vinyl beach ball to me.

Oh man what an awesome show! That was a blast!
#1, Whosaidawhat?
#2, Mop the floor.
#3, Oh my god mott, garbage truck on fire.
#4, Smells like a Chinese restaurant, good color.
#5, More normalcy and a little oak.
#6, Autumn juice! Smells like food.
Thanks for the fun.
January 19, 2009

Pebbles
Sometimes the “worst” wines make the best episodes. Fun!
January 19, 2009

Kristen
Wow. This episode had some classic descriptions! “Garbage truck on fire” was my personal favorite. Couldn’t stop laughing for 5 minutes. Although the wines weren’t good, this was so much fun to watch you rock out the double blind “other 46″ tasting! You were on the money GV. Wine #6 looked like the same color of Bordeaux claret. Craziness.

And Sasha was hilarious when he looked into your office.

QOTD: Originally a Masshole, I’ve lived in MO, RI, ME, WI, and France. So there you have it.
January 20, 2009

Eric S.
This was a strange episode. I think I would rather see you review wines from a state where they have been pre-screened, meaning that there are somewhat strong reviews out there for them. This show made me less apt to go out and try a wine from a random state.
January 20, 2009

Heather W
QOTD: Texas now, but Louisiana born and raised, and very proud! Hey maybe they don’t do wine right yet, but they are on point with the food. We pronounce it Pon-cha-train, despite all of those extra letters.
January 20, 2009

italianwinelover
QOTD: Illinois – but I have to agree with you I think we are lucky in the Midwest to have MI wines. I have been to St. J many times and the restaurant has a wonderful view + good service! Even got my son hooked on their sparkling wine (no alcohol of course)!

Congrats again…having a child is truly a miracle that we are blessed with – my boy is 15 and I am still in awe of him each day!!!
January 20, 2009

Susan
Gary, Still laughing about the mythical creature that appears early in this episode!!! WOW!!! And I would not believe!!! He does exist!!!
January 20, 2009

Susan
Gary, WOW!!!!!!!!!Really laughing at the Pontchartrain from Louisiana!!! Great job Gary!!!!!!!!!!!!
January 20, 2009

Susan
Did I see Heather Wied make a comment???? Now, I know I fell into the Bermuda Triangle…..
January 20, 2009

Susan
This is a bizzare episode!!!!
January 20, 2009

Susan
Mythical creatures and all!!! WOW!!!!!!
January 20, 2009

Susan
QOTD: I was born in Indiana…the rest of the story, where I am from, etc. gets complicated very quickly!!!!!!!!
January 20, 2009

Susan
QOTD: However……………… I now live in North Carolina…..many states in between those two!!!
January 20, 2009

Susan
TRUTH is stranger than fiction!!!!!!!! LMAO!!!!!
January 20, 2009

Susan
I do believe in mythical creatures!!!!
January 21, 2009

Joe
QOTD: Minnesota!! hey hey for 2nd place!
January 21, 2009

wayno da wino
WHOOOOOOOOOOA, A SWILLFEST DELUXE !!! Dat was FUUUUUUUUN !!!
The first time i seen a wine glass decommissioned by a swill (#3)……

qotd: California…..home of da GOOOOOOOOOOOD VINO…..
YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!!!!!!!
January 21, 2009

Collin
QotD – Tennessee, home of Chateau Ross and Arrington Vineyards.
January 21, 2009

pawncop
Great episode. I totally agree that the joy is in the journey, even with some really bad wines I think you had fun.

I’m in Texas.
January 21, 2009

Zin
What about Heritage Station Merlot,Cab Sav and Chardonnay? Thanks for the 78pt score for alittle oak and more normalsy! Great Show keep it coming.

Sothern Dirty Jerzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
January 21, 2009

Claudia
I’m from North Stonington, Connecticut! We’ve got a winery right here called Jonathan Edward’s Winery. Have you tried his wines? He’s got white and red.
Call Jonathan. He’s about your age, Gary!
January 22, 2009

Sonia
Good Show!
California!!!!!!!!!!!
January 22, 2009

Neener
ILLINOIS
January 22, 2009

Patty Wilson
grew up in Michigan. wine sucked ten years ago, but they are doing some great wine up in Northern Michigan now–I guessed that the “good” Riesling was Michigan, but St. Julian isn’t the best of the Riesling.

I lived in California for 13 years, so I became a West Coast wine snob–now I’m trying lots of different wines.

never found a decent Maryland wine, but we found one good winery in Pennsylvania where we live now. i’ve found some decent Wines near Tucson, AZ. Interested in trying some Virginia wine.
January 23, 2009

Jimmy T
Wild one…repin’ it FLorida style
January 23, 2009

Jordan
Living in California- The Navy brought me to California from Vermont. Now I am planning to stay in California for the rest of my life.
January 23, 2009

Sharon
Oh Kristen, I like that, ‘Masshole’. I’m a MAsshole.
January 25, 2009

Matt
QOTD: California, although I’m originally from the Great state of Michigan so I’m glad to see St. Julien take the gold medal!
January 25, 2009

(The wino formerly known as) DC Devil
Gary, I don’t know if you read the comments for old episodes, but shows like this are the reason I admire you. I can’t think of any other wine critic who would put him/herself out there like you did here. I think it really testifies to your love for wine that you’re willing to venture into unknown territory to try the offerings from such non-traditional locales.

Cheers! And let me know if you’re ever in northern Indiana. I’ll spring for a bottle of The Hoosier State’s finest. Then I’ll buy us a good bottle (ha).
January 25, 2009

lawschooldrunk
QOTD: NY,MD,DC. all three

This was a hilarious episode! Burning fire truck! I almost snorted food out my nose!
January 26, 2009

Smahlatz
Dorset, but I’m from Queensland!
January 27, 2009

JudeMurphy
State? I’m from… The Republic of Ireland! : D
January 28, 2009

yowens
Really interesting show! QOTD: Rhode Island.
January 31, 2009

Dessert Wine Nerd
Boy thats a tough show. I feel bad for these wineries, but what can you do? I mean Chateau St. Michelle is one of the biggest wineries in the country, but Ive tasted wines from them that I thought were absolute crap. QOTD: Rockin from Washington state, baby!
February 1, 2009

Don
Just started watching the Thunder this week and I’m hooked!!! I will definitely be going through the archives and getting caught up. Congrats on the big news!! QOTD: Virginia (and thanks for props as an up and coming state)
February 20, 2009

Loray
QOTD – CT You seemed a little harsh on the wines…but you were hilarious to watch. You should try some Connecticut wines – Albeit they are mostly hybrids but pretty darn tasty ones! Congrats to you and the Mrs. on the happy news!
May 13, 2009

G
46…that’s how many states I’ve been to. still have montana, idaho and the dakotas to touch. currently CA, via MD, VA and PA. so you got two of my four in the mix of the other 46. this did remind me of my first wine trip to oregon roughly 10 years ago. there was a garage wine that the two brothers were affixing labels to after tasting. could have broken the voga barrier for a sub 46 wine there. and there was another deliverance kind of winery that had an american grape that was just horrendous, something noir…oh man, does that bring back memories of “you know i may get shot if i say what this really tastes like.”
June 20, 2009

Throwbacks
I’m a lover of football, just wish it was played all year round, thanks for posting such a good article. I’ll be back to read often now.
Dave