Gigondas from the Southern Rhone

Gigondas from the Southern Rhone – Episode #678

May 18, 2009

Gary Vaynerchuk sits down and tastes 3 wines from Gigondas a place where he feels some of the most underrated wines in the world are coming from!

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Comments on this episode(171) Leave a comment ›

“Hey Gary,

I’ve been catching up on old shows. I ordered a Gigondas…” by Erin
“Hi Gary
You definetly need to taste the Seguret Mourchon wines. You…” by john calberg
View all 171 ›

Wines tasted in this episode:

2004 Raspail GigondasGigondas
2005 Guigal GigondasGigondas
2006 St. Cosme Valbelle GigondasGigondas

Links mentioned in today’s episode.

The “Crush It!” announcement page

171 Responses

May 18, 2009

John Farrin
1st
May 18, 2009

KyBoy
Top 3 What What!
May 18, 2009

flavasauce
2nd!!!
May 18, 2009

bt86
St Cosme…awesome, looking forward to the show
May 18, 2009

James Erickson
Awesome show!

My wife loves wine, and I am so/so, so I am trying to educate my palette/brain so we can enjoy wines together…

Also looking forward to “Crush It” Any chance I can get an advance “review” copy?

QOTD: My 9 month old daughters first steps… you’ll be there soon.
May 18, 2009

John Farrin
QOTD: How quickly things can change when you have some intelligence in the White House.
May 18, 2009

castello
I was hoping you’d pannnn the 2nd wine because I’ve had it and meh. Now I need to try some good Gigondolas.
How long did thy breath? Maybe with decanting, we’d have your first 97 or something rediculous.
I’ll have to think about the QOTD.
May 18, 2009

stephen
Eye opener? How about the Blackhawks playing the Red Wings in the Western Conference Finals
Are you kidding me!

Nice show, Glad to hear someone else thinks Gigondas can give the Chateauneuf du Pape wines a run
May 18, 2009

NY Pete
yo GV … how’s it going?
May 18, 2009

Laurie in VT
Excellent show, thanks!
QOTD: This year? Probably the incredible support and help from our friends in putting the deck/ramp/steps on our house and in general getting our home ready to welcome my Mom. We all take our friends for granted too much of the time, I think.
May 18, 2009

gotsha
QOTD…Phillies winning the World Series!!! Top 10…had to say it
May 18, 2009

Dr T in NC
Good luck to Lizzy!

QOTD — so far, it’s been a boring year!
May 18, 2009

NY Pete
congrats to AJ!
May 18, 2009

NY Pete
hang in there Lizzy!
May 18, 2009

Elias
Once again, great show, great pace, great wines! Keep them like that, short, on the point, loving it!

QOTD: well… the greatest eye opener this year has been you Gary!!! I was not a wine person, due to the pretentiousness and stuffyness that came with it, but your approach made me a wine lover.
May 18, 2009

Dominus
Very nice to bat .667 with some “expand your palate” wines! Good show.

QOTD: Every time I look at my 401k my eyes bug out my head and not in a good way.

We’re rooting for the little Vaynermissus to come soon!

Congrats AJ!

Cheers!
May 18, 2009

Bobbie Smith
Love Gigondas. Good show will have to try the first and last ones.
QOTD: That my attitude is the easiest thing to change about every situation.
May 18, 2009

canadapete
Great episode. I just love French wine, so it’s great to see some of the lesser touted areas get their limelight.
May 18, 2009

Andy & Edie from MT
Biggest eye opener for me this year is the fact that I (Andy) actually like grapefruit! Never liked it for 34 years then all the sudden I have some again and it’s now my favorite fruit. I have it every day! Just goes to show you that you need to KEEP trying new things over and over again. Great show, still need to try Gigondas.
May 18, 2009

Robert Howells
QOTD,

It is an eye opener how much life changes for the better when a child/children comes into your life.
May 18, 2009

Shyam Mehta
Vay-i loved the cheek texting bit. That random element is what makes me love this show.

This year for me (apart from graduation, getting a job, etc) has been the openness of twitter, tumblr, etc kind of interfaces where ppl have begun to share more information. 2010 will be the same except on the mobile phone, which in turn means more information shared-anytime and anywhere! Exciting too see how this translates into revenue..and i am starting to like wine.
May 18, 2009

Glen....winecrazy.com
Nice…I hope all goes well with the the delevery. Did you get free shipping ?? lol

QOTD: Barclay bank going from 3.50 a share when I bought in March to 17.50 today, only 2 months later.

Good luck … praying for a healty baby!!!!
May 18, 2009

Glen....winecrazy.com
opps….Healthy!!!!
May 18, 2009

benbron
Great show gary! Great pace once again with some great information! you really seem like you’re on a roll since you’ve been back, thank you! Never had a Gigondas before but it sounds like my style, and somewhat in my price range, can’t wait to try one.
QOTD:literally just had my last class in college today, ever, will be graduating in a week and have been realizing the past few months that I need to keep myself busy with personal projects contstantly and ambitiously beyond the work related to classes if I’m really going to succeed at pursuing my passion. (illustration/finearts)
May 18, 2009

Andrew D
Thanks Gary

Interesting that you focussed on Gigondas as there is a huge Rhone wine fair this weekend in Hong Kong as part of a ‘French in May’ promotion. I’m also a big fan of the Gigondas and looking forward to trying a few amongst the offerings this weekend.

QOTD: Biggest ‘eye opener’ would have to be a visit to a remote Aboriginal in Arnhem Land in Australia’s Northern Territory. A pretty special place.

Good luck with the baby.

Cheers
Andrew
May 18, 2009

Pete B
Good show. I have not had a Gigondas but I will be looking for one next time I’m at the wine shop.

QOTD – Going through the process of planning a wedding has really been eye opening in a good way.
May 18, 2009

RANDI
GARY!!!!!!!

QOTD: Well, sadly, but perhaps necessary, Im finally knowing who I can count on and who I cant. I’m learning theres a fine line between being generous and being used… OUCH.. lolol

Love to you, Lizzie and baby Vaynerchuk
Hope all is well..
May 18, 2009

DF
QOTD: Big eye-opener was that I am in demand as a professional despite the economy. Hoping to crush it based on that knowledge!
May 18, 2009

Kevin K
QOTD: Paintball is actually really fun.
May 18, 2009

Murso
QotD – Brooklyn musical act Shilpa Ray and Her Happy Hookers. Very Moving and Emotional.
May 18, 2009

Adam J
Gary, I enjoyed how you really broke the down the wines and went into lots of depth on the flavor profile descriptions on this show.
QOTD: Wine: 2006 Betts and Scholl OG Grenache…CRUSHED IT.
Non-wine: Worm Composting.
May 18, 2009

Tom
Biggest eye opener? How about Gary swallowing the St. Cosme Gigondas twice! I have been watching since episode 300 and I don’t remember that ever happening.
May 18, 2009

Adam J
My apologies…Best to you and Lizzie! Good luck!:)
May 18, 2009

M
love Gigondas, Vacqueyras, Lirac, etc…

QOTD: how we’re able to get by in this economy….. Unemployment, COBRA payments…. tough year in my house
May 18, 2009

guymandude
Great show and wines. Thanks for keeping it fresh and informative.
qotd; How quickly things change.
May 18, 2009

Lawrence leichtman
The thunder Cruise and tasting wines that I would never had gotten to try. Great show and for 94 point wine $50 is not out of line and in fact is higher than many of the 05 Bordeaux wines that cost 3-4 times that, Gigondas is not very available here and it is usually the Guigal we see here.
May 18, 2009

Lawrence leichtman
Oh and I hope the phone rings soon. Good luck.
May 18, 2009

F Jackie Martling
Really good show. I really learned alot today, and am now on the trail to try Gigondas.
qotd: The biggest eye opener was the speed in which people can lose everything. Be greatful for the little things. I am.
May 18, 2009

Dr.Scott
QOTD – seeing my 15 year old daughter in high school, really coming into her own personality, finding her way, and transitioning into a much more complete person.

You’re right, the Guigal is the most available Gigondas, will have to look for others.
May 18, 2009

Harry
Nice show, great pace, solid info. Always happy to explore Gigondas more, as i’m big into the old vine grenache.

QOTD: Vipassana meditation. I went for a 10 day retreat, and came out more balanced and healthy than I’ve felt in years. I knew what the meditation involved, but was shocked at how powerful it was at working through all sorts of mental detrius that had built up over the years.

I hope you bring your flip cam for the baby. I know Lizzy isn’t into on-air appearances, but i want to see you and Sasha and whomever else is around toast to the newest Vaynerchuk.
May 18, 2009

paryb
We need some free shipping on that last guy HAHA!

Seriously going to toss some in my cart for my next order…

QOTD: Watching the bottom drop out of the real estate market for me. It went from busy every day, to watching paint peel really quickly.
May 18, 2009

Laban Johnson in Houston
I’m very excited for you, Gary, I’m sure you’ll make a great dad!

The best advice I ever got as a dad was to sleep when the baby sleeps

and I’ll add, that when the baby’s drinking from his bottle… daddy can do the same!

Will we see a spin off show of Gary V. tasting baby formulas from all around the world? That stuff is expensive!
May 18, 2009

W. Miree
Congratulations! You may be a new Dad before you get this. Terrific show, and terrific wines. I have had these producers for many years. I love them all, but the St. Cosme is my favorite of the three. Gigondas is, in my opinion, one of the best value wines on the planet, but I will have to say that after 10+ years, good examples of Chateauneuf-du-Pape win the long-term race.
May 18, 2009

Nathan Peters
“PEPPER!” Love it. Cheeky texts, love it. As a long-time fan, first-time commenter, and with your new book coming out, I’m curious: how many other interest groups (non-wine-related) that you know of have a rising star you think is “crushing it?” Examples?
May 18, 2009

EricLaz
Gary…Another Great Show. Thanks for continuing to expand our palates. I also enjoy when Mott pans around the office. I love seeing your surroundings. How about doing another show where you give us a tour of the store.

QOTD: I read a book this year that has changed my entire outlook on work and life. It is a little known book written by a famous WLTV guest, Tim Ferriss, The 4-Hour Work Week. Talk about Eye Opening; that did it for me.
May 18, 2009

Ryan from brooklyn
I said “he’s going to compare it to Lebron” to my gf 10 seconds before you did. Good show.

Qotd: realizing how bad the Yankees are going to do this season
May 18, 2009

DrEdwardo
QOTD: Michel Torino Cuma (Organic) Torrontés.

Friday & today: much better pace. Keep ‘em under 20 minutes for us oenophiles with short attention spans.

I’ve mentioned this before, a simple way to achieve this is avoid having guest *or* (heaven forbid) … edit!
May 18, 2009

sharon
Can’t wait to try the Raspail. I’d love to try the last one but my ship has yet to come in.
qotd: Definitely birth…the birth of my kids and the raising of them. Yeah parenting is an everlasting eye opener.
May 18, 2009

elmattador
wow! i hope my distributor has the 06 Cosme! I will see him tomorrow and I’m dying to try it.
May 18, 2009

Cat
Hi Gary! Congrats on the upcoming baby! I love that your cheeks were texting you in thanks.
May 18, 2009

Veronique
ABSOLUTELY love the cheeks texting comment…!!!
May 18, 2009

Vintage59
Hey Gary, Love the Gigondas Great wines from this region. Speaking of Great. I live about 20 mins from Akron, Ohio and was lucky enough to see LeBron James play High School BasketBall and StV StM. Just like the first time you saw little Tiger Woods swing that golf club on the Merv Griffin show. You just knew Greatness was in his future!
May 18, 2009

urbwes
Great show, if only I lived in a place that had Gigondas or any selection for that matter. I’ll have to make a trip to the BIG CITY and stock up.

QOTD: This has been my first year teaching. I live alone and relativley frugally, but the teacher’s salary still isn’t enough for comfortable living. I’ve had to change my expectations or I’ll have to change careers.
May 18, 2009

Ron
Answer to question of the day, biggest eye-opener of the year (maybe of my life): how hard it is to find a job in the worst economy of my life; and the self-employment route isn’t much better. Can’t wait to bounce back so I can try that third wine.
May 18, 2009

jwink
Nice facts during the intro. Yes keep the pace going, part of it is not having guests that require interaction and catering to.

Funny to see you somewhat tounge-tied with your excitement with the last wine.

QOTD: Discovering how tight the local (Detroit) job market it for very qualified and experienced people.
May 18, 2009

looper
Had that same Guigal about a month ago. Thought is was pretty good. Wanted to try a gigondas, now I want the Raspail, nice price point.
QOTD: Biggest eye opener… Easy… Cutler to the Bears!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

GV; Please can you do another blind tasting episode. They are the best
May 18, 2009

Jason S.
QTOD: how good every book by Neil Stephenson is – what an amazing author.
May 18, 2009

pawncop
Good show, I have recalled your commendations for Gigondas in the past. One more to my list to try.

QOTD – put one foot in front of the other and do not stop.
May 18, 2009

Gina
Great show! Realized I was pronouncing Gigondas incorrectly…:) LOVE the facts and info…better than a wine class…thanks!
May 18, 2009

tfadams
First time commenter, long time viewer… Crush’d it as usual. Have heard about Gigandas so I was eager to see and hear your take on them. Looking forward to trying the Raspail and maybe the St. Cosme.

QOTD: Biggest eye opener this year? The change in my son as he went from Kindergarten to First Grade. Being a dad rocks.
May 18, 2009

WineWoman
Might have to splurge for the last wine..

QOTD: How quickly the days are going by–which leads to enjoying them more and trying to be as productive as possible. It’s all about the balance(in wine, too).
May 18, 2009

David T (@ONUMello)
QOTD: A court decision two months ago that took effect today- that a small hobby group of just a few thousand (model rockets) can sue the Federal government (ATFE) and win. I suppose it could be similar to the Granholm v. Heald decision for wine.
May 18, 2009

neutron212
QOTD: the fact that all the people i knew from high school (96) are all married and or have kids and im still single
May 18, 2009

AUSSIE SAMMY S
Another great show Gary – Great enthusiasm!!!

The only Gigondas that is sold in the little town that I live is the Guigal…even though you canned it, I’ll still give it a go…I guess I gotta start somewhere.

QOTD….Turning 30!!! its crept up so quickly and still got plenty to achieve.
May 18, 2009

Beeper
QOTD: Reading “The 4-Hour Workweek” – thanks for that…

I had my first in March, you are in for a ride over the next couple of days, my friend! Great show, keep expanding our palates!
May 18, 2009

T. Holland
GV, GREAT episode with the knowledge you dropped about Gigondas. Have had 2. Pierre Amidieu 2005 rocked. The other one sucked (can’t remember the name)

Good luck with “waiting game.” Having gone through it twice in the past 3 years, it is a pretty amazing time. You want that phone to ring so bad, but when it does, you are like, oh man, what now.

QOTD: Crazy scary car accident that I walked away from with only 8 stiches, but it has definitely made me a appreciate everything I have….
May 18, 2009

mark b
QOTD: simple, college.
May 18, 2009

Totally Botrytis Affected
Great show! I love discovering new wine regions with tradition, terrior and value.
QOTD: BIG Eye Opener: Texas Rangers in first place in AL West AND getting praise for pitching and defense. (the collapse is coming in July/August)
May 18, 2009

Steve F
Great Show Gary! I’ve been busy working and haven’t had a chance to see the last 9 or 10 episodes but felt privileged to sit down to today’s effort. The continued education about regions that are “Sleepers” and the value that these wines bring is something I look forward to.

QOTD: How much I miss being away from my family and friends. I moved to San Diego in January and while I do love the area and being able to do things on my own, I’ve come to realize that my family and my friends are a set of individuals who I will forever cherish and need daily interaction with.
May 18, 2009

Rich Ritter in NY
2 for 3 = Crush It Episode. Gigondas is slowly becoming an interest of mine, hope you do some more shows on it real soon. PS: Lizzy’s ring tone should be a crying baby just in case it rings on the show.

QOTD: The complexity of planning to open a wine bar has been a tremendous eye opener.
May 18, 2009

Jeff Smith
QOTD: My amazing Girlfriend who I am proposing to tomorrow.

Hope the delivery goes very well.
May 18, 2009

PMHJ
Great show today, fan of the quick fact intro. how about a vacqueyras show in the near future?
May 19, 2009

Little Jonny
Love the Rhonies, and can’t wait to try the ‘other’ southern rhone wine!

Sorry I’ve been spotty on my viewing lately, lifecomes at you fast!…

QOTD: The cost of living like an average U.S. citizen (A.K.A. living like a sultan)
May 19, 2009

Vecchio
Another well done show!

Love that area of France even though I’ve never been there.

I have found the Chateau du Trignon Gigondas to be a nice drink and have a couple of Montirius Vacqueyras laid down for the next five or so years.

Great news about the baby!
May 19, 2009

melbourne rob
Great show gary – loved the informative nature of it.
I’d love to know more about specific vintages of wines you taste and where that vintage sits in the overall scheme of things. I think that is an extremely important aspect that many reviewers overlook. After all, producers can only work with the conditions they are at the mercy of – as we know all too well here in Victoria, Australia, sadly.

QOTD: finally realising that my path is coming into shape without me even realising it. ironic?
May 19, 2009

eagleputt
Another good, tight show about a wine varietal I probably would not have tried w/o tuning into your show. Thanks.

QOTD – The fragility of the world economic system.
May 19, 2009

Thomas
Realized just how freakin’ powerful Google is. The best and most powerful company in the world.
May 19, 2009

liangtfm
Really great show today Gary! I can’t wait to try a Gigondas wine Please restock the 2006 St. Cosme Valbelle Gigondas at WL!

QOTD: The biggest eye opener for me this year is my motivation to work and #crushit
May 19, 2009

Ryan Lesperance
qotd:
GV’s wine and web 2.0 wisdom
May 19, 2009

Anthony
Gary,

great show. Recent fan and cant get enough of the show. I will be hitting my local wine store tomorrow to seek out Gigondas wines. Question-how long do you wait from opening wines to doing your tastings? when you are drinking the wines in privacy do you typically decant most of the Red’s you are drinking.

Again-great show.
May 19, 2009

james marinello (bajayngo)
Would love to see more Gigondas in my town, have only had a few but loved them.

QOTD : people are complancent including myself and on the wine side, Sancerre and mussels are the freaking bomb!!!
May 19, 2009

my2cents
Nice to the wines make you happy.

Thanks for opening my eyes to Gigondas. I am ready to try some.

I am also a fan of the facts, and the comments recap.

Can’t wait for you to miss an episode because of “little Vaynerchuck” having arrived, and opened your eyes WIDE! You’ll be a great daddy Gary.

Mmmm maybe I have had my eyes closed for a while since I can’t remember the last time something ripped my face off opening my eyes.
May 19, 2009

yankee22
Great show. I gotta get my hands on that St. Cosme. No point buying just one bottle; have to drink one now and cellar one.

QOTD: That this country still can have the death penalty. 11 out of 27 jurists can opine, as they did today, that an inmate may be in fact innocent, but that man is still likely to be killed by the State.
May 19, 2009

Phil Dunn
Bravo – love the info-density. What’s your take on a wine bar in Grenwich Village called Ino? We loved it when there. Were wondering if it’s still in action. Toaster oven crostini w/ goat cheese, fennel fronds and crunchy salt.

I did not have a kid born this year..but did in 07, 04 and 02.. so that won’t qualify for QOTD. Sports-wise the Ducks beating the Sharks in 7 was bigtime. And a blackberry patch of a wine I drank on Sat night…Jam-time, which I’m usually not big on, but this was unreal. Guy brought out two of them.. hence the lack of label recall.
May 19, 2009

Phil Dunn
Bravo – love the info-density. What’s your take on a wine bar in Grenwich Village called Ino? We loved it when there. Were wondering if it’s still in action. Toaster oven crostini w/ goat cheese, fennel fronds and crunchy salt.

I did not have a kid born this year..but did in 07, 04 and 02.. so that won’t qualify for QOTD. Sports-wise the Ducks beating the Sharks in 7 was bigtime. And a blackberry patch of a wine I drank on Sat night…Jam-time, which I’m usually not big on, but this was unreal. Guy brought out two of them.. hence the lack of label recall.
May 19, 2009

Phil Dunn
Bravo – love the info-density. What’s your take on a wine bar in Grenwich Village called Ino? We loved it when there. Were wondering if it’s still in action. Toaster oven crostini w/ goat cheese, fennel fronds and crunchy salt.

I did not have a kid born this year..but did in 07, 04 and 02.. so that won’t qualify for QOTD. Sports-wise the Ducks beating the Sharks in 7 was bigtime. And a blackberry patch of a wine I drank on Sat night…Jam-time, which I’m usually not big on, but this was unreal. Guy brought out two of them.. hence the lack of label recall.
May 19, 2009

Phil Dunn
Bravo – love the info-density. What’s your take on a wine bar in Grenwich Village called Ino? We loved it when there. Were wondering if it’s still in action. Toaster oven crostini w/ goat cheese, fennel fronds and crunchy salt.

I did not have a kid born this year..but did in 07, 04 and 02.. so that won’t qualify for QOTD. Sports-wise the Ducks beating the Sharks in 7 was bigtime. And a blackberry patch of a wine I drank on Sat night…Jam-time, which I’m usually not big on, but this was unreal. Guy brought out two of them.. hence the lack of label recall.
May 19, 2009

Phil Dunn
Sorry about that – Google Chrome is killing me. Wouldn’t accept ‘add comment’ click. Until it showed up 4 times… ug.
May 19, 2009

Terence Fox
Too bad about the Guigal – it’s been stronger in previous vintages and I was eager to see what you thought about the ‘05. I always read the list of wines before I watch the show, does anyone else do that? Always like when you get all quiet and serious for a big wine. Top ten in complexity? What are the other 9?

QOTD: Working for my internship at rcrdlbl.com, web 2.0 is a strange and complex beast.
May 19, 2009

MagnumGourmet
Good show today Gary. Though I do find it hard when you jump between multiple vintages for a single appelation. When you do it would be nice if you would go into more detail about the growing conditions of each vintage. It’s hard for me to say that the ‘05 Guigal was bad due to vintage or winery issues.

QOTD – How news media can infulence behavior and how much it points out that we need media that wants to report on the news, rather than making it.
May 19, 2009

Waiterboy
Gary good luck to you.
The expectation of fatherhood is just about killing me with so much hope and too much fear. It worse than falling in love.
This opens my beyond eyes beyond anything I’ve experienced in the past.
Thank good to fine women who can spend time with us and good family to help us along.
May 19, 2009

teckdeck2008
qotd: how much of life is all about luck. it certainly takes skill and go get it type attitude to capitalize on stuff, but if your having a streak of bad luck and aren’t getting any opportunities to use your skills or energy then good things won’t happen. it seems like my life is just now turning around and i’m getting lucky in life and one of my best friends is starting to hit an unlucky streak; we’ll both get by about the same and hit our stride out of college, but its just an interesting reversal of fortunes that seems to have surprised me.
May 19, 2009

Gerardo Ritchey
QOTD: I had just finished remodeling one of the bathrooms in my house, and I was finally getting a chance to use the brand new tile shower stall that I had spent 2 weeks putting together. I was unhappy about the way some of the courses of tile had turned out. It was only after I had finished taking a shower and I stood there, that I realized that things don’t have to be absolutely perfect, they just have to work. This realization has helped me get over tons of hang-ups.
May 19, 2009

TimCub
QOTD: That childhood experiences of pedophilia could have such a profound effect on how one views today’s issues of the gay community. See guideoftheblind’s channel on YouTube for more info.
May 19, 2009

E dog
Hey Gary !

First of all, congratulations to AJ, and I hope all is well with the baby !

Great show, Gigondas and Vacqueyras are two of the best values in the Rhone today in my opinion. But shush… don t tell anyone

QOTD: With my graduation in a few weeks, I realised how much my family expects of me, and how I am a role model for my brothers and how I should show the example by working hard and being sucessful !
May 19, 2009

YoungDave
GIGONDAS!!! Excellent show topic! … but don’t get too loud about the value here. We all need our go-to QPR wines!

QOTD: Finding out my cousin (who is like a brother to me) and his wife are going to have a baby in September! And it’s a boy! And they want my help with a name! And I’m (basically) going to be an uncle! It’s exciting, GV, and I wish you the best with yours.
May 19, 2009

Richie
Great episode!
QOTD: That would be about Champagne. I used to hate sparkling wine but know I’m kind of obsessed with it because I had a really great grower Champagne a few months ago.
May 19, 2009

Beverly
Great show, Gary! I love when you point me to new regions! I’ll have to try the gigondas…I like the tea aspect like you do.

I know you’re so excited to welcome Baby V! God bless you and Lizzie!
May 19, 2009

TimF
One request: please use the word “play” more often. It’s really underused on the Thunder Show.

Very excited to see St. Cosme on the show — love their stuff.

Mott cracking me up with the quick pan up!

What is a “side brush fire”?

I trusted Mott when I buried the bomb in 1954.

Very eager to try that St. Cosme not that I’ll be able to get any after that review…

You can count, but can you write?

QOTD: My eyes have always been open.
May 19, 2009

Vinophile
QOTD: Biggest eye-opener…how quickly time passes. I recall as if it were last week the day I had my son—it’s here in my mind’s eye in great detail, a flashbulb memory. I can feel your excitement, Gary! Treasure EVERY moment…it goes by in the blink of an eye, every stage an eyeopener!

My son turns 27 this year, and hubby and I will celebrate our 30th anniversary a couple of weeks prior. Sorry for the cliche, but it all really does seem like yesterday…
May 19, 2009

MaRc
great way to start the week!

QOTD: Biggest eye opener = found out how finite a mother’s love can be and all the sacrifices she has made for me and the family just to see us through…uncomprehensibly selfless and truly a dept I can never repay!

And you are about to be a dad…whole new ball game now! Hope the Vayner-nation wouldn’t be left out for too long!
Finally…..congratulations, Gary!
May 19, 2009

DAveA
Just returned from Burgundy/Rhone, amazing wines. Love the Beaune, esp premier cru’s. Do a show on Premier Cru’s from the valleys.
May 19, 2009

Phredd
Spectacular show today, Gary! I liked the mini-review at the beginning to set the stage for the wines, the pace was great, and the energy was high. I don’t know how you do that show after show. Nice going, and now I’m pumped up to try to find some Gigondas, which I’ve never tried.

QOTD: Tough one. I’d have to say it’s realizing that very different people can focus on a single purpose. I played in a pick-up wind ensemble for a graduation ceremony. People hired ranged from high-school kids, to early career office people, to mid-life academic professionals, to 60-year-old jazzers, to 80-year-old retirees, to full time musicians. We focused for a couple days and put on a really good show for the grads. Focus and teamwork like that can help any business, not just a band. And while we’re talking about graduation, props to AJ and good luck with the consulting gig.
May 19, 2009

SCOTTYL
Gary-Great show the new flow is awesome. QOTD for you-Why do CDP’s usualy shut down in that 3-6 year window while Gigondas and Vacqueryas usualy don”t when they have similar blends? Also will you be getting in the 2007 St Cosme Valbelle,there is alot of “hype” about it?-thank you Scott
May 19, 2009

Paul Marganski
QOTD: being laid off after 9 years of dedicated service However, I am extremely excited about a new opportunity and more $$
May 19, 2009

sashanyc
Thanks for sharing some Gigondas with us. Glad you got 2 outta 3!
Wished I had the cash for a couple of bottle of the St Cosme.. gotta make that happen soon!
QOTD: People that you think will be there for you, aren’t always! harsh reality of life and another reason to “Crush it” on you own as much as possible and not rely on others that much.
May 19, 2009

italianwinelover
Way to Crush it AJ!!

Great Show but I wish Lizzy would have called!!! Good Luck – can’t wait to hear the good news about a happy and healthy baby and mommy!! It is the most humbling experience you will ever have and if you didn’t believe in miracles before you sure will after!

You turned me on the Gigondas along time ago like episode 55 or something early – sought them out then and have never been the same since!! My $$book is sometimes small so these are a special occasion wines for me! So happy you found something you liked!!

QOTD: How much having love in your life really changes your whole being and realizing that you should never give up!
May 19, 2009

Treb
Love The Gigondas/Vacqueyras area. I remember when you gave Montirius Gigondas 90+ points. Great juice especially in that under $50 range. Thanks for the techie-nerd info too!

Eye Opener of the year? We are almost over with the first decade of the new millennium. Crazy.

We were all born last century.
May 19, 2009

G
Well any wine that starts with a G…

QOTD: Gosh, if only I had some heartbreaking cause that I could link to. Well, maybe that’s it. I just had my moment.
May 19, 2009

Vino Vanwilt
Great show thank you for opening my eyes to Gigandos with the way my palate is going right now I must give it a try.
QOTD biggest eye opener are the Merlots and merlot blends I’ve had from the Malibu/ventura colunty area.
May 19, 2009

RnD
Once again, you give me something new to look for in my local wine store. Great show. Very interesting to see your reaction when you taste that “superstar” wine. You almost turn giddy.

QOTD: Biggest eye opener so far this year? Nothing is coming to mind, so I’m looking forward to it smacking me in the face really soon. Maybe it will happen in June when I turn 45.
May 19, 2009

Scruff
Great show… have loved the Gigondas region in the past.. St. Cosme have been bringing the thunder for the last 8+ years. Good Juice

QOTD: people willing to accept and justify torture… completely shocking
May 19, 2009

Marc-China Wine Tours
Awesome show GV! I’m going Gigondas hunting!
May 19, 2009

CaseyLee
great great great.
lots of fun wine facts and that 3rd wine made the show.
never had that grape b4 but i will try it now .
qotd – i realized how much potential i have at such a young age
May 19, 2009

hasbeen
As to you question about tips, one of the best tips I came across by chance was in a short clip you did regarding Pasodoble. You raved about it, so I picked some up. It was a great tip; I loved the wine, but would never have heard of it if I hadn’t run across it accidently on the Wine Library site. I would like to see you showcase more finds like that even though they are not part of your regular episodes.

QOTD: How lacking in integrity most people are.
May 19, 2009

Fasciano
Love St Cosme wines.
Killer show…how about getting the grill out? A food and wine pairing episode!!! WL can splurge a decent weber right? Or blind tasting summer Sauv Blancs?

QOTD: Salma Hayek not being able to smash a bottle of champagne at volvo ocean race.
May 19, 2009

pauliewalnuts
Loved the show…always enjoy it when you bring in wines I am not as familiar with.

QOTD: My biggest eye opener was a sandwich I had in Williamsburg…it was peanut butter, apple, and bacon on toasted white bread. It really brought home, for me, everything that lunch should be…so much so that it has inspired a business opportunity. Hopefully I can “crush it”!
May 19, 2009

jigger
GV on the WLTV, smelling it, giving it a whirl, and telling it. Thunder from the bottle and from the host today. Great ep.

QOTD: After reading the prior comments, I am amazed at how the combination of the sense of community created by your eps, when coupled with the anonymity of the internet format, creates an atmoshpere where people are willing sharing such intimate and private revelations about themselves. It is incredible thing to create a “community” which is populated entirely with strangers.

Peace.
May 19, 2009

NY Pete
so … are you a daddy yet?
May 19, 2009

Phil G
Wish I was drinking one of those wines right now – even the middle one.

QOTD – tough question. I think the Yankees have recently opened my eyes to how poorly they had been playing until recently. Time to get going, boys…
May 19, 2009

mrzitro
Gigondas CRUSH IT
May 19, 2009

oscar falcón lara
Congrats on the Baby Coming today Gary!

Thank you as well for reading my comment on the last episode, I was hoping you’d read it but wasn’t expecting it. Very cool. Good pace on this one as well.

Guigal is one of the Gigondas that is locally available, there are others but I haven’t tried them, I will ask for the Chateau Saint Cosme, maybe they can bring some in through special purchase.

“TRUST MOTT” should be on a Tee Shirt.

QOTD: biggest eye opener this year has been how quirky life became in a flash and how only the better prepared people react favorably to this. Specially life changing situations like marriage and finance.
May 19, 2009

Scott EJ
I just visited this region not that long ago. Although, I didn’t have the opportunity to try any of these particular bottles, I was able to get my hands on a regular bottling of St. Cosme and thought is quite nice. This is certainly one of those reqions that is right next to a more *popular* one, yet doesn’t get the credentials. That’s ok w/me.

QOTD: How rapidly this (The U.S.) ecomony is shrinking and most don’t realize it and aren’t preparing themselves properly.
May 19, 2009

Eric Godfrey
GV!!! First off, you better keep me posted on baby’s status…Now, onto the wines. Superb coverage on your part…Gigondas is a region which is highly overlooked and has been for way too long. Like you, alot of times i’d prefer a nice gigondas over a more expensive chat du pape. I am THRILLED that you tasted the Raspail and enjoyed it the way you did…I have been using it on my lists for quite a while and it always gets a great response, especially from yours truly. Great strucure, an overflow of elegance, and an amazing & long finish!!! Best wishes to you & Lizzie on the arrival…
May 19, 2009

Keenan Courtland
Between the Guigal and the St. Cosme you forgot to rinse the glass, just thought I’d throw it out there (It obviously did not matter). Good show, Ill look for that variety in the future.
QTOD- Being a Caps fan, making it two rounds, going to game 7. That was eye opening!
May 19, 2009

TommyB
Great show, agree Gigondas can be a true value play compared to CNDP.
QOTD: biggest eye opener? Realising what I want to do with my life.
May 19, 2009

castello
Most French wines have been a crapshoot for me and my friends. I have had so many bad ones (30 or 40) that I’m normally afraid to try any more. Thanks for showing us a couple decent ones. You were obviously surprised yourself finding 2 out of three good ones. My luck is 1 out of 30ish. Bad qpr! The Sainte Cosme is 60 bones here in Cali where I feel lucky to find it, but can’t afford regularly. I want to expand my palate but it’s very expensive and often very dissapointing.
May 19, 2009

BurroBoy
Another super show…when you are by yourself, the 16 minute pace seems right on, and when you have a guest you need the extra 15 minutes or so for their intro and interaction…even shorter ones for the mobile flip cam work as well. It seems like after 678 episodes you are really getting the hang of it.

Looking forward to when you are doing baby food reviews in several months.

QOTD: Went to a distributor’s pinotpalooza tasting of US west coast pinot noir…my first chance to sample higher up the food chain…the Cristom Vineyards stuff – holy moley!
May 19, 2009

ChrisR
Wow Gary, these are the shows that I love to watch. Funny that you forgot to rinse between wine 2 and 3, then immediately picked up a little of the previous wine’s characteristics. That last wine would’ve been great to throw to the Wine Club B peeps (yeah, I’m one of those). The one Gigondas I’ve had before was big, montrously big. Wish I could swing $50 for the Valbelle. Keep up the awesome wines, and throw yourself some priceyer wines more often.

QOTD: The economy.
May 19, 2009

David Dadekian
QOTD: Nobody’s going to do it for me but me (though my wife is a huge help).
May 19, 2009

Bugsey34
Ciao from an American viewer in Italy, Gary! Almost never post comments but had to say it was a great show. I LOVE when you introduce the Vayner nation to new value regions, and for me living in Italy the wine world is so Italy-centric here I struggle to open up my palate to new regions of France, Spain, Portugal and New World! Appreciate these tips.

QOTD: Meeting my future husband and how important love is in your life! Thought I would crush it as a single girl…
May 19, 2009

mario
Gary, great show, love gigondas, can you do a show on wine from coteaux du layon and all the wine dessert of loire….could be nice….jo pithon ….bonnezeaux…..moulin touchais….huet etc…..
May 19, 2009

Mike
Hi Gary

I am new to your site… do you review new zeland wines, or have you?

Mike
May 19, 2009

Pepel
i am a gigondas fan, and i hope that prices dont go up.. but no hate mail from me as of yet, maybe when i cant afford them anymore i could blame you. lol kidding.

QOTD: walking away from finance and entering the spectacular world of wine.
May 19, 2009

Dave
Once again great show..I have a question for you!! so your cheeks decided to text you “thank you” does that mean your tongue will email you comments about the wine?

QOTD: Because i’m in detroit..Chrysler’s Bankruptcy has been the biggest eye opener this year.
May 19, 2009

Taylor
Great show haven’t watched in quite some time, but good to be back. I would love to try more Gigondas, but like you said it limited.

QOTD Passing organic chemistry this semester, finally had the courage to chec my grades today and it was awesome to see that “C”
May 19, 2009

Antony
Yeh, I’ve drunk the Gig’, there’s enough around here in the UK, but ain’t had anything spectacular. Down in the Rhone, you, me and Randal all know that Cornas is a really great play. QOTD – just watching folk make their moves is always thought provoking.
May 19, 2009

maximagxe
Hey Gary, up here in Quebec We have roughly 20 to 30 different Gigondas at any given time. I have tasted the Tardieu – Laurent Gigondas vieilles vignes 2006 and the Laurus Gigondas 2005 from Gabriel Meffre lately and they are quite good. Another region that brings the thunder is the Cote Rotie, although pricier it can reward you with some GEMS! I know you did a show a few years ago but I had the Delas Seigneur de Maugiron Côte Rôtie 2006 and I must say it is presently SPECTACULAR. You should try this out…loads of Jerky and Bacon with some pepper, quite delicious!!!

Again a shout out from the great white North, Shefford near Montreal, Quebec!!!
May 19, 2009

Don
Gary — it was awesome to watch you describe that last wine, you were fired up. I would love to give that wine a shot some day.

QOTD: I almost got hit by a car when I was walking across the street after work last week!!! It was not cool!!!
May 19, 2009

Jay Campbell
The biggest Eye Opener I’ve had this year is that no-one should ever work for a company run by old women that don’t keep up with technology.
May 19, 2009

J Crazy
QOTD: Mixing chocolate and katsup is horrific.
May 19, 2009

Carl Krohn
Still no mention of the Weekend Wall Street Journal wine article. You are the “V” in their alphabet. Big ups to Gary V and Wine Library TV.
May 19, 2009

gibb brown
Qotd, had a kid, end of story
May 20, 2009

Michael Schoonmaker
After that “spectacular” reaction, I’m gonna be on full alert to find that last wine.

QOTD: The biggest eye-opener this year would have to be when I looked at some computer code (I’m a game programmer) someone else wrote. It’s very similar to what I’m working on right now, and was one of those moments when you sit and think, “I may think I know what I’m doing, but this is impeccable. I still have so much to learn.” My co-workers make me think that a bit from day-to-day, but that person’s code forced me to live it since.
May 20, 2009

BF
QOTD: That the Brewers are the best team in the NL.
May 20, 2009

Kitch(short for kitchen)
This is a little lengthy but it’ll be worth it. Just to rachet up your birthing angst and make you laugh. My last child was born in April 11yrs ago. Towards the end of March my wife’s Doc says guess what,your baby is to term(due date April 14th but as I always say they weren’t there when it happened you what do they know) and the baby is in breech position. The chances of her turning around are basically zero so time to consider a c-section. Over dinner and a nice Amorone (for me) she said let’s do it. Call the Doc to schedule. Doc says she can’t get her team together until April 6th. You don’t tell a full term pregnant woman to make that kind of decision then tell her it’s not possible for two weeks. Me, being my brilliant self said “do you have any objection to April 1st?” She thought it over and said no. Off to the phone and guess what? Who in their right mind would schedule their child to be an April fool. NO ONE! Therefore green light. Off to the hospital on the 1st. Being considered major surgery multiple things have to happen in preparation but none so important as the LAST person to enter the room: the ultra sound guy. He works around the rest of the mess and turns on the machine and proudly announces the baby is head down and in perfect delivery position. This unfirtunately cancells the whole program because now insurance won’t cover a dime since we would now be “electing the c-section”. We pack up and go home and wait for nature to take it’s course. Now it’s April 12th Doc says time to consider inducing labor. Wife says OK. 14th off to the hospital. Unpack, start the briefing with our appointed birthing staff and as the annoucements procede my wife says “I didn’t know this was involved or that wasn’t what my Doc told me”. Pack up go home. Six days later my wife says “I don’t care what it takes I want this baby now”. April 20th off to the hospital we go and 10:30 on April 21st my daughter was born. Now that she’s old enough on her birthday or sometimes as a reminder in discipline situations she is retold the story of what she put us through. But she always wins because through unborn willpower she decided not to be an April fool and there was nothing we could do about it. Talk about crushing it! All the best and be sure to share this with the Mrs. Kitch
May 20, 2009

yowens
Hey guy I like the short shows also; 15 minutes is perfect. Gotta get me some Gigondas! QOTD: my weight.
May 20, 2009

*/^_^\*
QOTD: that life does not wait on you. nor does it have any compassion. it is all on you.
May 20, 2009

Larry G
Great show Gary, like the pace! Enjoyed the texting from the cheeks joke. You seem incredibly happy and it probably has nothing to do with the 2 good wines you just showed us. Mazel Tov on your baby.

Mixing Wine Library with the show is a bad idea. You and the show will sacrifice too much credibility. Both are spectacular in their own rights.
May 20, 2009

laposte
Good show, the south of France is full of wonderful wined still unknown to most of the world.
QOTD: I have been reminded how temporal our time here is.
May 21, 2009

Todd
I like the infix “a whole nother”.
May 21, 2009

innA
Great episode! I’ve only had a couple of Gigondas, but definitely keen to try more.
May 21, 2009

wayno da wino
Yo G, Another GRRRRREAAAAAAT Episode!!!! Cool/Interesting Info on
Gigondas! Moooochoooo Thanx!!

qotd: Biggest Eye-Opener this Year??? The direction the Country is
going in now that we got the Liberal Loons in control…..
May 21, 2009

wayno da wino
“TRUST MOTT”?? I dunno, He kinda looks like a shady-character ta me…..
May 22, 2009

monden
Hi Gary,

I’m getting the Rapail Gigondas here in the 2003 vintage for 24$ us. 27$ can. It probably is a good buy, no? I know it a huge vintage as far as maturity of the grapes. Great show again.

QOTD: Your show!! I discovered your show this year and just recently started a wine blog in french, because wine is a passion for me. Also music and the arts in general, so i’ve kinda combined both subjects together and i’m starting to bring guest for the new emerging music scene and some older folks from the cultural scene as well.
May 22, 2009

monden
By the way, i mentionned that the Raspail is cheaper here. The Gigondas is is 32$ can. wich means 28 bones in us. Thanks for the tip!! Unfortunately, i can’t get yet again another wine that you like a lot, the st-Cosme. I’ve never actually had a Gigondas, i believe. Will definitely try it out, cause i love Rhône wines.
May 22, 2009

Laura
LOVE the inner cheeks texting!
May 23, 2009

Ann
The biggest eye opener I’ve had this year is that now that I’m using CellarTracker to track all the details of the wines I buy and the wines I drink, I realized that I am spending a pretty amazing amount of money on wine.
May 24, 2009

Dan-o
GV – good episode! I was introduced to Gigondas in 1997 by a colleague in France and I have been hooked ever since. I am not bothered by you making it more known, I have known it for so long that it is about time that others share in it. My favorite has been Domaine Pallieres (spelling?) and I have several bottles in my cellar that are aging nicely.

QOTD – the biggest eye opener that I have had this year is the incredible amount of greed that exists in our Wall Street and other financial executives (Madoff). I am not against somebody making a buck, but it needs to be an honest buck. How can you sleep at night if the luxuries that you are enjoying have been delevered at the expense of somebody else through under-handed practice.
May 25, 2009

yapdiver
Greg
Great show. Went to visit the Gigondas, Lirac & CDP region last year and was blown away by the quality to price of the wine in this area. Sing it’s praises. It righfully deserves it’s moment in the sun.

Eye opener: Corporate greed in America!
May 25, 2009

Jim in Atlanta
I agree with you on Gigondas. I spent 2 days there a few years ago and was turned on to the wines there and in the area.
May 25, 2009

Neil
Big ups to Mott on his job with the 85. It was totally unexpected on this episode and actually made me laugh out loud. Gary, loved your reaction to the St. Cosme. I want to get some of this.
May 26, 2009

lurkernomore
I really enjoy these sorts of episodes where you combine wine education about a region or grape along with wine tasting. I have heard about Gigondas before, but since its a region that tends to fly below the radar, I didn’t know much about it.
QOTD: The value of spending time with your family and watching your children grow up. I was a 9 year Wall St. veteran with a 2 year old son at home. Lost my job last year and am now a stay-at-home dad. Totally changes your perspective and priorities. I will never go back to that lifestyle…no amount of money can buy this experience or time.
May 26, 2009

Geoffrey
First time poster here, long time watcher, just turned 21.
I was wondering how you decide the tasting order in a show like today’s where you taste several wines of the same appellation. Also, on a related note and since I’m new to this, do you think that tasting first the Chateau Raspail that you loved could have affected your negative thoughts of the Guigal at all ?

QOTD: studying abroad this past year in Grenoble, France – learned tons about and tasted tons of wine, especially Côtes du Rhône !
May 31, 2009

rowland
qotd; my job at the vineyard … i cant say too much but holy moly!
May 31, 2009

KyBoy
Gary,

Last night I went to Jeff Ruby’s steakhouse in Louisville, Ky. Unfortunately, they don’t post their wine list on their website or email it out so I couldn’t preview it before dinner. While looking for a “value” wine on their list I noticed they had two Gigondas’ on the menu…a 2004 and 2006 Domaine La Bouissiere. I got the 06 for $64 versus all the Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s that were $100+. Turns out it was a great Rhone red…tons of dark cherry and loads of pepper. The bottle retails for around $35-40. I got a great buy at the restaurant because I came loaded w/ info learned on Wine Lib TV. Thanks again for the knowledge you drop on us daily! Check out my video review I did at the table http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UzJzn9GP4qU
June 6, 2009

JayZee
Great show, Gary. Yeah, I’ve had over 10 Gigondas as I discovered it as a real good buy back in the 90’s (which means I’m getting old). Still, it is an interesting wine most of the time and I wholeheartedly agree that it is a relative bargain and every bit as good as CDP most of the time.

QOTD: That our time together is precious and we shouldn’t squander it.
June 8, 2009

Jayhitek
QOTD: Electing a black president of course.
June 10, 2009

wannaBconnoisseur
Love Gigondas! Great show.
October 17, 2009

john calberg
Hi Gary

You definetly need to taste the Seguret Mourchon wines. You would love theese. Next time you do a southern Rhone tasting please include Seguret and Mourchon

Br
John Calberg
Denmark, Elsinore…. You Shakespear Hamlet….. to be or not to be a wine lover thats the real question
November 15, 2009

Erin
Hey Gary,

I’ve been catching up on old shows. I ordered a Gigondas (my first ever) at a restaurant this weekend. Delish!!! Thanks for giving me the confidence to order something off a wine list I otherwise never would have known to order (or even pronounce, for that matter)!!!!