Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon One Point Five

Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon One Point Five – Episode #698

June 30, 2009

After recently trying the 2005 vintage, Gary Vaynerchuk tastes the 2004 Shafer One Point Five.

Having trouble viewing this video? Try the Quicktime version.

Comments on this episode(346) Leave a comment ›

“Familiarity breeds indifference. Appreciation for all things always -…” by ulu ulu ulu ulu
“Gary, nice show. My wife and I had the One Point Five the other day a…” by Frank Hayden
View all 346 ›

Wines tasted in this episode:

2004 One Point Five Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District

Links mentioned in today’s episode.

The “Crush It!” announcement page

346 Responses

June 30, 2009

Gary Vaynerchuk
1st? NO WAY!
June 30, 2009

Mike Diz
2nd !!
June 30, 2009

Lawrence Leichtman
I take for granted that my friends will always be there when I know they won’t. Nor will I. Thanks for asking that question. Love the Shafer wines when I have the bucks to afford them. So when are you grilling?
June 30, 2009

Karl Laczko
Been a while since I was around so early in a show.

Shafer…. never seen, unsurprisingly for the U.K. and my eagerness to avoid high priced wines.
June 30, 2009

Dominus
Top 5! Brooks Robinson, be right back after watching. Looks like a good show.
June 30, 2009

wiljak
I’ve been taking the city in which I live for granted…Barcelona. There’s so much to do here and such a variety of unknown wines – gotta get out and explore more of these.
June 30, 2009

Pat B
QOTD: The enormous amount of opportunities to realize happiness in this country.
June 30, 2009

please
Please, drinking THE perfect wine is a pleasure in general. Looking for THE perfect evenings wine as well. But I have to admit: taking a look at unrelaxed people in unrelaxed movies, this thing spoils these pleasures at all. Gosh, I will start drinking beer or water. Or u will start change the movies and tonality so i can go on drinking wine from time to time …
June 30, 2009

Harp
Like “the guns” analogy
GV bringin the thunder.

Harp
June 30, 2009

KCity
GVee.. Great episode… love the Shafer winery. QOTD: My Health (but that is not a bad thing)… Quick question for ya. If you were pick up a few bottles to put away for a while would you go with the Shafer One Point Five or the Shafer Relentless (both are the same price up here in ‘taxed to death on booze’ Canada. HAPPY CANADA DAY by the way (July 1… Maybe a little shout out from Vancouver) Kurt
June 30, 2009

Kirk
Great to see you chillin’ at home. I have to say that I’m interested to see if you think your change in preference for the 2004 vs the 2005 could actually be that one extra year in the bottle? Just a thought…

QOTD: I think I have taken having nice, clean, white teeth for granted

top 10…wow
June 30, 2009

castello
Thanks for the big shout out to Cali Cabs! I take GV for granted. I will however miss you if you diss me and slow down or quit. Don’t do it. Please.
I wish I could find the 04 but not around here. Can you sell me a bottle out of your stash?
I also take for grated the fact that I could afford to buy one of these to impress my friends or to just chug it with a big ass steak.
Let Sasha do a Amarone show when you’re busy.
June 30, 2009

CABDRINKER
Gary, I’m with you – THIS WINE ROCKS!…. I’ve had it a few times, have more tucked away of the ‘04, ‘05 and ’06’s
June 30, 2009

Karl Laczko
Nice relaxed show,

QOTD – Take for granted, unfortunately I see myself TFG’ing all the important things in my life, Sarah, my Parents being around, my health & a steady job. I shouldn’t really, but it’s so unimaginble any of them not being there that it’s hard not to.
June 30, 2009

Gary Vaynerchuk
@KCity 100000000000000000% the 1.5!
OHhhh this is cool, this is gonna be my new thing! I am gonna @ people here in the comments which will allow me to do more interaction in the comments section!
June 30, 2009

Kenny Hyder
Like the feel from the porch Gary.. QOTD: How wonderful my wife is, and how much opportunity I have
June 30, 2009

WinePT
QOTD: Too many things that I shouldn’t. Especially all of the things that life has to offer.
June 30, 2009

Gary Vaynerchuk
@Kenny_Hyder thnx so much and thnx for all the support U have given this show and thnx, I agree about the porch
June 30, 2009

Laurie in VT
QOTD: Our wonderful home.
June 30, 2009

joshua
Thanks for the 1.5 suggestion, I’ll try my best to get some here in DC. I LOVE the Cali. Cabernets. My favorite to date is still the 04 Sequoia Grove reserve. If you haven’t had it yet, keep an eye open, I believe you will enjoy.
June 30, 2009

DannInNH
QOTD: My wonderful wife.
I picked up 3 of the One Point Five a while back and had recently had one; echo GV’s comments completely. I will keep the other two for the future. Came back from a Napa trip/Shafer tasting but never got to meet the big shots, but did manage to get some of the Hillside Select. You can’t go there and not make that purchase.
Love the home life episodes.
June 30, 2009

dcrob
Damn GV.. how big is your Manhattan deck! youll have to invite me over sometime

QOTD: actually, prolly my job
June 30, 2009

Kade Dworkin
GV,

I am such a sucker for these flip cam videos. Totally digg them.

QOTD: The biggest thing I think I take for granted right now is my internet connection. In a lot of ways it is my connection to a lot of the people I care so much about. There are times (especially with my little sis in Israel) when I see that folks aren’t as fortunate to have a stable & fast connection to the net. Trying really hard to move a lot of those connections to regular phone calls but it’s proving harder than I thought.

Suggestion for QOTD (I’ve been sitting on doing this for a while but I want to throw it up for you to look at): What character’s experience from a children’s movie would you want to integrate into your own life if you could when you were the age of that character?

For me, I’m so all over Charlie Conway’s experiences from Disney’s Mighty Ducks series. How bout you GV?

-Kade
June 30, 2009

Brian Thomas Clark
Great little video, Gary. Love your “location shootings.”

QOTD: I would say I take my the fact that all of my family is healthy and happy and nearby for granted. We get so busy and it can be tough to see them at times, but I don’t reflect enough on the simple fact that they are happy, healthy and taken care of.

Brian Thomas Clark
June 30, 2009

Lee
loved the laid back porch, maybe it will replace the laid back couch.
QOTD:maybe I have taken for granted the 4 great kids we raised and seeing them as adults starting careers
June 30, 2009

Jayhitek
QOTD: Oh easily my wife, kids, and my good friends. They are great to me and I am the biggest dikc on the planet. But does that get me anything by knowing it?
June 30, 2009

MikeAlvin
Thanks for showing us your pad Gary. It really makes me miss NY. Also, great call on pulling out the Shafer Cab. It’s one of my families favorites. I hope to see you in San Diego soon.

-MikeAlvin
June 30, 2009

castello
Ok what’s with the @ thang? Is that a twitter deal/play?
June 30, 2009

Dominus
You look like me each night chillin’ out on the deck with a nice wine though I have a laptop with you on the screen. You really need to upgrade that Weber and I have no comment about the grille cover. Nice crib!

On to the show. First, the 1.5 had some “PV action” and you swallowed so off the bat I knew it was good. I will definitely pu a bottle or two. If you had it available it sure would make my pursuit alot easier.

QOTD: I try to take ZERO for granted especially our freedoms and my health though this wrist tear is depressing me since I can’t hit the tennis ball right now. Seriously, I believe every single American takes our freedoms; i.e. speech, religion, vote, etc. for granted and most people have no clue how many people died and suffered so we can enjoy the fruits of their tremendous sacrifices.
June 30, 2009

Jay Campbell
Although Shafer is a little out of my price league, the One Point Five is always teasing me on the cusp of my ouch number. Glad to see you try it.

QOTD: Sad to say, my family.
June 30, 2009

Kiira
Totally jealous of your NYC outdoor space. Loved your reaction to this California Cab, sounds so up my alley.

Any plans on hosting a wine tasting in NYC sometime soon?? I’d be all over that.

QOTD: How freaking easy I have it. Honestly? I need to remind myself about that more often.
June 30, 2009

Opus
did you say “porchy porch??” hysterical…
QOTD ~ My Golden Retriver
June 30, 2009

Rob Vrabel
You need to do a Gary Cribs episode and show off where you live! The jets grill cover is hilarious (good choice on the weber btw). Love the new settings outside of your normal shoot.

QOTD: My life in general, just being able to afford the things I love and enjoy those things with my Wife. Its amazing!
June 30, 2009

Biznas
great show gary v. Man I want to hang out on your deck. next time i’m in nyc I’ll look you up. yeah right

QOTD all the sacrifice my parents have made for me when i was growing up.
June 30, 2009

David
Nice, relaxed episode.

QOTD: The ability to access great food and wine, at virtually anytime, in this country.
June 30, 2009

Pete C
QOTD: That their will be a tomorrow. Carpe Diem!
June 30, 2009

Marshall
Nice view.

QOTD:My five senses and my limbs.
June 30, 2009

Michael Barber
Good episode Gary. Awesome deck in NYC. Will definitely have to grab a bottle to try. I’m a sucker for good Cabs.
June 30, 2009

Marc
“minty bees wax” classic, must remember that one.
Good show, I try a lot of different wines from all over the world but always come back to my first love, California Cab. Good show.
June 30, 2009

Kathy Hughes
Even though I’m a champagne lady; thanks to you, I can’t wait to try the Shafer 1.5.

QOTD: I’m very appreciative of the people in my life….I’m not much at taking life’s gifts for granted. Happy 4th Gary and family, Naples, Kathy
June 30, 2009

paul
When TimF won that contest he graced me with a bottle of the Shafer Relentless ‘04. I sure hope they did as well with that as with the 1.5.

QOTD – probably my family. Not my wife, necessarily, nor my kids, but my siblings and parents. I know they’re always there but it’s easy to forget to give them the attention they want and deserve.
June 30, 2009

Fasciano
Love the grill cover. Link up with bobby flay and do a wine / food pairing episode.

QOTD – take for granted – fantastic food and wine.
June 30, 2009

Zube
Sounds like a nice wine, but that’s probably about as close as I’ll ever get to it. The wife gave me a $30 gift card to our local nicer wine shop and my plan is to try to spend the entire amount on just one bottle. That’s big time for me… a $30 bottle. Wonder what I should get?

QOTD… in this day and age of ATMs that give you access to your cash 24/7, microwaves that cook a frozen burrito in 2 minutes when it used to take 30 or more, memory sticks that hold all of your digital stuff yet fits in your pocket…. you know what is an amazing thing that gets taken for granted?…. TOWELS!!… yep, aren’t towels amazing. you just rub them over your soaking wet body, and POOF… you’re dry. Obviously, it helps to have waterproof skin, but still…. towels… cool
June 30, 2009

steve pinch
Nice show, Gary. I just love SHAFER! There is so much hype about Hillside that I often feel this gem is overlooked when people talk about CA Cabs. I actually drink even more of their Merlot, which I think one of CA’s best and always call “Merlot for Cab drinkers!”
June 30, 2009

Dan B
Nice show Gary, this wine seems like a home run. I will have to look for this on a restaurant list, if I can find it. By the way Gary, I think you should do another blind show, I can’t get enough of them!

QOTD: I take my entire life for granted. I’m not thankful enough that I’m in a situation where I can afford expensive wines and frivolous fancy dinners.
June 30, 2009

Thomas_S
Hi GV. Nice and relaxed show. When you give an 93 to a Cab from California it must be very good. I searched in some internet wine stores but this wine is not available in Germany.

QOTD: My family, friends and healthy that it.
June 30, 2009

Craig Natvig
This wine won our Blind tasting party a month ago!
June 30, 2009

Jaybird76
QOTD: Time, and I often regret wasting it.

I have tasted all the Shafer labels and they constantly hit it out of the park. My first Napa trip will include a trip to their private tasting.
June 30, 2009

Thomas Moore
The shows from the deck are really great. I love the relaxed feeling I get while watching these.

QOTD – My good health. I think this is something that is often overlooked and not appreciated until its gone.
June 30, 2009

B-727
QotD: It seems … the things I love the most
June 30, 2009

NY Pete
GV keeps bringing the thunder … where’s TimF, he’ll remember the wines you guys sampled @ Shafer.
June 30, 2009

California Cab Lover
My husband and I had the pleasure of going to a Shafer dinner at a restaurant in Austin, TX. Doug Shafer was there and was so gracious and entertaining. I really liked their merlot. No Hillside was poured

Love your home videos, am really grateful you shot two in one day so we didn’t miss a day.

QOTD: That I live in the greatest country in the world! Shame on me!
June 30, 2009

Mike Dougherty
QOTD: I take for granted that tomorrow just might not be here.
June 30, 2009

NY Pete
QOTD … at times, my lovely wife and my beautiful daughters.
June 30, 2009

Robert
Do a romanian wine, you promised. (a long time ago, i will send you a printscreen from my inbox)
And the shoutout for my girlfriend, you promised that also.
I love your show, but still, this is a negative comment
June 30, 2009

John Farrin
QOTD: Probably because I was supposed to die eight years ago, I can honestly say that I don’t take anything for granted. Everything in my life is much more precious now and I savor each new day in a way that, unfortunately, I never did before. With me, and a little bit of you, life is good!
June 30, 2009

Kevin C
Another stellar effort GV. Keep them coming!

QOTD: That we live in the most incredible time in the history of the world, it’s so easy to complain about teh things that are wrong, need to spend more time enjoying the many more things that are right
June 30, 2009

Nick Fogelson
Great show. You have gotten me way more onto wine. I can’t wait for the book, I have ideas I want to crush with.
June 30, 2009

Dale Cruse
Episode 700 will be the infamous Sir Gary/Darth Vayner mashup, won’t it?
June 30, 2009

PrimoVino
QOTD: I’m not sure if I actually take it for ‘granted’ but I should stop and reflect a little bit more about how lucky I am. I’m definitely thankful, but I’ve found myself complaining about some really trivial things before, and then I stop and remember how fortunate I am and how little some people have.

GV- you made another comment about grilling today (last night)… my recommendation stands- invite Booby Flay on as a guest to do some tasting and pairing with grilled food. You two would absolutely kill it… outdoor show too!

See you in Portland in October.
June 30, 2009

Jerry Fourroux, Jr.
Gary,

I am a long time lurker. Great show and have been a fan since the 200’s. My wife and I love to take a long time for the sniffy sniff and describing all the aromas, thanks to you.

QOTD: I think it is Freedom, especially as I think about July 4th coming.
June 30, 2009

Dale Cruse
QOTD: I take for granted that there will always be new episodes of The Thunder Show.
June 30, 2009

C-Lo
Holy crap balls GV, how big is your balcony?? That is serious. Big fan of the Manhattan skyline as your background. I like the home shows, you seem much more relaxed. And I’ve said it before, but I like the short one wine format.

QOTD: I take for granted the fact that my friends cut me such slack for being piss-poor at calling them. I hate talking on the phone, so I will go for long periods of time without calling people back. I have amazing friends who put up with me, and I for sure take that for granted. I make a point of telling them “I love you no less, I just won’t call you right back!”

Keep it real.
June 30, 2009

adrums
GV, Yup, those cats at Shafer really know their craft. The elegant tasting experience at the winery is not to be missed. Have you tried their chard? It’s a great non-oaked, non-maloed version with wonderful, crisp, pure fruit. Anyway, keep up the good work.
QOTD: all of this crazy communication technology!
June 30, 2009

Adam F
love the deck, very cool. seeing the city in the background and hearing the sounds made me really miss NYC. hope i get to visit again soon.
June 30, 2009

Vanguy
Nice deck! Enjoyed the ep.
Can’t really think of anything I take for granted.
Family, I guess.
June 30, 2009

Skip Stamper
Gary,
It is a shame that you were not more enthusiastic about that wine…
I love a great Cab even though that one may be a bit out of my price range, it is alway good to learn. Good show..
June 30, 2009

Matt T.
QOTD – My parents. They do so much for me every day and I never really thank them. Thanks for that. I’m going to call them and tell Mom and Pops I love them.
June 30, 2009

Anders
2005 58 bones in Sweden, is that a good price?

QOTD: Tomorrow, which is kinda stupid in the long run
June 30, 2009

RichE
#698
Is Now in the books, and done with a spectacular Cali Cab.
I’m Gonna head down to the cellar and crab me one as well,
……..ahhh the power of suggestion

QOTD:
I try not to take things for granted, it’s the way I roll
June 30, 2009

Gregory
QOTD: My health. It’s very difficult to be grateful when you’re healthy. When you’re ill or injured, one becomes very grateful: grateful for your family and friends who’ll stick with you when you’re ill or injured; grateful for our medical system and all those who work with it and in it; grateful for breath, the ability to walk, the ability to wipe your own ass, etc.
June 30, 2009

CaseyLee
gary you da man ! that vino sounds freakin delicious !
my mouth was watering the whole episode through. pricey for me but still
QOTD – my youth
VV
June 30, 2009

Kevin K
QOTD: Life.
June 30, 2009

manonthemoon
Nice show, have been eye those bottles for a while and might have to pop one sort of soon.

QOTD: Time and my current job/status, doing well for myself, but yet can never put my whole effort into it, my heart just never seems to be there, sad state.
June 30, 2009

Joel M
Hopefully it’s not my job because a lot of people are losing theirs. Nice show GV. On the nerd play thing, I would like to see a couple more wine cellar shows, like you did in the past. They were very educational and fun. Cheers Joel
June 30, 2009

Dr T in NC
QOTD — living in a culture where so many of us can take the time to enjoy wine and think
June 30, 2009

Micha
good show and a well performing wine. Thanks for another Episode, Gary.
June 30, 2009

Wardo
GV: Dude, nice balcony!

California cabs take criticism often…but I think most would agree that a solid or premium (in the case of this episode) cab from California is really an iconic American summer wine. I might need to pull one or 2 out for the upcoming 4th of July here in the nation’s capital.

QOTD: My legs…I know that sounds odd, but I ran my 1st marathon last year and am still and avid runner…and when I stood between 3 handicapped people on the metro train last week (one of whom was an injured war veteran), I was reminded of how lucky I am to have legs that can carry me where I need to go.
June 30, 2009

Chris F.
Nice diggs gary, can I crash at your place if I come to NY…….lol just kidding.Shafer is definitely an exceptional winery,I have had several of their wines and never had a bad one.

QOTD:I recently went back to school after moving threw several career changes in the last decade, and I had forgotten how much fun taking on such a challenge could be.Although, I have found myself busy as hell trying to keep up,I find myself rising to every challenge.I guess a few years ago I thought I was to old to go back to school and I doubted my own ability to take on the challenge of returning to school after so many years.The truth is I think I am better prepared and more capable than ever.I had forgotten maybe the most important lesson in life and that it is never to late to do the things you love and your passion for what you do will help you over come any obstacle.The old cliche you can be anything you want to be or do anything you want to do still applies but for awhile in my life I just took for granted that my my path was already chosen.We all need to remember that our life story can’t be written until we are dead and until then the content of that story is up to us.
June 30, 2009

Nathan
Splendid to see you kick back, relax, and really – truly – enjoy a glass of wine. Cheers!
June 30, 2009

Clayton
Another great episode. You describe the ONE POINT FIVE just like it is — made me decide on steak and cab for tonight! What got me started on Shafer is the 2005 Relentless syrah blend…. tried that one?
June 30, 2009

WineWoman
QOTD: Not that much. Freedom…I’ve always had it so I suppose maybe that, though it seems like we are getting less of that too.

Jets Grillcover–nice touch!!
June 30, 2009

SurfCityJay
Nice Cab and nice Weber!!!

QOTD: The LIFE we can live here in America…
June 30, 2009

Murso
GV and V-Nation,

All Shafer wines (!) make even a plain steak EXCELLENT. Love ‘em. can rarely afford ‘em, but they always give 100%. Relentless RULES.

Don’t forget – Shafer is a leader in sustainable farming, etc., and are currently producing more electicity via solar than they use. See their website, http://www.shafervineyards.com for full insight.

QotD – As I now bartend in a nationally prominent, but independently owned music venue, all of the incredible music that my gf and I get to enjoy. http://www.beachlandballroom.com
June 30, 2009

Mimi
QOTD: Always believing that there will be a tomorrow and therefore not living today as if it were my last day…

ps I love your show keep them coming
June 30, 2009

italianwinelover
Fabulous ep! Nice escape in your backyard – Would love to see you grill on that baby!!!

QOTD: When reflecting I guess it would be freedom. I’m really honored to be born in the United States! There are so many opportunities available to us because we live here – so much good too!!
June 30, 2009

Jeff R
Gary – With that question of the day your getting some deep answers.

First off, good episode and I thought a lot of the past comments had a lot of merit. Yes, your deck looks cool (hope you continue to show us more). An episode with Bobby Flay would be neat – food and wine pairings. Yes, you do seem much more relaxed on the patio shows. Almost like a Friday.

Qtd – My health and lifestyle. I think the poster “Gregory” really summed up the health part great. As far as lifestyle, I mean that I take for granted the decent surroundings I live in, in a safe suburb with a decent wife and daughter and decent family. Even though I’m one of the unemployed, there is plenty to sit back and reflect upon. Deep, deep show – especially for us guys! Next you’ll be asking about our innermost feelings!
June 30, 2009

RANDI
Gary!!!
Thanks for another fun episode..I just want to tell you how much I enjoy what you do…and thankful for the education…xoxo

QOTD:Hhmm..I’d have to say, I take my health for granted. I take care of myself, but I still think I should be more thankful that Im healthy, and more aware of how fortunate I am.

xo
June 30, 2009

kerry melcher
QOTD: My husband. He’s generally so easy to live with and parent with that I forget how lucky I am to have him.

with gratitude.
June 30, 2009

Tofferotti
Nice deck GV! When are you having us over for a barbecue? I’d like to see a show centering more on some petit verdot. I know you don’t see many producers bottling PV by itself but there are a few producing wines with a large percentage of it. Red Head Studios Yard Dog red is one that I enjoy often with an awesome price. I’d like to see some others.

QOTD: The ATM. People bitch about the fees but forget that not too long ago, if you wanted cash, you could only get it during bank hours. Now we have banks open at all hours but back then it just wasn’t so.
June 30, 2009

Murso
@Adrums,

What are you talking about, non-oaked? Red Shoulders ranch Chard (current release ‘07) is not only barrel fermented, but barrel aged, sur lie, for 14 months in NEW, mostly French Oak! Except for 25% stainless.
June 30, 2009

JOEYdaMUSH
Hi Gary.

Been a while since I commented. Still lovin the show and the vibe.

QOTD: I think I take my parents for granted.
June 30, 2009

Kristopher Murata
Gary said something about Brazilian sparkling wines and I didn’t find any wine library episode about it.. anyone has some clue where find it?

PS: I’m a brazilian guy, on a small city, searching good wines.. and it’s really hard! =/

QOTD: My current job on a real state USA company and my lovely fiancée from a 9 years relationship.
June 30, 2009

Steve Schmitt
LOVE the show. Sitting out on the patio, enjoying the weather, sipping on a glass of nice Cab; that is truly what your show is all about. Thank you for make wine SO enjoyable!
June 30, 2009

Elias
I think I take for granted the life I am having. Granted, things could be better, but I have my health, I am about to get married to a gorgeous loving woman, there is a bit of rough road ahead with getting a decent job, but life is good. Thanks for reminding me.
June 30, 2009

Peter T
QOTD: my health. I learned I had contracted the big “C” last year and it was obviously a life changing event. As you always hear but it is so true, life each day to the fullest, as if it might be your last.

Cheers,
A survivor
June 30, 2009

gotsha
QOTD…Love the Jets grill cover! I always take for granted that fact that I will wake up the next morning.
June 30, 2009

Scruff
Always enjoyed Shafer… good juice esp. Relentless.

QOTD: Life, family, friends…. it is too easy to think that they will be there tomorrow like today when it might not be true…
June 30, 2009

Harry
I sometimes take how lucky we are to be able to access so much through the internet for granted. Many many times I’ve been inspired by you, and other passionate people, especially the past few years. So thank you, the love that you give out so freely to the whole Vayner-nation is priceless. It even makes watching you occasionally go bonkers over something inane, or talk over your guests (which you’ve gotten much better about in general, so props), or butcher foreign languages tolerable.
I also love the 0ne Point Five, and had an amazing tasting with the Shafers and 3 older vintages of the One Point Five and the Hillside Select. Although most of the class (largely new world wine lovers) preferred the Hillside – which especially in the 91 and 97 was spectacular – I preferred the 1.5, at least the 98 and the 04. The 1.5 showed a little more tailoring, and more understated earth notes, that filled out the fruit and oak beautifully as it developed. I think its a much better value play, and something I give props to when i see on a restaurant list, over the Hillside Select which has the bigger rep. Even at $75 retail would be a bargain comparing it to $100 CA Cabs, top flight S.A. Cabs or Left Bank Bordeaux.
June 30, 2009

Hugh
QOTD: My coworkers…without them I’m lost….

Just once I’d love to see you spit off the balcony….that would be funny…or how about taping on the street…just a thought…
June 30, 2009

Chris McCollum
Loved the show, keep up the good work u are crushing it out of the park.

I live in Texas and sometimes I take the air conditioning for granted, It is hot down here Go Cowboys!!!!!!!!!!!
June 30, 2009

Zeek27
….enjoyed sitting on your patio with you and sharing a nice glass of wine with a friend – thank you….

QOTD – what it is to be an American and all that it means….
June 30, 2009

Vinny
Great show. I really like these 1 wine in-depth episodes as a change of pace.

QOTD – My health. It’s so easy to take for granted how easy it is to do every day tasks that are very difficult or impossible for people in poor health to do.
June 30, 2009

mike z
qotd: where do i start? my health, my possesions, my family. you truly dont realize what you have until its gone. living in NJ where you can have anything within a 5 minute drive doesnt help. its great to take the blinders off and appreciate everything we do have in our lives.
June 30, 2009

BobbyTiger
A thought provoking QOTD Gary.
After sitting and thinking for several minutes, I’m going to go out on a limb and say that I really don’t take anything for granted.
While things in my life, will at times, not go as planned, it will not be because I didn’t work at it. A 44 year marriage, three great sons, grandchildren, relative freedom in our grand country, and a healthy lifestyle..
All greatly appreciated, but certainly not taken for granted.
June 30, 2009

JasonA
Thanks for bringing another great napa cab for us to enjoy. My best wine in the last year was a napa cab. A jocelyn lonen 2005 cab. Enjoyed even more that it was with my family.

I think I take for granted some of my good friends that I have known my whole life. Marriage and kids take away time from those friends for sure, but a phone call doesnt take that long.

jason
June 30, 2009

ex-lurkdawg
Thanks for another great show. I have stolen this answer from others, but I take my health for granted and should be more appreciative of it. Speaking of really good CA cab, I’d like to see you taste the Arnot-Roberts ‘06 Clajeux Cabernet. Parker gave it 94 points and for once I agree.
June 30, 2009

Jacob M
great great episode. love the chilled feel… i feel like kicking back with a good bottle and some old friends . gotd: way too many things… sadly…
June 30, 2009

Jay
QOTD: My parents, my health, the gift of salvation purchased for me by Jesus Christ, my presently mediocre job and how it has actually been an essential stepping stone to building my career, the safety afforded me by the diligent work of our law enforcement and intelligence agencies, and the increasing number of freedoms (and percentages of our earnings) that we’re letting government take away from us.

The usual.
June 30, 2009

sam
Life is beautiful!

Still, alot of us (including myself)go about our daily business taking life itself for granted. The world is a playground (Die Welt ist ein Spielplatz), so have fun! Love life!

P.S. A show on red greek wines would be nice. I know you have mentioned them in previous episodes, but a show dedicated entirely to red greeks would be nice.

I am drinking a Rapsani Reserve, 2004 from Tsantali right now and am really enjoying it.

Keep bringin’ the thunder!
June 30, 2009

Phredd
Great show. I’m amazed that I have a bottle of 1.5 (although it is the 2005) sitting in my wine rack. It’s one of the pricier bottles I own, and I haven’t yet found the right occasion to crack it. My mouth waters just thinking about it.

QOTD: Cheap energy. I can be cool at night in the South; I can drive to work, to the mountains, to the beach; I can watch a movie or turn on a stereo anytime I want. Sooner or later (probably sooner), that’s going to get much harder to do.
June 30, 2009

AUSSIE SAMMY S
Love that backdrop GV….the ambience makes the wine taste that extra bit special sometimes…

That was a really focused & passionate ep Gary, I felt that your passion towards Cali Cab was from that heart. I am really enjoying these out of office shows.

qotd…water…here in Oz we are in the worst drought in our short history & me, like others has to learn to conserve water. shorter showers etc…
June 30, 2009

Phredd
Oh, yeah, and I second the thought about Bobby Flay. If you can get him, that would be a show I would love to see.

@Manus: Yes, the Shafer Red Shoulder Ranch is oaked, but it is smooth. Not and over-the-top oak-monster. Shafer knows how to roll. It’s definitely not a stainless steel wine, though.
June 30, 2009

guymandude
That the next bottle will be as good as the last.
June 30, 2009

Dominick garrett
Gary,

Great show, one of the best as of late. Like the chill mood, I feel like I am across the table from you. I enjoy that!

QOTD: i would say I take my Dad for granted. He is a great business mind and a wonderful Dad. I didn’t have the closest relationship when i wasa kid, but I am learning the man has an incredible amount of life experience and is ready to share.

Cheers,
Dom
June 30, 2009

alt
”i’m sorry I just compared freedom to California Cabernet”
Thanks for making your episodes funny and still being considerate to those who could be offended by it (although I thought it was hilarious). I don’t think I’ll find this out in Guam but thanks for sharing the experience!

QOTD: I take the sunshine and beautiful year round 90 degree weather and beaches/oceans for granted. Although i’m thrown back into appreciating it every time i’m in the states or Japan.
June 30, 2009

Seth
Good show! Loving the more wine-centric in depth shows! Can’t beat the setting either! I actually had the pleasure of sharing a bottle of the 04 One Point Five with my brother at restaurant in Houston last fall. As for the QOTD, I certainly take my family for granted. I couldn’t ask for a better brother, or mom and dad!
BTW, I would like you to try the 08 Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc and tell me if it smells like Boston Baked Bean candies to you! I know you love to throw out the candy references and to me, this wine smells just like the candies that I haven’t had in probably ten years, but it’s the first thing that pops in my head when I smell it!
Keep up the good work and congrats to you and your wife for your beautiful little girl!
June 30, 2009

Jason S.
QOTD: sadly, I think I take my parents and friends for granted. I need to do a better job with that.

GV, where are you in the city? Not often you see that much outdoor space! Livin’ large like diddy!
June 30, 2009

Terrance Young
Great QOTD that’s got me thinking deep: I take my time for granted.

I take for granted that I have more of it to come. That I will always have time to do something solid with my life. I forget that everyday that passes leaves me with one less day to make something of my life. Sorry for the depressing answer, but these sort of things have been on my mind lately.

That’s why I think the subtitle to your book is so appropriate… because now is the time.

But don’t get me wrong. Life is good, too. Especially life with WLTV. Keep the thunder rolling GV.
June 30, 2009

RobRx
The thing most people take for granted is their health. That’s why so many people smoke and are overweight. Those of us in healthcare see the other side of that picture.
June 30, 2009

RodneyStrong09
Gary- what an amazing episode, so glad you are done with all that Sake and are getting back to REAL WINE. QOTD: I take having a job for granted, something I should be more thankful for considering the economy.
June 30, 2009

Peter
Not being a cab lover, I have friends that are and put on a large tasting. It was all the big guns Dalla Valle, Bryant, Grace family, Phelps insingna, plus Screaming Eagle.that one that no one can afford. plus a lowly bottle of Shafer Hillside select. These were done all blind and the hillside was a clear winner. At a fraction of the price. Everyone loved the Hillside as it had true character of the Napa. Love to see you try Viadare.
June 30, 2009

brorjace
Fun show! I always like the informal shows, they seem to have you at your most natural. I guess lately I’ve been taking my health for granted, haven’t even been sick lately. (Hopefully I’m not jinxing myself).
June 30, 2009

Jeff Smith
Great Show Gary
I am excited to try this wine now.

QOTD: Family, God, health, and Job

Have a great one, always love getting home from work to watch your show.

Be cool
June 30, 2009

castello
I think you are taking that bottle for granted. Give a big, delicious, purple paintish, very well integrated, no oakmonster, drooling for a big FAT Steak, etc a 95 at least. Have you ever given a 98 or 99? Of coarse then we’d be bitchin about not being able to find it. Now I’ve got to go get some good CAB.
June 30, 2009

Ben K
Hey GV, awesome episode… how bout maybe a show about wines that pair well with vegetarian friendly foods?
June 30, 2009

Chris Coffey
Gary,
Love the shorter episode. Somedays its hard to find 25 minutes for a mammoth WLTV. Nice to see an under 12 minute episode.
June 30, 2009

Snarf
QOTD: I take for granted that I can go downstairs to my cellar and pull a diverse and/or good/great bottle of wine. Many thanks to some of GV’s recs.
June 30, 2009

Adam J
QOTD: I’d say my sense of hearing is a big one.
Nice patio show…and nice patio! Thanks for the show!
June 30, 2009

Jay
Gary – Nice backdrop to the episode. Even the traffic noise seemed friendly. QOTD: Wow! Sadly, I take too many things for granted. Recent partial loss of hearing brought that home. That I have the ability to drink the occasional great wine with friends, when so many others battle just to take care of their families…..That I have a job I like…… and of course, that the Thunder Show awaits me at the end of most days!
June 30, 2009

FriscoGrapes
Loved the episode out on your balcony. City sounds, fresh air and a great wine. I think you should do more shows with a single wine. Oh, and fire up your weber next time.

QOTD: Family!
June 30, 2009

@Armond_
QOTD: What Jay said…and definitely my family.
June 30, 2009

Jack O'C
QOTD: Without a doubt I take my mother’s health for granted. She’s 10 years cancer-free this month, and I can’t imagine where I’d be if she weren’t in my life each and every one of them.

Good show Gary, love the grill cover. I have to see if I can get myself a Chicago Bears cover like it!
June 30, 2009

@Armond_
One more thing…I think it would be very cool if you did a Madeira episode before 4th of July in honor of our Founding Fathers.
June 30, 2009

Jack O'C
QOTD: Without a doubt I take my mother’s health for granted. She’s been cancer free for ten years this month, and I can’t imagine where I would be without her being in my life all that time.

Good show Gary. I loved the grill cover. Very fitting.
June 30, 2009

Bill
Nice terrace.

qotd: health
June 30, 2009

The Last Sip
Great episode, love seeing you chilling at home. Nigs digs, btw. I am appreciating the theme of the week, nerding it up and, like PE circa ‘95, getting back to the Terroir-Dome! If I could get my hands on it here in Ontario, I’d love to try the Shafer Cab 04, I guess I’d have to settle Shafer Merlot 06, if I had the coin. It rings in at a whopping $72.95. Keep up the great content, and you’ll always have a viewer in me!

Simon Halpin
June 30, 2009

MIke in C-town
Gary: Really enjoyed the patio ep and I echo the laid back porch Friday thought. I knew it would be good show when I saw the Shafer. The couple I’ve had have all been very good. Props to the folks doing it right.

QOTD: Honestly, probably everything. Health, family, freedoms, my job and standard of living. Heck, I can fuss over wines when some folks can’t even get fed.
Joni Mitchell said it best – Don’t it akways seem to go, you don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone.
June 30, 2009

ScottEJ
WOW…what a kick-ass deck. I live in Chi. and would kill for something like that. Was that a freaking shed next to your Cadillac of a Weber? Good God you got it nice.

Nice wine content, too. Thanks. Of the few hundo bottles of vino I have, it’s the Cali Cabs that I have the least of…percentage wise. I got bunches of Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Zins, but not alot of cabs. I think I’ve just been burned too many times by average wines at a high price tag to not go there so often. I do, however, got a lot of WA cabs. Speaking of, if you’re looking for a show, how about doing a WA/CA wine blind show? They share many varietals, but are so different. Just a thought.

QOTD: How much little time I have on this Earth and how much I don’t see my folks. They’re getting older and I really need to see them more before it’s too late.
June 30, 2009

BrandonP
Great show, great view of the city.

QOTD- I take for granted that my baby sleeps through the night almost every night.
June 30, 2009

Gibb Brown
QOTD, all the small things, as cliched as that is, i forget how good my wife and child ( and child on the way) have it. Our life is perfect, and i keep getting wrapped up in what we don’t have yet.
Great show Gary, you should do more from the porch, you seem so relaxed there. Maybe even another beer show, this time on the porch while grilling.
June 30, 2009

Brooklyn Paul
Shafer rocks. That ‘04 1.5 is a great wine.
June 30, 2009

Brooklyn Paul
Great episode GV. Love seeing you drink some wine outdoors on a beautiful NYC evening. I agree with you that the ‘04 is better than the ‘05.
June 30, 2009

mattyb_58
QOTD: The fact that almost all of my friends and family are still here. My wife and I live much closer to home now (for a bit more) and the fact we are within a couple hours drive is great. Awesome to see friends on the weekends who live close as well.

I think we all take Mott for granted too. The better half I might say!

Thanks GV for the great episode. We want to get back to NYC soon and whenever the time comes, we will definitely head down to WL to see you. Thank you for doing what you do and kick starting my adventure into the vino world!

Matt
June 30, 2009

Bob
Unfortunately, I take for granted my family.
June 30, 2009

Libby'sgirl
qotd: I take a hundred things for granted in my life- wouldnt even know where to start; however, I do not take You for granted! Dont mean to sound queer/sappy…really mean it ! thanks for being there and bringing a little burst of passion across the internet.
June 30, 2009

David T (@ONUMello)
QOTD: No contest- living in the great US of A. Traveling to Honduras in March really opened my eyes to how great we have it here, yet so many people seem to not realize how good anything here is versus even the best there. I keep having to remind myself of that anytime I’m complaining about anything.
June 30, 2009

flavasauce
Gary, Is that Jasmine behind you on the railing? One of my favorite smells ever!
Reall nice to see you on your beautiful deck.

QOTD: Probably my health, yet I kvetch terribly when facedwith the slightest ache or pain. Oy, need to work on that.
June 30, 2009

nickshep7
GV,

First time poster… not so long of a lurker, though. Been watching for just over 2 months or so. Originally found this page while searching for wine reviews and stumbled upon Corkd, which in return lead my to WLTV. Don’t want to sound corny, but you really introduced/intrigued me to get out there and expand my palate beyond Yellow Tail (no offense) and search for great wines from different regions at reasonable prices….

Anyway, great show, and am enjoying the “wine nerd series”; however, I’d like to see you get back to — and I could be mistaken here — the soul of this show… introducing value wines to the masses and inspiring people who have never picked up a glass before to give wine a try…. Not sure if that’s possible with 80 dollar Cali Cab. How about another value week in the near future?

QOTD – Family, but I’m working on it…
June 30, 2009

G
Nice job. I visit the stags leap district every other month and after checking Shafer’s website, I see why I never saw them from the road. Never there on weekdays though, so will have to find the wine elsewhere. But good call on the tasting. I have had bad wines from this district, but they are the exception to the rule.

QOTD: My P machines. Passat, Powerbook, iPhone. they all pretty much perform as expected day in and day out. All the soft people stuff, not so much…that’s the good(?) part of having many years behind me…every year I really ‘get’ that people are too ephemeral to be taken for granted.
June 30, 2009

Robert-Jon
Oh my… that grill cover…
You’re a real nutcase Gary!

QOTD: Basic shelter. A few hours ago a homeless guy asked for half a euro so he could spend the night at the salvation army. In a kind of instant reflex I said no and walked on. A minute later I hated myself for that, as I was walking to my place where my laptop and tv and couch were waiting for me.
June 30, 2009

David Dadekian
QOTD: Long honest reflection, perhaps I take my wife for granted. Not that I don’t always tell her I love her, but perhaps day-in day-out she’s always there and that should be recognized more.

Glad to comment for your breathing pleasure, Gary. Some days are shorter than others, but it’s not that much effort. Thanks.
June 30, 2009

Big D
Gary,

I tasted the ‘04 1.5 and the ‘04 Hillside Select at the winery and if you like the 1.5 you’ll love the HS. Of course most of us have to decide whether to pay the mortgage or buy a bottle of HS but it is great wine and not nearly as overpriced as some Bordeaux biggies.

QOTD: I sometimes take for granted the overall health of my family although sometimes the precariousness of life is brought home.
June 30, 2009

Kevin
QOTD – That I will always have a job and not need public assistance. Too many pre-concieved notions of who is on public assistance.

Also, love the old school wrestling mentions
June 30, 2009

carpediem
When so many seem to care more about better jobs, better schools, better food, less crime, better recreational space, access to better health care, and the like, it’s hard to feel guiltless enjoying a nice bottle. Glad you were able to catch a do-good inspirational and generational story like Shaffer. This goes down as one of your more passionate shows. Fatherhood puts much in perspective. Thanks.
June 30, 2009

Van F.
Hi Gary,

Really enjoying the “nerd” factor of the recent shows. They expand my mind by bringing a view into places I could not otherwise go! Also, thanks for bringing us into your home! What an honor that you think of your Vayniaks as “family”! Definitely feel the love!!!

QOTD: Like so many these days, lost my job last Monday. Don’t know how this will turn out, but an honest day’s pay for an honest day’s work is something very easily taken for granted!

Thank you for “pumping out the content” day after day… a little wine, and a little bit of you bring some peace to the madness.
June 30, 2009

TROC
2004 Napa Cab’s Rock! Schafer’s a little pricy for me, but now I have to find some. At my age I take nothing for granted.
June 30, 2009

LisaPeacea
QOTD: Nothing. I realize how fragile life really is…so I cant take life for granted. Not any part of it, not my family, not my freedom, nothing. From the beautiful sunrise over the lake in the morning, to the sun setting at night, I am in awe.
June 30, 2009

Ivan
OH YES WE ARE!!! Loved the show…need to do more flip cams on the balcony… beautiful views of NYC.

QOTD: My health… Sooner or later will start going down hill. Just have to appreciate and be thankful every day.
June 30, 2009

Don
Gary – AWESOME episode, I enjoyed the Thunder Show on your deck. It’s great to see you relax and kick back! You are still just as passionate in this setting. The Jets grill cover is hilarious (and expected of course). Funny ending too when you turned the camera back around.

QOTD: Deep thought provoking question… I am thankful to say I don’t take my family for granted. I would probably have to say I take my own health for granted. Just turned 29 and starting to realize my super human powers won’t last forever. HOWEVER, like a fine wine, I do get better with age.
June 30, 2009

Christopher Scoggin
I’m not a big city guy, but that is a nice pad you got there

Any blind tastings coming? It seems like it has been a long time.

Any chance of touching on Colorado wines? I understand it is not known as a hot bed of quality wines but Palisade and Canyon City areas have quite a few wineries and I would hope at least one of them made something worth drinking!

QOTD: Unfortunately family. We never should take them for granted but we all to often fall into that trap.
June 30, 2009

Tom T.
Nice show. I agree that we as Americans tend to take our freedom (and other privileges) for granted. QOTD – time. Because it goes so damn fast.
June 30, 2009

JeffWalnuts of CA
Hiya Gary, great show, napa valley love, gotta pay for it though! Do you think technology, in time, will allow for a $10-$20 bottle of Napa valley cab to taste as good as an ‘04 Shafer given the fruit quality/winemaking/barrel ageing won’t be there? Just a thought… winemakers have more and more tools at their disposals even at the mass produced levels. Keep on WLTVing!
June 30, 2009

RGABE
Gary, The Jets have the dumbest football coach in th world on their staff, Bill Callahan ex Raider and ex Nebraska coach, why in the world did they keep him around when they fired the head coach. Is your owner the problem ? Do you really beleive a Shafer can vary drastically in quality from year to year ?
June 30, 2009

Don
Gary – as a few others comments, I’m also surprised you gave that wine a 93 as opposed to a 94 of 94+… The way you were talking about it led me to believe you were going to deliver a crushing score. I’m interested to hear about some of the complexities and nuances this wine was missing that could have pushed it to the 95 range.

Very cool how you’re responding to comments from Twitter. I should add to my QOTD that I take the Internet for granted. Without the Internet there would be no Wine Library TV!!! Yikes.
June 30, 2009

urbwes
Very fun show. I’m sitting with a glass of Malbec (not Cabernet but so what)and enjoying the night air as well.

qotd: I take my personal freedoms for granted: freedom from opression, freedom from hunger (being an employed person), freedom of speech etc..
June 30, 2009

Orion S.
qotd:electricity
June 30, 2009

Jarvis
Solid show GV. Out of my price range. However the wine mixed with a little humble-pie was nice to see. Its Big small things like that which will always make keep me watching your show. Bravo!

QOTD: You know, as much as this is might make you head spin, probably family.
June 30, 2009

Jordan
Nice Pad, So when is it time to bust out the grill on WLTV? The Shafer 04 sounds like alot of 04 Napa Cabs. Delicious! Thanks

QOTD- Time! We only get one ticket for this ride so we better enjoy it!
June 30, 2009

mikek
Gary, I’ve been so busy for the past month; even though I have kept up with WLTV episodes, I have neglected to take time to drop a comment. This episode has given me the perfect opportunity to make amends!

QOTD: I think I take for granted the effort and energy you put into making this program. After 200 plus episodes that I have been following, I realize just how much I have learned because of your teaching. Because it has become part of my daily routine, I think I overlook that you are STILL as passionate, and revved up as you were on day one! Thanks for taking the time and continuing to “bring the Thunder” to my world, despite all of the changes that are happening in yours! I wish you and yours all the very best, that life has to offer! Thanks again, Mike
June 30, 2009

AZwino
GV-
I’ve also enjoyed the 04 One Point Five in the past. Like you said it is a great Napa Cab. Great Show! I’m heading to Iowa during the holiday weekend to be in a wedding. I saw that they have some wines in that part of the country so I may go do some tastings. Any recommendations? Does anything good come from the midwest (at least when in comes to wine)?

twitter=wino145

QOTD: I guess it would have to be family. Even though I love them tremendously it seems like they will always be there.
June 30, 2009

rick redekop
The fact that we are able to purchase even the inexpensive wine and have a steak with it is taking for granted that we have so much more than most of the rest of the world. Thankfully we can do that and do what we can to help those that don’t have that privelidge.
June 30, 2009

Traderjoe
Awesome stuff great descriptions and I could almost taste the wine with you.

Aloha!
Joe
June 30, 2009

Gabe SM
This is the first comment Ive actually posted but ive been watching for a few months, this is more of a question however. Which eps should I go back and watch if i wanna get hardcore into wine tasting and drinking. I know you did some on training the pallet, but are there a series of vids that should provide me with the knowhow to become a true vayniac?
June 30, 2009

Jarod
Love the show from the deck with the Napa cab. Just took a trip there last month and thats all I’ve been drinking. Guilliams cab and cab franc are my faves.

QOTD: Definitely my lovely wife. She works so hard and takes great care of me and I sometimes don’t fully appreciate how lucky I am!
June 30, 2009

kyle
Breath brother. Another fantastic show. Love the one-wine structure. Love the nerdiness. I drank the ‘05 at a wine dinner and enjoyed it very much. Very nice, ripe, pure, Napa Cab. There is a time and place for such wine.

I really enjoy your show and I sincerely appreciate the time you take to educate us.

Best to you, your wife, and your newest addition. Seriously.
June 30, 2009

James H.
I want a steak now!

QOTD: Technology. I think many of us take this for granted. Here I am on my Macbook Pro watching you, chatting with friends, and downloading a movie on iTunes. On top of that, I’ve got my iPhone next to me buzzing every time someone sends me an email. If you could go back 100 years with this technology people would be stunned! Quite the amazing time we live in. Don’t forget that.
June 30, 2009

Jack Dempsey
Great show Gary. I’m enjoying the geeked out theme recently, and coming from a web programmer who loves that aspect of your life, that’s saying a lot.

I definitely am jealous of that grill–can’t have one on my balcony.

Anyway, QOTD: To be terribly unoriginal, I have to say family as well. I left home at 14 to experience the most amazing four years of my life at boarding school, but missed out on a lot of familial experiences as well. Unconditional love is a funny thing…but without getting too corny, you really seem to give it to your viewers, and that’s truly a wonderful quality. Thank you for the hundreds of episodes (longtime lurker)

All the best to your girls and you,
@jackdempsey
June 30, 2009

John D.
I try to remind myself daily to not sweat the small stuff and be grateful for everything I have. This normally occurs on my drive to and from work. I’m surrounded by emerald green water and powdery, white sand beaches. My house is less than a mile from the beach. My parents live close by. I have a good, stable job that is both rewarding and intellectually stimulating, and a roof over my head. I’m far from rich, but I want for nothing. I spent a summer in my younger days doing community service on a small island in the Grenadines island chain. It was a dry island (only fresh water was from the rain, or from a store), high unemployment and poverty. It really changed my perception of things. Yeah, sure, I get wound up about crap sometimes and momentarily forget how blessed I am. But I try to catch myself mid-soapbox. My family is happy and healthy, I’m educated and employed, and my dog is always waiting for me, tail wagging vigorously for our daily walk.
June 30, 2009

Colleen
Just discovered your show through TWBAONLINE! Want to party at your place what a hoot so full of enthusiasm. Will definetly subscribe and look forward to the fun and education!
Colleen/Tampa
June 30, 2009

Mandy
Your cheerfulness is very contagious. I haven’t had cabernet in awhile and you made me want to go get some. QOTD: my inner voice. I gotta learn to go with my gut.
July 1, 2009

Earl
Beautiful background and I definitely want a steak.
July 1, 2009

Andrew S
Good job!
I got to visit the winelibrary today for the first time, fantastic place. The staff was very helpful and I saw your dad in the parking lot out front (that was pretty neat, although I didn’t get a chance to say hello).

QOTD: Probably everything to some degree. I’ve got a 11 month old, time is flying. You’ll see.
July 1, 2009

Pittsburgh Alex
Freedom is Napa Cab

QOTD: My Parents
July 1, 2009

Vinotas21
GV,
One of the things I have taken for granted is your show. I have been lurking for a couple of months, but am catching up on all the shows, 3-4 per day. Love what you do, I am a wine professional and I use your show in my day to day buying and selling of wine. Your passion is infectious and re-ignites my own. Thank you for the tremendous effort. Greek wine, Portuguese wine, Evesham Wood, I love it all.
Keep bringing the thunder
-Vinotas
July 1, 2009

mattw
whoa gary, that balcony looks awesome. i’d love to hang there, sipping some excellent cabernet.

qotd: great question, i take so much for granted. i spent the last 5 months living outside the united states, and an experience like that can really get you up close and personal with all you take for granted. i try so hard not to take my freedom for granted, especially now with the people of iran fighting for freedom of their own, but it’s so easy to forget all the sacrifices made by those people 233 years ago this week, and the many others since, all so that we can be free.
July 1, 2009

ben from boston
I love the experience of chillin on the roof deck with you. I can literally see it getting dark as the lights in the tower behind you come on and the atmosphere changes ever so slightly. Nice change of pace. By the way I agree with the others that 1 on 1, you and the vayniacs, is the way to go (except for family guest spots).

qotd – my grandparents. don’t we all?
July 1, 2009

stump
qotd: That’s a tough one, and bound to inspire much cheesiness. Answers: mental and physical health, access to great wines, access to a wide spectrum of information pertaining to all topics, water… there are too many answers to this question. We Americans are over-privileged for the most part, and we tend to take it all for granted. Apologies if that sounds obnoxious.
July 1, 2009

John Cabot
Loved the show Gary,
Beautiful poarch episode. I like it! I too, have taken Napa Cab for granted for a while now. More in favor of interesting rhone blends and Pinots from cooler areas. Keep bringin it! Hope Meesha and Lizzy are doing good.
John Cabot
July 1, 2009

Robert Howells
With all that has been happening in the world lately(Farrah,Michael J,Ed etc..) I have been taking life for granted. I have a wonderful wife, two beautiful daughters and my immediate family are all healthy. What more could you ask for?
July 1, 2009

Harrison Painter
Great episode! The change of venue is solid, and 10:27 is nice….leaving folks wanting more……….I really need to get a sniffy sniff of some “Minty Beeswax”!!!!!!

Gotta love the one sleeve up, one sleeve down –> Ready for anything!

QOTD: Until the events of last week, life. All of the deaths of last week made me reflect on how fragile life really is. I have been known to bash people who talk about balance, and felt they were preaching from a weak and lazy position.(I am a serious work-a-holic) This week has made me reconsider that position, and I now understand that you not only need to CRUSH IT in business, but also need to CRUSH IT with the family/friends as well…..Thanks Gary!
July 1, 2009

troutmonster
There’s nothing quite like porch-drinking at night time in the summer. I like how you always keep us guessing. One day it’s a super obscure episode on wines from Santenay, and another day it’s a wine that 99% of us have heard of. Keep on hustlin’!

QOTD: My health. I recently had a medical scare, that turned out to be a false alarm, but it really brought my world into perspective.
July 1, 2009

Alain
Another great show, thank you.

QOTD: farming the vineyard, and your show.
July 1, 2009

Hans
Another great episode Gary, loved the balcony action up in NYC.

QOTD: I think I take my ability to travel all around the world. I recently got back from circling the globe in less than fourteen days and being able to experience so many different cultures at once has not struck me yet. Also thinking about people who have never been able to experience other cultures or even countries has made me begin to take my wonderful experiences for granted.
July 1, 2009

WineB
Hi Gary, nice terrace! When do I get invited over;)
Great show, I think I’ll have to drink more wine from Cali- it’s difficult to get over here in Germany though!
Kind regards
July 1, 2009

Sarah
Sometimes you don’t want a circus to be a poetry reading.
July 1, 2009

downtnmark
Gary, when you review an older vintage, you should emphasise the effects of aging the wine (even for one year). The 2006 is already on the market. With your help to spread the word, maybe we can get more than 2% of the wine drinkers to hold onto their wines for more than 1 month. I have yet to open a wine that hasn’t benefitted from 1-3 years of aging. I hope I don’t take this for granted in the future.
July 1, 2009

Kyle Getrost
Liking the absence of the spit bucket. I’ll be looking out for the ‘04 Shafer.
July 1, 2009

Richard Arblaster
Great episode Gary, nice and relaxing.

There are lots of things I have taken for granted in the past. Not so sure there are many things now.
July 1, 2009

JLove
Great show! I am just waiting for the ultimate for me now, the combined Gary V and Bobby Flay grill and wine episode. Can you say instant gold?

QOTD:Love. Everyone has some to give and I think the EVERYONE takes it for granted to often. Try “hello” with a smile sometime on the street, it just might make THE difference in someone’s day.
July 1, 2009

castello
I think I know what allocation means(a case for most stores 200 cases for your store)but can you give us some details.
Bees wax on. Awesome show!
I had to settle tonight. A 2005 Merlot from Chat St Michelle from the northwest. Pretty damn hearty for 10.99 on sale. This is where Sideways helps us Cab lovers. Their Cab would be close to a 20 spot, but the Merlowwws are at least 20 to fifty percent lower. Expecially in this market. For us wanna beeeses, I still can’t(in a blind test)tell a good Merlot from a decent Cab unless you throw some PV in it.
Mott! Link up some good PV!
July 1, 2009

ErieWineGuy(Glenn Chojnacki)
OK, OK…I’m done being a lurker for two(2)months now.

Gary, I discovered wine about 6 years ago, and I just went nuts and fell in love with it. But every time I went to the Wine and Spirits Shop in Erie,PA(hence the name, “The Erie Wine Guy”), almost nobody wanted to talk about wine. My face would light-up and I flailed my arms around wildly when describing wine, but sadly, no one seemed even remotely as interested as I was.

Then I saw your program.

Gary, you’re a terrific young man, with an extremely interesting and entertaining show, and I enjoy it all so much. Thank You for your hard work and caring attitude and dedication to all of us.

Being a management and manufacturing consultant, I do enjoy the nerdy, educational shows(who knew there was someone else out there who even knew about Alianico Del Vulture?), but respecting the fantastic business side of you and your hectic schedule, I enjoy any and all shows you produce(I also like to see the bantering and mutual respect between you and Sasha).

It’s late and I have so much more to say, but suffice to say, I’m now a HUMONGOUS FAN!!!.

I’ve finally met another crazy, nutty wine guy out there!

God Bless for now until our next conversation.

Sincerely,

TheErieWineGuy, (((AKA Glenn Chojnacki(and you thought Vaynerchuk was bad!),from Erie, PA)).
July 1, 2009

Greg Bendoni
Big G, Fun Episode my friend. I too have been to Shafer and hung out with Doug. I agree with you some of the best CA Cabs come out of there, just great Wine in general. The 03 Hill Side Select blew my pants off. I never did get the chance to try the 100 pt 02.
QOTD for you. How do you think Brett Farve will do on the Vikes next year? I hope he throws 200 pics, but I’m just wondering what your thoughts were.

QOTD: WLTV…lol
July 1, 2009

Richie
Hey Gary you should do an episode on wine-grill parings. That would be nice.

QOTD: I take my life for granted. Even that really isn’t right.
July 1, 2009

Glen
Hey Gary,

Funny episode.

IDEA: You schould try the same wine from diferent vintages and pare them with food (made on your Jets grill) and see how it goes and reacts with the tannins that fade away when the wine gets older.

Love the Shafer!

Keep the nerds happy!!

Glen
July 1, 2009

oscar falcón lara
It’s been a while since I’ve had any California Cabernet, it was the drink I gravitated to for a long time and decided to try new things four years ago, it will be a long time for me to try it again, still rounding up regions from all over the world.

QOTD: I am sure there are a few things I take for granted, my dog for example, he’s so cool and loving and doesn’t demand that much attention, and he’s always around.

Would like to see the lesser known Spanish wine regions on the WLTV, been trying a few myself(Yecla, Campo de Borja, Pais Vasco, Madrid, Calatayud.)
July 1, 2009

NY Pete
me thinks you take us for granted … only responding here to the twitter crowd, WTF GV.
July 1, 2009

Mauricio Fernandes
Yet another very good 1-wine-show GV!!

Awesome grill cover you got there! Put some good Brazilian or Argentinean meat there it’s going to rock with a cab like that.

I saw you mentioned Brazilian sparking, what have you tried lately? Did you like? Will you make a show on that?

See you. Best wishes.

Mauricio Fernandes.
Brazil.
July 1, 2009

CABDRINKER
Gary, you had this wine a few years ago with us true long time Vayniacs (and a couple annoying lurkers)in Hollywood – remember?
July 1, 2009

North Carolina Wine TV (Kipp)
Great wine! I will have to give it a try. I look forward to checking out Crush It!
July 1, 2009

Beth
Excellent show again Gary.

Things I take for granted – health, books and the freedom to read what I want when I want to, and the financial ability to buy a nice bottle of wine when I please.
July 1, 2009

Brian J.
Gary, you’re just dead-on about the black tea leaf component in aged Cabs. I started also picking up lately on that play, especially on 16-month oaked and above. You should most definitely do a Judean/Jerusalem Heights Cab tasting (hinty hint, try Shiloh, Kahanov, Ella Valley, or Psagot)

QOTD: I take my freedom and independence for granted, and I’m aware that being 22 and walking through the world with that kind of feeling is SUCH a privilege.

Cheers from TLV
July 1, 2009

mjr
good show. nice pad. nice wine. thank you.
qotd i took a lot of my life 4 granted until i was thrown into a japanese jail for 2 months. 1 gram of grass. really appreciated all i had when i got out of there. still do.
once had a sensational loire valley white but lost the details. a loire show coming?
all the best

mjr
tokyo
July 1, 2009

Pete
Great show Gary. Love where you are taking the show.

Qotd: that life is generally lovely. I’m very fortunate and yet I often focus on the aspects that aren’t. Family, pets, house, work, health…many peeps aren’t able to enjoy these things. Thanks for reminding me of this.
July 1, 2009

GaryDuPont
Hi Gary,

I’ve been watching the show for about a month now after stumbling across it, and I must admit that at first I was a little taken aback at your enthusiasm, but I have to say you’ve won me over with your (sometimes brutal) honesty. No1 likes a wine ponce!

As a South African (I originally come from Constantia, and worked in Stellenbosch for a few years), I really enjoy that you are on board with Saffa wine. I am living in the UK at present, and it is sad that SA wine has a reputation for being cheap and crap here. As I’m sure you know, it is entirely untrue. It’s also refreshing to find someone high-profile who actually enjoys Pinotage.

If you have not already, I must recommend that you try the simply excellent red wines from Hartenberg Estate (Stellenbosch), with particular attention to their Shiraz and their range-topper shiraz, The Stork. Simply fantastic.

Love the show, keep up the good work.
GaryDuP
July 1, 2009

Derek F.
Gary, I really loved this episode…I like when you invite the vayner-nation into your home, makes us feel special!!

QOTD: I take having a great job to go to everyday for granted sometimes. I have to keep in mind that there are people out there that would do anything to have work again.
July 1, 2009

gary vaynerchuk
@NY Pete
“me thinks you take us for granted … only responding here to the twitter crowd, WTF GV.”
No way Petey Pete, I am just using the @ sigh to show who i am talking to, they aren’t twitter names. U got confused my man, or I did a bad job explaiing
July 1, 2009

quaffed
qotd: the little things
July 1, 2009

Mark Fitzpatrick
Let’s do five easy to take for granted…

5. AC during hot, humid summer day in the house…

4. AC in the car…

3. Fresh, organic food available within minutes of home

2. How wonderful my family is – both mine and wife’s family

1. Being able to see, smell, hear, and walk. Some peeps can’t.
July 1, 2009

ktf
Good Health!! When it is gone it is gone! Live for today because you never know what the next day will bring.
July 1, 2009

Zach
This is GV 2.0. Episodes like this are why I started watching your show. It’s great when you get your nerd on and break open one of the more pricey bottles and share a little one on one time with us.

QOTD – freedom and health…not necessarily in that order.
July 1, 2009

Holladown
really like this show, and truly enjoy the one wine, intimate play.
never had any Shafer wines, and funny enough a buddy told me he had the Highlands last night.

QOTD: The health of my family, and possibly not living our days to a more full potential. Who knows. Don’t we all tend to take life for granted.

Be awesome, love people and you will be loved.
July 1, 2009

Krunch
Gary, As I stated before, Fan of your show. I did notice that from the beginning of the show though you did NOT have a “Spit Bucket”, which lead me to believe you were already mind set to “LOVE” this wine. I knew you were going to love it and not dump it unless you tossed it over the rail. Please keep my faith in you as a Non-Bias taster.

Thank you.
July 1, 2009

Dick M
Relaxed nerdom……..love it!

QOTD: Take advantage of how great life is and thanks for the reminder Gary!
July 1, 2009

Kittysafe
Great episode, gorgeous porch, gorgeous wine, agree on the grill play.
Grilled an amazing London Broil this week, popped a bottle of 2006 Dusky Goose.

What do I take for granted, that my mom will always be there. I honestly don’t take much for granted Gary, I really don’t. I’ve been through alot in this life and haven’t had the luxury of taking much for granted.

Keep hustlin’
July 1, 2009

Scott
Great show. A week late, but I loved the sake 2 parter. I hope you rope Beau into being the Dr. Oz to your Oprah IPTV empire. I think you articulated what made those episodes so special and what makes your show special overall: passion. Few things in life are as enjoyable as spending time with someone and hearing them talk about something they’re intensely passionate about. Keep up the good work.

QOTD: People who trust me to get things done. I need to find a way to motivate myself to do the things I’m not so passionate about.
July 1, 2009

Uncle Meate
Very good show, G Vay. Short, sweet and to the point.

Fire up that Weber and slap some steaks on it !!!

QOTD: Zen
July 1, 2009

Chalz
Jets Grill…Will it ever end? Nope.

QOTD: health.. we all do
July 1, 2009

MaRc
Great laid back friday…Whoops! It’s not even friday yet!!!
But nice way to chill…

QOTD: People closest to me whom I love most, yet taken for granted most! But I’ll cherish them every moment that I can and when I’m aware of the moment.
July 1, 2009

Eric S.
Great episode on a fantastic wine. My wife and I had that for the first time a few years back in Newport and have bought it on occasion when we have seen it. Love the finish on it. Also, love the dedication doing two shows in one day! As for the question of the day, I would say great friends who all live in the same area for the time being.
July 1, 2009

Steven McD
wow…. love your porch, gary. I’m jealous. And I feel I take good friends and family for granted sometimes. However, you just helped remind me that you should tell your loved ones how much they mean to you EVERY CHANCE YOU GET. I feel like I was raised on Napa Cab also and I look forward to grabbing some Shafer — if i can get ahold of it. Thanks. Great show.
July 1, 2009

Grant
I totally get what you meant about Napa Cab. There are too many, most are overpriced, and all the so called “buzz wines of the moment” end up being not much different from one another. So I tend to forget that there are several that are truly remarkable–they just get lost in the shuffle (of my scattered mind)

QOTD: Some times I get so caught up in thinking about what I don’t have, that I lose sight of all the wonderful things I do have. Shame on me.
July 1, 2009

looper
Love the episodes where GV goes soft on us. I had a little tear welling up. haha. Nice show, quick and a little nerdy. Kind of like Avery Johnson, you get me there. Little NBA reference for no good reason, I don’t even really watch the NBA.
QOTD: I take for granted that everyday I wake up and the sky is the limit. I think that people get bogged down with the overwhelming responsibilities that day to day life can bring down on us. Every day is a new one, remember to enjoy your life, not just live it.
July 1, 2009

Danimal
I hear you on the Bordeaux slam, last 2 bottles I had, 99 Clos Du Marquis and 03 Per Et Ils Chambertin tasted like liquid Thanksgiving.

Sorry, I need some fruit. can’t wait to try this Shafer.
July 1, 2009

jwink
Awesome outdoor deck setup you have there. I try to grill as much as I can in the summer having 4+ meals a week from the grill.

QOTD: I took my ex-girlfriend for granted; which subsequently reinforced to me that you can never take people you care about for granted.
July 1, 2009

Matt Knowles
Living somewhere between Mclaren vale & the Barossa valley, I go into a local shop and there are no imports! Sometimes I wish they sold some other fruits juices of the world…. but then I just pickup a local big heavy shiraz, sit back and let the feeling pass! I guess I just take the local South Aussie wines for granted…
July 1, 2009

wui
Hey Gary, First time viewer. Great job, keep it up. Just a quick question for the uneducated. I’ve heard it’s best to finish a bottle the same night you open it with friends and those close to you. But what can I do if I just want a glass that night with dinner? Will corking it and keeping it in a cool dry place work?!? thanks for any help, sorry if there is a video already covering this!
July 1, 2009

Joe Ferraras
Hey Gary,
I think, I used to take for granted, that I am always going to be healthy despite being about fifty pounds overweight but just recently I know I have to work on weight and toning up to stay that way. I also wanted to say that I like when your epidodes stay on the shy side of twenty minutes. That is NOT saying that I cannot take more than a twenty minute dose of you, the longer episodes, although interesting can make me become antsy for sitting so long in front of my computer when there are several other things vying for my attention around the house.
Keep up the great work and thanks for some very entertaining sharing of your knowledge
Joe
July 1, 2009

Jon-Paul Lenczuk
I’m very curious about that wine–I’m all about the silkiness!

QOTD: I take my health for granted–I exercise and all that good stuff, but since I’m not a 20-something anymore, I really should be mindful of that nowadays.
July 1, 2009

Jorge
hello^.
I `am from Portugal.
sugestion wine: Prova regia arinto wite.try!
bye bye
July 1, 2009

ChrisR
Great show, a very refreshing way to film an episode, where you dig deep into a wine and show us its guts. Awesome job, and enjoy the 4th with your new fam and your old fam and the WLTV fam.
July 1, 2009

Little Vinnie
Freedom: Prime Rib, Nascar Shirts, Budweiser and that sweet sweet purple stuff we call California Vino.
July 1, 2009

Matt P
fairly new vayniac here, as a geek when it comes to my passions, all things culinary and wine, I’m enjoying the more in depth shows.

Perusing the list of past episodes I didn’t see any on Madeira wines. Along with Sherry, I think they are amung the most undervalued wines going. Any wine that can age for 100+ years and be as complex and interesting in both the nose and taste is something special.

QOTD – I take for granted the ability to go out and try food and wines when I would like. How fortunate we are to have the ability and choose to eat whatever cuisine we want pretty much anytime.
July 1, 2009

thejob
I like the outdoor episodes. Your grill cover is so you! I take a lot of things for granted: health, wealth, and my loved ones.
July 1, 2009

Bill H
qotd – I think I sometimes take for granted the sum total of my experiences and relationships that has made me who I am and given me the perspective that I have – family, opportunities, and relatively good fortune, and don’t always realize, at least in the moment, that everyone else is a product of their own unique set of experiences and therefore may see things very differently. I like the deep philosophical question once in awhile, something to muse over with a nice complex California cab.
July 1, 2009

Jim
Hi Gary!, hope you get to read this post. I watch your show from Mexico City.

I’ve been looking for any Mexican wine review all over the website and found any.

Would you be so kind to give a roll to some mexican cavernet??
Yu are the man, regards!!!!
July 1, 2009

Julie
I loved this! Love the NY skyline in the background and can’t wait to try this wine. It’s a bit out of my usual price range but I may have to splurge.
July 1, 2009

Julie
QOTD – What do I take for granted?

Internet Access!
July 1, 2009

Steve Richards
Always enjoy the show, but I’m a much bigger fan of episodes with guests. I’d like you to do a show on pairing wine with food. I don’t know how it work with your normal format, but I think it would be interesting.
July 1, 2009

Gloria
Great episode. I love your balcony. My favorite place to enjoy a glass of vino is sitting outside on my deck in the evenings. So relaxing.

QOTD: I take for granted that the people in my life will always be there.
July 1, 2009

Zinsanity
Hey GV–liked the cool, relaxed episode with the Ssssshafer 1.5–will definitely go for the ‘04 if I see it.

The summer grillin’ comment reminded me that you haven’t done a zinfandel tasting since the Thanksgiving massacre of last year. Would love to see an episode on such, but then I’m biased.

Way to go, rock star–it’s been fun following you since the early teen episodes!

Back to lurking….
July 1, 2009

Chad
I think that’s the first sunset I’ve seen on WLTV. In 5 minutes you would have been shooting this video in the dark.

QOTD: I take the assumed fact that the NFL will be starting in the fall for granted.
July 1, 2009

Maxey
That looks awesome!! Drop that in the July wine club C and we can all give it a whirl. J/K
Can’t wait for the July wine.
July 1, 2009

Andy Wileman
Really enjoyed this. Thanks for coming back to the “old standards” that is New World thunder.
July 1, 2009

Sonia
This episode had a beautiful setting… loving the evening light you had going on out there. I’m sure you don’t take that for granted…
QOTD: I’m pretty good with not taking my friends and family for granted – learned that lesson already. The biggest thing I take for granted I guess is my job, it’s boring, tedious and the usual characters are there in full force (everything a “real” job usually has) but man, it pays the bills and I’m able to afford my wine and go to some beautiful places on the weekends. Alot of people don’t have jobs right now or a barely making it, so I should appreciate it!
July 1, 2009

David
Hi Gary. Name’s David and I’m a fairly recent Vayniac (started around episode 600) and first time character. First off, amazing episode. I love the setting and the whole laid-back-chilling-on-the-porch-with-your-buddy feel. It’d be great to see some more of these types of episodes but not too many (after all, we all know Mott is the big star). I can’t tell you how much I appreciate your show for letting me in on serious the wine world (not whatever is the special of the week at the local liquor store) and on the alcoholic beverage world in general (the absinthe and sake episodes were great).

Q.o.D. – I think that I take less for granted but I used to take my parents for granted. I’m 21 and not hugely appreciate everything my parents have done for me and I realize how much I took my parents for granted when I was younger. Congrats on Mischa too!
July 1, 2009

teckdeck2008
QotD: I feel like i take for granted the oppurtunities I have to have a successful life. Over the last two summers between semesters at college here, I have worked at a temp agency. And I see so many guys who have to pay child support and can’t get a legit job and have trouble just making ends meet. And sometimes I find myself wishing I could travel more and have more fun and not have to worry about my budget so much. When in all honesty I have a much easier time of it than they do.
July 1, 2009

Rich Ritter in NY
Ok, I got the hint. Can’t wait for the episode (just say the word).

qotd: I have to say, I honestly take a lot for granted, as I think we all do. Health, family, jobs, etc. It’s times like these where we’re reminded to step back and say “Thank You” for all we have.

J-E-T-S Jets, Jets, Sanchez!
July 1, 2009

Robert Holmberg
You asked what we, the vayniacs, would like to see in the show. I have been watching for maybe 150 episodes now (this is my second comment though) and I would really like to see an episode about Cru Bourgoise from Bordeaux. I really like the value in some of those wines, so it would be nice to see what you think.

Qotd: Beeing from Sweden, I take a safe and secure life for granted.
July 1, 2009

JacobWP
I take my family for granted. My parents to do so much for me and my siblings, and I dont respect them enough for that. I guess its the curse of a teenager
July 1, 2009

wayno da wino
Yo G, GOOOOOOOOOOOD “NERD-ACTION” !!!!!!

qotd: Living in a safe/secure (relatively speaking) country & me Gooood
health to name a couple……
July 1, 2009

jigger
QOTD: Entirely unimaginative and unoriginal but it has got to be my good health. I can lose an hour or a whole day sitting around worrying about the size of my next paycheck or pining for the latest toy I want but dont have (and certainly don’t need), totally immersed in the endless search for my personal El Dorado, appreciating my good fortunes only when I get an update on family member who is currently fighting for her life against brain cancer and doing it with such grace and acceptance that after my initial sense of grief passes, I am reminded through my complete sense of shame that I have once again lost sight of the obvious gifts laid at my feet each and every day. Maybe tomorrow I won’t forget yet again. Peace.
July 1, 2009

Neil
QOTD: That the Earth will continue to spin on its axis and revolve around the Sun without crashing into Mars. Oh yeh, and democracy in the USA.
July 1, 2009

jason
diggin the porch action gary! BTW, nice terrace you got going there in NYC

QOTD – what do i take for granite? life in general. my family, health. to many people 9 famous and not in the grand scheme have died recently for unnecessary reasons.
THE ONE thing i do not take fro granted is some tasty wine. i spend extra cash on good bottles for another day and track down good $15 bottles for the week. when i come across good honest vino at a honest price, i am happy. BTW other things make me happy too than just wine.
peace, have a good week
July 1, 2009

Phil Oxera
QOTD: We take Bees for granted. Albert Einstein once said: “If the bee disappears from the surface of the earth, man would have no more than four years to live. No more bees, no more pollination … no more men!” Vineyards in France seem to have roses at the end of each row of vines….I presume it is to encourage pollinators……Speaking of bees have you ever considered a show on “mead”.
July 1, 2009

Slushpuppy
Gary: What was the Leggo-look building over your R. shoulder, and the pointed pogota style building over your L. shoulder? Very cool big-city digs.
Last memorable beverage was a sparkling Spanish wine chilling out on Lake Tahoe, Nevada. Smell it first. TR
July 1, 2009

Cliffy9
I sell the Shafer(wholesale) it remains my allocated item as you claimed. How about a Pahlmeyer episode with the newer stuff? Thats some newer classic California with a little bit of history to it. Think “Disclosure”
July 1, 2009

Sadel Ekmeiro
Great show… let´s sell California wine in Venezuela, we have everything else but California´s wine…
July 1, 2009

Laura Fritz
Gary, awesome show! That silkiness is what I love about California Cabs.

QOTD: Last month I took a three week trip to Italy and while I was there I realized that as an American I take for granted so much the orderliness of our country. Not that Italy is at all in shambles and I loved the change in culture, but just the simplest things like driving and placing an order at a cafe I found really messed with my OCD nature. The wine was fantastic though!
July 1, 2009

Jesse
Great show. It is fun to always go back and drink something that you haven’t touch in a while.
July 1, 2009

David Benjamin
QOTD: I think we take our health for granted. It’s easy to feel invinsible growing up and even as we get older, oftern times I have the feeling that nothing bad is going to happen even if I am not eating healthy or working out.

I like the shorter, from home relaxed shows. Great mix with the longer guest and multiple tastings shows.
July 1, 2009

zonk59
QOTD: I forget to appreciate just being being alive… and that the people I care about (and myself for that matter) will not always be here.

Every 1.6 seconds someone dies, so during the short time of today’s video 6 people passed on (according to WikiAnswers.com).
July 1, 2009

lmnopinot
I hope you’re busy doing a Canada Day episode because you know Canaduh brings thunder!!
July 1, 2009

Andrew D
Thanks Gary

QOTD: Probabaly having a job and financial security in these times.

Cheers
Andrew
July 1, 2009

karl malden
GV,

Awesome show today! You should definitely do more at your pad on the balcony. I felt like I was there hangin’ with you. QOTD – probably my freedom. Keep up the great work, yo!
July 1, 2009

Brian Mitchell
GV – Loved the show and your giving props to Napa.
QOTD – My health (I think most people do!).
Q – When you’re just hanging out with friends & family, do you sip & swirl like on the show? It must be hard NOT to do it after so many shows! I’m sure spitting is out of the question!
July 1, 2009

T. Holland
Great show. Love these “Wine nerd” episodes.

QOTD: Definitely, my wife. She is amazing in so many ways from getting me little gifts to being an awesome mom. And no she does not watch WLTV, so this is not a chance to suck up to her….
July 1, 2009

Kevin
QOTD: I think I take my job for granted. I don’t have to have a 9-5′er, and for that I’m grateful, but not grateful enough.
July 1, 2009

*/^_^\*
QOTD: my grandparents. they are mostly responsible for any good upbringing that i received….
July 1, 2009

Tom
Good show Gary. QOTD: my good health. Was sick for the first time in several years and it definitely put things into perspective.
July 1, 2009

nicko
Straight up, you need to do a Mischa episode, how is she doing (and Lizzy too)? I really liked the laid back vibe of the episode, keep up the good work!
July 1, 2009

Trav
PETIT VERDOT!!!!
July 2, 2009

Bobo36
Good show in that i was looking for a review of this wine. i drink the red shoulder chard & yes, the Merlot.
QOTD: that i will have enuf time to do all the things i want to do.
July 2, 2009

Robthecomic
AS someone who is in NYC all the time, your apt is definatley awesome. We need a gary V. cribs episode.

q0td- plumbing, we all take it for granted. We shower and poop everyday without thinking of where the water comes from and where the poop goes.
July 2, 2009

apj_bobswineguy
Gary: I agree, 2004 one pt five much better (at this stage) than the 2005. I recently taste 05 and my first thought was “not yet, not today”
I also love Shafer & their whole story – John, Doug & Elias. Don’t forget the vineyard dog, Tucker. He eats several hundred dollars worth of Hillside Select grapes every harvest.
The 2002 Hillside Select & the 05 Relentless were showing best the day I was invited to taste. The 02 H.S. was so damn good!
Winery is 100% solar powered since 04.
July 2, 2009

castello
I took for granted that I’d come home from a long day of playing and would see the WORLD’S MOST PASSIONATE wine show EVER!
Hope to see you manyana.
July 2, 2009

thiago a
now that’s what I’m talking bout, nerdy, passionate, focused, good-vibe wine/life show. I think you should really keep things as they are right now, enjoying each day the wines you bring us, and the way you see life and love…

I take for granted that soon you will come to Brazil to sit down with some of us hardcore vayniacs, enjoying life and love and wines as it should be!

big ups!

thiago from brazil
July 2, 2009

Francesco
QOTD: how lucky we all are to actually be here right now, the amount of things needed to go right in order for us to be ALIVE in this time are unimaginable and incomprehensible
July 2, 2009

Peter Donovan
SHAFER FTW!!!!
Seriously been drinking a lot of European Wines as of late, but I have to agree sometimes it feels good just to come home again and have a nice rich California Red(I’m a Californian so I have to be bias-sorry Oregon).

QOTD-Sentimental stuff included(Freedom,job, health), I’d say out of the small stuff. My employee discount at the grocery store I work at. We have a serious wine selection and I’d hate to think of paying full price again(especially in this economy).

Love the Show Gary(setting sun aside you should do more shows outside by the barbie)Keep up the good work.
July 2, 2009

David
Freedom of the persuit of happiness. We can go as far as our ambitions take us, in other countries this is not true.
July 2, 2009

TommyB
Hi Gary; enjoying the shows from your apartment but missing the Mot! QOTD: My health until my best friend died of cancer 2 years ago – will never take it for granted again though.
July 2, 2009

John Burpo
Great show and great view. Too many of us take good health for granted until too late.
July 2, 2009

pacw808
QOTD: The ability more often than not to go visit my sister in the next state for our birthdays (hers is today, mine in about 9 more days).
July 2, 2009

Matt Sumpter
Hey Gary, great show, wish my new apartment had a balcony like that! Unfortunately mine is in Nottingham, UK, not New York so BBQ weather is quite a bit rarer! Though the weather is gorgeous here today, 30degrees celsius! may not sound like a lot to you but in England its almost unheard of!

QOTD: my friends. Just started summer hols after my first year of Uni and missing them all already!
July 2, 2009

chef
I take my hard work for granted when i spend money on stupid stuff. Its like that south park episode about the margaritaville mixer. The system only works if people spend money, but as a consumer in a capitalistic society, everyone should be conscious of where they spend their money and to whom’s pockets they fill.

great show gary. we all know America is the best country, and premium Cali cabs are world class. Its good to see 04 rule the 05, and good weather in nyc, though they call for rain for 7 days. regardless, all is jesus in jerusalem. nerdy show ideas – chassagne montrachet red, trappists beers, all out tea episode, juice extract episode, non-grape wines, grappa, or cognac with your pops! hilarious.
July 2, 2009

ODB
Not only are the Shafer’s pioneers in the push for quality in the US wine industry, they are great guys. I had the opportunity to taste with John and Doug at Shafer in 2006 and could not have been more impressed with how down to earth they are. They have a great understanding of their responsibility to the land and are willing to take time out of their day to talk with passionate customers. Truly a great family behind a great wine.
July 2, 2009

YoungDave
RELAXING episode on the Porchy-Porch. Great ep., and nice pacing. I like the one-wine-focused episodes peppered in once in a while.

QOTD: (One of the best questions in a while!) Wow- I’ll echo the freedom comment, but also my health and (the tail-end of) my youth.
July 2, 2009

Brian
Great show. A good full fruit Cab is a good reference point to come back to.

QoTD – Take for granted my health and the health of my family. My wife’s recently having back problems. Emotional stress as well as the physical pain when you can’t just get up and do what you want.
July 2, 2009

Dr.Scott
What do I take for granted? Most everything, honestly. I work very hard for everyone who depends on me, but I think I most take for granted those who work hard for me – staff at 3 facilities, wife, kids, and all of their teachers and support systems. Without any one of the little pieces, the whole system would be threatened. Thanks for the perspective, GV. I was kind of grouchy since today is payday and I don’t enjoy signing checks. It will be a little easier now.
July 2, 2009

Mathieu
QoTD: Fresh air and the outdoors. Although, I have to admit, that now that I live in the city… I sure do miss it a lot.

Relaxing show, thanks!
July 2, 2009

R Sterkel
well done, I agree with your differential of the 04 to 05…I have found that with a number of mid level napa cabs…larkmead, caymus, to name a couple.
July 2, 2009

Ivan
Already left a comment earlier, but just wanted to be #300. that’s a good number of responses to an episode Gary. Crush it!
July 2, 2009

hollisdevillo
nice show gary. it did seem more laid back and intimate throwing these kinds of shows in. getting out of the WLTV shack makes it less like work and more like you’re really doing it for your vaynernation. although i know you’re doing it for us at the WLTV crib too. but it’s a nice change, especially getting to see the beautiful manhattan behind you…unless you just photoshopped the scenery in! good show.
QOTD: parents, for sure. but i don’t think anyone (majority) can ever not take their parents for granted.
July 2, 2009

Bburg Jon
YOu are the man gary, nice little spot you have there for wine drinking! Have an awesome 4th!
July 2, 2009

Jlo31
Really enjoyed the show. Enjoy it when you film from different locations. Also sometimes its nice just to have a short focus on one wine. I do enjoy the blind tastings though. Keep up the great work!

Jlo31
July 2, 2009

750ml
?otd – I often take my family for granted. Having a close family all living here in KC is really great.

Question for Gary – do you swish wine around when you drink it for pleasure or are you always evaluating with every sip?
Happy 4th! Seeing you on the balcony reminded me of a 4th of July we had in Greenwich Village on a rooftop in 2001. That was incredible seeing all the fireworks displays.
July 2, 2009

Ducati AGB
Great show Gary V. Makes me want to pony up the hundred or so bucks to get me a bottle of that fine, fine Shafer 1.5

Great location…..the city provides a stunning backdrop as well.

More Cali Cabs please….but try not to go over $30US
July 2, 2009

John
QOTD: Life in general I think.
July 2, 2009

Tom Langan
ARRGH! Another unavailable wine. But we all still love you GV.

Have a great 4th!

QOTD: My beautiful wife.
July 2, 2009

DBR
QOTD: I take for granted the work that I’ve done to get where I am. Unfortunately, this sometimes leads me to have the same, and/or huge expectations of others; which really isn’t fair.
July 2, 2009

pawncop
A very good program and a very good question.

QOTD – I try not to take anything for granted.

I work in two professions that constantly remind me that nothing should be taken for granted. In my work in the ER, I see example after example where things change so dramatically in my patients lives and with working in law enforcement it is so similiar in how rapid and unexpectedly a world can be torn apart by stupidity and/or tragedy.

As I get older I cherish so many more small things that I would pass over in a heartbeat as a young man. Sharing wine is one of those things.
July 3, 2009

Andy
Really like a smooth Cali cab .
QOTD—- My family and our good health.
July 3, 2009

JayZee
I LOVE Shafer wines. I have 4 bottles of the 2006 1.5 in my cellar. I also love the “Relentless” Syrah – good stuff.

QOTD: I think we all take our friends for granted form time to time. I know I take little things for granted like nice weather and good health – except, of course, when they are not there. Every day I try and thank God for the things we often take for granted.
July 3, 2009

M
QOTD: I try not to take anything for granted. But I don’t go around expressing it much. I don’t kiss the ground everyday, etc…

We can make new friends (varietals) and keep the old ones …. expand our palates without forgetting what we’ve enjoyed in the past. I appreciate all of the varietals and wine regions. I think I will go chill on my patio before dinner. It looks relaxing!
July 3, 2009

CB
You said you like comments and suggestions for upcoming shows…
What about a show on “affordable” ICEWINES? One of my favorites is called Sweet Sydney from the Sineann winery in Oregon. It’s made from late harvest zinfandel.

I’m sure there are other great icewines you could recommend – I need some ideas for new ones to try.

Thanks!
July 3, 2009

Jeffrey
Gary, great as always. Love the grill. Assuming from the view its Fort Lee?
I picture Joe Klecko and Marty Lyons grilling those steaks. How about the Shafer Firebreak. I am down to my last bottle and that wine is the shizzle. Keep up the great reviews. Would love to see a show on Organic Wines. My local wine shop has a huge selection and frankly I am just waiting to see what you think before I wander from the South African, Aussie and California reds… Where will Shonn Greene go in your fantasy draft this year. Could he be our Penfolds Grange Hermitage? We shall see…
July 3, 2009

The Grapevine
No way you turned us off, grabbed a steak and sat chillin and grillin out there without us. Shame on you Gary V.

QOTD: Contrary Mary says “Too many of us take kids for granted. We better start learning from them instead of thinking it only works the other way around.”
July 3, 2009

javajo
QOTD-on the eve of the 4th I am aware of our precious freedom. I have no idea of what it means to live a restricted life and know that I our hard earned freedom much too lightly. Enjoy yours!!! Pam
July 3, 2009

Jeff
Question of the Day: What did I take for granted? Her. And now I don’t have her.
July 3, 2009

markie
hey gary! great question…love,,love the shafer merlot..would like to hear your thought on it???? take for granted…my great health and my life here in texas /w/ the best friends!!! wine & boats and jet skiS
July 4, 2009

Weston
qotd: my family I know its bad but oh well
July 4, 2009

JCS
Great show….a few years ago you did a show about the differences in Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast. I thought of it when I bought a bottle of 2005 Beaulieu Vineyard Napa Cabernet the other day. Wine Enthusiast gave it 90 pts. and Spectator gave it 78 pts. Personally, I think Spectator dropped the ball big time. So, my question is, would you do another show about this? Really enjoyed the last one.

QOTD: My family, my health…really, life in general sometimes.
July 4, 2009

Mark
Thanks for a great show. Always wondered why my older Shafer cabs didn’t have the 1.5 distinction. Now I know.
July 4, 2009

Jim in Atlanta
QOTD – We have so much that we take most things for granted. You just need to read about what is happening in the world to see that we are blessed.
July 4, 2009

Mr Mike
I take for granted the friendship of my top 20 or so friends and my siblings, because I can. Even when I inevitably mess up, there are still there for me, and of course vice versa
July 4, 2009

JenB
You had me giggling with the steak description. It’s fun watching you really enjoy a wine. The wine I’m drinking now:Hartford Zin 2006. Yum. Cheers!
July 5, 2009

SteveM
Just got back from Napa/Sonoma and agree they are producing great wines in that area; many are so fresh and pure its hard to believe. I agree we in the US often take these great wines for granted. I sensed a little concen during my visit; I think many of the wineries are hurting from this horrible economy. Let’s hope even the little guys can weather the storm; I would hate to lose some of the “under the radar” prducers making great wine.
July 5, 2009

Mia
Hey Gary, right there with you with Shafer. We were there a couple of years ago for a tasting and met John Shafer. Beautiful winery and beautiful wine.

QOTD: All the priveleges I have had in my life, looking back, it’s been a great ride.
July 5, 2009

Kristen
I thought this was so fun to watch! Loved you in your natural habitat…

QOTD – my spouse and kids. When I catch myself doing it, I try to slow down and appreciate every second.
July 6, 2009

Chippewamike
Nice show. Liked the relaxed feel. Also love all the information.

QOTD: Unfortunately, I tend to take my family for granted. Lots of time I get more than I give. Have to work on that!
July 6, 2009

Dennis Nestor
QOTD: Unfortunately many days I take breathing for granted.
July 6, 2009

Jeff Wiener
Gary V…I love your shows. I, too, am a new poppa. My son Asher was born 5-19. I went to college with Ian Schafer. I’m learning so much about wines from your shows. I really like the shows that don’t go for 20+ minutes — I can sneak them in at work when I’m taking a respite. One quick quibble — the new rating format makes it really difficult to search for wines. Anything you can do to bring back the old format? Best, Jeff
July 7, 2009

Carlitos
WOW! Nice balcony!

QOTD. Being able to do what I want. Buy the wine I want. Have my wife understand me the way I am. We are so privileged!
July 7, 2009

James Watson
Loved the description of the Shafer, sounds yummy! Have never tried it but now I certainly will. Would love to see an episode with some Pahlmeyer Merlot, one of my all time favorites from the Napa Valley.

QOTD: My wonderful family and friends!
July 7, 2009

bob c
Well, still out of my price range for cab….but when I hit the lottery…watch out..QOTD..prolly my job, like many others, my job has been downsized, and I don’t make what I used too, but it could still be much worse, so.. as much as I *itch about it, I am grateful for what I have.
July 7, 2009

innA
Nice show – sometimes the one bottle episodes work really well.

Do you read the comments even when they are posted a few days after the show?

QOTD – without a doubt my sight, smelling and hearing.
July 7, 2009

Neta
Gary you ROCK!

Totally agree with you – sometimes old school is best school!

Great show you have here, and yes you are changing the world of wine…
July 7, 2009

wyld
QOTD: My wife.
July 8, 2009

ProfessorB
I had the 2005 Shafer One Point Five last night, and it was just epic. I swear I could still taste it when I woke up this morning. If the 2004 is even better… wow. I have just got to track that down.
July 8, 2009

Jacob L.
GV, your descriptions are so vivid and imaginative that it seem to me I’m tasting the wine with you. Thanks for the amazing experience day in and day out.

QOTD: Living in this great country. My family is from China and Taiwan and for years there has been tension between the two regions. On top of that, northern china has been experiencing major violence. This has shown me how much I take the freedom and stability of the U.S. for granted, even in these turbulent economic times.
July 10, 2009

Karl B
Hi Gary,

I like Staglin – but I love Shafer. Been a fan of the Stag’s Leap District and Shafer products for a long time. The 1.5 is a great wine and probably the best value of the line-up. I agree with your review all the way.

QOTD – Sometimes I take for granted the love of my wife. I’m sure that it happens to all of us as we get wrapped up in our own worlds and the issues that lie within.

See you soon,
Karl B. (original Thunder Cruiser)
July 12, 2009

kathyintex ( kathyd )
LOVE a TERRIFIC CLASSIC NAPA CAB – my favorite, when done right – balanced and elegant. The BEST!!

QOTD: What do I take for granted? Sadly, probably family – sometimes get so busy with everything else that family falls to the rear. Thanks for the reminder…
July 26, 2009

Dan-o
GV – I have always liked the Shafer product. I find some of them a bit pricey, but that is the market dynamic. Good show.

QOTD – We take for granted our freedom and all of the good things that we have. Don’t focus on money and toys, focus on your family – living, breathing, loving. You will be much happier.
August 13, 2009

Robert Corder
Gary, Great show about a great winery. One of my favorites. I was recently able to get back on their mailing list. We absolutely love Hillside Select!!! Speaking of Napa wineries have you ever done a program on Bottle Shock, the movie/book? Really love your shows. Just haven’t seen all of them. Bob C
August 20, 2009

Frank Hayden
Gary, nice show. My wife and I had the One Point Five the other day at a restaurant with a steak. What a nice paring. We went to the Shafer winery last year on vacation it’s an awesome place and I loved all the wines we tasted. Going back this year. Do you think the price of nice wines will drop in this bad economy? Frank
September 9, 2009

ulu ulu ulu ulu
Familiarity breeds indifference. Appreciation for all things always – that’s the way. Don’t discrimin8.