Mike's Wine Log

2001 Sangre de Toro

2007-11-17T21:07:00.000-08:00

A pulsating curry dinner set the scene for a little drama fueled by this delicious offering from Torres. The evening started with the fervent question "What does a Honey Two do?". The immediate answer was "to keep the wife happy when Number One was away". Not long after the air was sundered by flipping hands to the back of heads and only then was the wine opened! And what an opening, all thanks to the Annapolitan bound "Lodger" (previously known as Li'l Dubya). Although the smallish bull (confirmed by the Lodger's unnecessarily close inspection) dangling from the bottle gave little indication that there was a whole lot of Sangre involved, this liquid star from Cataluyna set a standard for the future. The evaluation of noses and ears ("His are so cute!") followed. Maybe next time the Gran Sangre de Toro if the budget permits.

2005 Writer's Block Cabernet-Franc

2007-11-11T19:18:00.000-08:00

A really fine little vino served at the best restaurant in WSNC. Everybody seemed happy with the way this Cab-Franc from the Steele Winery stood up beside seafood to beef. Covered the final wedding planning on the groom's side, the benefits of Euro travel from Dublin to Hamburg, and, of course, the smashing success of the shower d' Baby. 4 of the 5 rules were broken (couldn't remember the 5th), but the food was just as expected--fantastic. No wonder Milner's won the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence!

2001 Madonna Cabernet Sauvignon

2007-11-04T19:02:00.000-08:00

Cocktails at the Man called Juicy Fruit and Mayaritaville's. Covered a lot of ground with B&V including a bowling review, the details on banana tree growth and, of course, Harleys. Carl and friend visited. Found out Madonna was the oldest winery in Cal all grown organically from the get go. Started out mildly favorable and over the course of banana chips, trail mix and some parade the beef Panera sandwiches the wine steadily grew on us.

2005 Cycles Gladiator Pinot Noir

2007-11-02T23:27:00.000-07:00

We've been into the Gladiator before, but this time it was billed as the house red at the Zinc Brasserie. Rat-enabled, a medium sized, limo'd group consumed a good half case with nary a complaint for a wide variety of dishes including oyster and salmon starters, steak, lamb, and shellfish soup. The pompous, noisy waiter was confronted. The recent sailing excursion was reviewed as well as trips to England and Dallas. The role of rats examined. Pictures were exchanged and autographed detailing some unsettling poses of mental confusion. The meal ended with creme brulee all 'round and the Gladiator still in the arena. Finally, after a welcome after-dinner drink, we were easily bribed to take the limo express home with a chilled bottle of champagne.

2004 Berberana Vina Alarde Crianza

2007-11-01T21:13:00.000-07:00

The return of B&V continues with this light, excellent rioja. Balanced and even up against the incomparable seafood lasagna. Tales of the English Conversation Group mixed with a discussion on the housing market and eventually morphed into a CSI/college football viewex. Only thing mssing was the girl in Texas!

2005 Trapiste Pinot Noir

2007-10-31T21:02:00.000-07:00

Well behind in posts due to intense social schedule. This mysterious wine accompanied some beef ribs and followed a Yellow Tail Merlot. There was a "different" taste involved although the wine's body was relatively light and refreshing. Eventually fell asleep and spilled some on the "Atlanta" T-shirt. That sort of vino. After all it was Halloween.

2007 Sebeka Sauvignon Blanc

2007-10-30T20:59:00.000-07:00

From the Western Cape of South Africa. Served very cold, this fantastic wine marked the return of the team from Alverstoke. A strong buy recommendation, especially if someone else is picking up the tab!

2005 L'An Tica Fattoria Opera Taurasi

2007-10-16T21:58:00.000-07:00

Proud at first to show off the Amici Miei in Bru, I grandly ordered the Mastrobearidino -- Salvatore replied with a no available, but suggested something close for our plates of vongole. The L'Antica. A very nice wine with a subtle light flavor. We were able to expound on improvements brought about by Guns and Roses to B.Dylan's (known for some reason in the UK as baggy face or britches or something like that) music. All was d'accord. Then came l'addition which nearly knocked us off the chairs. We failed to notice that some mobile Italian wine merchanto had obviously swept through Bru and made some targeted sales for we confronted two bottles worth at 68€ apiece. Holy smololie! With tales tucked we drifted out into the cool night to greet our cabbie.

2005 La Caplana Barbera d. Asti

2007-10-15T20:27:00.000-07:00

At the il Baronetto north of Brussels we found this refreshing red. An adequate accompaniment to a delicious plate of vongole followed by some fine veal fiorentina. La Caplana showed up on the bill, however, as Divers Boissons (various drinks) implying a more diversified pedigree. Good to know that Guido Natalino was involved. Some research indicated ..."The legend tells that Garibaldi drank their wine"... At 20€ per we managed two bottles over the course of the evening inspiring a finish up visit to the H.I. bar and consequently making the morning a bit of a rough slog to Bat Z. The waiter was kind enough to write Peruscom on the name slip. All seemed light and controlled. But as we stood at the door awaiting the taxi, an intense argument broke out about the source region among the assembled wait staff. Some advised that this came from Napoli, others from Sicily, and still a third voice pressed the Piedmont. Fortunately the cab arrived just as the squaring off began accompanied by some professional gesticulating.

2006 Nobilis Vinho Verde

2007-10-08T16:25:00.000-07:00

ADB bought out the last few bottles at Total Wine. A light, effervescent offering that seemed to win the favor of Teeth and Keena and accordingly is awarded wine of the month honors for the R&B. Almost like a wine cooler, the Nobilis surfed though a wonderful sailing day to Willoughby Spit and back, kept us off the sand and survived the Keeth droopy bottom stories. Just how much more can you ask of a young, green wine?

2005 Casal Garcia Vinho Verde

2007-10-07T17:48:00.000-07:00

Subject to a bit of contretemps at the Zinc Brasserie, we finally agreed this was a fine summer wine. Effervescent and light. Our brash complaint about the room temperature wine service was eventually answered via a little tip from the sommelier: adding a salt shaker's worth to the ice bucket and inverting the bottle for a rapid cool down. Once at the right temp, the CG stood up through a wide variety of entrees. This brought on a reflection on improvements to Cascais and Monte Estoril and the girls discussion of clothes procurement (ooohhh). After bidding a fond farewell to Princess La, we dusted off to Total Wine and purchased a few more vinho verdes for tomorrows sailing extravaganza. The tension increases: which one will end up as the R&B OddatSea Wine of the Month!!!

2005 Masi Vallpolicella Bonacosto

2007-10-02T21:57:00.000-07:00

A real naz little wine. Served by the glass at Stella's Gourmet Pizzeria. The Masi was drinkable if non-spectacular against the wild mushroom pizza and the greek salad. Bid at $8.99 a bottle on the net, I feel a little cheated at $6.00 a glass!

McManus Merlot (no year)

2007-09-29T20:53:00.000-07:00

House wine at the City Club Lexington, NC engagement celebration for the Dr. and J. Consumed in mass quantities by mostly Carolina folk without whimper one. Most definitely a good wine next to a plate of warm Lexington Que. Inspired some serious buck-dancing to the tunes of the Hunt Brothers bluegrass band playing live, "she walks through the corn growin' down by the river . .. . " . Amen, brother.

2003 Pont d'Avignon (Cotes du Rhone)

2007-09-23T17:57:00.000-07:00

A slithering, blended wine that floated alongside a fine roast luncheon at ADB and Josephine's. Le menu included creamed cauliflower and Yorkshire pudding with gravy--a demanding test for any vin. Just a tad light, nevertheless, the song "Sur le pont d'Avignon" was sung in Francais to the assembled delight. The Pont, supplemented by the ever reliable Santa Maria, stood by us as we followed with a dip in the pool (76°F) and the hot tub (98°F) including a thorough, eavesdropped discussion of how our Mum took care of the coughin'.

2005 Honig Sauvignon Blanc

2007-09-22T20:36:00.000-07:00

Somehow we're on a Honig streak. This one popped out of the bottle with some strong flavor and then settled down to smoothnicity as the flounder, crab cakes, and shrimp Combos hit the table. After a fine sailing day, dual football wins, and the triumph of the US women's team, we headed to Croaker's. Countering the witch-like stares of other dining parties with well timed finger-cued flash looks, we feasted on some of the comparitively best seafood ever and the Honig SB complemented. Some small confusion over the departure tactics once in the Explorer, but we eventually swung by Starbuck's and then home to sleep by 9:00 pm!

2004 Honig Cabernet Sauvignon

2007-09-17T13:53:00.000-07:00

The RFerrante farewell lunch. A strong, striking wine that overwhelmed the tepid lunch entrees. At 14.5% should have saved this one for the evening. Rang the bell vis a vis the spicy tomato zuppe. Lil' Dubya rambled incessantly about worst plane rides, Falklands, Azalea Festival parties, til the group was agog, eyes askelter. Still came the Honig, full bodied and rich--three bottles left the BHs swerving and listing about the Magnolia Grill. Thus was Roberto sent packing back to Roma with a rousing goodbye.

2005? La Terre Cabernet Sauvignon

2007-09-15T21:49:00.000-07:00

On Goat Island during a fabulous wedding feast, the La Terre cruised blithely among the fabulous yachts and festive crowd. Sidling up to all manner of hors d'oeurves, this reliable red stood its ground without undue attention. Witness to the return of the Aurora, flying an Irish flag and a faltering motor. Quietly saluted P. McCartney's yacht at anchor. A multipurpose, wedding wine for the long haul.

2005 Behringer Cabernet Sauvignon

2007-09-14T21:42:00.000-07:00

Aboard the schooner Aurora out of Newport, the Behringer was poured while cruising Narragansett Bay. A sturdy, reliable wine suitable for large group consumption as proven by its rapid disapperance in a mix of Pennsylvanians, Bostonians, and the odd cat and dog from Virginia. There was a point at which Lin gave me the glass and told me to "hold this for awhile" with the "I need a short break" look , but overall a good, solid matchup for a beautiful Boat Show evening. Cheers to Curt and Joanne!

2005 Quinta de Ameal (Loureiro),

2007-09-06T23:56:00.000-07:00

Triumphant return to O Pescador in Cascais. This cold Vinho Verde was a silken match for the lobster bisque, clams, octopus. We wandered down the seawall to town after an unsettling encounter at the Estoril Eden Hotel bar with a multilingual 92 year old grand dame. Somehow the bartender's Portuguese language training didn't quite register. After startling a local couple to ask the name of and confirm the quality of their choice, our multinational group passed up the famed white Sangria for the Quinta de Ameal--excellent decision! Our Portuguese improved dramatically. Al fresco in the classiest little town in Portugal.

2005 Rawson's Retreat Merlot (from Penfolds)

2007-09-02T21:53:00.000-07:00

A saving, ladies wine that pulled the barbecue chicken off the rotisserie and smacked it clean of the disturbing Veo Grande. An abundance of fruit from Mr. Rawson's escape cleaned the palate and even surfed the J across a brownie and ice cream wave. Sent this writer to the couch and dreamland. Nice stuff.

2005 Veo Grande Cabernet Sauvignon

2007-09-02T17:42:00.000-07:00

Oough. Hmmph. Some wierd iron thing happening at the end. Kept waiting for this to dissipate. The custom sausage (thank you, Christine) saved this Sam's Club special by covering the aftertaste quite well. This can't really be "the finest expression of Chile". Not to be consumed without food. Somehow the Doctor and J worked through it all. Described as "organic" and also some less positive words. Only eleven bottles to go. Lesson: never buy a case just to get the flashy wooden box.

2004 "J" Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

2007-09-02T15:48:00.000-07:00

A truly fine sailing wine. Kept slightly cool and cracked open on the Little Creek to Old Point Comfort run across Willoughby Bank. Even the plastic wine glasses didn't diminish the light, smooth flavor while lounging in the sunlit cockpit cruising along at 4 kts. The unexpected jibe while fighting for "wing a wing" didn't change the mood either. "J" is a winner! The Doctor too.

2004 Cambia Pinot Noir (Julia's Vineyard)

2007-09-01T20:46:00.000-07:00

A fine mellow wine from the Santa Maria Valley that actually started off a bit spicy right out of the bottle but eventually sorted itself out. After a good sail off Little Creek we settled down on the back deck with some steaks and corn from the new grill and tomatoes from the garden. Lucky to have the Dr. and J in town, intense wedding planning was accomplished in fine style, candles flickering in the breeze. Buy again if the price is right.

2002 Clos de La Vieille Eglise (Cotes de Castilon)

2007-08-25T22:29:00.000-07:00

A round, solid Bordeaux. Earned "Wine of the Month" award for the good ship R&B Odd@Sea. This little 90M/10CS beauty from la Vieille Eglise capped a fantastic chicken in wine sauce dinner amidst the new drapery laden dining room. AD astounded all with his cricket shirt bow tie combo. Afterwards a fine music session highlighted by Johnny Horton, Lonnie Donegan, and that "Tie me Kangaroo down, Sport" guy during which we won the Battle of NOLA, sank the Bismarck, and rode the Rock Island Line. Hang me hide on the shed, Fred. Looks as if the Danielle and Richard Dubois website is still evolving, but appears they are instructors in the Total Wine Bordeaux tour website so won't be hard to find.

2005 Penfolds Rawson's Retreat Merlot

2007-08-24T22:29:00.000-07:00

Smooth as a whistle. A calm, balanced juice that should be even better next year. Yes, yes, OK, it's dirt cheap. So, buy a case. Recent History: the PRR Mer emerged from the 54 degree fridge at about 7:30 and was allowed to warm for awhile. Concurrently, the future consumer was himself a 'cooling in le 72 degree Plunge. Then: matched in heaven to a creamy pasta dish a la Josephine, fruit arranged a la Lin. Just the combo to offset the convo: multi event wedding planning; in-law personality intermixing (certain presidents, Roger, Jack, BB&V, Chimpy et al); the possible inadvisibility of fluffy, puffy wedding dresses; illicit labrador aubergine/cherry tomato consumption; and, finally, the deep, intense red of ADB's sun-burn. The Penfold's gradually disappeared through it all, nudging aside his boxed vino cousin.

2005 Glen Ellen Cabernet Sauvignon

2007-08-11T21:19:00.000-07:00

First, let me work backwards from the menu. A Moore Team extravaganza of seven courses: peppered deviled eggs, mushrooms stuffed with crabmeat, crab dip, gourmet baked beans with Mike's homemade barbecue sauce, tossed salad with grapes and Mexican goat cheese, seafood casserole, and the capo: grilled hot dogs with toasted buns. Finis: key lime pie and homemade peanut butter cookies. Now, what wine comes to mind that can stand tall against such an eclectic mix? The humble Glen Ellen, fresh off the shelf at Triple Tails market, done good on a warm, windy night at the Cape. Slighty chilled (a brilliant idea) this scots lassie was quite flavorful and complementary at each turn of the international palates. Fine gal y'are!

2006 Yellow Tail Pinot Noir

2007-08-10T21:59:00.000-07:00

A very decent beach wine. Some searching brought it down from $20 per to $15 per--Cape San Blas price. Swam in alongside the seafood casserole in formation like a scene from "Flyboys". After a successful scallop expedition ("my options are walking on the mushy grass or stepping on pointy things"), lessons in opening, gutting, and cleaning, well the 'Tail hit the spot. Cooler is better: now that's an interesting theory!

2004 Jacob's Creek Cabernet Sauvignon

2007-08-09T21:56:00.000-07:00

At the Pel CSB. Aus meets Italy for the big beach week meal. The JCCS sailed us through this delicious pasta extravaganza with guests from Canada and beyond. Smooth and complementary.

2006 Jacob's Creek Merlot

2007-08-03T19:11:00.000-07:00

A friendly welcome wine that hit the spot after a long drive from Winston to Atlanta. Tucked away just across the street from Brookhaven, this late year JC was a relaxing pre-cursor to the Fogo de Chao extravaganza. Heard and saw the latest ultrasound for the December arrival. Prin and Ruby exchanged greetings with mixed results and ended up in a baby gate separation situation. Jacob oversaw the whole affair with a steady, tolerant point of view.

Bastille Day '07 Wine Tasting

2007-07-14T23:35:00.000-07:00

Weeel, in a nutshell it was Vive la France in multiples. The finest collection of vin in one place that we've seen, tasted, smelt. . . etc. From the opening white burgandy to the roast wine at the end of the evening the pallate was certainly surfette. The Colonel and his beautiful lady were warm hosts on a fine evening a' deckside.

2000 Chassagne Montrachet 1 cru

You won't find this in West Virginia. In fact there may be only one bottle left in the little village north of Paris where the Puel's roost. The chardonnay grape after grad school. In any case, you could see the relaxation in Lin's smile and the mind clearing comment "I like this". Whooaaa.

1998 Chateau La Lagune, 3 grand cru classe' (Haut Medoc)

As the son of a travelling Bordeaux marketeer, the Colonel knows his rouge and this was as smooth a wine as can be found in North America. Imported by hand and tenderly served a la Gourgoune it was a marvellous moment.

2000 Cote Rotie (Cotes du Rhone)

The evening slowly closed with this "rotisserie" wine. Brusque and aromatic, we left with a reminder of the good life, friendly conversation, and the benefit of allies. Lin was even served a wedge of Ghiradelli direct from SF.

2004 500° Red Sonoma Cuvee

2007-07-07T23:21:00.000-07:00

After a fantastic sailing day on Willoughby Bay and a Skipjack on the tap stop at the Sunset Grille, we later breezed into Ruth's Chris for the treinty quatro anniversary dinner. This fine aromatic vino matched up evenly with the petite filet (madame) and the prime rib (messeur). Slithered home and to bed with warm smiles.

2003 Red Diamond Merlot

2007-07-04T18:24:00.000-07:00

A smooth and steady wine for the NC mountains. Ideal match for grilled 4th of July burgers and dawgs (chow dawgs!) after fly fishing Laurel Creek in fashion waders. Sustained a walk down the mountain for fireworks and a slooow crawl back up for a single barrel nightcap.

2005 Christian Salmon Sancerre

2007-06-24T19:31:00.000-07:00

Maybe not cold enough. I thought this would really hit it with the seafood extravaganza of grilled salmon, scallops, and shrimp. Wonderful evening outside of the deck after a day on Willoughby Bay. The chef was rushed even with an outstanding assist from the La. Timing on the grill was a challenge with some items at direct high heat and some and indirect. Scallops were slippery in the honey mustard bath. Anyway, I think this bottle is well worth a second chance in a less ambitious menu.

2005 Cycles Gladiator Pinot Noir

2007-06-16T21:25:00.000-07:00

Very nice, velvety (haha) with just a touch of dryness. Not overfruited. After our second garden party in a row, this one the farewell to Sir Mark, we drifted down to La Galleria (terrific service) for a repeat dine. The place was almost deserted, and some talented lady on the piano sang her heart out for the bartender. The Gladiator warmed quickly to the Carol King medley, "looking out on the mornin' rain".

2005 Laboure-Roi "les Sangliers" Pinot Noir Reserve

2007-06-15T21:02:00.000-07:00

The first decent wine of June. At the Zinc Brasserie in VB-Hilltop. The little bottle of wild boar musk from Pays D'Oc stood up through several hours of both fish and beef dishes. After reacquainting with the Sisson clan - 1, celebrating Lindsay's imminent gradja-ation and promises of future fishing trips the Sangliers helped finish a fine evening as we wearily set off for bed and La to disco down. Hail Laboure-Roi.

1999 Williamsburg Winery Virginia Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve

2007-06-10T21:39:00.000-07:00

High grade swill. Watery. Thought the extra years of ageing would help. Uh-uh. A beautiful evening outside on the deck, dining on steaks, the last weeks of Spring, it should have been magic. Noooo.

Mathew Meyer, the winemaker at WW explains: “We were using an old, rundown DE (diatomaceous earth) machine, it was very abusive to the wine, and we were experiencing a lot of wine loss." Well, that little quote wasn't on the label!

Luckily the T-Bones survived. Ah well, another VA wine off the list.

2005 Red Rock Red

2007-06-06T21:39:00.000-07:00

Offset by a plate of grey, oozing moussaka, the triple-R from Merced snapped at us nastily. Best qualities: Raw and biting. Couldn't finish the bottle. The elder, feisty munchkin at checkout (see below) was not allowing a cork and go--not sure how the contents would have ended up anyway, wait, yes I am. All sad, because we were ready to celebrate just having avoided a huge faux-pau after misreading the date of the Raleigh House Garden Party invite (uh, that would be on June 16th) and stopped just short of knocking on the Admiral's front door (thinking, I guess we're a bit early tonight).

Later found the RRR website defunct and an Aussie competitor by the same name. The Chain of Logic: the waitress at Orapax Inn said the owners only allow four people to handle money (hence the need to checkout), the youngest of which has worked there 18 years, e.g. they are a little "tight" with the funds; ex post facto: they came across an opportunity to buy a "buncha" cheapo bottles from a winery (and brewery combined) on the way out the door. Mission accomplished.

2004 Osborne Solaz Tempranillo Cabernet Sauvignon

2007-05-27T20:13:00.000-07:00

After a smashing day zipping around Willoughby Bay in a 15 foot rocket, the Clan returned to home base for le steaks. The grill was temperamental, the a/c collapsed, the movie projector crashed, but all in all, the Solaz was a saving island of calm and tempranillo. Wonderful flavor, ideal for NY Strips and Filets. I was expecting some rawness d'Espana, based on the Andalusian summer of sherry in '72. The Doctor and I agreed that this Osborne, however, was from a much different corrida. Buy a case. The toro on the label reminded me of the electronic jamming EA-3 squadron from Rota until I remembered they used the Sandeman logo and the Bulls were from VA-37!

2004 Jacob's Ceek Reserve Shiraz

2007-05-27T18:58:00.000-07:00

Leggsamundo. Nice smooth wine with a cool finish. Perfect for WII-watching after a longish boat ride. Hit the Village Butcher for a steak load.

2002 Jacob's Creek Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

2007-05-25T22:59:00.000-07:00

WII enhanced, this accompaniment to the Stag's Leap was consumed in minutes making any assessment a challenge. There were, however, calls for more. Later, reports came in of a fevered golf competition at 0247 presumably fueled by the JCRCS but perhaps assisted by a few drops of Ketel One. A potent mix requiring special handling of the "B" buton.

2003 Stag's Leap Merlot

2007-05-25T22:54:00.000-07:00

Opened for the return of the flock. After a dismal day at Eagle Haven, great expectations about the SL. With the pork loan a'sizzling, Napa valley pulled us through with lots of flavor, balance and smoothnicity. I was lucky to get some as the evening wedged into the Doctor's and J's new WII that provided hours of spectatorial delight watching the assembled jumping amok swatting invisible tennis balls and rolling invisible bowling balls. Just for what you need some nudging help from the Stag.

1999 Chateau Guillemot Bordeaux

2007-05-16T22:26:00.000-07:00

Nice little number from St Emilion consumed with the Man called Juicy Fruit at the Au Stekerlaplatte ("known from good, hearty Belgian cuisine at reasonable prices") in the Marolles section of BRU. After a palatte clearing visit to the Roy D'Espagne to admire the hanging pig's bladders and quaff a few Leffe's, the Chat G took over and kept us afloat even beside JF's order of pig's knuckle. We coursed post-Teenage topics such as aiplane taxi directing, trim carpentering, and the state of telecommunications in the PI. The evening ended with the usual food fight about COIs and a happy taxi ride to Centraal for the journey back to Diegem.

2007 Swedish Hill Vinyard Viking Red

2007-04-28T15:00:00.000-07:00

A light and sweeping wine that's perfect with home-made bread. The two friendly Pomeranians on the label (Mickey and Turk) invite the drinker to a warm, satisfying experience even in the lee of any "Intense Living", like, for instance, a NYC wedding! From the mid-town Muse Hotel to the Down Town Association club, this wine stayed on the leash, well mannered and proud. A very small release of only a few cases, you'll find this scandinavian from Swedish Hill improves with age. Our very best to the Anthony-Estling union!

2002 Jacob's Creek Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

2007-04-21T20:59:00.000-07:00

Awwwwk! Following the very tough act of 2003 KVW Pinotage, ol' Jacob was struggling just a bit. A sound, reliable choice and only slightly cuttish in comparison with the KV--just like a small speed bump in the back of the mind. Johann Gramp would not have been too upset though, the JCRCS brought us around Grand Canyon, State of Washington, Vancouver Island, cruise to Alaska expedition planning.

2003 KWV Pinotage

2007-04-21T19:54:00.000-07:00

This "Wine of the Western Cape" was smooth as silk. Nestled right alongside a superb roast and perched there in perfect harmony. Veeerrry nice. Bottle No. 982070 will long go down as the progenitor of deep plotting and scheming as ideas for the "Pinguins" once again arose to the tune of "We Will Rock You". An inspirational vino, the KWV sailed us along and disappeared just as quickly. Hail Sud Africa!

2005 Antica Corte Pinot Grigio

2007-04-21T18:48:00.000-07:00

THIS is what you want to drink with shrimp cocktails. Alfio Moriconi strikes again. Lots of flavor running amok. 'Wakened the crustacean.

2003 Groth Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon

2007-03-31T20:12:00.000-07:00

Haha. Yes, that's right Felix, we finally broke the 50USD barrier! Slipped this one in on F4 playoff night #1 with my fave. Positioned v. Omaha steakettes. Might have overcooled and so it started a bit listless. Steady improvement as Mr. Grothika crept up toward room temp. Blissfully floating along now waiting for game two tip. Its a smooth ride. Thinking of buying yet another bottle and storing in the new 55degree mini-fridge for some future sig event. Lin's happily slurpin' away. If I don't have second thoughts tomorrow this is clearly a Mike's Wine Log reco extraordinaire.

2004 Fetzer Valley Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon

2007-03-24T05:05:00.000-07:00

A wine on the periphery of Maverick and Maverick's Jen's nuptials in Fayetteville. Rich, sweet and lush. Mostly just a visual experience until the fine desk clerk lady found us a corkscrew. Set us up for the controversial rehearsal party at the Gates Four where Uncle Ray walked the verbal plank (more than once). Hoo boy! Hit the Fetz once more next day prior to the actual event.

2005 Maso Canali Pinot Grigio

2007-03-03T23:58:00.000-08:00

Hot Tubbin' wine from Trentino, baby! Mr. and Mrs. A.D. put on a mouth-watering spread of shrimp curry and steamed mussles with seating divided into Indian and French sections at the table. For a while there was no crossing the political borders but this eventually broke down due to sheer rabidity (including mouth frothing). Two tasty Maso bottles evaporated in no time to the tune of many a "oh, my goodness gracious me!" and "Viva l' mussels!". The MCPG was just a showin' off cross two continents, Larry. A real lip-smacker. Then came the creme brulee, oh yeah! There was some trouble about the memory of past history at one point, but 2 hours in the steaming hot tub soon wafted us all floating on the night air until startled by Josephine clearing up the plastic wine glasses. Alas, time to go back sheep.

2006 Whitehaven Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc

2007-02-25T23:08:00.000-08:00

A slightly sweet wine served at the corner table of 7 Fish in Key West. Perfect match for the grouper and snapper entrees on a nice, warm Saturday night. A wine made for fish. This all came after parasailing in the morning and another round the island trip via jet ski that basically left us incapacitated by the major swells on the Atlantic side. Somehow we were able to wander down to Mallory Square for sunset and then on to the Olivia St bistro walking stiff legged like robots. Two bottles of the Whitehaven eventually eased the pain enough to crawl home.

2005 Bella Sera Rosso delle Venezie

2007-02-10T13:29:00.000-08:00

Nice smooth contribution that was slightly cool but never invisible. The MacMonty farewell lunch with stories of overseas attempted robbery and thumping 'o plenty in the Belgian capital. An unforgettable tour of duty when you fend off not one but two attempts at a shakedown. A drink all day wine for the masses that served to send Mac off to the Truman in style The availability of the bottle for longer term examination was welcome as well.

2007-02-03T06:16:00.000-08:00

2004 Kavaklidere Okuzgozu d' Elazig

2007-01-20T23:39:00.000-08:00

This was a red Kavaklidere wine at the JTT and Teresita's Branch 'do in VB. There was a defective wine bottle opener involved. Responsible for impaling several of the guests. As a result many were sucking their (own) thumbs and this may have influenced the assessment of the vino. Frankly the KOd'E was the best of the bunch that included Aussie and Virginia varietals. A further complication was the cork floating inside the bottle. Too many variables including the unforgettable funereal in Merry Hill, NC. I wouldn't know where to tell you to find it, but if you are making your way through Izmir and come across this--it's well worth a try!

Öküzgözü is a ‘monocépage’ product created after five long years of research. The grapes come from the Elazığ province, located on the Anatolian plateau at the north of the Taurus Mountains. The various sources of the Euphrates River in this region soften the normally harsh climate of Eastern Turkey. After aging in French oak barrels for 12 months, this wine reveals intense fruity flavors of raspberry and cherry mixed with an elegant "boisé". After two years in the winery, it evolves a very well balanced body with light tannins and reveals its "bouquet" after 4 years; it can age for up to 10 years. Öküzgözü is best served at 16-18 degrees C and is a perfect match with different dishes served with a cheese sauce, casseroles, red meat, grills, cheese and poultry.

2005 Santa Maria Valle Central Merlot

2007-01-02T19:37:00.000-08:00

Another solid candidate that disappeared quickly during the WV steak dinner. Set us up for the cheddar and giant grapes. More details about AD's early life as a sledder with friend M. Johnson up in Dartmoor. As always, the Santa Maria cruised us along and helped soothe the pain of Lezalie's nose-first smash into the snow tubing barrier.

2003 Chateau Bellevue Bordeaux

2007-01-02T19:23:00.000-08:00

After a full day of WV adventure ranging from the Seneca Rocks, to the Smoke Hole Caverns, the Dolly Sods and snow tubing . .. . . . Well! What was left but to fire up the grill, toss on some steaks, roast up the veggies, and crack open the Chateau Bellevue. Solid, dependable vino that took our minds off the hair raising off-piste experience at Canaan Valley snow tube park and the surprise at finding a stalagmite older than Bob Young in the Caverns. Another of Alfio Moriconi's choices. Ready for bed at 8:00!

2005 The Little Penguin Shiraz

2007-01-01T21:01:00.000-08:00

In the West Virginia mountains, the little penguin waddled in to a superb rockfish dinner and happily plopped down for a wonderful New Years Day. Just what you'd expect from an antarctic bird vis a vis Virginia striper. "A fishy little wine", "solid and robust". The rockfish, caught the day before at the mouth of the Ches Bay, included one by the renowned British accountant M. Johnson, shortly after nicking Mike's rented rod and reel. Harmony soon ensued and the party broke up around 8 p.m after cheese and grapes. Snores followed.

Masi Valipolicella

2006-12-28T21:27:00.000-08:00

Horrible red squid ink. Avast matey, go back to Veneto.

2003 Columbia Crest Grand Estates Merlot

2006-12-25T20:42:00.000-08:00

In advance of the 4-star Christmas dinner, I sipped a few afternoon glasses from the deck of the Pelican overlooking the silver Gulf of Mexico. Listening to second hand I-tunes, thinking about the 20 years of history since the first Xmas gathering at Cape San Blas. The Columbia Crest - gifted only that morning, brought back a flood of blinding memories .. . . and then of course I gleefully joined the rest of the assembled crowd and devoured a luscious bird and, fine ham, corn, stuffing, etc. Hail Columbia!

Folonari White

2006-12-22T21:17:00.000-08:00

The pre-Xmas chicken dinner. After getting bounced from Sonny's B-cue at lunch, Lin decided to cook in the new real estate acquisition kitchen.

2004 Alice White Cab Sauv

2006-12-16T21:07:00.000-08:00

Gville at Pomodoro's Cafe. A bit weak and unfulfilling at the start, Alice came right around at the end once the stuffed lamb hit the table and the waitress had finished spraying us with a good healthy shot of freezing ice water. We listened closely from then on, amici! Lin cleaned her plate dry of pasta casserole and was casting about the tabla for other prey until some kind of twice baked cheese cake arrived. A satisfying and sometimes sad day at 9220 starting the wrap-up and turnover. Basic plans for a Broadway show at the next big wedding in April, the notion of geologic time climbing out your arm, and life in NYC. Thanks to the Revs for a nice cap-off after an all night drive.

2003 Wolf Blass Syrah

2006-12-09T22:52:00.000-08:00

A calm and steady vino placed astride the three cold Coronas required to off-set Jolly Man's "hot peppers on the side" during this pre-Christmas curry extravaganza. Sweat broke out on Teeth's massive forehead only intermittently, and I can report that the t-paper rolls stayed in the freezer next morning, so all was well in the end. Herr Wolf blithely witnessed some serious story-telling about civil engineers jumping in waist deep water while sea caving in Cornwall, an unexpected u-trou dropping episode between a Granny and Jolly at the Jamaica Inn, and the perplexing ins and outs of government contracting vis a vis future unemployment. The evening closed for Lin&Mike as other reveler's turned toward Caledonian and Linguini beverages far beyond the Wolf's easygoing pace. Danke, mein Herr.

2001 Chateau La Grave de Moustey

2006-12-07T22:46:00.000-08:00

Thanks to the Ismet&Co for a true night to remember. Esconced at the Le Sucrerie situated in the Grand Hotel Waterloo just up the road from the Butte du Lion. This fine Bordeaux complemented a wonderful serving of lamb and a chance to get to know all of the Gungorian clan and hear more about a wide variety of subjects including commercial IT security, Coventry football, and the truth about the movie "Castaway" from an insider's pov. The wine was a sincere delight, rich, mouth-watering and flavorful. What a way to cap a productive week in the Bru. I must return with Lin in tow!

2003 Charles Shaw Cabernet Sauvignon

2006-12-02T23:04:00.000-08:00

A Travelin' Man's wine if there ever was one. All the way to Philly and back this steady, but unremarkable juice blended into the background like Elmer's glue. Consumed in the usual vast quantities to the striking tunes of "The Goat is Old and Gnarly", "There's an Aggregation Known Throughout the Country", and "On Navy Blue and Gold" as the spoiled and pampered pets had their way once again with the blackest of Knights (24-14). Followed by an impromptu tailgate in the Lincoln Financial parking lot to watch the first half of the SEC Championship. Charles S. was there just out of the portable TV light like a watchful butler. This slow-burning fuel nudged us toward a tulmultuous second half at the Top Dog in Cherry Hill with a final cry of "come-on let's all go up and dance" from the Tarboxian's. Awwwk!
P.S.-Advised two weeks later that this is the famous "two buck Chuck", it all falls into place.

2003 Santa Carolina Syrah (Bariica Selection)

2006-11-24T21:50:00.000-08:00

A hot Chile, hombre! What a wine, track it down like a bloodhound and buy a case. This was a surprise gift for 20 or 30 hours of raking and gutter cleaning at 1811 but made every sipping moment well worth that trouble. Full-bodied with a character reminscent of Simon Bolivar. What have they been doing up in those Andes foothills? Thanks to the J (no mean gutterer herself) and Mrs. Son of the Eyes for delivering this treat after watching Roy William's boys get back in the saddle against the netted, Tennessee Warbelers. The Syrah found a home next to some soothing Carolina 'cue (Meakes? Stameys?) that finally completed two days of familial interventions and deflections. I'm a headin' back to the Teeter for another bottiglia.

2005 Christian Salmon Sancerre

2006-11-23T16:07:00.000-08:00

The second T-Day dinner in a row at the Dr and J's in Winston. It must be said that there were several other wines consumed at this feast, but the bottles were discarded so quickly that no record can be made, evidently in testimony to the fine quality of the vino. A lone slurper waded through the Salmon quite happily since it brought an already superb set of turkey servings to even higher heights. This was no trivial Thanksgiving drive by, sit and run affair. There were lots of "made you want to's" beginning with an extensive review of the B&C Bajan honeymoon that made you want to strap on mask, snorkel and fins. Next a goat cheese spread that made you want to go "baaa .. . ." and the surprise delivery of celebratory engagement presentos to mark the Dr. and J's big news including a cake-top Carolina blue bride and groom that made you want to go to the Dilworth chapel right now. Then the Southern Living quality, candle-lit spread of the mini-buffet in the newly restored dining suite. Time passed. We eventually moved into the fifth hour at the table sampling and resampling the oyster casserole, sweet potato casserole, turkey (two types), ham, green beans & mushrooms, stuffing, be-deviled eggs . . . . yes -- well. Also this included first introduction to some of the finest Carolinians on the planet, the Son of the Eyes from Gboro, nee Charlotte and Scotland. They politely listened to ancient history about furniture-filled van rides to Florida "we drifted in and out of consciousness" and then Deep secrets were revealed about the J such as the $7 baby-sitting fee v. Grandma story, and the unfortunate incident in the bishopial newsletter--it takes a lot of confidence to give that sort of guidance. "What attracted you at the start?" "Well we had a lot of common interests, but it was mostly the Opera .. . " After the final attack on peach pie, pecan pie, ice cream, coffee, brandy (the Sancerre long gone) the 2006 T-day was put to rest as the women moved on to gape at Dr. Dreamy and the men retired to the back deck to enjoy the snappingly clean Piedmont air. We finally closed our eyes with wild speculation on Maverick and Maverick's Jen's T-day just a few miles up the road.

2001 Chateau St Jean "Robert Young Vinyard" Chardonnay (Alexander Valley)

2006-10-19T22:33:00.000-07:00

Fragrant little wine with an irresistible title served at the Sunset Grille in Port St Joe. Mixed right in with the original Pinot Noir choice to take us through a marvellous, filling seafood extravaganza of grouper, gouda scallops, and lobster ravioli. Unsettling incident with the "cracked" wine bottle that was later confirmed to be just a so-called "indentation". Anyone with the name "Big Bob" would certainly be proud to stand behind this vino!

Some 1997 Pinot Grigio from Tuscany - name later

2006-10-17T21:59:00.000-07:00

"I thought the grapes were particularly good toward the end of the year" . "This unflagging grape didn't have the tenacity to 'fight in the fields, fight on the beaches . . . . '". "There was a solar disturbance, Jupiter was not aligned with Mars" "The pickers were peeing on the grapes" "Ain't no cure for the summertime blues"

2005 Turning Leaf Reserve Pinot Noir

2006-10-16T22:25:00.000-07:00

At one of the Operation le Nozzi de Figaro dinners, this wine was a surprising match for the multi-fish and shrimp seafood entres. After an "interesting" taste at the beginning slid into a nice smooth finish. Calmed the combative atmosphere of "too many cooks in the kitchen" possibly fueled by a wide selection of pre-dinner firewaters of many a different sort. You just can't be totally objective drinking $85 a bottle scotch as a warmup! The post dinner songfest brought us all to a peak of communal thinking and the nasty incident in the mini-market bathroom with those "machines" was soon forgotten. Table for ten please signor!

2004 Valley Oaks Merlot

2006-10-16T15:56:00.000-07:00

Esconced at the Pel in CSB with the usual crowd of ruffians, this wine proved to be sturdy and resliant--a good transition wine, as in, transfers well from bottle to plastic water container. An "all day wine" that survived the extended transit from Chiefland. Particularly inspirational when visiting the machines in the Carrabelle mini-mart.

Hardy's Box Red

2006-10-12T21:52:00.000-07:00

A superior box of juice that warmed us right up in the heady pre-wedding timeframe. After mulling for months in the "cellar" we opened this at the Longboat Key club -- tourist wine at a fine resort, nothing finer. Later stolen by the Doctor and J and presumably forwarded on to the groom's abode. Even Maverick's Jen liked it.

2004 Lindeman's Bin 80 Cab-Merlot

2006-10-11T23:50:00.000-07:00

Arriving at the Doctor's estate in Winston we dove into this fine, light offerring which proved totally relaxing and put a real perspective on the newly painted dining room.

1993 Behringer Merlot

2006-10-07T21:25:00.000-07:00

A smooth little number condemned to the discount rack for being "too old". Stood tall as a mountain against Josephine's veg chili. Sweet and slick, no surprise at the end. So good, that I forgot about the luncheon date at Chick's the next day!

2002 Central Coast Calera Pinot Noir

2006-09-28T21:28:00.000-07:00

"It's such an odd smell. Its different." "Something before, and I tried to cook Josephine and it had all of happiness a lovely mothers day". "Well, no wonder there are people frozen in their Welsh bog. I think it'll be allright as long as you issue a gas mask with simple instructions."

2005 King Estate Pinot Gris

2006-09-28T21:11:00.000-07:00

The pre-wedding taste selection party. Nice, very smooth and light. Stayed right on the mark through two weeks of tasting. Mixed in between G&Ts and a nice merlot over veg chili. Won the first prize to be served - send me 14 bottles por favour!

2004 Acacia Carneros Pinot Noir

2006-09-24T21:20:00.000-07:00

Won the red wine contest for best to be served at the Wedding. Lin: "thumbs up; smooth clear after taste". At least it had a cork so no controversy.

2005 Villa Maria Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough) NZ

2006-09-24T21:16:00.000-07:00

A slammer of a wine; perfect with cajun shrimp and grouper. However, there were compaints about the screwtop cap! "Very fruity - not very buttery, it is crisp, a smoky".

Monkey Bay Pinot Grigio

2006-09-24T09:27:00.000-07:00

Rotgut swill, but above average cost.

AD&JB's Mini-Pinot Noir Wine Festival

2006-09-10T19:45:00.000-07:00

Beautiful VBeach Sunday afternoon, the wine expertly presented. Fortified by a warm-up Dark and Stormy we enjoyed a refreshing swim and then we moved to the deck table by the pool. This is what a mini-wine festival should be. The drama and suspense of four well-cloaked bottles of PNoir complete with blind tasting notes:

#1 2005 Buffalo Grove Anderson Valley

Light and watery, very soft and inoffensive. Finally, afer many a sip, a "sweetness"comes through, "I walked in on her and she said 'Poof'". "Take a guess at the year", "Not long ago!". "An acidic aftertaste reminds me of burnt toast". "Slightly bitter aftertaste". "Light then smoky, a little harsh afterwards". "A completely different wine when cooled a bit."

#2 2004 Edgewood Estate Edna Valley

"I've got to get rid of No. 1 first" (where was this going) , "I thought No. 1 wasn't great, but No. 2 shows just how wrong you can be!! Sunburnt taste. Tongue Drying. If you were to go to Egypt a kiss a dummy this is the shape your lips would take" "No, its a mummy" "We're only having sippies" "Yuk". "Fruity aroma; bitter aftertaste, even stronger than #1, lip puckering".

2004 Farallon Central Coast

"The best so far. Smooth even and balanced. Everyone's angel". "A perky little offering". "Very light, very mellow. An enjoyable wine". "What u taste is what u get. Not bad at all".

2004 Chateau de Phillipe Le Hardi

"More bitter, but not as strong as No.s 1 & 2. Light". "Light, quite nice, but tastes of shrimp." "Flat, metallic. A bit of a stinger at the end. Straw in the mouth. "Light, quite interesting. I like it, I really do. Really."

And so, this delightful afternoon came to an end with the Farallon in the lead but Edna Valley on his heels. Looking forward round two during the now aptly named Operation "Le Nozze Di Figaro".

Adio!

2003 Penfolds Koonunga Hill Shiraz Cabernet

2006-09-03T20:39:00.000-07:00

This fine offering was unveiled at Keena's 56th birthday party at the B-well Salt Ponds resort. Locked away til the last minute, Teeth finally opened the Penfolds to the delight of the wild boar sauce eating crowd. We sat downstairs for hours in the back garden with the rest of the "B" List crowd suffering shunning catcalls from the upper deck (including the Queen's haughty wave). Eventually the Bratty distro to the poor was held accompanied by the vino de Oz. There were a few dissenting opinions from Stag One re "kangaroo droppings" and "platypus spittle", but, in the end, the Koonunga won the day. Teeth upended and finished the bottle senza bichiere. Comments? Something from AD about "monumental" or maybe "memorable". Future solo skydiver Josephine advised "It smells like red wine". As cell phone numbers were excitedly exchanged, we toasted sunset sitting astride our new Coleman folding captain's chairs. The evening closed as the disastrous events of the previous Labor Day were revisted, and all agreed that 2006 was a vast improvement being as how no one got lost beside the porta-potties.

2004 Lindemans Bin 55 Shiraz Cabernet

2006-09-01T23:21:00.000-07:00

Pre-launch night before Operation Annapolitan Pirates. Dinner at the Guad followed by Eddie Sal's Elvis Show. Let's just say his idea of the King's scarf was a stretch of TP. Ohhhh Nooo. Then back to mi casa for some Lindemans. This prompted a session of side by side feet comparison and then showing of the boys in the bath picture. Next thing we know Lin was clawing the air mouth open. Was this a Mac impression or a subtle statement of appreciation? "Its good for the loosening of lips and the sinking of ships" , "there will be payback for this weekend". The Lindy was no earth-shatterer, but decent and reliable. Luckily this bottle came just before one of the Black Swan's was cracked open which quickly re-earned the BSOD designation based just on the comparison.

Alois Lageder "Riff" Pinot Grigio

2006-08-28T13:34:00.000-07:00

You've got to be kidding me. Riff? Of course there was a simple explanation: The name comes from the German word for "reef," which refers to the fact that the Dolomites were once under water and it is sea fossils that contribute to the unique and important limestone soil. Yeah, I would've guessed that. Anyway this was the N. Atkins enroute to the UN farewell potluck. What a great mid-day wine. Colder the better. Label on the bottle said $9.

2003 Byron Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir

2006-08-26T20:19:00.000-07:00

Smooth as silk. Set up by the pool side story of the sock-headed vicar impersonator, the Byron sailed us through a fine steak dinner.

Marques de Caceres Rioja Blanco

2006-08-25T20:34:00.000-07:00

Oh yeah! On Charlottesville's Pedestrian Main Street we popped into Bashir's Taverna for the tapas. Ordered up the Marques' finest. It lifted the veil a bit left by La's return to schule. A nice match up to the many different unnameable items on the plate, some warm, some cool, some which might have moved a bit on their own when we were distracted by the passing throng. Steaming hot evening, the Rioja Blanco held up like a little a/c right there on la tabla. Bueno.

2004 Errazuriz Estate Merlot

2006-08-24T20:48:00.000-07:00

La's farewell dinner before heading back to school. A nice ride, sweeter than the average. Good grapes from the Curico Valley. Evidently the only downside was the screwtop: "Oh nice, a screwtop cap!", "Well that's quite a farewell for La on her last night!" "Yeah, Bon Voyage Dad!". More sarcasm dripping on the table than juice from the grilled pork chops. All this after the K-tee's medical adventure stories. Geesh. Big hit: first ever Mike grown canteloupe. Yeah, baby, farmin'.

McManis Vinyards Chardonnay

2006-08-22T19:34:00.000-07:00

At the Klingelho Birthday in Town Square. A fine little wine coupled with superb light eats including salmon, mincemeat, and toothpick impaled ham and olives. Sweet. From Ripon Cal. I'm not so sure about the Malo-lactic fermentation but the Klingel's liked it and so it was.

Undated Black Swan Merlot

2006-08-18T23:31:00.000-07:00

Well, I have to step back from an earlier entry about the "Black Swan of Death" (BSOD). After a long day: work-Newport News-Hartsfield-MARTA-Buckhead we were lifted up by a surpisingly good splash of the Swan. Although she kept her imperious and aloof eye on those gathered, there was a smooth, even taste that sustained us through two of Maverick's killer stories: (1) the incident on Libary Street hiding in the closet from the 82 year old land-lady and (2) passed out and wrapped up in Christmas tree lights (lighted) then stuffed into a fireplace (unlighted). No surprise that our "mind wasn't on the wine".

2005 Lindemans Bin 85 Pinot Grigio

2006-07-12T22:48:00.000-07:00

Pel in CSB the Lindemans floated us over seveal meals including the wonderful salmon and the surprising mexican. A versatile little wine, that, if sufficiently chilled at sub-zero temps, can complement any taste or in the case of the mexican, calm the waters of potential jalapeno discontent. Multi-purpose: light beverage or fire extinguisher, your choice.

2004 Francis Coppola Black Label Claret

2006-07-07T22:54:00.000-07:00

At the Bonefish in Gville. A smacking good red even with the delicious seafood dinners, after the vacation barbecue ribs, and on the anniversaries day--lots of plurals. The waiter offered to bring in the furniture dolly at the end of the meal to ensure we made it back to the cars. The wine helped us to say "no thanks Manuel, we'll just roll ourselves out on our own!"

2005 "Goats du Roam" (SW Aus)

2006-07-03T21:52:00.000-07:00

Gville. As Ginnie unscrewed the attractive metal cap and the aroma hit the post-Fan & Fireworks crowd a sense of expectation pervaded. "I'm not sure which end of the goat this came from". "It's just a little bit tart". "I'm sorry, I can't hear you because my lips are covering my ears". Maybe we should have gone for the Black Forest cake after all.

2004 Westbend Chyambourcin (Dessert)

2006-07-01T20:28:00.000-07:00

It happened on an NC back deck. After the brats and corn on the cob. "Its very sweet" said The J. "Blueberries and spice" said the Doc. "I thought I wasn't going to like it but its OK" said The J. "Honey,what do you think?", "Of your music selection? Not much". "Its sort of like Gilligan's Island" The Doc. "It's really a bone of contention". "Actually this wine isn't bad, its drinkable" "When you think about it you can actually taste the blueberries." Best when listening to Bic Runga.

2001 Westbend Cabernet Sauvignon Yadkin Valley

2006-07-01T20:25:00.000-07:00

On the deck at 1811. This was a lively wine that matched up well with the brats and barbecue cole slaw. After all we were on-site in the actual NC. The Doc and Jinny back from Irelandia showed froth with the Westbend offerring. Mac was a bit skittish, but the Westbend rose right up!

Unk Croaker's House Merlot

2006-06-30T21:54:00.000-07:00

Fine just fine. But couldn't step up to the Salmon Raymone. I don't know what to recommend. Not the Ecco Domani.

2003 Pinossimo Pinot Noir

2006-05-27T11:02:00.000-07:00

There was a lot of suspicious guidance on the orange and cream label: "A festive wine to be drunk throughout the whole meal", "Enjoy this wine within 3 years" (now that's a long meal). Also some words about being "classy" or being "adventurous". A little confusing. But when all was said and sipped, Bouchard Aine & Fils generally hit the target against a wonderful roast, twice baked potatoes, and monster salad. Nice supple flavor which ameliorated the persistent sting from afternoon dialogue with the Doctor regarding a much earlier mid-summer camping trip: "What did you do all day?" "Sat around in shock, dreading the night". Took a while to say the name of the brand correctly even before drinking the wine.

2002 Barton & Guestier Saint-Emilion

2006-05-26T22:24:00.000-07:00

The Doctor and J arrive for Mem Day Wkd. With the succinctness one expects from NC foothill people: D: "It was good". J: "It was very good". Well, that's good.

Ecco Domani Pinot Grigio

2006-05-24T22:52:00.000-07:00

Make a note: a bit thin and watery. Big expectations v. Croaker's calamari but skittered over the tongue without much impact. Still enjoyed the job celebration dinner. Watch out for the seafood salad - HUGE portions.

2003? Kenwood "Russian River" Pinot Noir

2006-05-07T23:15:00.000-07:00

The surprise B-Earthday "partay" for La's 19th. The gals from Eagle 3 rolled in a bit early and set a trap which sprung a mild evening with the folks into a wild fondue slingin' event with the hallies. Gracias Melting Pot. The Kenwood was a dream, consumed by the mature legal two in half-bottles. Lin: "I really like it." That's all I need to hear.

1998 Chateau Roquevieille Bordeaux

2006-05-06T21:02:00.000-07:00

Gift wine of the finest kind! Searching the "cellars" in preparation for a B-Earth-day eve grilled steak extravaganza with La and Lin on the deck de maison, I came upon this (relatively ancient for Mike's collection) intriguing bordeaux. My only guess is that this was a hostess gift from some wayfaring visitor who must have received a good dose of Peter Vella in return. Not what you'd call a fair trade. The Roquevieille proved to be quite a star on a warm wonderful evening! Smooth as can be, J.P.C. Palatin knew exactly what he was doing over 8 years ago over in St-Phillippe-D'Aiguilhe. Not that I'll be visiting him in the near future, but hat's off mesdames and messieurs.

2004? Estancia Cabernet Sauvignon

2006-04-30T21:28:00.000-07:00

Dinner with the Big Fish at La Galleria. A fine evening clearing house on family and work with some grins thrown in. "I will quit smoking" haha. The Estancia stood tall against a continent-sized veal chop. Inofficious, reliable as a kibben.

2004 Chateau Bois Redon

2006-04-29T23:10:00.000-07:00

"Bottled in the castle". Lucky to have two FR-Canadiens for the complete label translation this Alfio M. selection was truly inspirational. Noting that Henri-Louis Fagard was involved at some point, we relished the insight emanating from the Suffolkian Bar-bordeaux commentary: "superior", "cracking good draft", "a bordeaux like non-other" and "I like a wine that's extremely dry, that leaves le palais reaurffite (the smacking of the pallete)". And then finally a sound from the lips, sort of a "phwacking" or maybe a "patwacking" believed to signify some degree of approval. Later this grand kickoff vino, supplemented by a serious number of jello shooters while billiarding at the House of Moreno Warming, led to even deeper notations: "I need to go on your bushes", a rendition of "It's Hockey Night, tonight" and, finally, the evening concluding "I would not trust my safety to a hoofed creature!" sending us all off with a smile and several sets of phwacked lips. Eh?

2003 Greg Norman Limestone Caverns Shiraz

2006-04-23T16:52:00.000-07:00

"On Par". The wit flowed on a gorgeous, sunny Sunday afternoon on the AD/Josephine deck overlooking the extensive science experiment sometimes known as "the pool". For the modest investment, this was a very, very tasty offering. Sliding lower and lower in the chair as the conversation ebbed and meandered round recent gastro(nomic) excursions, the London theatah, and punctuality. The GN stayed afloat throughout across a range of temperatures until, finally, safely wrapped in a cooler sleeve it was put to rest--what an Aussie.