vintage1949

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• Mark1npt says:

  5/20/2022 6:37:00 AM - Hey Dave! How are you doing? Mark

• BuzzzzOff says:

  12/19/2021 11:04:00 PM - Hey vintage1949. We thought of you the other night when attending a friend's 72nd birthday. 1947 Le Bernardine (Magnum) and 1982 Duhart-Milon Rothschild (6 liter) were the stars.

• BuzzzzOff says:

  10/2/2021 1:38:00 AM - Hey vintage1949. Quick update: Jacquesson 739 to 743 tasting was marvie. 739 nuttier and rounder while 743 was the overwhelming favourite for future sipping. The others, particularly 741, were not shabby. One of our fav bubbles, especially given the modest price for such quality and relatively modest quantity (200K+ bottles per year). Some of our friends decided to include a splash of burgundy so we were treated to 2005 Domaine Drouhin-Laroze Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Lavaut St. Jacques and 1999 Burguet Gilles Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Lavaux St. Jacques as well as a 2000 Luis Pato Baga Vinho Regional Beiras Quinta do Moinho. Oooweebaby, quite the 5+ hour lunch!!! These "kids" are going to be the happy death of us!!!

• BuzzzzOff says:

  9/25/2021 8:22:00 PM - Hey Vintage1949. I thought of you when I enjoyed a vertical 1993-1998 Viberti Giovanni Barolo Buon Padre 5 hour lunch the other day at an Italian restaurant where the owner was kind enough to hide us away in private room to ensure no enforcement of dry dine-in rules. Marvie day to celebrate birthdays of one friend who is 79 and another who is 27. The 27 year old, along with his equally and disgustingly young lady friend, carried on with us back home for a bottle of 2008 Marc Hebrart Champagne Special Club. The next day was a bit slow and sans wine, but worth it!!! We will visit the same restaurant this Friday for a 739 to 743 Jacquesson Champagne lunch with a 40 year old friend, who only sips champagne. Same place, different Noble Grape. And the globe spins...

• Mark1npt says:

  8/17/2021 5:41:00 AM - Dave.....nobody should be making a '20 wine. DO NOT BUY ANY. B Cellars wines are never 'viney'. It really sounds like you got a bad bottle. Thin and red is not good either. Not at all indicative of their wines. If you find this in another bottle, I would contact them for replacements.

• BuzzzzOff says:

  8/14/2021 12:01:00 AM - Hey vintage1949. How are you doing? It appears y'all are learning to live and die with Covid19 and its progeny. Here we are still under lock 'n key every night by 9pm and cannot enjoy dinner at restaurants due to no dine-in. Fortunately, delivery from excellent restaurants is plentiful and we always have 100+ bottles of liquid courage in situ. Onwards and upwards!!!

• Mark1npt says:

  7/2/2021 8:24:00 AM - Hi Dave...yes, I'm probably in the same boat as you, just not quite the same age yet...but I have plenty of wine to enjoy for many years. If I did not buy '19, or '21 or '22 my cellar would still be pretty full. No doubt, I'll pick up some stray bottles of Cali wines for a few more years but no more big multi case purchases. If I drink 150 bottles a year and replace them in the cellar with 30-40 others from prior good vintages, so be it.

• Mark1npt says:

  7/1/2021 8:07:00 AM - Hi Dave....thanks for your questions....ultimately our wine buying needs to be guided by 'how long in the tooth' we are and who we have to leave our wines to when we're gone. I stopped buying BDX in '19 with only 6 bottles and it's Pontet Canet so I know I can drink it early if I want and don't have to necessarily live til 2049, to wait it out! I'd be 91 yo then! If I were you, I'd buy your '19s from Napa and skip any vintages past that. Just wait to see how you are and what you're doing when 2023 rolls around and the '21s are getting released. If they are drinkable early then buy a few selected bottles then. I've also been loading up on past vintages over the past year of the '12s through '16s and I have the feeling I'll be adding more '18s to the cellar over the next 2 years, too. You can always find the wines you love to drink, they just cost a little more, that's all. I have had extremely good luck buying later from wine shops and auctions all over this country, so we don't always have to get our wines straight from the winery's cellars on first release for them to be good. I've bought almost every single old BDX in my cellar like that and rarely have I ever had a bad bottle. My feeling about wine as I get older is I will be looking 'back' a little more at these past vintages, rather than looking forward so much. Hope this helps! Mark

• Decanting Queen says:

  6/18/2021 5:41:00 PM - Hi Dave—hope you are doing well. I just sent you an email re Cayuse and wanted to be sure you didn’t miss it! Cheers!

• BuzzzzOff says:

  5/31/2021 8:59:00 PM - Hey vintage1949. It was one of our birthdays. Given Covid19 restrictions in The Land of Smiles, e.g. no alcohol served in restaurants and closing time at 9pm, we requested a top-shelf French restaurant in a hotel to arrange a "guest room". They removed the bed and replaced with a nice dining room table. Room service was readily available for the 9 course meal (kitchen less than 100 yards from the room). Compliant with the letter of the law. Two other couples also practicing voluntary lockdown joined us. If The Land of Smiles would allow you to visit (no foreigners), we gladly would have extended an invitation. We are a bit jealous of our evening as well ;-)

• BuzzzzOff says:

  5/28/2021 10:56:00 PM - Sipped a 1947 Chateau Margaux Vandermeulen bottling, 1988 Leflaive Batard-Montrachet, 1999 Champagne Fleury, 2006 Billecart-Salmon, 1989 Chateau Lafite-Rothschild and 1990 Chateau Lafite-Rothschild...thought of you :-)

• BuzzzzOff says:

  4/13/2021 8:19:00 PM - Sorry to read about the Halibut. 19/20 would earn you scallions in professional sports so feel good!!! Alas, the beach condo is a distant memory. Four years. Pros and Cons...like everything in life. Onward and upwards... Wow, you still are a fairly big buyer. We have discontinued buying starting this year. Between Hong Kong and Thailand, we have 2500+ bottles. We are hoping they will be sipped over the next 15 years when one of us anticipates going to the big winery in the sky...or the bigger one down under. Adore wooden boxes!!! We keep 100 bottles in two wine fridges and 20+ in the ordinary food fridge. Given we never cook in the city, we only have wine in the food fridge. Priorities... At the beach, we had a proper wine room that easily handled 1500 bottles in shelves and plenty more in boxes. The shelves were sized to handle everything from Bordeaux to Magnums...and all the others in between. The city condo does not have the space for a wine room. And so it goes... Mucho yummy 2013 Plansel Selecta Tinta Barroca from Portugal last night. Dark purple, vibrant dark fruits, medium+ tannins, long finish. Sophia Loren battles with Beyonce!!!

• BuzzzzOff says:

  4/1/2021 12:10:00 AM - We get luvly Halibut at several restaurants in Bangkok. Fresh frozen from Europe of course, but still yummy. I am confident yours will be far superior. I feel ya regarding temperatures. We are moving 300 bottles from our beach condo, which we are selling, to our city condo. It is a two hour drive going from approximately 70F to the 100F+ heat during the trip. We, of course, will use a refrigerated truck to ensure our babies do not suffer. Same issue when getting our allocations from California to Hong Kong. Then again, they fly over so usually not an issue. The things we do for our "children". 2014 Robert Foley Claret last night was a show-stopper!!! Wow!!!

• BuzzzzOff says:

  3/23/2021 8:03:00 PM - Hey vintage1949. Far Niente is a great PQR drop. Alas, we like Halibut, but sour cream and mayo? Ugh...no chance for our palates!!! Last night was 'Round the world Chardonnay dinner. Two blanc de blancs and 8 chards from USA, Switzerland, Italy, France, New Zealand and South Africa. Eight very happy sippers. Marvie. Chef is from Boston and did some very nice victuals. Feeling good this morning ;-)

• BuzzzzOff says:

  3/23/2021 7:58:00 PM - I am a Neanderthal when it comes to technology. If point, click and type, I am a magician. Otherwise, useless...and happy. We like champagne. Tastings (100 ml+) are a bit tough as the acidity becomes a bit overwhelming. With food, I think it cost approximately USD150. Good value.

• Mark1npt says:

  3/15/2021 6:20:00 AM - Dave...I've seen Woody's but have not been in. I agree first time meetings for safety reasons should never be in your home/condo. I've had very good luck here on CT and have met up with Jenmermaidia and her family numerous times and recently had Agelvis and his wife visit, too. We're all going to meetup at Jen's in May in Atlanta for a cellar blowout. Should be a lot of fun. Woody's with you when you are able would be fun, too.

• vintage1949 says:

  3/15/2021 6:17:00 AM - Wow you are way ahead of me in regards to knowing champagne. Most of my knowledge is encapsulated simply—in what I like in champagne. Give me a doughy, bread filled nose coupled with the same aspects on the palate but with enough acidity and I am in wine heaven. Just like in red wine I can smell a champagne I like for easily an hour. Which brings me to something I am jealous about. Grin I have never been to a serious champagne tasting. I would have loved to be there! My tasting champagne is limited due to where I live. To get a group of people together to spend a couple hundred bucks per person on the bubbly is almost impossible. Wow I am envious after giving your tasting more thought. If I may inquire about how much did it cost to attend the event? Dave

• BuzzzzOff says:

  3/14/2021 7:07:00 PM - Hey vintage1949. Thought of you while attending a grower champagne blind tasting. Awesome evening. Sadly, we did not guess our "house" champagne, e.g. Jacquesson. We did get 4/8 correct...ain't bad since we never had any of them. Basically, we were provided a list. We tasted and guessed which one based on things like blend or single varietal, dosage and location in Champagne. Good way to spend six hours on a Sunday.

• englishman's claret says:

  3/14/2021 1:25:00 PM - I do have a Lafite problem- my problem is that I need more Lafite in my life! But I'm only 34 so I can afford to buy them young and wait. I live in Back Bay so I keep most of my cellar off-site with a smallish EuroCave in town. Luckily the wine vault is not too far away. Come and see for yourself!

• Mark1npt says:

  3/12/2021 2:32:00 PM - Dave, that's pretty funny, but I do understand. Too many crazies out there. I was trying to figure out which bottle I could give you in exchange for the Frog, I guess now the pressure is off, lol.

• Mark1npt says:

  3/2/2021 5:18:00 PM - Dave....it's Jenmermaidia on here.

• BuzzzzOff says:

  2/22/2021 5:57:00 PM - Hey vintage1949. Racist!!! Not distinguishing between white and red. How can you live with yourself :-)? We just took delivery of 7 bottles of 1997 Opus One and 1997 Haut-Brion Blanc from a Zachy auction. We now have sufficient bottles to celebrate our wedding anniversary for the next 30 anniversaries...76 bottles, 22 wines. Alas, we are not confident of surviving that long so we might have to triple or quadruple up on some events. No more buying for certain!!!

• BuzzzzOff says:

  2/18/2021 9:59:00 PM - Hey vintage1949. Good to know we did not turn you off. 'Buff politics ;-) We had a fun experience the other night blind tasting some Italians and Spaniards. The first wine was white, dry, fairly high acidity, light alcohol, a touch oily, and nice blend of lemon, peach and almonds on the palate. We hit it when guessing an ancient Italian varietal, either Vermentino or Verdicchio. BINGO... Verdicchio. We even were in the neighbourhood age-wise when guessing 10 to 15 years (13). Good laugh!!!

• Mark1npt says:

  2/15/2021 5:54:00 PM - Awesome Dave! That's one of the things I love about them, they still discount to their clubs, so many of these higher end wineries do not. You can still email Peter or ask to deal with him when you call if you didn't work with any particular person.....peter@bcellars.com

• Mark1npt says:

  2/15/2021 12:14:00 PM - All good Dave! Those are 3 of my favs! Did you happen to deal with Peter at B Cellars?

• Mark1npt says:

  2/12/2021 7:17:00 AM - Dave, I turned this guy on to B Cellars...here is his review from a few months ago on this '18 Star... 10/20/2020 - BE.LEE favorite WROTE:99 Points Tasted at winery Thank you Peter and Mark for pouring this wine and thank you @mark1pt for recommending me to B -cellars. Holy wow. this is an amazing wine. Reminded me a lot of Stags Fey; tannins are so silky smooth, yet fruit comes out strong from the start, not overwhelming and still well balanced. this is truly a masterpiece. wine of the day for me. can't say the same about my wife who was already half passed out from previous few pours.

• Mark1npt says:

  2/12/2021 7:09:00 AM - Dave, I have 2 of them in my cellar.....might try one in a few weeks. Will let you know!

• Mark1npt says:

  2/12/2021 6:21:00 AM - Hey Dave...glad you are almost done with your shots. I am on the list being a healthcare provider but in no particular hurry, when they call they call. I don't feel very vulnerable and I'm certainly not buying into the hysteria that the media falsely created. I don't remember which cabs I gave you. I do like the VHR but I am scaling way back on the $250 bottles. In fact, as much as I like B Cellars I would never pay $250 for their Crane or TKalon. Being a member I get it for $208 and I buy only a few. I prefer to get more of the LPV, MHopper and G III for $168. At this point I am looking at value. Like buying Bard from Realm. It's a good 95-96 pt wine for $110....I'm just not going to buy the $250-$400 bottles that might deliver me 1-2 more points. It's just not worth it to me personally. In fact the B Cellars basic cabs that I get for $108 like the Star and Ehrlich most years are almost as good as some of the Beckstoffers like LPV and MHopper. As I will just be starting retirement this year, I need to get a handle on expenses and see that I don't run out of money in 25 years! Cheers!

• BuzzzzOff says:

  2/9/2021 9:45:00 PM - Hey vintage1949. We hope you were not put-off by our USA system comments. We often forget people directly affected by such matters are sensitive to these sort of conversations. We, on the other hand, find such mental masturbation to help find meaning in our retired lifestyles. Sorry if we overstepped.

• BuzzzzOff says:

  1/24/2021 7:54:00 PM - Hey vintage1949. Fair rumble, albeit we tend to disagree. He certainly possesses dictatorial character traits, but the beauty of your Federalist system (far from a true democracy by intention of the Founders) kept him in check. We thought it was an excellent opportunity for a long overdue challenge. The USA met it with a robust system. It ain't broke. As constitutional geeks of sorts, we read all the non-political stuff (court cases, executive orders, etc) of The Donald's tenure. It was riveting. Sadly, the divisiveness and philosophy of "you either are with me or against me" is wherein the problem festers...IMHO. Ouch, tough way to test, e.g. 50% down the drain. If every bottle of every wine was what it should be, we would get bored. An off bottle now and again is educational and keeps us honest. You have plenty to sip of Maybach going forward to get a more balanced viewpoint, which we hope is positive, but you never know. Deutz is one of our four home champagnes along with Delamotte, Jacquesson and Laurent Perrier. Good call and we are humbled with your tipping a glass of the same for Mom, albeit she was more a heavy, Chianti sipper or what we used to call, in a slightly derogatory joke "Guinea Red". She no doubt was looking down from up high and saying with a finely sculpted Brooklyn accent "Yo, when are you popping the good stuff". We very much appreciate everything about Sauternes except for the aromas and tastes....ooops, we mean the wine!!! However, one visit to d'Yquem makes you a believer in what they are doing. Exceptional. Pleased it hit you right in the...pocket!!!

• vintage1949 says:

  1/23/2021 2:58:00 AM - Hey Buzzzz, I will rumble slightly. If people believe a candidate will cause trouble they should vote for a better candidate. Regarding the Donald I feel he is damn dangerous to our democracy. And that is putting it politely. California wines and aging. Their is a challenging game. In the 80’s and 90’s I would age a wine ten years past the vintage date. That brought rewards and big disappointments. Fifty percent of the bottles were food for the kitchen sink while the other half brought a big smile on my face. Maybach! Hmmm I think I had an off day tasting wine. However it did not go fast at the table in fact being last to be polished off. I have left to drink the 13, 14, 15, and 16 vintages. Somewhere I read they still need time with the exception of 2014. Maybe that should be the next one I crack open. I popped open an inexpensive Deutz Champagne in celebration of Biden’s win. The case has been sitting there for five years. I will be damned it showed really well. Oh one last story. When I was just getting into wine (at the same time I bought the Mouton) I went to a wine store in Milwaukee to purchase different wines to expand my experience. The owner of the store asked if I had ever tasted a wine called Sauternes. Of course my answer was no. He persuaded me to spend fifty bucks. A lot of money at the time. Five years later I opened the wine and it blew my socks off. The color was a deep caramel with a smell that simply captivated the hell out of you. The wine-1967 Château d'Yquem. The wine store manger really knew what to offer me in trying new wines. Grin Hope things slowly go better for you. We did do a toast to your mom with the Deutz. Hope that was ok. Dave

• BuzzzzOff says:

  1/21/2021 5:51:00 AM - Hey vintage1949.Thanks for the note about Mom. We gulped down some NYC-style Pizza with a ten year old Masseto to assuage the pain a bit. Yes, no one should die alone if possible to avoid. It is hard to be human and feel comfortable with The Donald as a person especially when you know several people who represented him over the decades and tell stories of woe. We were more interested in all the legal issues swirling around his four years, albeit we try to be sensitive to our Yank friends when discussing the same. We are apolitical to the point that with a combined number of years in excess of 100 we still have never, ever voted in any election in our lives. Feel free at any time to rumble. Great story regarding 1959 Mouton. Very nice especially when you consider you did not have to pay 1st Growth "tax" at that time. We remember a reporter saying to a baseball pitcher that he was lucky to get the no-hitter. The pitcher smiled and said "I would rather be lucky than good anyway of the week". BINGO!!! We have very little experience with aged Cali wines...sadly. We hope to be changing that situation when some of the wines we bought in auction come ashore this year. Ouch, we are surprised about the Maybach experience. You should send a message to Chris Maybach informing him of the same. He is very proud of his product and a fun fella with whom to interact. Equally, we suggest you ask him about which wines to open first. We gather they are Materium rather than Amoenus? We would go with oldest vintage first. Yes, Bernard Dugat-Py Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru was a drooler... Tonight was a 2010 Chateau Eugenie Cuvee Pierre le Grand from Cahors. Quite yummy, silky tannings and perfect with Bordier cheese and a baguette. Cheap as chips...which is always nice.

• BuzzzzOff says:

  1/12/2021 1:22:00 AM - Hey vintage 1949. 2020 for sure covered all the bases. First, one of us lost our mother due to Covid19. Losing her at 81 was tough, but when you live on the other side of the world, you tend to prepare for the worse every time you visit/depart. Passing away over 72 hours ALONE!? Devastated. We had already arranged for a lawyer to fight for access, failing which a thick envelope for a young nurse, but we were too late. That hurt mucho. Second, we were exceedingly happy not to travel on an airplane at all in 2020. First time in nearly 40 years this did not happy. Pleased mucho. Finally, given one of ours education, the many trials and travails of The Donald kept the mind active aka Mental Masturbation. We know it is a difficult subject for Yanks, regardless of which side of the aisle you sit, but for us, it was quite simply fascinating. You are a braver man than we are still buying En Premiere. We hope it is very yummy when you sip in 2028 ;-). We have not sipped Memento Mori, albeit we have heard good things. Please let us know. The "wine geniuses" seem to like it a lot. We really like Maybach. Check 'em out at https://www.maybachwines.com/shopping3/account/shopping_login.cfm. We would be happy to make an introduction to get you on the List. 18 special bottles is better than 1000 good ones. Enjoy!!! One of us enjoys d'Yquem, but only at 40 years or so. We visited many moons ago. Very cool place. Hey, is there anything that is bad when watching a Packers game with brie!!!??? We played a bit in a recent auction with varying success. As you no doubt know, you have to do some research and then set limits as to how much you will bid. Discipline is fundamental lest you go off the deep end. We picked up some aged Domain Ponsot, Spottswoode, Dalla Valle and Kistler Pinot Noirs for a song. We got handily outbid for some aged Kistler Chardonnays, which was depressing. People are getting too smart!!! We sipped a stunning, make you believe in God again (assuming 2020 challenged that belief) 1999 Bernard Dugat-Py Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru the other night. Socks came off, toes curled and an oft-heard hallelujah was uttered by all. Be good...

• BuzzzzOff says:

  1/7/2021 1:52:00 AM - Unfamiliar with Lands End in Florida. What's up?

• BuzzzzOff says:

  12/28/2020 10:34:00 PM - BuzzzzOff says: (Edit for 5 more minutes) 12/28/2020 10:33:00 PM - Do you mean Land's End in South Africa?

• BuzzzzOff says:

  12/14/2020 2:05:00 AM - Hey Dave!!! Yes, an excuse me sort of sip. All that it was hyped up and more sous bois all over the pitch!!! We no longer are participating in auctions...too crazy!!! The limo story sounds marvie. We were too young, poor and lacking in wine interest back in the USA days. Now we rely upon boats. This Sunday will be fun as we will "go down the Rabbit Hole" at a restaurant with a significant cellar, casual dress code (shorts) and only USD12 markup on wholesale prices. It will no doubt be a six or seven hour extravaganza!!! Great to read about Château Pichon-Longueville Baron. A winner!!! We feel ya about not getting any younger. We will get our knee drained and shot up with cortisone this week. Hoping to put off meniscus or worse surgery. Last night a 1990 Savigny-les-Beaune Lavieres 1er Cru Robert Ampeau & Fils. Warm, smooth, comfortable and huggable drop from start to finish. Happy we were.

• csimm says:

  12/6/2020 9:50:00 AM - Hi Dave. Thanks for posting on my message board. I truly appreciate the compliment. CT has always been a great way to gain perspective on so many wines. Everyone's thoughts and experiences are worth considering in this forum in my opinion. Cheers!

• BuzzzzOff says:

  11/30/2020 12:29:00 AM - @vintage1949 Hey, how are you!!!??? Standing is over-rated. Sit 'n sip far better!!! We are OkeyDokey. We have not been posting because it turns out doing so in Thailand is illegal and subject to fines. We are guests so we want to avoid even the appearance of impropriety. We recently have been participating Hong Kong auctions for Zachy's and Sotheby's...a bit too much. 200 bottles later of exceedingly great Burgundies and various Californians later, we were frightened. The Burgundies reflected auction fatigue. The Californians reflected lack of knowledge/interest from the Chinese. Either way, we won all the wines at the initial bids. Even with the 25% commission, we win 30% below market. We know Cayuse. The others, we are confident, are yummy. We did our Kistler, Robert Foley, Sea Smoke, Fisher, Maybach, Blankiet, etc. All too much, frankly!!! Château Pichon-Longueville Baron - great producer. I wonder about the 2017...fingers and toes crossed you will like them in a few years. I feel ya regarding some friends feeling out-priced. We also have been out-priced dramatically with some friends popping 1959 La Tache and other similarly aged Burgundies. Crazy stuff!!! We take the position that wine is about sharing so price is irrelevant. We think you have to work a little harder with those friends who feel out-priced. Explain to them you really want to sip those drops with good friends. The fact you have popped open a more expensive wine is your problem, their benefit and a time to be very happy together. Trust me, when the 1959 La Tache was popped open and shared against our 2003 Charmes Chambertin, we blushed but we happily sipped. Stunner!!! Bottom line: it is just money. What good is having it if you cannot spend on great wine and share with great friends!!!??? After all, we are not getting any younger ;-)

• blarmston says:

  11/5/2020 6:48:00 AM - Hey there, I’m not sure how to reply to your message so I thought I would do it here. I am going to head to Napa in early January and will be picking up my MM then. I’m not sure when they are planning to ship, but reach out to Genevieve and she can help you out

• bsumoba says:

  10/26/2020 11:00:00 AM - I would be curious on your take of the 19' napa vintage. If you can email me at bsumoba at gmail I would like to run a couple lists by you for a large buy for my son's birth year

• Mark1npt says:

  10/7/2020 7:38:00 AM - That Frog is awful kind of you, Dave. Where do you normally visit in FL when you come down?

• Mark1npt says:

  10/7/2020 7:37:00 AM - Hey Dave....I tend to get my wine shipped to me in the cooler months here in FL which can be limited to Nov-March most years. I will sometimes spring for overnight or 2 day air during the summer if I really want it sooner. I have been picking up my normal stuff, Carter, B Cellars, Favia, Kinsella...not many BDX anymore, unless it's an old bottle that is coming due to drink well and I won't have to wait 20 more years to enjoy. I only bought one '19 futures and it was a 6 pack of the Pontet Canet.

• Mark1npt says:

  10/5/2020 5:15:00 AM - All good health wise here, Dave...thanks. Just had my last pneumonia vaccine and the latest flu shot yesterday. Arm was pretty sore last night but better today. Yes, I have friends who share their wine, but few who drink the really good stuff like we do here. Still they do share. Nothing closed here in FL and I have continued to work in my PT practice all along. Still wearing masks everywhere but at home. Not doing too much socializing. For those of us under 70 yo it really is very little risk involved with this thing. You stay well, too!

• Mark1npt says:

  9/29/2020 7:48:00 AM - Hey Dave...that's a kind offer, but I don't know how you'd get it to me as we can't ship wine around the country as individuals, unless you hold a wine shipping license! I have heard of the Frog but never had it. You are too kind!

• DrBad says:

  7/13/2020 7:55:00 AM - "Sorry I think I missed your message on my board. Just read it now-thanks. Dave" Dave, no prob. This message board system on CT is rather strange. Not really a good way to have a conversation, IMO.

• csimm says:

  7/9/2020 4:33:00 PM - Hi Dave. To your question, the photo on my board was taken at a dinner in Yountville with a MACDONALD vertical.

• DrBad says:

  5/22/2020 7:58:00 AM - Hey Dave - Quivet '18 release is early June and they have some very good Cabs and reasonable prices, FYI. Their LPV is VERY reasonably priced and very yummy, my wife loves it says it's like caramel sauce :-)

• Mark1npt says:

  4/15/2020 12:28:00 PM - Hey Dave......I also buy Myriad/Quivet (both made by Mike Smith who makes the Carters), I have been picking up some '15 Michel Rolland Napa cab, $99 from K & L in SF instead of $150, B Cellars of course, though not but a couple of the '17s. '18s will be out this fall or after the first of the year. Kinsella Heirloom vineyard is very nice (Sonoma that tastes a lot like Carter for $149), Jean Edwards (also Sonoma) but they made great '16 Rutherford and Atlas Peak cabs for like $75-85. Ask for Karen when you contact them and use my name if you want. She knows my handle on here. I have been avoiding almost all '17s from everyone but a couple of my Myriad and Carters have been better than expected. Hope this helps! Mark

• WineBurrowingWombat says:

  8/28/2019 7:49:00 AM - What an honor! Anytime. I wish they added page breaks on the message boards like they have in tasting notes.

• WineBurrowingWombat says:

  8/27/2019 1:07:00 PM - Oh the hard hitting questions.. going to need to insert a small disclaimer before I begin with this one :P My explanation might just apply only to me?.. because I've read reviews before and a LOT of people seem to be able to "taste" the tannins a lot easier than I can. I feel like the times that I can taste tannins, I will usually say it's either sweet or bitter. Most of the time though, it's more of a texture feel to me, I'll go more into detail below. How much tannins there are are determined by how the "grip" feels from the inside of my mouth against my teeth (~95% of the time, I'm feeling by using the front end of my mouth rather than the sides). I call the amount of tannins by the grip feel, so for example if the inside of my mouth will not come down from getting stuck against my teeth for a long time (not sure if you're familiar with Jim Carrey's cottonmouth scene from Me, Myself and Irene), I'll consider it medium to high. On the other end, if I don't feel that much surface area of the inside of my mouth stick to my teeth, I'll consider it on the lower amounts. For the other descriptors.. if it the inside grips but slips off from that grip against my teeth rather easily, where I don't really need to try to get it to move, I'll call it smooth. If it's really grippy, in an unpleasant way (I imagine where you really have to put some effort to use your facial muscles to force your face to get away from the grip), I would call that harsh or strong/firm. If somewhere in between I would call it "chewy". To be honest, I kind of figured that's what chewy meant so I don't really know if that is what chewy actually is. Another one I kind of hate seeing is "masculine". I see that used a lot by Antonio Galloni, I used to use his reviews a lot. I'm guessing that is also another way of saying strong. I've still yet to figure out wtf "broad" means for tannins lol. I hope this helps a little..

• sean7711 says:

  8/27/2019 7:20:00 AM - Vintage, thank you for your note on my board. I visited Napa in June and only got to taste Carter's 2017 lineup, and was a bit disappointed compared to my 2016 tasting there last October. However, they certainly could improve a bit in the bottle. Curious to see what labels you did or plan to make purchases of for 2017s? I have shares in Carter, Vice Versa, and a few other smaller brands, but overall I am trying to stay away.

• WineBurrowingWombat says:

  8/27/2019 6:55:00 AM - This might actually be my first recommendation on here: 2014 Barnett Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Rattlesnake Hill. The earth on this one is softer and might not be as bold as you might like but this was very enjoyable. I made sure I didn't eat anything for a few hours prior to this (kinda pricey though.. unfortunately for our palates -_-)

• BuzzzzOff says:

  8/25/2019 9:35:00 PM - Sorry for the late reply. We were on the wagon in advance of the "annual violation" (health checkup) and thereafter enjoyed 4 nights on the trot at restaurants, thus precluding the use of CT. Pleased you liked our PC comment regarding age. Ah, well, futures have pros and cons as do buying older wines. We are freakish about provenance and reliability of any merchant from whom we buy older wines. Fortunately, we have done well. Sadly, we are not au fait regarding the USA market. We would not buy unless (a) no guarantee and it is well 'n truly reflected in the price or (b) guarantee until we open to determine if still good. 1959 Chateau Mouton Rothschild....oooweebay, happy camper you were. 10 to 20 years is a nice window for most Bordeaux and better to focus in that neighbourhood, we thinkist. We have quite a few 10960s Barolos and Bordeaux that we bought from a reliable merchant and ex-Chateau for "birth year parties". Knock on wood (Louisville Slugger), we are batting 1.000. We will be popping open 1962 Barolo and Echezeaux in November...watch this space.

• WineBurrowingWombat says:

  8/19/2019 1:32:00 PM - Oh sheesh.. I'm sorry, that has to be really challenging. I'm glad I asked how you planned on enjoying those bottles.. I know you have more experience than me when it comes to Bordeaux wine. I ordered a bunch to try but are pre-arrivals and will take ~2 years to come. I'll do my best then to give it some more time before enjoying them. Oh man.. it's going to be like having a juicy steak dangling on a pole in front of a hungry lion.

• WineBurrowingWombat says:

  8/19/2019 11:07:00 AM - Wow you are way too kind. I don't mind the posts at all! I enjoy reading them very much.. and from the sounds of it, you are living the life. Funny you mentioned Chateau Mouton Rothschild. I was able to purchase one (and it is going to take a painstakingly wait of two years before it arrives..) and planned on drinking it young to see how it is and see if I'm willing to buy more (if I can afford more :P). I am curious, although I might have an idea already, when did you plan on enjoying those three bottles if I might ask (as in, one early, one in midway and the other at it its peak or all three at its peak)?

• oenophilemoose says:

  8/16/2019 1:22:00 PM - Hey Dave...If you have the patience, I would wait until 2024 before opening that first magnum of 2 Meyney... The Moose

• WineBurrowingWombat says:

  8/16/2019 8:07:00 AM - Wow.. you know maybe that's why I don't enjoy them as much because I'm obviously drinking them way too young when they're not at their best. I don't know why it's clicking now after you say it like that.. I've seen other notes on wines saying how it's still very young and it doesn't hit me (maybe I'm just slow). I have a small wine fridge that I'm forcing it to hold about 18-21 bottles (it was originally meant to hold the lesser amount) for bottles that are more pricey. Now that it's full I'm, in a sense, almost restricted to buy more of anything pricey. I have others that I currently store in an area in my garage. Thankfully, it stays cool down there. You sure got me thinking though.. I do want to learn how to eventually enjoy and appreciate Bordeaux wines. I just haven't had much of aged Bordeaux wines to really be able to distinguish what's good at it's prime. I do want to eventually buy a big wine cellar that can hold that much. I have been wanting to sell this Pappy 23 for a while and use the money to buy one but I haven't been actively selling it.

• WineBurrowingWombat says:

  8/15/2019 4:59:00 PM - Oh man.. the real test of patience. Okay, I will definitely try. I live in San Francisco, CA. In that case I might buy two.. I usually like to try them young for some reason.. my thinking is that the fruit is still there and fresh versus with some bottle age, it might be fading. I have a few slots open in my small wine fridge :P

• WineBurrowingWombat says:

  8/15/2019 10:37:00 AM - Hey Dave! Thanks for the recommendation and I added to the waiting list... kinda hard to find these bottles around me. For the Château Calon-Ségur, have you tried the 2016 and 2017? If so, which one would you suggest I get. (kind of leaning towards 2016 and they're all pre-arrivals)

• BuzzzzOff says:

  8/15/2019 1:27:00 AM - Alas, Customs could have taken more so we count ourselves lucky. Hopefully, next batch will see them take a bottle I can replace!!! We see no problem will daily sipping of wine. In fact, we consider it civilised!!! We are on the fence regarding Bordeaux futures. We are not quite as advanced in the lifecycle as you, but we equally do not like this futures thingy any longer. In some ways, we think simply wait and buy when they are ready to sip, eg 7 years or thereabouts. So many other great wines available from various parts of the world that are sipping younger. Dunno...jury is out...

• BuzzzzOff says:

  8/14/2019 9:17:00 PM - Ouch, Vintage1949! Breaking your back in several places sounds yucky-pooh on steroids!!! Sorry to read. I have it on reliable, sage advice that wine is a cure for all ills!!! Yes, the new wine room is fun. We had 557 bottles shipped over from HK. One bottle was taken by Customs as a "sample". Painful loss, but I have chosen to believe I engaged in Thai merit-making that will improve my karma in the next life. A certain part of me hopes he chokes on the wine. Balance is the key to life...

• BuzzzzOff says:

  8/14/2019 2:17:00 AM - Hey vintage1949. I wrote to you in 2017, but I did not hear anything. All is peachy here. We managed to get a shipment of our wines from HK to Thailand. Definitely improved our new wine room that can easily handle 1000 bottles on the shelves. Sipping 'n Snacking every month for a few days in Bangkok is fun. Otherwise, toes in the sand. Et vous?

• cablover123 says:

  8/4/2019 4:19:00 PM - Dave, the OG was a 2015. I am hoping the 2016 is as good if not better based on the notes. The great part is that Carter typically drinks very well young.

• cablover123 says:

  8/4/2019 2:45:00 PM - Dave, I forgot to mention the Carter is very good. If you are looking to order try the Three Kings also. All of the Carters have a similar nose and palate. It just comes down to depth and length. Cheers...Dan

• cablover123 says:

  8/4/2019 1:46:00 PM - The Carter OG is a bigger wine. Consistently 3-4 points above the Carter. The OG is the best and most memorable wine I have ever had. (TOR - Beckstoffer a close second) I have a couple mags of Carter GTO and cannot wait to try as many on here rate it as the top Carter.

• wineotim says:

  7/20/2019 5:42:00 PM - Thanks for your note Dave. A '16 Lafite, wow very nice! My focus lately is in the reds of Bordeaux and California mostly, with an occasional Aussie or South American wine. Hope you are doing well. I liked your review of the '15 PC.

• BuzzzzOff says:

  9/23/2017 7:13:00 PM - Hey, vintage1949, how are you? I trust your health has improved to the point where a bottle a day keeps the doctor away ;-). We are in Thailand now...toes in the sand sort of lifestyle...

• BuzzzzOff says:

  3/8/2017 6:41:00 PM - Hey vintage1949, how goes it? I trust you are feeling peachy and sipping salaciously :-)

• winebroker631 says:

  1/12/2017 8:35:00 AM - Rec'd your message this AM. Thank you for the introduction to MyWine2009 !

• MyWine2009 says:

  1/9/2017 7:52:00 AM - Dave - got the 2 Hobbs Dr. Crane from Sokolin today. Thanks for arranging it!

• MyWine2009 says:

  1/8/2017 9:56:00 AM - Dave just send an email and I'll fill you in. Picked up the Ch Duhart Milon today!

• MyWine2009 says:

  1/7/2017 5:02:00 PM - Thanks Dave, will keep you posted. Off on a trip this week. Fall tasting selections sound absolutely smashing! Where you I buy my tickets? Ha, ha!

• vintage1949 says:

  1/7/2017 3:16:00 PM - Contacted Solokin for you and told them to treat you special. I may even order a bottle. Just e-mailed Total Wine. Ya don't upset one of my online friends��.

• MyWine2009 says:

  1/7/2017 1:22:00 PM - Dayumm! Total Wine took back the Hobbs from my cart and charged me the same shipping cost for my 2 Far Nientes. I probably will never shop with them again! Can you give me your top 3 online stores that have never done you wrong? Thanks Dave!

• MyWine2009 says:

  1/7/2017 8:19:00 AM - Got the 2010 Hobbs and a couple 2012 Far Nientes today. On my way to a better glass! Your Fall tasting sounds wonderful! Cheers~

• MyWine2009 says:

  1/7/2017 6:45:00 AM - Just put in two EuroCaves this summer. Capacity for at least 225 bottles at perfect temps? Done! Now must stock it with better stuff. Going to pick up some Paul Hobbs Dr. Crane this very weekend!

• vintage1949 says:

  1/7/2017 6:00:00 AM - Beringer Private Reserve 2009 on the internet for $119. I'd start collaring wines. I simply take cement blocks-usuallly three-boards, three more blocks, boards and so on. Dirt cheap. I did have a friend who in two hours built a simple wine rack as well for $90. I think we are all set. Time to start a wine budget and cellar wines. (Note: Wherever you stored the wine for four years good enough for a cellar. If temperature is stable anything between 55-65 is perfect for longer term. Temperature over the long haul kills wine. If you know how to make seared duck breast it would go perfect with the Château Clinet. Thanks for letting me help you. You are on your way��.

• MyWine2009 says:

  1/7/2017 5:11:00 AM - We did a Coravin tasting of Cabs last night. Our 2010 Far Niente Oakville was the clear winner! We bought it at the winery in 02/13 and managed to age it for 4 years. We still have 1/2 bottle left. We are in the process of purging all of our crappy Cabs and replacing them with the good stuff! So many nice bottles to choose from, even in the sub $70 category. Thanks for steering me back on course!

• MyWine2009 says:

  1/7/2017 5:08:00 AM - Dave - great work today! I think I have a solid plan now. 2012 Far Niente, 2010 Paul Hobbs, 2010 Clinet. Decant for 2-4 hours, taste, decant for longer possibly. You can always reach me at "mywine2009@gmail.com". Thanks again for your careful and insightful research! JDV

• MyWine2009 says:

  1/6/2017 7:13:00 AM - Good Morning Dave. I'm sorry I'm having a hard time explaining this. Which three bottles and vintages should I buy to drink this year and in what order would you recommend? Thanks! JDV

• MyWine2009 says:

  1/5/2017 10:16:00 AM - So let's set up 2017 - in order, the 3 bottles for me to drink this year. Based on your recommendations I'm locating many of the bottles for decent price points. Should I start with the 2010 Paul Hobbs Cab? Finish with the Pomerol?

• vintage1949 says:

  1/5/2017 6:44:00 AM - Something to consider for aging-2013 Beringer Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve. Read the reviews. Dave

• MyWine2009 says:

  1/3/2017 10:13:00 AM - You are also welcome to email me at my CT handle on gmail. I've got an order queued up with Sokolin!

• MyWine2009 says:

  1/3/2017 6:37:00 AM - Good Morning Dave - thanks I'm in! I reviewed your wines and pending deliveries so I have a great idea of what you drink. You may now "lock" your cellar back up. The reason I want to crack open some nice bottles in 2017 is to expose my palette to the next tier (the good stuff). For instance, I want to see if I can appreciate a $200 Cab vs my usual $80 Cab from Pride Mountain or Far Niente. I am horrible at cellaring wine for years. I'm the Carpe Diem wine drinker I suppose! So now we just need to discuss vintages and when & what to drink first. I appreciate the nose of wine like you and with most US wines we get to enjoy both the nose and taste. I find that the European (Old World) wines are more subdued on the nose but pairing with food, WOW! That's where they shine! Thanks again, and Cheers to you! You've got a nice collection. JDV

• MyWine2009 says:

  1/2/2017 11:33:00 AM - Found a few gems based on your recommendations Dave. I think I'm really going to enjoy the Pomerol. I would like to focus on wines I can drink this year after laying down for a brief period. With that in mind, what's my best 1-2-3? For example - start with Paul Hobbs Cab 2010, then another high-end Cab, then finish with the Pomerol? You are welcome to review my cellar. I'm clearing out all the ho-hums and replacing with high-end stuff, especially on the Cabs and Bordeaux. I've got a nice collection of every day drinkers but I want to enhance my special occasion wines. Thanks to you, now I understand which producers to look at. I would welcome the opportunity to peek at your cellar for a day! Looking for those Cabs and Bordeaux and anything else I shouldn't miss. I'm going to hold off purchasing anything until I hear back but I found some nice suppliers here on the East Coast that can get me my gems quickly! Cheers~ JDV (aka Jimmy DeVino)

• vintage1949 says:

  1/1/2017 3:44:00 PM - You know how to click on CellarTracker to find wine? Wine delivery is no big deal from those listed. Once you have made your selection-If you do not mind-over the years I have a bit of a plan regarding the order you should try them. Chateau Clinet would be the last as your palate would be able to pick up the fine nuances of different flavors. If you can find these locally-in a controlled environment-great. I have some ideas foe wine under $50 also as stores drop their supplies prices become less expensive. Will notify you if I spot a good one. Hope you do not mind-looked over your cellar to get an idea what you like. If you want to see what is in my cellar-not that all exciting-let me know and I can let nobody see it for a day. Best of luck in your wine adventures. Oh one last thing-we have noticed that Turley sins-I do not know about Syrahs-after being open an hour lose that pepper and develope smoke, forest floor and all kind of exciting flavors. Almost feels like you are not drinking a Zin. Dave

• MyWine2009 says:

  1/1/2017 8:45:00 AM - Wow, these will definitely get me started. I'll probably keep to < $200 per bottle for now. You've given me some amazing places to start and I appreciate it very much! Thanks Dave! JDV

• vintage1949 says:

  1/1/2017 8:34:00 AM - I can't believe it. Solokin is selling 2010 Paul Hobbs Cabernet Sauvignon Dr Crane Vyd - 750 ml 96 RP 750 ml - $159.00 ADD TO CART Product ID: 61069-750-AI Availability: In Stock Vintage: 2010 Format: 750 ml Color: Red Country: US Producer: P.Hobbs Rating: 96 RP Region: California Type of Wine: California Red Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon cheaper than I got it from the winery. I have a six oak-now five. I think in five years it will be w wow wine. Ok-rest of day on other stuff. Note: I started the wine climb in out city back in 1983. Still going strong-but I quit in 2000-too much stress. Dave

• vintage1949 says:

  1/1/2017 8:08:00 AM - From Robert P. The flagship, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Materium, represents 560 cases and achieved 14.8% alcohol after aging in 90% new Taransaud and Darnajou casks. Remarkably, the wine matches the perfect 2013, with extraordinary fragrance of blueberry, blackberry, forest floor, truffle, spring flowers and background barbecue smoke followed by a thick, unctuously textured, juicy, but incredibly well-balanced, intense wine. This is built like a skyscraper with enormous quantities of blueberry, blackberry and cassis fruit, well-integrated acidity and sweet, gentle tannins. This is an extraordinary effort from Maybach that can be drunk now or cellared for up to 30 or more years. 100 pts

• vintage1949 says:

  1/1/2017 8:06:00 AM - Never tasted any of those wines and they are in the $300 tp $500 price range. I already have two bottles: 2013 Beaulieu Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Georges de Latour Private Reserve $99. Needs nine years. Just so you know Screaming Eagle is over two grand a bottle. Price is not the key but what is inside the bottle. Please sign up now for Materium (Mayback) wines and Carter. Some do not have a waiting list. I will try like heck to get an extra Materium that scored 100 points by Robert Parker. Price $175-$200. I'llfoot the bill to send it to you but you may get an offer late January. Same with Carter. Let me know if you want me to try to get an Extra Materium: Robert Parker Review next Prices came down on the one 2010 Château Clinet. $138.89.

• MyWine2009 says:

  1/1/2017 5:12:00 AM - Sure - no worries take your time. Even the best of your sub $100 bottle favs would be good. We do travel to Napa 1-2x per year so if you have any producers or hidden gems that would be great. We like to sip and taste before we buy typically. I've never heard of Cayuse. I was researching what I call "the next level" - producers like Bryant, Colgin, Harlan, Screaming Eagle. Would their wines simply blow me away or do I have to acquire the taste first? Usually we're drinking Pinot Noir, Chards and lighter bodied wines. Occasionally we pull out an old Turley or vintage Cab. Anyway - I really appreciate your thoughts and recommendations - no hurry. HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

• MyWine2009 says:

  12/31/2016 1:20:00 PM - V49 would be interested in your top 5 bottles I should aspire to drink in my lifetime. I know you have 2 decades more of sipping than we do! Especially intererested in sub $200 bottles if possible!

• BuzzzzOff says:

  12/30/2016 7:13:00 PM - Hey Vintage1949! We sipped the 2012 Domaine de Chavalier Blanc last night (check out the note). Stunner! Now preparing 20+ bottles for New Year's Eve party. After 20 bottles on Christmas Day, we can only hope to survive ;-)

• MyWine2009 says:

  12/30/2016 11:21:00 AM - Thanks for your nice post on my board. I'm enjoying reading your tasting notes. So much to learn, share, and taste in the world of wine, eh? Cheers to you for a happy 2017. JDV

• BuzzzzOff says:

  11/18/2016 6:33:00 PM - Hey vintage1949, following up on our message of 8/31. We hope you are feeling well and the wine is flowing freely...

• BuzzzzOff says:

  8/31/2016 6:26:00 PM - Hey vintage1949! How goes it? We hope you are feeling better!!!

• BuzzzzOff says:

  7/21/2016 5:26:00 PM - Hey, vintage1949! Imitrex sounds like a very powerful pill for headaches. We hope it works the intended magic!!! Be safe...

• BuzzzzOff says:

  6/7/2016 8:54:00 PM - Oooweebaby, vintage1949, we love them zzzzzzzzzzzzs Ah, well, the medical industry. Always seems like they are throwing darts and hoping to hit something. Mayo, in our book, is THE Platinum standard. If they find nothing, start sipping...food optional! Yesterday, we visited our friend who is suffering the aftermath of a stroke. Cannot speak or move his right side of the body. However, he did manage to sip a glass of Saint Aubin 1er Cru. Small happiness in an otherwise dreary life. We returned after two hours so depressed that we sipped a Kistler Chardonnay sans food. It helped!

• BuzzzzOff says:

  4/24/2016 5:01:00 PM - Hey Vintage1949, how are you?

• wineotim says:

  3/6/2016 10:38:00 AM - Thanks for the Alta Colina recommendation...looks nice, hard to get though. What Chateau's did you purchase in the '15 vintage?

• wineotim says:

  3/6/2016 4:59:00 AM - My cold is gone...hope your health gets back on track soon! Sorry to hear the news. Best wishes to you.

• wineotim says:

  3/1/2016 6:51:00 AM - Missing you on CT...hope you are well Dave. I have a cold today and am hesitant to open any wine...

• BuzzzzOff says:

  2/25/2016 6:07:00 AM - How goes things, Vintage1949? Long time, no read. We trust life is peachy and overflowing with wine :-)

• bplant13 says:

  2/19/2016 7:50:00 AM - Dave, I have not yet tried the 2013 Hunnicutt, but I have 4 in my cellar. I just had my last 2011 last night, which prompted my notes, and a little research into the 2013. I'm tempted to try the 13, but when I tried the 12 around this time last year, it was way too young. By fall of last year, the 12 was a different beast, and while still needing a good decant, was a tremendous! I've heard the 13 is even better, but I'm doing my best to wait a bit longer. If you're looking for wines under $100, see if Hunnicutt has any of the 2012 Beckstoffer G3 left; that is simply a stunner for under $100, but the base Hunnicutts are still a great everyday wine for the $50 range.

• BuzzzzOff says:

  1/24/2016 10:34:00 AM - Hey Vintage1949, I sent a message in response to your several, fairly long and exceedingly interested and well-received communications. Did you receive? If not, please resend to us at admin@buzzzzoff.com so we can communicate in a more private environment. If you run into Duluc de Branaire-Ducru, go for it! Super second, super inexpensive!

• Sinegal Estate says:

  1/20/2016 10:45:00 AM - You're welcome. :)

• Vinophiliac559 says:

  1/19/2016 6:13:00 PM - No problem! I figured if I could save at least 1 person from what I was going through with them then I should. Luckily I only placed 1 order before finding out how they operated, looks like Ill be eating that one, but could be worse. Cheers and reminder to all to stick with reputable importers.

• AAJR says:

  1/19/2016 2:09:00 PM - vintage1949 sorry for the delayed response. California Cabs under 70 bucks: Small Family wineries - Bremer Howell Mtn Cab, Frank Family(reserve is a little over 70 but worth it IMO), Neal -Altamura(a little over 70 as well) -Honig(great QPR under 40 bucks) -Round Pond (50 bucks) - 2nd Wines from the big boys - Napanook by Dominus, Joseph Phelps Good Luck & Enjoy

• jaxpaj says:

  1/19/2016 12:22:00 PM - no problem

• jaxpaj says:

  1/19/2016 11:48:00 AM - Here is a list of some of my favorite wines under $70: Winery Direct: Mike Smith wines ($40-$70): Myriad Cabernet Napa, Myriad Syrah, Quivet Pellet and Napa Cabernet, Quivet Syrah, and McGah Scarlett. Halcon Syrah ($25) Robert Foley Griffin ($35) and Merlot ($50) Calluna ($30-$60) River Marie Cabernet ($65) Jones The Sisters ($65) Cameron Hughes 2012-13 cabs ($25) Vineyard 29 CRU ($45). Wines you can purchase retail ($35-70): Honig, Frank Family, Paul Hobbs Crossbarn, Chappellet Signature, Whitehall Lane, Ghost Block, Robert Craig Affinity, Turnbull, and Faust

• Sinegal Estate says:

  1/18/2016 9:10:00 AM - Hi vintage1949, regarding your Cab question, it is slightly beyond the range you listed, but it is worth the extra $5 per bottle. Without knowing all your preferences, OUR GANG by Casa Piena and AFFINITY by Robert Craig are incredible at $75/btl. Both quality Cabs. Under $70, we will have to get back to you! Have a great day!

• Tuemckey says:

  1/13/2016 8:35:00 AM - Hi Vintage! Regarding your comment on my Taurasi Antonio note, I believe this wine is just starting its drinking window now, will probably peak 4-5 years for now but will continue drinking beautifully five years or more after that, no problem. Of course, given that the wine is cellared in proper conditions. Having said that, I had it out of a 750 ml bottle so I do reckon opening a double magnum for your 70th would be just fine, that way it would give you an idea on where it's at then. Mind you, Taurasi's are known for being able to age quite a while(20-25 years is rather common with top names), it just depends on your preference of having the wine on its fruit or in its tertiary flavours phase. Hope this helped, Cheers! T.

• Vinophiliac559 says:

  12/3/2015 6:50:00 PM - Vintage 1949 saw your post on BuzzzOff's profile: I highly recommend avoiding Premier Cru (Bay area shop?). I purchased 04' Tattinger from them 2 yrs ago and still do not have it. The reason they get lower$$ is because they ship in bulk and so your wine waits until they have a full shipment. Check them out on yelp, 2 stars, and many, many stories like mine, some MUCH worse.

• BuzzzzOff says:

  12/2/2015 4:59:00 PM - Hey Vintage1949, how goes it?

• BuzzzzOff says:

  11/23/2015 10:02:00 PM - Hey Vintage1949, please check out our tasting notes and comments regarding the Kerry Wines Rendezvous event. We had a lot of fun!

• haldolugr says:

  11/14/2015 1:58:00 PM - Hey Dave - This is Haldolugr - Didn't know the best way to get in touch but hoping this works. As to the 2012 RBS - I would hold off - at least 12-24 months and even then it will still need a decent decant. It has a lot of room to age. I drink all my wines way too young - just lack the patience a real cellar builder needs to have. Plus I kind of like wines a little edgy as they can be in their youth. It's very drinkable now - I mean it's a great wine just needs a long decant to really open up and I'm not sure it will fully open without a little more bottle age. Hope that helps!

• BuzzzzOff says:

  11/2/2015 11:15:00 PM - Hey Vintage 1949. Forgot to mention, given you like Pomerols, the family behind LaFleur has a relatively new wine from Fronsac (as you probably know, just West of Pomerol). It is called Guinaudeau "G" Acte. Pretty darn good wine at a fraction of the cost of LaFleur :-)

• FransS says:

  11/1/2015 1:38:00 AM - Dear Dave, The value of an old note of a once nice wine can become discussed, but to be clear when you want to uncork your last DM Mouton 1959 I'll come to visit you (of course, only to renew my last tasting memory). I Think I will retaste a wine like the P-C '09 in 2018-19 and one like the L-à-P '09 in 2016-17. That has two reasons, one, I don't have eternal life, two, following the development of a wine means also to taste a wine also a bit too young, but is that a punishment? Greetings FransS

• FransS says:

  10/27/2015 2:13:00 PM - Dear Vintage1949, I'm 63 and I have to agree with you that waiting (too) long with retasting the Latour-a-Pomerol can be a stupid attitude; so I will also soon retaste this wine. And yes, Mouton 1959 is still the best wine I have ever tasted and it was, as with you, in the early 80's that I have tasted the wine. I hope that a wine like the Pontet-Canet 2009 can reach the same perfection. Greeting FransS

• dsimmons says:

  9/23/2015 12:46:00 PM - Hi Dave, My recollection of the wine was that it did have vanilla but the taste I had was at the winery with a bottle that had been opened at least 12 hours. I only have one and do not plan to drink it until 2022 or later.

• dsimmons says:

  9/23/2015 12:46:00 PM - Hi Dave, My recollection of the wine was that it did have vanilla but the taste I had was at the winery with a bottle that had been opened at least 12 hours. I only have one and do not plan to drink it until 2022 or later.

• vintage1949 says:

  9/13/2015 4:12:00 PM - Love the comment "but my impression was that this wine was evolving at a (pre-climate change) glacial pace..." Half the fun is opening the bottle with everyone there. Maybe a reenactment is called for after the guests arrive. Will keep in touch on board as to evolution of wine.-Dave

• Enfantterrible says:

  9/13/2015 3:29:00 PM - If you slow ox, there will be very little air in relation to the volume of wine. You could try decanting half the bottle and slow-oxing the rest. Certainly check other notes as the time gets closer but my impression was that this wine was evolving at a (pre-climate change) glacial pace...

• Enfantterrible says:

  9/12/2015 10:11:00 PM - hi Vintage 1949. You asked about a double mag of 2005 Clos L'Eglise. I won't start to open my remaining 5 bottles (750) till 2020. If I were to open a double mag in 4 years, certainly give it a long decant IMHO. Like, 6-8 hours minimum. Enjoy!

• vintage1949 says:

  9/12/2015 9:10:00 PM - Great to hear you had a wonderful time. Will have to buy the wine you were trying after reading your notes-Dave

• BuzzzzOff says:

  9/12/2015 7:11:00 PM - Oh Our Ears and Whiskers, what a party!!! We will be writing detailed notes later, but suffice it to say Pintia definitely is a label you want in your cellar.

• vintage1949 says:

  9/12/2015 5:39:00 AM - Regarding-take notes until we pass out...or fall asleep...assuming there is a difference ;-). No difference- hope you had fun!

• vintage1949 says:

  9/12/2015 5:33:00 AM - Let me know how it went BuzzzzOff. Very interested as I wonder if I should include this wine in my cellar:) -Davr

• BuzzzzOff says:

  9/11/2015 4:48:00 PM - Hey Vintage 1949! Nice to be friends!! Today, 2003 - 2008 Pintia tasting...watch this space!!! We intend to take notes until we pass out...or fall asleep...assuming there is a difference ;-)

• BuzzzzOff says:

  7/7/2015 11:59:00 PM - Hi Vintage1949! We recently started reading again Extraordinary Popular Delusions and the Madness of Crowds by Charles Mackay. Instructive ;-)

• vintage1949 says:

  1/16/2015 10:31:00 PM - I jumped the gun-I know I am being offered the wines at OutPost in a couple of days. Every year I get a note to buy their wines. Need to take them up once I get enough Scarecrow in my cellar.

• hanasowner says:

  1/16/2015 8:21:00 PM - Thank you for the nice note re 2012 Outpost True. How do you have offering already...thought it was on 20th. In my opinion, I would allocate Scarecrow funds to Outpost...dollars go a lot further.

• AAJR says:

  12/1/2014 4:06:00 AM - Thanks Vintage1949 for the comments on the 2011 Chateau Clinet, IMHO this wine is one of the winners in a off year for Bordeaux. Congratulations on making onto the Schrader & Scarecrow list. Enjoy!

• JERB says:

  5/26/2014 4:29:00 PM - vintage 1949 - Dave - Regarding the 2010 Alta Colina Toasted Slope Syrah... My best suggestion is that you contact Maggie Tillman. Maggie is the daughter of Bob Tillman who is the owner and winemaker. Maggie has always been very helpful to me and she is a delight to deal with. Maggie can offer you much better guidance than I can! maggie@altacolinawine.com phone: 805 227-4191 As you saw in my tasting notes, the first bottle we opened in Feb. of 2013 showed pretty bright fruit. The second bottle was considerably more "earthy." What I don't recall is if there were differences in decanting times or anything such as that. I will confess that I just plain love Alta Colina because they are a small family-run operation who makes wine I really enjoy at what I feel is a really good Quality-Price-Value ratio. Do you know how sometimes your initial experience at a winery can completely bias your opinion of that winery's wines - both positively and negatively? Well... that is what happened - in a very positive sense for me - with Maggie and Alta Colina. I hope that helps some! Cheers! - Jack

• vintage1949 says:

  12/4/2012 6:17:00 PM - Thanks for the response. I must admit I am anxious to crack a bottle . ~Dave

• Plus Ultra says:

  12/4/2012 6:13:00 PM - Hi Vintage1949. I had the DuMol Eddie's Patch Syrah 2009 and it was already delicious. I then got a 2010. Hope it is as good or better. Like you, I will probably hold that one for a year or so. I also had a DuMol Pinot Noir RRV which is their lower end offering and that was very good. I guess I just like their style. They are kind of expensive though, so am always looking for better values out there.