haven't had all of them yet, but I figured I'd share the news about the group that I've had at home with dinner: And by the way, if these wines are representative of what's happening in general, 2009 in Beaujolais really is as awesome as they say. Some of my favorite wines have just been released in new vintages. Buy the wines and drink them. MORE >>

Then, we have Lamprey a la Bordelaise paired with Saint-Estephe 2000, Chateau Ormes de Pez. member of our group found it interesting that there were precisely fourteen people at the table, and we all had golden carrots made extra gold by the gold sauce. "Krug champagne!". As you can see, it is quite a work of art and delicious. MORE >>

The "excellent" group consists of wines that are truly memorable, wines that inspire me to seek out and buy these and wines like them. The "excellent" and "very good" groups are wines that I would happily buy at the given price. 2000 López de Heredia Rioja Rosado Gran Reserva Viña Tondonia , $24, Polaner Selections. in NYC. MORE >>

Lakeview Cellars Reserve 2000. “A generation ago, the New Zealand wine industry launched Sauvignon Blanc in Britain and put New Zealand wines on the map,&# says Bill Redelmeier of Southbrook Vineyards, who spearheaded the group effort to promote Canada’s cool climate Chardonnays to international media. Exultet Estates 2009. MORE >>

This was a scholarly trip with a group of very well-educated educators, with a focus on the wines and wineries of Groupo Faustino. Our leader was the very affable and fun Javier pictured above with an equally fun member of our group. Ah, Rioja! The wines were delicious as well! The evening was very hot. MORE >>