A lot of people don't like blind tasting, but I enjoy it a lot. My favorite way to blind taste is to get together with a group of friends and ask everyone to bring a bottle to serve to the group. My friend Tista was in town recently and I decided to use his visit as an excuse to gather some friends and have a blind tasting dinner. MORE >>

There is some duplication with Evan Dawson’s travel post from yesterday but there is also much new, including John’s tasting notes from Mayacamas Cabernet 2003, 1991, 1985, 1974, & 1968. Tasting this wine takes me back to the excitement I had tasting the newly released 1986 Bordeaux. 2015-2050. 2017-2050. MORE >>

We poured a lot of random stuff for the holidays, with only one bottle to go around a table of 10, so with very little second tastes, here are some highlights on our holiday: 1993 Dom Perignon ** Vivid gold color, with good vibrance. Tags: 2 stars France Bordeaux 2006 1 star 2001 Champagne 1993 Napa Valley Very nice. MORE >>

This was also true when I played a lot of chess, when I was getting into economics courses in grad school, basically anytime I've undertaken anything of any import. tasted so many wines that are new to me. Although no Bordeaux, if I am not mistaken. Several tastes commented on the change in style at Closel. Who knew. MORE >>

The driver has just deposited me at this famous wine estate in Saint-Emilion and since I have a small collection at home, am very excited to talk about the wine and taste some classic vintages during dinner. With the cheese course we get special plates … lo and behold, the antique plates have a painted picture of Chateau Figeac on them. MORE >>