No more Sauternes with your Foie Gras in Chicago. Because you can’t get Foie in Chicago anymore. It has been banned. As usual, Mayor Daley gives some much-needed perspective on this issue: “We have children getting killed by gang leaders and dope dealers. And we’re dealing with foie gras? Let’s get some priorities.”

This is why it is great to work for a small distributor; I get to see the rich get richer. Click on the title of this post to link to a glimpse into consolidation in the wine distribution business in Washington. (Gee, I like to think my buyers like me, or at least tolerate my [More]

Still doubt the Smith and Hook? Here’s what Lord Parker had to say about the 1985…in 1995! Read: This extraordinary Cabernet Sauvignon, from a vintage that must have been remarkable in Monterey (Durney Vineyards also made a terrific 1985 Cabernet Sauvignon), possessed a huge, sweet, cedary, cassis, smoky, oaky nose, great flavor intensity, as well [More]

I know I keep harping on this, but this wine keeps blowing me away for a 25 buck cab. Repeating myself: This wine rolls up and smokes Napa and Sonoma cabs double the price. It fucking hotboxes them! It takes a loooong time to open up; this is the 2003 Smith&Hook Grand Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon [More]

Two big events today: I was born and (purportedly) Jesus was resurrected. In honor of these events I opened a couple bottles of wine last night that were dramatically different but both fantastic: 2001 Dominio de Tares Cepas Viejas2001 Giacomo Conterno Barbera d’Alba Cascina Francia The D de T Bierzo. Damn, I wish I would [More]

It’s the next PB&J! I enjoyed them on top of toast at Dinette, which is an utterly adorable neighborhood place with simple, unfussy, and comforting food. The chef/owner is personable and charming. I’m not sure why sardines and avocado are so delicious together, but they just are, damnit. And they go very well with a [More]

I have been offered the honor of Guest Blogger on Basic Juice and have honored the offer! Please click on the title of this post to check out my post about a most unusual and difficult to pronounce Basque wine! (PS: Thanks, Beau.)

I was in Las Vegas for a bachelor party and dining at mediocre restaurants. I figured that the massive buying power at the casinos would give me some sweet wine deals, even at a crap restaurant. Like at Disney when I got a Condrieu for under $40 on a restaurant wine list. Not in Vegas. [More]