Category Archives: Wine

Thoughts on 2009 Bordeaux

Posted on March 10, 2012 by Barb

Alongside swarms of other rabid oenophiles, I recently attended the Union des Grands Crus de Bordeaux tasting in Chicago.  In general, I was blown away by the quality of wines in this vintage.  With few exceptions, these wines were bold, expressive … Continue reading →

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Grape of the Month: Pinot Noir

Posted on March 6, 2012 by Barb

I’m often asked what my favorite kind of wine is.  My answer, like most wine enthusiasts I know, is “I don’t have a favorite.”  I think of wines like parents think of children– you love them all equally, just in … Continue reading →

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Dear Customer Part 13

Posted on February 15, 2012 by Barb

Dear Customer, I get that you want sweet wine that tastes like Welch’s. And I understand you don’t care. At all. But seriously. Asking me which of Barefoot or Yellow Tail Moscato is better is like asking a butcher who … Continue reading →

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I’m Not a Snob

Posted on January 6, 2012 by Barb

I’m not a “wine snob.” People who prefer attending major league baseball games aren’t sports snobs. Those who settle in with Tom Clancy or a classic Mark Twain aren’t considered book snobs. Seeing a show on Broadway does not make … Continue reading →

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California Syrah

Posted on June 6, 2011 by Barb

Not long ago at a staff meeting, one of our sharp-tongued managers cried “Cool climate syrah is for CLOSERS.  The rest of you can go sell shitty Australian stuff.” He was right. Cali syrah is a tough sell.  Even customers … Continue reading →

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Dear Distributor Part 2

Posted on May 22, 2011 by Barb

Dear Distributor, Stop sending me paraphernalia with the cases of wine I order.  I am not spending my time hanging your shit on shelves or putting stuff on the necks of bottles.  Do your own merchandising.

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Dear Customer Part 12

Posted on May 6, 2011 by Barb

Dear Customer, No, I do not sell the wine you had on your cruise in Mexico/the Bahamas/the Mediterranean.  No, I can’t find it and order it for you.  Try one of the 6,000 that are distributed in the Midwest. Also, … Continue reading →

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Miscellaneous Tasting Notes

Posted on April 12, 2011 by Barb

Luce della Vite Lucente 2007 ($24.99) Owned by the Frescobaldi and Mondavi families.  If what you’ve read about the 96 point Ruffino Modus impressed you, this is a another must have from Tuscany.  I believe it’s about half sangiovese, with the remainder … Continue reading →

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