Category Archives: Wine

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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Dear Customer Part 11

Posted on March 31, 2011 by Barb

Dear Customer, Do not send the cheapest, least knowledgeable person you know to shop for wine for your dinner or party.  If you do, I will assume you don’t give a shit what you’re drinking and send your friend off … Continue reading →

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The Spoils of Victory

Posted on March 20, 2011 by Barb

Recently I hosted a California Wine Tasting.  It was a great success.  When I got home, full of pride and with a box full of leftovers, Jeff said “Are those the spoils of victory?” Here are some of the highlights:

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Dear Distributor Part 1

Posted on March 3, 2011 by Barb

Dear Distributor, If you haven’t called on me in eight months, you are very bad at your job.  Do not be surprised when I don’t invite you to participate in an event I organized a month ago with reps who … Continue reading →

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