mike volker

Thanks Katie, Even though 2000 wasn't a great year, what I meant was that I couldn't find anything good written about the 2000 La Jota Howell Mt. I'll try a bottle and see how it is since you seem to like it so much. Best, Mike

Is the La Jota 2000 all that good? I could not find any posts that had anything good to say about this vintage. Help before I go buy a case. Thanks, Mike

Mayhaw wrote: am hoping to go to the French Laundry in November and my wife was concerned about wine pairings. Now I don't have to worry. Should go well at the French Laundry. My biggest ever disappointment as a much touted restaurant. They would be a perfect match. Best, Mike

It seems like all of the Chairman's Selections are coming in at about half the price of anywhere else. I just bought Rosemont Tradition for $15. Lets give the Chairman a half cheer for making the state stores better. Best, Mike

I think it depends on the winery as to its aging potential. Last year when we were out in Sonoma Mazzocco was offering some of their library wines. We brought some of the '90 zin home and they were absolutely wonderful. Best, Mike

I also use the passive system of the basement to cellar my wine. Temp stays between 58 and 64 degrees with only long swings of temp. Since I'm new at this most everything has only been down there about two years at most, but so far so good. Best, Mike

Some Zins to try are: Amphora, Bella, Yoakim Bridge, Quivira, Lambert Bridge, and Mozzocco. Best, Mike

Salena Estates (Australia) makes a petit verdot under their Ellens landing label that I like alot. $18 8000 cases made so you should be able to find some. Tedeschi Vineyards Dry Creek Valley makes a huge petit syrah. I bought some of the '97 last year and its just unbelieveably good. $37 Benziger also makes a really nice petit syrah for about $ 25. Best, Mike