Dear Mark:

[GerardoG]

I had the pleasure of meeting you some years ago during our annual GTG. At that time, I knew something about wine and I thought I was 'ok'....i was wrong.

During that dinner, with Ash and his brother, I was introduced to Nickel & Nickel, as well as Joseph Phelps...my concept and 'knowledge' of Napa was shattered and down in pieces.

After that meeting, we have shared bottles of Melchor, Phelps, Beringer, Snowden (your kind gift) and some others...I have to admit I have enjoyed every single one of them and your passion on Napa Cabs is unique. Even your taste for the 'X' is beyond comprehension, and for me to be able to share a small part of that passion...I am deeply touched.

As I enjoy the last drops of your Snowden 07; I have to say GRACIAS for your friendship, knowledge, laughs and great moments. I raise a glass to you and your lovely wife.

Cheers!

[Runnin' Rebel]

Your welcome
Pick your niche so your not overwhelmed and stay with it for a few years, white or red that worked for me. Maybe some people can do 2-3 regions in the area then narrow it down to appellation. And then the winery and then Year. That would be a sommelier


Glad you could be on a journey. The 2007 Berlinger was special in McAllen. I like it better then 1997 Insignia. Both very good but just different. Those 2 are a rarity, and for some once in a lifetime. We're very lucky.

My all time is Insignia almost any year.

Also the Mariatino from Mexico was superb, great choice in El Paso.


On to France, love my Napa but I'm French now for the most part. I'll. Try anything French. Xavier CdP I'll drink anytime

Barolo, Barbaresco not even close to those but have a few of them. Love Chianti though much lighter for me.

Glad you didn't mention Colgin/Hundred Acre I'll save those for me. Just kidding. Hundred Acre just sent me order price at 500.00 per bottle I draw my line in the sand now. Still, 1994-1997-2007-2010-2012-2013 are my favorite Napas. Although haven't tasted 2014 yet. Can't wait,

Enjoy and thanks

[OmegaJJH]

It is fantastic spending time with thoroughly knowledgeable wine aficionados.

I'm very lucky that my brother in law who lives in Oz is big in to his wine.

Because our visits down under are so few and far between he always pushes the boat out for us, opens those 'special' bottles that he's been saving and takes us to the most wonderful vineyards for tasting sessions where we get to receive wonderful service and try unbelievable wines that I simply wouldn't be able to experience without him.

Mark - Where you say 'Once in a lifetime for some' this is so true. You are very lucky indeed. Enjoy your marvelous collection and savor every sip! You've certainly earned that right!

Can I please ask that you keep posting in the Simply the wine thread so I can continue to live vicariously through you and the other contributors.

James