Clint Watson

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Surh Luchtel - Garys' Vineyard

4/17/2013 7:46:39 AM by Clint Watson
 

Today, I'm launching a new article series that I've had in mind for many years: sharing my love of wine with my readers.  I've always delayed starting this series because I thought that I didn't have time to do the "proper" write-ups about each wine.  Over the weekend, I had an ephiphany:  I'm just going to share my recommendations and not worry too much about writing flowery words about each wine.  The simple fact I'm recommending it makes it obvious to the reader that I like it, and words don't really add much.  It's tasting that counts.

The current recommendation is Surh Luchtel - Garys' Vineyard [1] and it's one of my favorite California Pinot Noirs.  We enjoyed it over the weekend at Pam's Patio Kitchen, here in San Antonio .  I highly recommend you enjoy a bottle.

If you're in San Antonio, and love great wine, here's an opportunity that you should not pass up:  Surh Luchtel - Garys' Vineyard retails for $50 or more, depending on the vintage and, I've seen it on restaurant wine lists for over $100 a bottle.  But Dave and Pam over at Pam's Patio Kitchen somehow picked up a special close-out deal on the 2008 vintage and they are passing the savings on to their customers.  While supplies last, this wine is only $35/bottle at Pam's Patio Kitchen.  That is an amazing price on this wine.  Combine that with the fact that Pam's has some of the best food in town and it's a no brainer - get over to Pam's for dinner ASAP!  (They're open Tues - Sat.)  Be sure to tell Dave or Pam that "Clintavo" sent you and you're interested in the Surh Luchtel - Garys' Vineyard as I don't think the $35 price is listed on their menu.

Enjoy!

Sincerely,

Clint Watson

FASO Founder, Software Craftsman, Art Fanatic

PS - If you want my wine recommendations in real time, follow me on Instagram:  http://instagram.com/clintavo

PPS - What are some of your wine recommendations?  Let me know in the comments! [2]

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[1] There are Surh Luchtel Pinots from other vineyards as well.  While they are good, it's the Garys' Vineyard that is magical.  Make sure to get the right one if you want to try this wine!

[2] Except for Brian, who's answer is always "Rum, sir."

 

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Comments

 

Yep, just go for it Clint! I might learn something about wine now.

Posted by Lori woodward · via faso.com · 158 months ago

Yet another reason why I need to make a trip to San Antonio! I'm excited to read your wine recommendations - right now I pretty much pick wine by how much I like the label artwork :-)

Posted by Kate Dardine · via faso.com · 158 months ago

No, don't pick by the label - you'll end up with Yellow Tail and Menage a Trois. If anything, do the opposite and pick boring labels (although the california guys do some cool labels sometimes).

Two ways to learn about wine:

1. Go to costco and buy anything rated 90 . They have a great wine selection and it's affordable. Go on weekends and they have people from distributors to talk to.

2. Go to restaurants with good sommoliers, tell them what you like and get recommendations. If you spend $40 for a bottle think of it like this: You paid $20 for the wine and $20 for the recommendation. You can now buy the wine retail for $20 or less (since restaurant markups are 2x - 3x).

Posted by Clint Watson · via clintavoblog.fineartstudioonline.com · 158 months ago

Oh yeah and if you're clever go to the finer restaurants on "half price wine" night. Then you get the recommendations and you get the wine at close to retail.

Posted by Clint Watson · via clintavoblog.fineartstudioonline.com · 158 months ago

LOL! I did get the Menage a Trois...once. I do go by the ratings though, and have gotten some decent wines. The liquor store where I buy has weekly wine tastings, and they are very knowledgeable. I was kind of kidding on the label art - although if I see a really good label or name, sometimes I just can't resist! For instance, Three Blind Moose :-)

Posted by Kate Dardine · via clintavoblog.fineartstudioonline.com · 158 months ago

I would love to help with your wine trip...but I live in the Montreal area...miles away from California. I certainly envy the beautiful weather
you will encounter. I hope you have a great time.

Posted by Joseph Gluchy · via faso.com · 158 months ago

It might be a little inland from your planned area, but Ironstone Vineyards in Murphys is spectacular! There are several other vineyards as well, and tours (www.courtwoodwinetours.com).
Murphys is a cute little town on Hwy 49, of the gold rush days. There are several places right in town to stay, and a couple of very nice B and B's too.

Posted by Jenny Briggs · via faso.com · 158 months ago

Hello Clint,

I am quite familiar with the various wine areas, having resided in Northern California all my life. I like both the Napa and the Sonoma sides. Here are a few towns to consider: Napa side: Yountville, St. Helena, Calistoga. Sonoma: Sonoma itself or Healdsburg. All of these towns have wonderful restaurants and accomodations - walking distance if you stay in town (which I definitely recommend). Once you decide on the area, I would be happy to suggest hotels and restaurants. There really is too much to list. Also, wineries. Here again, it depends on what your favorite grapes are. I drink only white, but my husband collects red. I am happy to help another artist!!

The area is truly lovely and there will be lots of walks and hikes to enjoy.

Paula

Posted by Paula Riley · via faso.com · 158 months ago

Hi Clint,

Great little restaurant right on the plaza in Sonoma is the Sunflower Caffe'. Get a table in the garden.

Envy your trip,

Don

Posted by Don Prys · via faso.com · 158 months ago

Hay Clint, I live in Florida but can I go with you as your oldest son? Just asking. Drink some wine for me. have fun, Jerry

Posted by Jerry Spangler · via faso.com · 158 months ago

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