Who the heck is this guy?

This is the thought that ran through my cranium as I somewhat crashed an informal tasting with a fraternity of serious wine drinkers. What else was I expecting when one infiltrates a group of conservative guys a bit older than myself all the while sporting spiked hair, a trendy mother of pearl button up cowboy shirt, designer boots and jeans? Well, I guess this guy does.

Who the heck is this guy breeching our wine circle of trust? A trust that looks deeply establish and rooted through the years as hard lines, sunken cheeks and swollen livers were proof enough. This great event takes place every friday afternoon as group of professionals gather at Antonio’s restaurant to share their love of wine, food, jokes and stories(exaggerated of course).
Well thanks the gracious Keith Edwards to invite me to sit in and get to know some of the regular cast of characters. Each one with their own personal and interesting bio.

Who the heck is this guy who dares to pull out a bottle of wine for a blind tasting inside of a local five and dime paper bag? I guess this guy does. All the while rethinking my offering. Is my bottle good enough? Will my wine be well received? Will I be invited back? Whats wrong with with me bringing white zin??;) Well, I wasn’t sure exactly what I was getting into, but I was excited to be there.

To my surprise I knew a few others in the group through the never failing Kevin Bacon 6 degrees of separation. Like DJ with whom I post with on the Robert Parker board. Dan from UCF. Dr. Lopez with whom my pharmaceutical partner Debbie used to call on in the past.
Then there is Dr. Fisher who has shared some of his cabbage, brussel sprout infused burgundies(terroir??) at the local wine warehouse tastings or Dan the champagne connoisseur whose fiancé I coincidently have known for 10 years. Dan I promise to starting drinking champagne! I want my bromance back!! Starting with the Aubry and my new love the Gosset.

The entire group was gracious and respectful. Though I probably did dumb down this group a bit in no way did I feel like the omega who had to earn or build his status. Slowly I felt part of the group and I hope to do it again. Though the tastings are casual the wines were not, led by an amazing 03’ Staglin cabernet which was sexy, seamless and silky, bravo. Thank you Dr. Lopez for this brillant offering. I had an amazing time and a headache to prove it. I really owe it all to the classiest guy in the room Keith Edwards. Thanks again for this fantastic opportunity, salute.
And oh my, did you try the chocolate and pancetta? WOW