May 29, 2009
It may just be fond memories of drinking it in the warm summer air of the south of France, but I'll swear that the buzz I get from my beloved, milky yellow Pastis is a different kind, a softer, a richer and fuzzier and more comfortable buzz than I get from drinking any other kind of alcohol. And I like it. As someone recently explained to me, "Pastis is something you either like or don't like." And it's so true….
May 28, 2009
Has anyone noticed that the solemnity of an important gathering of friends is not marked by the rubbing together of soap then a licking of those soaps? Has anyone noticed that no religion uses wet towels to represent salvation and the diminution of sin? Has anyone noticed that no community gathers strength and identity through the embrace of radishes grown in its vicinity? Has anyone noticed that men don't pursue women through the act of watering and dining them? Isn't…
May 26, 2009
There are a few things that always leave me stopped in my tracks, mouth agape and oblivious to everything around me, leading often to being knocked back to consciousness by a jostle and the trailing sound of someone saying, "get out the way, asshole". Those things tend to be a beautiful woman and a striking and monumental piece of architecture. In places like Chicago, New York and Paris I can often be found on a corner, looking outward and upward,…
May 6, 2009
TIDBITS OF GREAT IMPORTANCE IT'S ABOUT TIME, TISH To me it seems a long time coming since his penchant for wit, excellent writing, his wine journalism background and is general deep knowledge of the wine industry makes him an excellent candidate for blogger status. Long time coming or not, it is very welcome news that W.R. Tish has finally launched a blog: THE WINE SKEWER: Bite Sized Comedy and Commentary from a Recovering Wine Critic. Known to his mother as William…
May 4, 2009
Forgive me for being a deconstructionist so early in the day. But sometimes I can't help myself. At the recent Wine & Spirit Wholesalers Association Annual Convention that organization's leader told the gathering of wholesalers the following: “Within the industry it is no secret that we are the most vibrant, innovative and consumer friendly – yet responsible and accountable –system of distribution in the world. And now our voice is being heard." First things first. Wolf was referring to the…