May 3, 2011
I woke today, went downstairs and began my reading as I drank my coffee. I came across a story that detailed the plight of folks who have lost significant memories due to ailments of the brain. It put me in a sour mood because it reminded me that the only tangible things we possess that are of really great value are our memories. And I was struck at just how important it is to create and keep memories that delight…
Apr 26, 2011
First, let's admit this: It's the alcohol in wine that makes the beverage of serious interest to human beings. And with this said, we may as well tell the whole truth and admit that it's the effect of alcohol on our mind and bodies that make this substance and, through it, wine of interest to human beings. Second, let's congratulate the San Francisco Chronicle's Wine & Food staff and Jon Bonne, the Wine Editor, for taking the step to print…
Dec 15, 2010
I've written a lot of press releases in my day, but I don't think I've ever penned one that relies on "Humiliation Marketing" tactics. Maybe I'm behind the times. Maybe I'm just not that creative. Maybe I have a conscience. But it's doubtful I'd ever advise issuing this type of release for a client: "Beware the Holiday Party Faux Pas: Wine Topped With Artificial Stoppers" The release, which links to a semi-comical video produced and is issued by by the…
Sep 15, 2010
"The neutralization of the 70 grapevines was an act of civil disobedience, which is a legitimate expression when the powerful impose on the population something it has largely disowned." —Jean-Pierre Frick, French punk— Note to Monsieur Frick: It's not "Civil Disobedience" if you know you won't get punished. It's Hooliganism. Ben O'Donnell at the Winespectator.com reports on another act of hooliganism by a group of French assholes that has resulted in the destruction of an experimental that is looking at…
Jun 18, 2010
I am committed to the notion that, beyond a point, government and the society it represents does more harm than good in trying to overcome the seeming innate stupidity that always infects a certain portion of the community. It appears the United Kingdom is not with me on this one. There is a move in the United kingdom to reduce the legal blood alcohol limit a driver may possess to .02 and many believe this is a precursor to making…