Wow! Two wine drinkers. There's hope!
Kulr, I've gotten in to the cellaring thing (big mistake) so now I find I'm having to pry my wallet open a little wider when I buy. For value tho', I am turning more and more to BC. There are a few gems and because of the liquor tax system out here, BC are basically subsidized - so the good ones are a good value.
Masi is great too. Have you tried their Amarone?
Forced drinking? Of wine? Not a bad idea... I belong to a small wine forum based in Vancouver that does a wine of the month. We all try it and give our thoughts. Kind of the same idea.
Marq, Summerhill makes the best bubble! I'd put their limited release "Millionaire" against some very good French Champagne. Mr Cipes, the owner, is really in to the whole Organic, sustainable agriculture, mystic blessing, pyramid power thing. maybe it helps.
