Faux oenophiles.

Tonight, I had the pleasure of meeting a faux oenophile -- my first experience. A faux oenophile is someone who doesn't appreciate wine for its qualities, but rather for the status it projects. How did I spot him? When I asked about his favorite wines, he focused on a well known (and expensive) producer and expressed his appreciation for the wine only because it was "smooth." Later, when asked about specific bottles he had in his cellar, he could not recall names. In short, he exhibited a lack of depth yet retained an eagerness to express the cost of his "taste." In terms of individuals who cause more damage to the wine market or wine consumers, the only person I loathe more is the Philosopher King oenophile -- one who treats their knowledge of wine as being so specialized, that they are above criticism.

A new city

I apologize for the absence, but I have been consumed lately with a massive (and fundamental) move. As the picture suggests, I have transplanted from the East Coast to the City By the Bay, lovely San Francisco. While I will not go into all of the reasons for the move, I will say that wine had a part to play in my choice. After all, if there is any city in the United States that is associated with wine, it's San Francisco. More details on the move (and guidelines for other people who may have to move wine) to come!