Good one mate; so let's get into wine. Over the years I've had a few wines and fortified's that I have enjoyed. Started with the Sherry's pre-dinner, then a White with the Entrée, Red with the Main and a Desert Wine with Desert, followed by a Port and Cigar afterwards. Then outside for a Cheese Platter and a coffee with a good Cognac. Those were the days! Fond memories of the Officer's Mess.
Now being a retired old bloke (ROB) my lifestyle has reduced to some sherry occasionally (Madera) some nice Reds (not keen on White any more) a good Port and an XO Cognac or two.
Because I like variety of Reds to try and select from I started by joining the Society d'Vignorons (now Wine Selectors) because they offered a 'Tasting Dozen' from different regions around Australia four times a year, including an excellent Magazine and Tasting Notes. To-date I have yet to have a 'bad' one but they do offer a replacement policy.
From there I went for the Wine Maker's Half-Dozen Reds twice a year; a bit more price but better quality. Did not go for the Chairman's Half-Dozen because it includes Whites.
For my 50th my Family gave me a 5ltr Port Barrel and I take delight in toping it up with some reasonable ones and letting it sit for a few months. Everyone who tastes it compliments me so it must be alright. I have five Grandchildren and with the first four I celebrated with a bottle of Grand Father Port. The little bit left over went into my Port Barrel. The fifth Grandchild was celebrated with a bottle of Midleton Very Rare Irish Whiskey 2007 and what a delight that is! Still have a wee bit left.
For my 60th my Darling Bride bought me a Wine Decanter from Chateau Tanundra, Barossa. You decant your wine into it and each time you pass give it a spin and in rotates and aerates the wine. Also an excellent talking point with guests.
As I said I have a very small cellar which holds about 12 dozen and has a relatively stable temperature around 18 degrees. I have three special racks for my favourite wines and several others for those Tasting Dozens I receive. The Bride and I enjoy a glass with dinner and once a week we have a neighbourhood group (called The Hood) gathering where we have a meal and devour some fine wines.
The Tasting Dozens are how I found my favourite wines from Langmeil (The Long Mile) Winery in the Barossa to name one. I am also rather partial to the Reds from Redgate Winery at Margaret River. I have visited Langmeil Winery and have been happy to order their wine on a regular basis. Just can't get the Bride to allow me the $100 bottles I want just yet but I can wait.
Anyway enough from me for now. Have enjoyed reading some of the comments to-date, so thanks people, keep it up please!
