Oh yes. Where have I been? To quote a wiser man than I…

“Mawaige.”

Yeah, J and I got married. It was a blast. You should have been there. Actually, if you’re reading this, it’s very likely you WERE there. J was beautiful. I’d post a picture but that might make her slightly upset, what with the ruining of the anonymity and all. Trust me, it was an amazing day, one for the books.  The caterer – Trumpetvine Catering, if you’re curious – did a great job. All local produce, everything tasted great. Highest recommendation if you’re thinking about a wedding in the Bay Area in the near or far future. Wines seemed to be received well. Honeymoon was lots of fun, but cut short by a nasty cold. Thanks, Dave! Just kidding. Actually, I’m not kidding – Dave did a lot for us.  As did lots of folks, who all know who they are.

Oh yeah, and we went to The French Laundry.

I guess I could go into honeymoon stuff now, but there’s so much I haven’t touched on in the last few weeks…maybe a lightning round is in order just to get everything out that’s been stewing for a while. Onwards and upwards!

Girasole – only worth it on nights when La Buca is packed.

Il Capriccio Pizza – overpriced but decent pizza. I’ll take Casa Bianca, though.

Bottlerock – unimpressive, but not terrible.

Yai Noodle Shop (on Vermont) – a good neighborhood option. But seriously – cash only?

Cafe Venezia (Berkeley) – not bad, not great. A workmanlike effort.

2004 Zenato Valpolicella Ripasso -  a nice wine and worth searching out for less than $25.

C&O Trattoria – house chianti equals good times. Gnocchi bolognese better than I expected, too. Atmosphere (and good company, if you have it) make this place.

2005 Zind Humbrechet Riesling – a little underwhelming. Many better rieslings for less than $20, in my opinion.

2004 Two Hands Shiraz Lily’s Garden – overrated! Now $20 more per bottle than last year’s vintage, up to about $55. A complete rip-off.

2001 Paitin di Pasquero Barbaresco Serra Boella – lovely perfume, very elegant. A good deal.

2004 Casisano Colombaio Rosso di Montalicino – decent. Very, very bright and acidic. Almost un-sangiovese-like. Needs time.

Oinkster – burger is good. Pulled pork is whatever.

Coming up next – some Napa wineries and Ad Hoc. Good to be back!