John Butler & Mesa Vaca Syrah

I’m back from a long business trip to Canada. Spent a week in Montreal, staying in the Place D’Arms Hotel, a wonderful little boutique number in the old section of the city. It has a very hip and lively bar at night and for hotel guests, an excellent complimentary wine and cheese reception each night. Had some great meals and excellent wines which I will review, but for tonight, something with a bit of muscle.

John Butler is one of my favorites. He’s a combination of Australian aboriginal, reggae, folk, and blues. He plays a twelve string for most of his numbers but he throws in a Weissborn lap steel and a six string for good measure. His slide work is nice too. His trio is tight; his drummer is unbelievable. Favorite songs of mine are Better man, Message in a Bottle, Old Man, and Yo Momma. But don’t miss the duet with Keith Urban on “Funky Tonight.” It’s killer.

Ocean: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6VAkOhXIsI0

Far away: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i9qac8bRI2M&feature=related

Seeing Angels: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9NSMtXzkoI&feature=related
 
Better Man: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IXHKaJ1D6nI&feature=related

Message in a bottle: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6zXwaqJgRV8&feature=related

Losing You: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fa37JI-HyHg&feature=related

Old Man: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P-wBYFyYIsk&feature=related

Yo Momma: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eTzmiSrBZXE&feature=related

Somethings gotta give: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbO_05FELKE&feature=related

Zebra: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jE3LmoTJd0Q&feature=related

Good Excuse: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWKTzL99xws&feature=related

Funky tonight (with Keith Urban): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDFMaSMr5YA&feature=fvw

While you’re enjoying John, open a bottle of 2005 Vaca Mesa Syrah (~$19.00). This is a big rich wine full of blackberry, black currents, cassis, and a touch of mocha. Spicy and complex with nice tannins and a long finish. Full, rich, and filling. Wine Spectator rated it 92 while Wine Enthusiast gave it a 90, meaning it’s an excellent wine, especially when you consider it’s under $20.00. It’s a nice compliment to John Butler. Enjoy!


Cheers!