Jimmy Page & Pinot Noirs

Do I really need to say anthing about Jimmy Page? I first heard him after he joined the Yardbirds upon Jeff Beck’s departure. I can remember cranking the volume of my Mom’s black Chevy Impala as I cruised the night to the pulsating beat of “Whole Lotta Love.” Their first album (yeah, vinyl) was one of my favorites and of all the songs on it, “Since I Been Lovin You” was a mind-blower. Friday night and time to kick back. Enjoy!


50 Years of Jimmy Page: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bv_mNtI9P3o

Chopin: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZXG0fNUUXs&feature=related

Stairway to Heaven: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFik1D1zPhQ&feature=related

Top 10 solos: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcIn4dG6fBc

Classic rock documentary: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HG56zsFdebo

Arena-Heavy Metal: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kk3r677iDWY

Heart full of stone (Yardbirds): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kc0D-s0zTI4 

The Immigrant song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1eQWnkxXjvQ&feature=related

The song remains the same: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mBAewzK4EC8&feature=related

Since I been loving you: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RN-xBupbXRM&feature=related

Whole lotta love: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dnbWZmZ_9go&feature=related

Tonight’s Pinot Noir comparison is rather striking. First up is a 2008 Guarachi Family Sonoma Coast Pinot ($42.00) that Wine Spectator rated a 94. They said it was “impressive for its richness, depth and layers of ripe cherry, wild berry and raspberry fruit, shaded by loamy earth and black licorice notes that continue to build and expand. Full-bodied, ending with a long, persistent finish that focuses on the fruit themes.” I’d agree with some of their comments, but what I noticed most was the alcohol that dominated and drowned out the cherry fruit. In fact, the alcohol crushed any nuances on the palate, although they became somewhat more apparent (red fruit and vanilla) on the finish. Rather than blow forty bucks on this one, let me recommend something more in my “under $25.00 price range.”

With its bright ruby color, the 2008 Cartlidge and Browne Pinot emphasizes the wine’s classic ruby and garnet fruit. C&B is flush with strawberry richness, stony minerals, and smooth spices on the palate and nose. The mouth feel has a juicy, soft sweetness and wonderful, understated texture. It’s a solid American Pinot Noir, and as Robert Parker and the Wine Advocate state, “This winery is known for its excellent bargins and this Pinot is better than some five times the price,” especially at $14.00 a bottle. Like Jimmy Page, C&B Pinot Noir isn’t pretentious, just awesome. Enjoy!

Cheers!