When I first launched this site more than five years ago and came up with the name WINEormous, I also came up with a slogan. “We’re not wine snobs, we just like good wine.” At the Wine Bloggers Conference in Santa Ynez, I met the definition of a true wine snob.
I brought a bottle of 2009 Temecula Cabernet Sauvignon to an after hours party. I tasted it, and thought it was quite good. I shared the wine with a couple of aficionados, one of whom crinkled his nose, put the glass down and said “NGTPIM.” I gave him a puzzled look and he said, “Not going to put in mouth if it smells that bad.” He then proceeded to pour it out. What an ass. I brought a wine to share that I thought represented my home region well. Here are my thoughts. If you’re asked to critique a wine and you truly believe it’s flawed, go for it. If, however, someone offers to share a wine they have brought, be considerate of that. If you don’t like it, fine.
It’s people like this man who in my opinion, give wine writers and critics a bad rap. I was truly appalled. Your thoughts?
Tom Plant launched WINEormous in 2009 and is a member of the International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association. Based in Temecula, California, he offers intimate winery tours for no more than seven people. Tour details and pricing are available at www.temecula-tours.com. Call now to book your Temecula Winery Tour at (951) 907-9701! Ask about special discounts.