So to get in the spirit of the season and review a specific wine, I thought I would give you a rundown of how Christmas Day could/may/probably will pan out from a wine perspective; while at the same time perhaps giving some tips on how you could enhance your festive celebration.
Breakfast: Champagne breakfast to kickoff the day and nothing says Merry Christmas better than bacon and eggs on the BBQ and a bottle of Champagne. Pol Roger being the one we have for special occasions.
Pre-Lunch: You can never go wrong with bubbles to begin the Christmas feast and for us, it is with a sparkling shiraz. Not only can you start with it but it goes well with turkey and ham during the main. Gartlemann Wines consistently do a very good sparkling shiraz so I dare say two bottles will be in our fridge.
Lunch: If you are starting with seafood, semillon is the way to go which goes down especially well with some fresh prawns, oysters or even a lobster tail slightly charred on the BBQ. Margan Wines will be the likely starter at our place. From there, a shiraz with the lamb, ham or curry then graduating straight to the Cabernet Sauvignon. We discovered on our recent trip to the Hunter the 2008 Calcare Cabernet Sauvignon from Pepper Tree. I guarantee it will take you one sip to become a fan.
Dessert: Hard choice but the options will be either a Botrytis Semillon with the christmas pudding or a Suckling Pig Shiraz from Piggs Peake with some chocolate...but who I am kidding? We will have both!
Here we are. Christmas time again and before we know it, 2012 is here rather than being a title of a dodgy disaster movie. Anyway, I thought that seeing that this would be the last post for the year I would give you (as my Christmas present to you) the ten lessons/realisations that I have arrived at this year.
In general, these came to me like a lightning strike as I sat on one of CityRail's finest en route to or from work and while all have a particular relevance to me, some are easily in the category of 'something there for all of us'. I will let you decide which ones are which.
1. The last time I was excited about a piece of technology was the HP 9000 K-Class Unix server - and that was only because I thought it would be a great idea to gut the inside and turn the shell into a bar fridge! However, the iPad2 has won me over. My life has changed forever and more importantly, it makes way cooler than I would be without it (admittedly, I am starting off a low base).
2. I am convinced that there is a conspiracy that some of my favourite things are getting smaller as I get older. Toobs, Iced Vo Vo's and Wagon Wheels are key examples. Tell me I am wrong!
3. While there is still conjecture about a tree falling in a forest, I have decided that if you make a statement in cyberspace, someone will hear. I know this to be true as I am always pleasantly surprised when someone will tell me that they have read and in some cases enjoyed reading this blog. Same can be said for Twitter. In fact, I am still not sure what has been the biggest thrill; having Melissa Doyle retweet me or having a small yet meaningful twitter conversation with Kristina Keneally.
4. I did not leave my heart in San Francisco but have left it in New York. It was truly amazing and we hardly scratched the surface on what it could offer. We will be back but in the interim, I get my NYC fix via the New York Times (on the iPad of course) and the Yankees!
5. When I started my working life, I heard stories of how things slowed down on the approach to Christmas and that it was all centred around parties, drinks and general merriment. I have yet to experience such a phenomenon.
6. While I have resigned myself to staying in the 80's when it comes to my musical tastes, I have to admit here on this blog that I am, in fact a fan of Katy Perry. She is truly a musical genius and 'Firework' is close to my favourite song.
7. I knew that after the retirements of Warne, McGrath, Gilchrist, MacGill, Martyn, Langer, Hayden etc that the Australian Cricket team was starting a lean patch which could mirror the one that took place in the mid 80's...why is the rest of the country only realising this now?
8. And while we are on the subject of cricket, why is there this sudden hysteria around 20/20 cricket? I now fully understand what it may have been like when World Series Cricket started in the late 70's. In short, while the players still want to play test cricket it will remain an integral part of the game.
9. It is true what they say about from little things, big things grow. Seeing the success of Little Ballerinas and the rewards that have come as a result of all the hard work that Trish has put in has been the highlight of the year. While it has been just the first year and there is much more to happen, I am so proud of what she has achieved and am excited of what 2012 will bring.
10. While it is terribly cliched and it is something that gets said around this time of year...every year, it is true that there is nothing more important than family and friends. And to paraphase my good friend Roy, everything else is froth and bubble.
So to you and yours, all the best for the festive season. May you enjoy the time with your family and friends and I hope that 2012 brings you all that you wish for...not to mention spending it drinking some good wine. See you in the new year.
Cheers!
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Sometimes the nightmare starts when you wake up.
Wine of the Week:
You know what, I walked into Dan Murphy's yesterday and stumbled across the new ACDC wine range. There are a number of wines that are named after classic ACDC tunes and I picked up the 'Back in Black' Shiraz 2010; in the true spirit of not judging a book by it's cover and willing to give anything a go. The bottle itself is a 'must' collectable for ACDC fans with a picture of Angus Young in full flight on stage. As for the Shiraz itself, it is young but unlike the band I don't think it will age as well.
Like most Australians, I awoke on Friday morning to the news of the scoreboard above. I don't know what shocked me more; the fact that Australia was dismissed for 47 or the fact that we were 9/21.
It was part of a day of test cricket that will go down in history as one of the most eventful and bizarre the game has seen. Ultimately, it led to the South Africans winning the Test before the game reached it's halfway point and has led to a fair degree of analysis by all Australian cricket supporters - including myself.
For me, there are some key points to take out of what can rightfully be called a shambolic effort by the Australians.
PS: Like many cricket followers, I was shocked by the news of the death of Peter Roebuck. Without fail, I would always make sure I read his articles in the SMH and would listen intently to his views on the game during the ABC Grandstand commentary. I wouldn't always agree on his opinions and in fact, thought there were times when he was sounding like a broken record eg; the last home Test series against India and focusing on the Australians as the main perpetrators. However, his views on the game always were relevant, created debate and caused many including myself to think and view the game in different ways. While details are still sketchy of his death and I am sure more will come to light in the next week, one thing that can not be disputed is his contribution to the game through his analysis and commentary. He will be missed not only this summer but for many summers to come. Vale.
You know what, I walked into Dan Murphy's yesterday and stumbled across the new ACDC wine range. There are a number of wines that are named after classic ACDC tunes and I picked up the 'Back in Black' Shiraz 2010; in the true spirit of not judging a book by it's cover and willing to give anything a go. The bottle itself is a 'must' collectable for ACDC fans with a picture of Angus Young in full flight on stage. As for the Shiraz itself, it is young but unlike the band I don't think it will age as well.
It was part of a day of test cricket that will go down in history as one of the most eventful and bizarre the game has seen. Ultimately, it led to the South Africans winning the Test before the game reached it's halfway point and has led to a fair degree of analysis by all Australian cricket supporters - including myself.
For me, there are some key points to take out of what can rightfully be called a shambolic effort by the Australians.
- This team needs a massive attitude readjustment...fast! They have either been part of or grown up during an era when Australian teams played and were successful through a game plan of attacking all the time and almost bullying the opposition into submission. Fact was, they had the talent to do this consistently and the gap between the Australians and the rest of the world was substantial. This is no longer the case. The Australians need to be more adaptable with their game plans and have the good sense to know when to be more circumspect and when to be on the front foot...and the humility and sense of realism to know that this is needed.
- Due to the fact that we do not have the talent that was the norm over the last twenty years, the majority of the side needs to perform to their potential for Australia to put themselves in a winning position. This means five of the top seven needs to score runs to set a solid total and an attack that bowls as a team to take twenty wickets. There is no longer one or two players that can pull Australia out of the shit to win a Test anymore.
- Australia can not rely on one player to take five wickets in an innings and then expect him to open the batting ten minutes later. Credit where credit is due, Shane Watson has done a good job opening the batting but has also been increasingly relied upon to do his fair share of bowling; mainly due to the lack of penetration of the selected bowling attack. This is not sustainable and for the good of the team (and ultimately for Watson himself), he needs to drop down the order.
- Much has been made about the absolute revolving door that is the selection policy around our spin attack. The same thing can be said of our pace bowlers. There have been many that have been tried and tested but we have not settled on a solid pack of six or seven bowlers that can fit in and out of the Test team when required. This needs to be resolved and resolved this summer.
- I don't think that there will be massive changes for the Second Test this week as most of the current side deserves the chance to redeem themselves but there is a chance to start the process. Mitchell Johnson has run out of credits and needs to be dropped immediately. Shaun Marsh's back is not looking like it will be right for the game with the news tonight (Sunday) that David Warner will be flying to South Africa as back up. It is an opportune time for Warner to open the innings and Watson to drop down the order. I have been critical of David Warner's ability to build an innings in the long form of the game however over the last twelve months, he has scored runs and shown the flexibility needed to play the ball on it's merits and build an innings. He deserves a chance.
- I am still of the opinion Ricky Ponting has deserved the right to make the call himself on when he pulls up stumps but the caveat has always been that he needs to keep scoring runs. I am giving him the home series against NZ to do this before I give the beating drums any recognition. However, I do firmly believe that if you are talking about dropping Ponting you need to be having the same discussion about Michael Hussey as well.
PS: Like many cricket followers, I was shocked by the news of the death of Peter Roebuck. Without fail, I would always make sure I read his articles in the SMH and would listen intently to his views on the game during the ABC Grandstand commentary. I wouldn't always agree on his opinions and in fact, thought there were times when he was sounding like a broken record eg; the last home Test series against India and focusing on the Australians as the main perpetrators. However, his views on the game always were relevant, created debate and caused many including myself to think and view the game in different ways. While details are still sketchy of his death and I am sure more will come to light in the next week, one thing that can not be disputed is his contribution to the game through his analysis and commentary. He will be missed not only this summer but for many summers to come. Vale.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
My favourites in the Baggy Green
Wine of the Week:
Balnaves Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 - While I do not profess to be an expert (far from it), there are two things that I know to be true. First is that you can very rarely go wrong with a Cab Sav from the Coonawarra. Second is that if you can, the perfect accompaniment to a Coonawarra Cab Sav is a steak cooked perfectly to how you desire it (for me that's medium rare).
Trish and I were out in Melbourne last week and had the Balnaves along with some beautifully cooked steak. The Balnaves 2008 is still quite young so it doesn't have the big strong Cab kick that I usually look for in a Cab Sav. However, it is not that far away. It also has a great fruity bouquet which adds to it's enjoyment and befits it's age. The Balnaves is good drinking now, would be even better in a two to three years but if someone puts it in front of you with a nice piece of steak...don't argue. http://www.balnaves.com.au
The weather is getting warmer, the days longer and I can smell jasmine in the air. For me that means that cricket season is upon us. For some, competitions around the country have already started but for me, this season will be purely watching and supporting as Australia continues it's rebuilding, the Sydney Thunder makes their debut in the Big Bash League and NSW dread the day that Michael Clarke and Simon Katich share the Blues dressing room again.
This week, the Fairfax press have previewed an upcoming book where the living Australian cricketers were asked to vote on who they thought was the greatest Australian cricketer. While it is no surprise that Sir Donald Bradman was number one, the make up of the top 25 will certainly make for many a conversation this coming summer. http://www.smh.com.au/sport/cricket/players-decide-the-greatest-to-wear-the-baggy-green-20111024-1mge6.html
Of course, it got me thinking...not so much my opinion on who were the best but who were the five that at some point would have been my answer to the perennial question when you are growing up - "Who is your favourite player?" So, at risk of being controversial (Skull???)...here they are:
1. Allan Border:
In short for anyone who grew up in the 1980's, Allan Border epitomises Australian Cricket. The man who was given the Captaincy reluctantly and then started to rebuild the Australian Cricket team and set the foundations for their ascendancy to the number one spot in world cricket; starting in 1989 when he became the first captain to regain the Ashes in England since 1934. For me, meeting the great man on his 2002 charity walk from Sydney to Brisbane and getting to walk with him on his way to the Gabba was both memorable and inspirational...especially when he put his arm on my shoulder and asked if we (I) was ok to get to the Gabba. At that point, I could have been walking over broken glass, barefoot and it being fifty degrees in the shade - if Allan Border asked me to do it, I would have. And I'm just a nuffy - imagine the effect he had on his players???
2. Mark Taylor:
Mark Taylor was the cricketer I wanted to be apart from one thing - he was left handed. He opened the batting and captained NSW and Australia with distinction and took the baton from Allan Border and raised Australian Cricket to the next level; culminating in beating the West Indies in their backyard in 1995. While many would say his finest hour was his 334 in Pakistan, the Ashes century in 1997 to get him out of a form slump was one of the gustiest innings I have seen. While I haven't met him, I do remember my mate Jeff and I walking behind Taylor as he walked through the Members pavilion at the SCG to the NSW dressing room; not uttering a word - both of us in awe of 'the Captain'. We were both 24 years of age at the time...
3. Shane Warne:
Looking at this from purely a cricketing perspective, I couldn't go past S.K. Warne. He is a freak and truly a once in a lifetime cricketer. He had the ability to win games for Australia and while for many "the ball of the century" in 1993 marked his arrival on the scene, for me it was the return Ashes series at the Gabba where for the first time he had to bowl Australia to a win - and he delivered. His setup of Alec Stewart to get him out with the flipper still sticks in my memory. Look at the other end of his career and the final day of the Adelaide Test in 2006 where he took the ball at the start of play and was not giving it up until England were all out epitomised Warne's impact on Australian cricket. He bowled England out with both his talent and his aura. I have no doubt that he is the greatest Australian bowler that I will see in my lifetime. Off the field...one word comes to mind - suspect!
4. Ricky Ponting:
When Ricky Ponting started in the Australian team, I found him to be a smart alec - always chipping at the opposition. Then of course you tend to forget that he made his debut at nineteen and still yet to grow up. Ponting, while not a captain of the ilk of Ian Chappell and Mark Taylor he was certainly a better captain than his predecessor Steve Waugh - and a job he did with a less talented side. I did meet Ricky Ponting after the 2006/07 Ashes series...but enough said about that encounter the better.
5. Michael Whitney:
The Whit - Michael Roy Whitney was a legend in my eyes. He gave his all; whether he played for Randwick, NSW or Australia. The sight of Whitney walking back to his mark, tugging at the knee brace he always wore. Then at the start of his mark, the slight skip and stutter as he ran in to deliver the ball and hit the deck hard. While Australia won the Ashes in 1989, it was a travesty that he wasn't selected on the tour - a decision that still remains unexplained. I still remember the ball he bowled Brian Lara during a one dayer in Sydney which took the top of Lara's off stump. The Hill (and I) went nuts! I also remember the night Jeff and I met the Whit at a Calypso night for the West Indies team of 1992...he may have been taken back by our enthusiasm but it WAS Michael Whitney!
So...who are your favourite Australian cricketers? Feel free to join the conversation.
Balnaves Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 - While I do not profess to be an expert (far from it), there are two things that I know to be true. First is that you can very rarely go wrong with a Cab Sav from the Coonawarra. Second is that if you can, the perfect accompaniment to a Coonawarra Cab Sav is a steak cooked perfectly to how you desire it (for me that's medium rare).
Trish and I were out in Melbourne last week and had the Balnaves along with some beautifully cooked steak. The Balnaves 2008 is still quite young so it doesn't have the big strong Cab kick that I usually look for in a Cab Sav. However, it is not that far away. It also has a great fruity bouquet which adds to it's enjoyment and befits it's age. The Balnaves is good drinking now, would be even better in a two to three years but if someone puts it in front of you with a nice piece of steak...don't argue. http://www.balnaves.com.au
The weather is getting warmer, the days longer and I can smell jasmine in the air. For me that means that cricket season is upon us. For some, competitions around the country have already started but for me, this season will be purely watching and supporting as Australia continues it's rebuilding, the Sydney Thunder makes their debut in the Big Bash League and NSW dread the day that Michael Clarke and Simon Katich share the Blues dressing room again.
This week, the Fairfax press have previewed an upcoming book where the living Australian cricketers were asked to vote on who they thought was the greatest Australian cricketer. While it is no surprise that Sir Donald Bradman was number one, the make up of the top 25 will certainly make for many a conversation this coming summer. http://www.smh.com.au/sport/cricket/players-decide-the-greatest-to-wear-the-baggy-green-20111024-1mge6.html
Of course, it got me thinking...not so much my opinion on who were the best but who were the five that at some point would have been my answer to the perennial question when you are growing up - "Who is your favourite player?" So, at risk of being controversial (Skull???)...here they are:
1. Allan Border:
2. Mark Taylor:
3. Shane Warne:
4. Ricky Ponting:
5. Michael Whitney:
The Whit - Michael Roy Whitney was a legend in my eyes. He gave his all; whether he played for Randwick, NSW or Australia. The sight of Whitney walking back to his mark, tugging at the knee brace he always wore. Then at the start of his mark, the slight skip and stutter as he ran in to deliver the ball and hit the deck hard. While Australia won the Ashes in 1989, it was a travesty that he wasn't selected on the tour - a decision that still remains unexplained. I still remember the ball he bowled Brian Lara during a one dayer in Sydney which took the top of Lara's off stump. The Hill (and I) went nuts! I also remember the night Jeff and I met the Whit at a Calypso night for the West Indies team of 1992...he may have been taken back by our enthusiasm but it WAS Michael Whitney!So...who are your favourite Australian cricketers? Feel free to join the conversation.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Geeks rule the world!
Wine of the Week:
Ninth Island Pinot Noir 2010 - For an everyday Pinot Noir, this one is hard to go past. It has the beautiful Pinot nose that you get plus the clean palete as opposed to the really bad Pinot Noirs that have that dirty, gritty feel. Generally, you look for cold climates to give you a good Pinot - start at Victoria and work your way down from there. Ninth Island is from Tasmania and delivers on that general rule. Trish and I look towards a Pinot at those times when we feel like red but the weather is warm or we don't want too heavy a red. As we are getting closer to summer, Pinots will be high on the agenda...especially if duck or turkey is on the menu. Check out more on the Ninth Island here Ninth Island Pinot Noir
Last week, the news came through that Steve Jobs passed away from pancreatic cancer. He will go down in history as one of the legends of Silicon Valley; up there with the likes of Bill Hewlett and David Packard. In fact, one article this week told of how a young Jobs approached Bill Hewlett for spare parts to help him with a school project; which in turn led to a summer job at Hewlett-Packard. It was at HP that he met Steve Wozinak and well...you know the rest.
Whatever your opinion of Jobs, his vision and drive to execute on that vision changed the way people not only use but view technology. He not only made Apple a successful, paradigm changing business but one that evoked that all encompassing, magic word...cool. As I twittered on the day, look at a crowded train carriage and you see the impact that Jobs' second coming at Apple has made. The majority of people carrying a device (irrespective of the manufacturer) either checking their email, listening to music or doing both at the same time - not to mention taking phone calls as well.
Working in the industry, his death was always going to be big news. What has absolutely astounded me was the reaction across the board. Twitter provided a platform for politicians, celebrities and your everyday man or woman to stop and pay tribute to a man that they hadn't met but they felt changed their lives for ever. It was both astonishing and weird all at the same time.
What was even more bizarre was the need that many, many people felt to hold vigils the night that Jobs died. That in itself wasn't the bizarre part. What was bizarre was the need to download an app which had a single candlestick burning brightly to their iPad or iPhone and wave in tribute amongst the masses in the darkness. That app is now the 5th most popular free app from the App Store (I checked that on my iPad this evening....)
Which leads us to a question that has been debated, written and talked about for the days since Jobs' death. What is his legacy? Many believe it is those devices which have transformed our listening and communication habits.
Some also believe that it is his drive and determination to execute on his vision and do so with unwavering and at times, offending determination; in other words don't let anything stand in the way of your vision because YOU can make it a reality.
For me, it could be way more simpler than that. Seek to embrace your inner geek. They get the money, fame and gorgeous men or women by their sides...sometimes both.
In short; geeks are cool...or so my iPad tells me anyway.
Ninth Island Pinot Noir 2010 - For an everyday Pinot Noir, this one is hard to go past. It has the beautiful Pinot nose that you get plus the clean palete as opposed to the really bad Pinot Noirs that have that dirty, gritty feel. Generally, you look for cold climates to give you a good Pinot - start at Victoria and work your way down from there. Ninth Island is from Tasmania and delivers on that general rule. Trish and I look towards a Pinot at those times when we feel like red but the weather is warm or we don't want too heavy a red. As we are getting closer to summer, Pinots will be high on the agenda...especially if duck or turkey is on the menu. Check out more on the Ninth Island here Ninth Island Pinot Noir
Last week, the news came through that Steve Jobs passed away from pancreatic cancer. He will go down in history as one of the legends of Silicon Valley; up there with the likes of Bill Hewlett and David Packard. In fact, one article this week told of how a young Jobs approached Bill Hewlett for spare parts to help him with a school project; which in turn led to a summer job at Hewlett-Packard. It was at HP that he met Steve Wozinak and well...you know the rest.
Whatever your opinion of Jobs, his vision and drive to execute on that vision changed the way people not only use but view technology. He not only made Apple a successful, paradigm changing business but one that evoked that all encompassing, magic word...cool. As I twittered on the day, look at a crowded train carriage and you see the impact that Jobs' second coming at Apple has made. The majority of people carrying a device (irrespective of the manufacturer) either checking their email, listening to music or doing both at the same time - not to mention taking phone calls as well.
Working in the industry, his death was always going to be big news. What has absolutely astounded me was the reaction across the board. Twitter provided a platform for politicians, celebrities and your everyday man or woman to stop and pay tribute to a man that they hadn't met but they felt changed their lives for ever. It was both astonishing and weird all at the same time.
What was even more bizarre was the need that many, many people felt to hold vigils the night that Jobs died. That in itself wasn't the bizarre part. What was bizarre was the need to download an app which had a single candlestick burning brightly to their iPad or iPhone and wave in tribute amongst the masses in the darkness. That app is now the 5th most popular free app from the App Store (I checked that on my iPad this evening....)
Which leads us to a question that has been debated, written and talked about for the days since Jobs' death. What is his legacy? Many believe it is those devices which have transformed our listening and communication habits.
Some also believe that it is his drive and determination to execute on his vision and do so with unwavering and at times, offending determination; in other words don't let anything stand in the way of your vision because YOU can make it a reality.
For me, it could be way more simpler than that. Seek to embrace your inner geek. They get the money, fame and gorgeous men or women by their sides...sometimes both.
In short; geeks are cool...or so my iPad tells me anyway.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Parties have their downside too...
Wine of the Week:
Pol Roger Reserve Brut Champagne - I have veered from the red theme for no other reason as this is my favourite Champagne and I have had it twice in the space of four days; once during a work function and second to celebrate Little Ballerinas being named a finalist in the Sutherland Shire Business Awards.
I have to blame/credit my mate Matthew for Trish and mine's love of Pol Roger. We went to Singapore for a holiday a few years ago and Matt arranged for us to attend a Pol Roger lunch at a restaurant in Holland Village. We tasted about five vintages of Pol Roger and have not looked back.
From the moment that the cork bursts from the bottle, seeing the streams of small continuous bubbles floating up the glass and having that first sip which is smooth, the fruity nose and a taste that is addictive. If we had the means, it would be our drink of choice but it is brought out for special occasions...or if it is on special, which it was yesterday at Dan Murphys for $74 (normally around $98)
I have decided that party politics has a lot to answer for. Irrespective of what party you may support, it seems to me that towing the party line seems to stifle intelligent, compassionate and thoughtful debate.
This may have been a universal truth that everyone knows and I have just been oblivious or worst case naive about the situation. Just seems that once a politican has left the womb of the party machine or has taken a seat towards the back of the party bus; they are willing to share more of their true opinions, make a stand and perhaps (and just maybe) give an insight as to why they sought political office in the first place.
The recent example of this is the former NSW Premier Kristina Keneally. In the last couple of weeks, the former Premier (hair extensions and all) has made a number of public appearances on shows such as 'The Nation' and 'Q&A'. During these appearances, she has won many admirers from both side of the political fence; with her intelligent, compassionate and common sense debate particularly when it comes to the asylum seeker debate.
In addition to that, Kristina Keneally has also started to be an active Twitter user and is using it to answer questions and connect with the public and all of it with (at times) a self-deprecating sense of humour.
Same thing happened when former Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser. In the years after he left the nation's top job, he won many new supporters with his work with Care International and other charitable organisations and his willingness to put up an alternative and personal point of view when it came to our involvement in Iraq and our policies on asylum seekers (for the record, Fraser led his Government to develop a policy of increasing Australia's acceptance of refugees on humanitarian grounds). Free from the shackles of party room politics, Fraser demonstrated a compassion and a statesmanship that enhanced rather than detracted from his status as a former leader of our nation...which isn't always the case with our former leaders.
Where I am going with this I am not sure but maybe it is just a warning sign to us that we need to look at our leaders deeper and finding out what they truly believe. And we should definitely start questioning the two major parties more about what they stand for; rather having them try to hug the middle of the road not risking to lose the popular vote.
If we did, maybe we wouldn't have the Parliament we have at the moment...
Pol Roger Reserve Brut Champagne - I have veered from the red theme for no other reason as this is my favourite Champagne and I have had it twice in the space of four days; once during a work function and second to celebrate Little Ballerinas being named a finalist in the Sutherland Shire Business Awards.
I have to blame/credit my mate Matthew for Trish and mine's love of Pol Roger. We went to Singapore for a holiday a few years ago and Matt arranged for us to attend a Pol Roger lunch at a restaurant in Holland Village. We tasted about five vintages of Pol Roger and have not looked back.
From the moment that the cork bursts from the bottle, seeing the streams of small continuous bubbles floating up the glass and having that first sip which is smooth, the fruity nose and a taste that is addictive. If we had the means, it would be our drink of choice but it is brought out for special occasions...or if it is on special, which it was yesterday at Dan Murphys for $74 (normally around $98)
I have decided that party politics has a lot to answer for. Irrespective of what party you may support, it seems to me that towing the party line seems to stifle intelligent, compassionate and thoughtful debate.
This may have been a universal truth that everyone knows and I have just been oblivious or worst case naive about the situation. Just seems that once a politican has left the womb of the party machine or has taken a seat towards the back of the party bus; they are willing to share more of their true opinions, make a stand and perhaps (and just maybe) give an insight as to why they sought political office in the first place.
The recent example of this is the former NSW Premier Kristina Keneally. In the last couple of weeks, the former Premier (hair extensions and all) has made a number of public appearances on shows such as 'The Nation' and 'Q&A'. During these appearances, she has won many admirers from both side of the political fence; with her intelligent, compassionate and common sense debate particularly when it comes to the asylum seeker debate.
In addition to that, Kristina Keneally has also started to be an active Twitter user and is using it to answer questions and connect with the public and all of it with (at times) a self-deprecating sense of humour.
Same thing happened when former Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser. In the years after he left the nation's top job, he won many new supporters with his work with Care International and other charitable organisations and his willingness to put up an alternative and personal point of view when it came to our involvement in Iraq and our policies on asylum seekers (for the record, Fraser led his Government to develop a policy of increasing Australia's acceptance of refugees on humanitarian grounds). Free from the shackles of party room politics, Fraser demonstrated a compassion and a statesmanship that enhanced rather than detracted from his status as a former leader of our nation...which isn't always the case with our former leaders.
Where I am going with this I am not sure but maybe it is just a warning sign to us that we need to look at our leaders deeper and finding out what they truly believe. And we should definitely start questioning the two major parties more about what they stand for; rather having them try to hug the middle of the road not risking to lose the popular vote.
If we did, maybe we wouldn't have the Parliament we have at the moment...
Monday, September 19, 2011
The emptiness that is...September
Wine of the Week:
Vasse Felix Cabernet Merlot 2008 - I have always liked wines coming from Vasse Felix Vasse Felix wines comes from the Margaret River in WA; one of Australia's major wine districts. This one was a Cabernet Merlot and has a fruity taste, is full bodied and is slightly dry; which is the Cabernet coming to the fore. Would suggest you give this one a decanting and some time as breathing allows it to get better and better. Have something to eat with it - perhaps a strong blue cheese...followed up by a steak. Just make sure you have enough to last for both!
Last year I wrote about the joys that September can bring when the St George-Illawarra won the NRL Premiership http://ramblingsoverared.blogspot.com/2010/10/we-are-champions-my-friends.html It was a time of great anticipation, drama, excitement and ultimately the elation of victory. This year is a different story.
In case you didn't know, the Dragons were eliminated from the finals series on Saturday after a golden point victory by Brisbane. After a year of season of riding the highs and the most recent lows, getting into the finals and being so close to progressing to the next stage; the result on Saturday has left me with a sort of empty feeling.
Don't get me wrong, the team played the game of their life. It was nailbiting stuff and they left nothing out of the tank. However, like many fans have found once their teams have been eliminated out of the finals the question that is asked is "What happens next?".
You are left in a sort of limbo really. You want to follow the remainder of the final series but you ask yourself who should you follow? Do you put your weight behind the team that kicked you out? Or do you take the moral high ground and put on your hat of impartiality and hope that the game is the winner?
Or do you just walk away, pretend you didn't make eye contact and come back after your own off season break; fresh and ready to do it all over again the following season?
These are the questions that I am wrestling with at the moment dear friends. However, one thing is for certain. Being involved in the business end of the season is far far better than sitting around, watching the TV and wishing your team was there.
Vasse Felix Cabernet Merlot 2008 - I have always liked wines coming from Vasse Felix Vasse Felix wines comes from the Margaret River in WA; one of Australia's major wine districts. This one was a Cabernet Merlot and has a fruity taste, is full bodied and is slightly dry; which is the Cabernet coming to the fore. Would suggest you give this one a decanting and some time as breathing allows it to get better and better. Have something to eat with it - perhaps a strong blue cheese...followed up by a steak. Just make sure you have enough to last for both!
Last year I wrote about the joys that September can bring when the St George-Illawarra won the NRL Premiership http://ramblingsoverared.blogspot.com/2010/10/we-are-champions-my-friends.html It was a time of great anticipation, drama, excitement and ultimately the elation of victory. This year is a different story.
In case you didn't know, the Dragons were eliminated from the finals series on Saturday after a golden point victory by Brisbane. After a year of season of riding the highs and the most recent lows, getting into the finals and being so close to progressing to the next stage; the result on Saturday has left me with a sort of empty feeling.
Don't get me wrong, the team played the game of their life. It was nailbiting stuff and they left nothing out of the tank. However, like many fans have found once their teams have been eliminated out of the finals the question that is asked is "What happens next?".
You are left in a sort of limbo really. You want to follow the remainder of the final series but you ask yourself who should you follow? Do you put your weight behind the team that kicked you out? Or do you take the moral high ground and put on your hat of impartiality and hope that the game is the winner?
Or do you just walk away, pretend you didn't make eye contact and come back after your own off season break; fresh and ready to do it all over again the following season?
These are the questions that I am wrestling with at the moment dear friends. However, one thing is for certain. Being involved in the business end of the season is far far better than sitting around, watching the TV and wishing your team was there.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
A day that changed the world
Wine of the Week:
2010 La Syrah - this was the second wine that I picked up as part of my visit to The Oak Barrel. This wine is part of the Harem Series by Jamsheed Wines and turned out to be an excellent everyday drinking wine. It has a rich and dark appearance with a slight peppery nose with some chocolate on the taste. The good thing was that as it had more time to breathe, it started to get a bit more smoother with every taste. It would be perfect with pizza but also perhaps a pasta with a ragu sauce.
Apart from the footy finals occupying TV and press coverage this weekend, the other event that grabbed attention is of course the tenth anniversary of the terrorist attacks in the US on September 11th, 2001. For a minute, I did contemplate writing about something else tonight but it is an event that does require some comment. Reason being is that it is something that changed all of our lives for ever.
History shows that there is one, maybe two events that shape a generation for better or for worse. A world war, the blast of a nuclear weapon, a natural disaster. What happened that day is one of those events.
While the attacks happened on mainland America, the impact was felt right across the world. At the time when we were glued to our televisions, pc's and newspapers trying to understand the gravity of what happened and coming to terms with the massive loss of innocent lives, we knew that this was something that would change the world but we didn't know quite how.
To me, what has resulted is that we now live in a world that is more fearful, more suspicious of one another and more security conscious than ever before.
We also learnt that anything is possible; both good and horrific. That is what happens when innocence is lost.
As you may know, we went to NYC earlier this year and it was truly the city that never sleeps. It was vibrant, alive and above all welcoming. It was also a testimony to the resilience of the city and it's people; that while 9/11 was something that can never be forgotten, the city's spirit can be restored.
I can not imagine what it was like to be there at the time but after reading some of the coverage over the last few days, this link to the New York Times gives a good insight. http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/us/sept-11-reckoning/comments-that-day.html
Definitely better than I could ever do...
2010 La Syrah - this was the second wine that I picked up as part of my visit to The Oak Barrel. This wine is part of the Harem Series by Jamsheed Wines and turned out to be an excellent everyday drinking wine. It has a rich and dark appearance with a slight peppery nose with some chocolate on the taste. The good thing was that as it had more time to breathe, it started to get a bit more smoother with every taste. It would be perfect with pizza but also perhaps a pasta with a ragu sauce.
Apart from the footy finals occupying TV and press coverage this weekend, the other event that grabbed attention is of course the tenth anniversary of the terrorist attacks in the US on September 11th, 2001. For a minute, I did contemplate writing about something else tonight but it is an event that does require some comment. Reason being is that it is something that changed all of our lives for ever.
History shows that there is one, maybe two events that shape a generation for better or for worse. A world war, the blast of a nuclear weapon, a natural disaster. What happened that day is one of those events.
While the attacks happened on mainland America, the impact was felt right across the world. At the time when we were glued to our televisions, pc's and newspapers trying to understand the gravity of what happened and coming to terms with the massive loss of innocent lives, we knew that this was something that would change the world but we didn't know quite how.
To me, what has resulted is that we now live in a world that is more fearful, more suspicious of one another and more security conscious than ever before.
We also learnt that anything is possible; both good and horrific. That is what happens when innocence is lost.
As you may know, we went to NYC earlier this year and it was truly the city that never sleeps. It was vibrant, alive and above all welcoming. It was also a testimony to the resilience of the city and it's people; that while 9/11 was something that can never be forgotten, the city's spirit can be restored.
I can not imagine what it was like to be there at the time but after reading some of the coverage over the last few days, this link to the New York Times gives a good insight. http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/us/sept-11-reckoning/comments-that-day.html
Definitely better than I could ever do...
Sunday, September 4, 2011
A wine and some memories...
Wine of the Week:
2009 Pirathon by Kalleske - so a couple of weeks ago I went to my favourite bottle shop in the city, The Oak Barrel with the view to try something new, something different and something worth writing about. Had a chat to one of the team there who suggested a couple of wines. The Pirathon was one of these wines.
It is a Shiraz made by Kalleske Wines from the Barossa Valley. It had a fruity and chocolately taste which mixed well with peppery nose that you would expect from a Shiraz; only not as strong as you would get from a Hunter Valley Shiraz...which isn't a bad thing. At less than $25, the recommendation was that it was a special with pizza; a recommendation that I can definitely pass on but try it with a pizza shop pizza. www.pirathon.com
Some of you may know that in May this year, my Aunt Valerie (who was known by all as Aunty Bobby) passed away. While it was a sad time for us as a family it also marked the end of her suffering as she had dementia and she had reached the final stages of the disease a lot quicker then anyone had expected.
When she died, I didn't make any specific comment or do a specific post. I guess it was because it was all too raw, too recent and in a way it still is. However, last Wednesday (August 31st) was Aunty Bobby's birthday so it was a day to stop and remember and of course wish her happy birthday. She would have been 74.
So, I would like to take this time to perhaps share with you some of what I shared at the time of her service. I do this not in a melancholic way but to share with you what my Aunty was like and someone who meant a lot to her friends and family.
"Aunty Bobby loved to cook. Not only did Aunty Bobby love to cook but we ALL loved the fact that she loved to cook. That’s because she was very good at it.Friends and family alike enjoyed Aunty Bobby’s cooking. Friends that Lynne and I brought over to Bridge Street were often forced to eat themselves to a standstill as they were asked the question “surely, you haven’t had enough to eat?” Ask anyone who went to Lynne or my twenty first birthday parties and they will always mention the food!
It wasn’t just at home either. For most of the time in Australia, Val worked as a cook at Belgrave Nursing Home and there she won many fans with her cooking. At the annual fete, she would have her corner stall where she would sell her curry rolls all day long; based on the minced curry that would keep family and friends alike happy – apart for me anyway, I always found her curry too hot!
There were her lamingtons; lamingtons that the famous Australian actress Queenie Ashton claimed were the best she ever tasted. The fact that Queenie lived until she was 96 tells me that she tasted a lot of lamingtons! And her potato salad for which she had a standing order from her friend Annette every Christmas.
Aunty Bobby also had the largest collection of Mills & Boon books that one had ever seen...She spent a lot of time reading and many a time Lynne or I would stumble into the house in the early hours of the morning to find the light on underneath her door as she was reading into the night…which invariably was followed the morning after by her telling us how much noise we were making while coming into the house.
Aunty Bobby liked having an opinion and wasn’t shy of sharing it. A classic example of this would be when she picked me up from playing cricket on Saturdays and would ask me how many runs I scored. Invariably, it wouldn’t be much and rather than her replying with a “better luck next time” or “there is always next game”, it was more along the lines of “well…that’s not much is it?”
You always knew what Aunty Bobby thought and she always honest with her opinions. It is a quality that many of her friends admired of her; friends that stayed with her for life and her with them. While it may have annoyed you sometimes, particularly growing up and thinking that you know it all, it showed strength of her character –a strength illustrated by her and her sisters raising two children, Lynne and I and buying a house by themselves in the mid seventies; that after moving to a new country in the middle of their lives.
The one thing that didn’t diminish because of her illness was the love she shared with all of her nieces and nephews. She was always there to help out where she could, always there to provide her advice (wanted or unwanted) and was always there to push and challenge us; which always meant we ended up doing our best. This extended not only to the cousins in Australia but also those back in South Africa. And as we all started to find our own partners and build our own lives and families, she shared that love with them as well."
Happy birthday Aunty Bobby...miss you greatly.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
More questions than answers...
Wine of the Week:
Meerea Park Terracotta Shiraz 2006 - Let me preface by saying that I have never had a bad wine from Meerea Park. From the XYZ through to the Alexander Munro, it starts off at good and graduates to excellent.
Being in the Hunter, Meerea Park specialise in the Hunter classics - Shiraz and Semillon. This particular Shiraz is the mid-range one and if it was a meal, you would call it hearty. Right from the nose, you can pick up the typical Hunter pepperiness that comes from the very good Shiraz from there. It has plenty of body so it is one that will keep you warm if the weather isn't and would be perfect with a casserole just out of the slow cooker or a roast lamb or beef.
If you are visiting the Hunter, just note that Meerea Park doesn't have a standard cellar door but you can find them at the Boutique Wine Centre on Broke Road. http://www.meereapark.com.au
This week has been very interesting to say the least. To be honest, I have been struggling to think about what to focus on for this week's topic to ramble about. I would go down one road then divert to another. It seemed that the week provided more questions than answers, which I thought I would share with you. At least that way if you can answer them it would put me (and anyone else) out of their misery.
1. We all would have seen the literally unbelievable scenes coming out of England where riots were breaking out all over the country. The initial outbreak in the capital seemed to be against the alleged shooting by police of a local man but then the unrest took on a life of it's own as it started to extend for days and to other cities as people seemed to be rioting just for the sake of it. Hence the obvious question being...why? That and is there a possiblity of it happening here in Australia?
2. Are rugby league players plain stupid or just don't care? Over the last week, we had the three Roosters players breaking a team imposed alcohol ban, one of which being Todd Carney who was described in one of the papers as the game's most well known alcoholic. We also had Michael Jennings turning up to Penrith training drunk which at least resulted in one of the most unique punishments; that of walking around the ground at half time on Friday giving out 2000 tickets to supporters that he had paid for himself.
Players may grumble that they are entitled to a life and be able to do normal things. What they also need to remember that you don't get paid the big mah-moo without needing to make some sacrifices. This includes having some self disicipline and responsibility for their actions. But hey, what would I know? I haven't played first grade footy!
3. There was a story today in one of the Sunday papers on the former NSW Premier Kristina Keneally and the fallout from one of the biggest news stories over the last couple of weeks...her new hairdo. See the former Premier has decided to go with hair extensions and this seemed to grab the attention of not only the media but also the State Parliament (our new Premier included).
Again, why? And has there been a more reported about set of hair extensions?
4. Has there been a more beloved sportsman of recent date than Cadel Evans? Le Tour winner arrived in Melbourne for a whistle stop trip to do a ride of the CBD before arriving at Federation Square for a victory celebration. In the past, Evans has been known for being prickly at times but during this year's tour and all his post-interviews he has been consumate professional and a humble winner...which ticks all the boxes for most Aussie sports followers.
What he has also demonstrated is a very cool sense of humour. During an interview on 'The 7pm Report' he was asked how he felt about calls from Jeff Kennett to rename the Westgate Bridge after him to which he replied "You can't cycle on the Westgate can you?". Brilliant!!!
5. Finally, after losing four straight games can we now say that the Dragons are officially in a form slump? Unfortunately, I think I know the answer to that one.
Meerea Park Terracotta Shiraz 2006 - Let me preface by saying that I have never had a bad wine from Meerea Park. From the XYZ through to the Alexander Munro, it starts off at good and graduates to excellent.
Being in the Hunter, Meerea Park specialise in the Hunter classics - Shiraz and Semillon. This particular Shiraz is the mid-range one and if it was a meal, you would call it hearty. Right from the nose, you can pick up the typical Hunter pepperiness that comes from the very good Shiraz from there. It has plenty of body so it is one that will keep you warm if the weather isn't and would be perfect with a casserole just out of the slow cooker or a roast lamb or beef.
If you are visiting the Hunter, just note that Meerea Park doesn't have a standard cellar door but you can find them at the Boutique Wine Centre on Broke Road. http://www.meereapark.com.au
This week has been very interesting to say the least. To be honest, I have been struggling to think about what to focus on for this week's topic to ramble about. I would go down one road then divert to another. It seemed that the week provided more questions than answers, which I thought I would share with you. At least that way if you can answer them it would put me (and anyone else) out of their misery.
1. We all would have seen the literally unbelievable scenes coming out of England where riots were breaking out all over the country. The initial outbreak in the capital seemed to be against the alleged shooting by police of a local man but then the unrest took on a life of it's own as it started to extend for days and to other cities as people seemed to be rioting just for the sake of it. Hence the obvious question being...why? That and is there a possiblity of it happening here in Australia?
2. Are rugby league players plain stupid or just don't care? Over the last week, we had the three Roosters players breaking a team imposed alcohol ban, one of which being Todd Carney who was described in one of the papers as the game's most well known alcoholic. We also had Michael Jennings turning up to Penrith training drunk which at least resulted in one of the most unique punishments; that of walking around the ground at half time on Friday giving out 2000 tickets to supporters that he had paid for himself.
Players may grumble that they are entitled to a life and be able to do normal things. What they also need to remember that you don't get paid the big mah-moo without needing to make some sacrifices. This includes having some self disicipline and responsibility for their actions. But hey, what would I know? I haven't played first grade footy!
3. There was a story today in one of the Sunday papers on the former NSW Premier Kristina Keneally and the fallout from one of the biggest news stories over the last couple of weeks...her new hairdo. See the former Premier has decided to go with hair extensions and this seemed to grab the attention of not only the media but also the State Parliament (our new Premier included).
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4. Has there been a more beloved sportsman of recent date than Cadel Evans? Le Tour winner arrived in Melbourne for a whistle stop trip to do a ride of the CBD before arriving at Federation Square for a victory celebration. In the past, Evans has been known for being prickly at times but during this year's tour and all his post-interviews he has been consumate professional and a humble winner...which ticks all the boxes for most Aussie sports followers.
What he has also demonstrated is a very cool sense of humour. During an interview on 'The 7pm Report' he was asked how he felt about calls from Jeff Kennett to rename the Westgate Bridge after him to which he replied "You can't cycle on the Westgate can you?". Brilliant!!!
5. Finally, after losing four straight games can we now say that the Dragons are officially in a form slump? Unfortunately, I think I know the answer to that one.
Monday, August 8, 2011
Yes, I am a Tweet!
Wine of the Week:
Dog Ridge 'The Pup' Cabernet Merlot 2009 - At the same time that I visited the bottle shop to purchase last week's wine, I also asked the shop assistant for a recommendation on something else to try; something that would go with a bit of an home made antipasto plate with some cheese, breads and cured meats (I didn't tell him that it was cabanossi).
The wine was a 50% Cab, 50% Merlot and it definitely had more body and flavour than our froggy friend from last week; not a great surprise as it comes from McLaren Vale. The depth of the Cab coming on strong first up then the smoothness and roundness of the Merlot giving it a nice feel and after taste. At around $20 a bottle, it is definitely worth giving a go.
It was during a conference last December that I started to jump in and explore the world of social media and rather than just dipping my toe. This morning as I was contemplating the weekend's victory that was on everyone's lips (Kate's win on Masterchef of course), I realised that I have become somewhat addicted to Twitter.
This has come as a complete surprise to me because when the whole Twitter thing started, I had wondered what the value would be to people other than to celebrities who wanted to keep their fans abreast of every and I mean every thing that they do. Now, it has started to provide tangible benefits to all; consumers, businesses and celebrities alike.
What businesses have started to realise is that Twitter has provided a means to make a connection to their customers and facilitate two way conversations that in the past, may have taken weeks to develop. Many companies have created official Twitter accounts; purely to assist their customer service activities by both monitoring conversations or streams as well as answering direct questions or complaints from customers.
What has also changed is that Twitter is now prevalent on a number of devices. No longer do you need your PC or laptop but there is a version of Twitter for any device - meaning that one can comment wherever and whenever they may be.
You may have also noticed that a number of TV shows have started to incorporate Twitter as a integral part to extend the audience participation to outside the studio and in a strange sort of way create mini communities that attach and detach on a regular basis. I have to admit that this is where I have become quite addicted. Not with one of the more highbrow shows such as the ABC show 'Q&A' but for me, it was the #masterchef hashtag that started my regular twittering. It also added to the viewing experience as I laughed at the commentary from fellow viewers including the Fairfax journalists that wrote the episode summaries after key eliminations and challenges (and hence coming across the legendary nickname for Dani that was "Legohead").
I did mention earlier that previously, Twitter was very much the realm of celebrities starting to promote themselves in another way. What it has also done is provide a way for us normal folk to engage with said celebrities and maybe, just maybe getting some recognition. In the past, we have been happy for a autograph and maybe a photo. Now, we are after a direct reply, a retweet or better yet have them follow you!
So far, my Twitter highlight has been the fact that I was re-tweeted by Melissa Doyle from Sunrise last week...to all of her 27,000+ followers. Being followed by Max Walker has come a very close second.
While my use has been purely personal and at times frivolous, it has provided an great insight into how people are wanting to get information, communicate with companies and at times with each other. And as long as we don't get to a stage where people are twittering to each other sitting side by side on the train - I will be happy.
PS: For those who are a part of the Twitter-arti, you can follow me @BrettMoorgas
Please note: This blog reflects my personal opinions only and are not reflective of those of my employer.
Dog Ridge 'The Pup' Cabernet Merlot 2009 - At the same time that I visited the bottle shop to purchase last week's wine, I also asked the shop assistant for a recommendation on something else to try; something that would go with a bit of an home made antipasto plate with some cheese, breads and cured meats (I didn't tell him that it was cabanossi).
The wine was a 50% Cab, 50% Merlot and it definitely had more body and flavour than our froggy friend from last week; not a great surprise as it comes from McLaren Vale. The depth of the Cab coming on strong first up then the smoothness and roundness of the Merlot giving it a nice feel and after taste. At around $20 a bottle, it is definitely worth giving a go.
It was during a conference last December that I started to jump in and explore the world of social media and rather than just dipping my toe. This morning as I was contemplating the weekend's victory that was on everyone's lips (Kate's win on Masterchef of course), I realised that I have become somewhat addicted to Twitter.
This has come as a complete surprise to me because when the whole Twitter thing started, I had wondered what the value would be to people other than to celebrities who wanted to keep their fans abreast of every and I mean every thing that they do. Now, it has started to provide tangible benefits to all; consumers, businesses and celebrities alike.
What businesses have started to realise is that Twitter has provided a means to make a connection to their customers and facilitate two way conversations that in the past, may have taken weeks to develop. Many companies have created official Twitter accounts; purely to assist their customer service activities by both monitoring conversations or streams as well as answering direct questions or complaints from customers.
What has also changed is that Twitter is now prevalent on a number of devices. No longer do you need your PC or laptop but there is a version of Twitter for any device - meaning that one can comment wherever and whenever they may be.
You may have also noticed that a number of TV shows have started to incorporate Twitter as a integral part to extend the audience participation to outside the studio and in a strange sort of way create mini communities that attach and detach on a regular basis. I have to admit that this is where I have become quite addicted. Not with one of the more highbrow shows such as the ABC show 'Q&A' but for me, it was the #masterchef hashtag that started my regular twittering. It also added to the viewing experience as I laughed at the commentary from fellow viewers including the Fairfax journalists that wrote the episode summaries after key eliminations and challenges (and hence coming across the legendary nickname for Dani that was "Legohead").
I did mention earlier that previously, Twitter was very much the realm of celebrities starting to promote themselves in another way. What it has also done is provide a way for us normal folk to engage with said celebrities and maybe, just maybe getting some recognition. In the past, we have been happy for a autograph and maybe a photo. Now, we are after a direct reply, a retweet or better yet have them follow you!
So far, my Twitter highlight has been the fact that I was re-tweeted by Melissa Doyle from Sunrise last week...to all of her 27,000+ followers. Being followed by Max Walker has come a very close second.
While my use has been purely personal and at times frivolous, it has provided an great insight into how people are wanting to get information, communicate with companies and at times with each other. And as long as we don't get to a stage where people are twittering to each other sitting side by side on the train - I will be happy.
PS: For those who are a part of the Twitter-arti, you can follow me @BrettMoorgas
Please note: This blog reflects my personal opinions only and are not reflective of those of my employer.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Guess what? It's been a year!
Wine of the Week:
Arrogant Frog Ribet Red 2010 - I am a fan of an omen bet or in other words a bet purely on the name of the horse. I approached today's visit to the bottle shop in a similar vein, seeing I only had twenty minutes to browse and buy. Also in the back of my mind, I had the other silent challenge that I have carried with me since starting this blog; that is find the odd diamond in the rough - a special wine that delivers plenty without costing too much.
Which led me to pick up the Arrogant Frog. It was priced at $8.99 and the fact that it was French also led me to try it as I have this view that I need to branch out from just the ANZ region. While the label didn't have the detail, the website told me that it is a Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot blend and opening it released some fruity and chocolatey smells. To taste, it had some of the Cab Sav characteristics rounded a little by the Merlot but it was very dry on the palate...probably an indication that (in this case) you get what you pay for. Suffice to say, the search for the diamond continues. Cool label and website though. http://www.arrogantfrog.fr
So in a moment of quiet reflection this weekend, I realised that I had been working on this blog for a year now. Time flies when you are having fun! I actually started this because I wanted to use it as a way of practising my writing on a consistent basis as well as put my toe in the virtual world. And hey, if anyone read it then that would be a bonus.
I have to say that I am both surprised and quite encouraged that there are a great number of you that take the time to read what I have to say on this virtual lectern that I stand behind. I thought I knew who was reading it as there are a small number that I would always get the occasional comment as well as feedback. However, every so often I would come across one of you who would surprise me and mention that you read my blog or tried one of the wines I mentioned.
To all of you I say thank you. Thank you for taking the time to read and thank you for the comments and feedback; virtual, face to face or otherwise. It has not only kept me writing this blog but also inspired me to think of ways to make it better.
I would also like to thank my wife who also encourages me to ensure that I make the time every week to do this as well putting up with my little nuances when i write...such as not telling her what I am writing about until I am done. I take comfort in the fact that the enjoyment she has while drinking the wines I write about makes up for my, at times pedantic attitude.
So what now? Well, thanks to your encouragement and feedback I am going to continue this little side project of mine and I also have a few ideas of how I can adapt it, grow it and above all keep it interesting, informative and entertaining to all who read. Take it to the next level if you will...still working out what that level is but trust me, when I find out what it is, you will definitely be one of the first to find out!
To do this though, I need your active help. In short, I need followers and while I know there are many of you who do read the blog, apparently having actual followers is important. Thanks to those who have already signed up and if you haven't yet, if you could please sign up and add to the number that would be great.
Also, if you have comments (and I welcome any comments, suggestions, brickbats etc) then please post them on this site. That way, everyone can join in on the discussion and I won't be the only one to benefit from your wisdom.
In return, I will promise that:
- I will do my very best to ensure that I bring you something on a weekly or worst case, fortnightly basis. Has been a challenge over the last twelve months for various reasons but I will continue to stand at the plate and keep on swinging!
- I will continue to give my opinion on various bottles of rouge...and who knows, we could stray into whites come summer time.
- I will also do my best to try to be creative and keep it interesting...and at the very least, have you click away with a smile on your face.
So thanks for joining me on the first twelve months of this little project and I hope you can join me over the next twelve...seeing I have no idea where this will lead, it should be an interesting ride!
Sunday, July 24, 2011
A random selection...
Wine of the Week:
Chrismont King Valley Merlot 2009 - while I was in Melbourne this week I joined some of my work colleagues for a well overdue catch up. Lisa, who turns out to be a wine tragic like myself ordered a bottle of the Chrismont for the table so thanks go to her for the bottle of choice this week.
I think Merlot gets a bad rap as people are either after the peppery nature of Shiraz or the depth and body of a Cab Sav. As for me, I quite like Merlot as it is often both easy and very good drinking. The Chrismont is no exception but it has subtle differences to a Merlot coming from the Hunter or the Barossa. It had a little more spice than I would usually associate with Merlot but not too much. So much so, that it would be one of those wines that you could see joining you for a long session during a winter's afternoon. I am currently planning for such an afternoon. http://www.chrismont.com.au/
It has been a interesting time over the last week. So much so, when sitting down to work out what to write about today there were a number of topics or issues that I felt required some comment from my neck of the swamp. Some are serious...some not so much and I am sure you will be able to tellthe difference between the two...
1. This week saw Rupert and James Murdoch face the parliamentary inquiry in the UK over the phone hacking and corruption allegations that effectively ended the 'News of the World' newspaper. The Murdoch's appearance at the inquiry was televised live internationally - fairly apt for the most (in)famous media owner on the planet.
While the inquiry raised more questions than were answered there was one that became rather clear; that is why Rupert Murdoch married Wendi Deng. It wasn't the old chestnut of an older man leaving his wife for a younger woman. No, it was obviously the fact that he could get a wife and bodyguard in one!
2. Saturday morning, we woke up to the news of the grave terror attacks in Norway. A car bomb in Oslo followed by a round of shootings by a lone gunman on a nearby island has led to 92 needless deaths.
It is an attack that has rocked all of Norway but also the world and I must admit I asked the question "Why Norway?"; acting under the assumption that it was an Al-qaeda related attack of course. Aren't they always these days? It soon became clear that this was a domestic attack and a reminder that the threat of a domestic related attack is always real and always there. The result is tragically still the same no matter who the perpetrator; the needless loss of life.
3. Late Saturday night, there was a commotion in the street outside. The Cadel Evans bandwagon had stopped in front of the house and I of course jumped on with great gusto. I watched the time trial that made up the penultimate stage of le Tour de France and saw Cadel Evans start 57 seconds behind and end up 1 minute, 37 seconds ahead and with that, the yellow jersey for the final stage.
Many have said that this could be the greatest individual achievement in Australian sports history. That's a big call but...3,450 kilometres over 21 stages is an incredible feat in itself. To do that and become not only the first Australian but the first rider from the Southern Hemisphere to win the World's most famous cycling race just makes it an even greater achievement. Not sure about the call for a public holiday though but if it does happen, he may just beat Mary McKillop to Australia's first sainthood as well!
4. There seems to be a growing trend in Australia to automatically call for the Government to ban anything that may be slighty contentious or controversal. The latest being the call from one shopkeeper on Sunrise this week to ban the sale of sports drinks for kids. Now, the actual ban isn't what concerns me but rather the fact that it seems that we always go down the path of thinking that placing a ban is the best way to go when at best, it is a knee jerk reaction.
If there isn't someone in a young person's life to tell them that 15 Gatorades per day is probably not a good idea - that's where we have a problem. Protection isn't about taking out the risks - it is about education, communication and guidance.
5. Finally, if you have read my blog previously you would be aware that I am addicted to Masterchef to the point of having had the whole week's episodes iQ'ed for watching this weekend. You can then imagine my utter dismay to see that Dani has yet again an immunity pin. And not from beating an internationally renowned chef...or their apprentice. No, good old 'Lego Head' (not my nickname but I like it) won it by beating a swimmer.
Now, I know that in the end it is about a high rating TV show but...one of the base premises of the show is that in the end the two best amateur chefs should be left standing at the end. She is not even one of the best five but it seems that the producers have some liking for 'Lego Head' and are giving her every chance to stay.
It isn't right and it isn't fair...but if nothing else, it gives me an excuse to keep using the nickname 'Lego Head'!
Chrismont King Valley Merlot 2009 - while I was in Melbourne this week I joined some of my work colleagues for a well overdue catch up. Lisa, who turns out to be a wine tragic like myself ordered a bottle of the Chrismont for the table so thanks go to her for the bottle of choice this week.
I think Merlot gets a bad rap as people are either after the peppery nature of Shiraz or the depth and body of a Cab Sav. As for me, I quite like Merlot as it is often both easy and very good drinking. The Chrismont is no exception but it has subtle differences to a Merlot coming from the Hunter or the Barossa. It had a little more spice than I would usually associate with Merlot but not too much. So much so, that it would be one of those wines that you could see joining you for a long session during a winter's afternoon. I am currently planning for such an afternoon. http://www.chrismont.com.au/
It has been a interesting time over the last week. So much so, when sitting down to work out what to write about today there were a number of topics or issues that I felt required some comment from my neck of the swamp. Some are serious...some not so much and I am sure you will be able to tellthe difference between the two...
1. This week saw Rupert and James Murdoch face the parliamentary inquiry in the UK over the phone hacking and corruption allegations that effectively ended the 'News of the World' newspaper. The Murdoch's appearance at the inquiry was televised live internationally - fairly apt for the most (in)famous media owner on the planet.
While the inquiry raised more questions than were answered there was one that became rather clear; that is why Rupert Murdoch married Wendi Deng. It wasn't the old chestnut of an older man leaving his wife for a younger woman. No, it was obviously the fact that he could get a wife and bodyguard in one!
2. Saturday morning, we woke up to the news of the grave terror attacks in Norway. A car bomb in Oslo followed by a round of shootings by a lone gunman on a nearby island has led to 92 needless deaths.
It is an attack that has rocked all of Norway but also the world and I must admit I asked the question "Why Norway?"; acting under the assumption that it was an Al-qaeda related attack of course. Aren't they always these days? It soon became clear that this was a domestic attack and a reminder that the threat of a domestic related attack is always real and always there. The result is tragically still the same no matter who the perpetrator; the needless loss of life.
3. Late Saturday night, there was a commotion in the street outside. The Cadel Evans bandwagon had stopped in front of the house and I of course jumped on with great gusto. I watched the time trial that made up the penultimate stage of le Tour de France and saw Cadel Evans start 57 seconds behind and end up 1 minute, 37 seconds ahead and with that, the yellow jersey for the final stage.
Many have said that this could be the greatest individual achievement in Australian sports history. That's a big call but...3,450 kilometres over 21 stages is an incredible feat in itself. To do that and become not only the first Australian but the first rider from the Southern Hemisphere to win the World's most famous cycling race just makes it an even greater achievement. Not sure about the call for a public holiday though but if it does happen, he may just beat Mary McKillop to Australia's first sainthood as well!
4. There seems to be a growing trend in Australia to automatically call for the Government to ban anything that may be slighty contentious or controversal. The latest being the call from one shopkeeper on Sunrise this week to ban the sale of sports drinks for kids. Now, the actual ban isn't what concerns me but rather the fact that it seems that we always go down the path of thinking that placing a ban is the best way to go when at best, it is a knee jerk reaction.
If there isn't someone in a young person's life to tell them that 15 Gatorades per day is probably not a good idea - that's where we have a problem. Protection isn't about taking out the risks - it is about education, communication and guidance.
5. Finally, if you have read my blog previously you would be aware that I am addicted to Masterchef to the point of having had the whole week's episodes iQ'ed for watching this weekend. You can then imagine my utter dismay to see that Dani has yet again an immunity pin. And not from beating an internationally renowned chef...or their apprentice. No, good old 'Lego Head' (not my nickname but I like it) won it by beating a swimmer.
Now, I know that in the end it is about a high rating TV show but...one of the base premises of the show is that in the end the two best amateur chefs should be left standing at the end. She is not even one of the best five but it seems that the producers have some liking for 'Lego Head' and are giving her every chance to stay.
It isn't right and it isn't fair...but if nothing else, it gives me an excuse to keep using the nickname 'Lego Head'!
Sunday, July 17, 2011
The sound of no one talking...
Wine of the Week:
Wynns Coonawarra Estate 'The Siding' Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 - I know I have reviewed Wynns Coonawarra before but this one is different. Firstly, I had never seen this one before; which after reading their website makes sense as this is the inaugural release. Second, it has a green label which is very different to the standard black labels that Wynns have delivered through the standard retail channels.
On their website, winemaker Sue Hodder said that "the aim of this wine is to deliver a leading affordable Cabernet Sauvignon" which I believe she has. It is less than $20 and definitely a young Cab Sav so there isn't the huge body to it but is more than suitable for everyday drinking - put it this way, the bottle was finished in the one sitting!
http://www.wynns.com.au/?siding
Friends, I must admit that what I am writing about has bothered me on and off for some time now. However, it wasn't until I was on the train home one night last week that I was convinced that I needed to say something and get it off my chest.
Whilst standing on said train, I noticed that there was hardly anyone who didn't have headphones in their ears which in turn was connected to a device of some sort. That and if anyone was actually talking, it was to someone on their phone. It wasn't the first time that I noticed this either; in fact it happens every day of the week.
Which started me thinking...what happened to the random conversations between strangers? What happened to the days when you had "train friends" or "bus friends"? You know, those that you never see except for the times when you travel to or from work. Those that you shared your weekend's experiences or the day's events at the office; then bid a fond adieu until the same time tomorrow. The same ones that would always try to keep the bus or train from leaving because they could see you running to the get there on time.
Now, it just seems that people are quite content to stay in a world of their own; unwilling to engage in the base level of friendly greetings and conversation. We just seem to be more concerned about what we are listening to, answering that sms or checking in on Facebook.
And before you say it, I am as guilty as the next man or woman of having my nose in my Blackberry. That and I am fully aware of the irony of working in the ICT industry and here I am complaining that we are using it too much.
The thing is, I have always had this view that our use of technology would be reigned in by what I call 'the human handbreak'; in other words we would always have the ability to set the limits of what we would allow technology do for us; even if it is well below what it actually can do.
For example, I saw this video during the week which painted a vision for a glass company and showed how the mirror in your bathroom would be transformed into a touch screen where you could access your email, calendar and the web. I don't know about you but I don't need to respond to emails while brushing my teeth or any other part of my anatomy.
Similarly, I don't think we need to be always checking what we and others are doing on Facebook or shutting ourselves off with our favourite tunes or TV show at the expense of human interaction or building a sense of non-virtual (ie; real) community.
So I put this challenge to everyone (myself included). Turn the iphone off for a moment, keep the blackberry in the pocket for that little while longer and say hello to someone when you sit next to them on the train or stand with them at the bus stop. You may not become best mates, they may even be too shocked to say anything back and think you're a freak but you never know; you may make someone's day or even cause a smile (thinking that you are a freak).
Of course, I tried this the other night but no one heard me as they all had their headphones on...but tomorrow is another day!
Wynns Coonawarra Estate 'The Siding' Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 - I know I have reviewed Wynns Coonawarra before but this one is different. Firstly, I had never seen this one before; which after reading their website makes sense as this is the inaugural release. Second, it has a green label which is very different to the standard black labels that Wynns have delivered through the standard retail channels.
On their website, winemaker Sue Hodder said that "the aim of this wine is to deliver a leading affordable Cabernet Sauvignon" which I believe she has. It is less than $20 and definitely a young Cab Sav so there isn't the huge body to it but is more than suitable for everyday drinking - put it this way, the bottle was finished in the one sitting!
http://www.wynns.com.au/?siding
Friends, I must admit that what I am writing about has bothered me on and off for some time now. However, it wasn't until I was on the train home one night last week that I was convinced that I needed to say something and get it off my chest.
Whilst standing on said train, I noticed that there was hardly anyone who didn't have headphones in their ears which in turn was connected to a device of some sort. That and if anyone was actually talking, it was to someone on their phone. It wasn't the first time that I noticed this either; in fact it happens every day of the week.
Which started me thinking...what happened to the random conversations between strangers? What happened to the days when you had "train friends" or "bus friends"? You know, those that you never see except for the times when you travel to or from work. Those that you shared your weekend's experiences or the day's events at the office; then bid a fond adieu until the same time tomorrow. The same ones that would always try to keep the bus or train from leaving because they could see you running to the get there on time.
Now, it just seems that people are quite content to stay in a world of their own; unwilling to engage in the base level of friendly greetings and conversation. We just seem to be more concerned about what we are listening to, answering that sms or checking in on Facebook.
And before you say it, I am as guilty as the next man or woman of having my nose in my Blackberry. That and I am fully aware of the irony of working in the ICT industry and here I am complaining that we are using it too much.
The thing is, I have always had this view that our use of technology would be reigned in by what I call 'the human handbreak'; in other words we would always have the ability to set the limits of what we would allow technology do for us; even if it is well below what it actually can do.
For example, I saw this video during the week which painted a vision for a glass company and showed how the mirror in your bathroom would be transformed into a touch screen where you could access your email, calendar and the web. I don't know about you but I don't need to respond to emails while brushing my teeth or any other part of my anatomy.
Similarly, I don't think we need to be always checking what we and others are doing on Facebook or shutting ourselves off with our favourite tunes or TV show at the expense of human interaction or building a sense of non-virtual (ie; real) community.
So I put this challenge to everyone (myself included). Turn the iphone off for a moment, keep the blackberry in the pocket for that little while longer and say hello to someone when you sit next to them on the train or stand with them at the bus stop. You may not become best mates, they may even be too shocked to say anything back and think you're a freak but you never know; you may make someone's day or even cause a smile (thinking that you are a freak).
Of course, I tried this the other night but no one heard me as they all had their headphones on...but tomorrow is another day!
Sunday, July 10, 2011
My top 5 sports movies - sans lizards
Wine of the Week:
The Black Chook McLaren Vale Langhorne Creek 2009 Shiraz - As there are more and more spaces appearing in our wine racks I decided to go to Liquorland and see what "cheap and cheerful" selections I could find. The Black Chook stood out obviously because of the name and we were heading out that night to catch up with our friends Janet & Chris so we thought, why not?.
The Black Chook certainly had some legs. While different to a Hunter Shiraz in that it doesn't have the strong pepper characteristics, it holds up both drinking on it's own or with beautiful, slow cooked casserole like we had last night. That and it is a bargain at less than $20 a bottle so we will look at have more of the Black Chook in our wine coop sooner rather than later. Woop Woop Wines
The Black Chook McLaren Vale Langhorne Creek 2009 Shiraz - As there are more and more spaces appearing in our wine racks I decided to go to Liquorland and see what "cheap and cheerful" selections I could find. The Black Chook stood out obviously because of the name and we were heading out that night to catch up with our friends Janet & Chris so we thought, why not?.
The Black Chook certainly had some legs. While different to a Hunter Shiraz in that it doesn't have the strong pepper characteristics, it holds up both drinking on it's own or with beautiful, slow cooked casserole like we had last night. That and it is a bargain at less than $20 a bottle so we will look at have more of the Black Chook in our wine coop sooner rather than later. Woop Woop Wines
For the flight back from NYC, I bought the latest issue of Sports Illustrated and there was an article that was a retrospective of the movie 'Major League'; which was made 22 years ago and is a classic when it comes to sports movies.
Anyhoo, that article and the fact that we had to sit through 'Rango' three times during our trip made me think of the top five sports movies that I have seen. I mean really, a animated western where the main character is a lizard??? My mind had to wander...
1. Major League: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0097815/
This is a classic particularly with the guys at AKA Cricket Club who can recite many quotes from the film (eg; "Hats for Bats..keep bats warm..gracias" and "Welcome to another summer of Indians Baseball").
It also featured Charlie Sheen who claimed in the SI article that he took steroids to strengthen his pitching arm and stick to the shooting schedule. He also told how he had a screening of the film recently at his mansion where he watched it with the director, some friends and "my two girlfriends and everyone cheered in the right spots"!
2. Field of Dreams: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0097351/
The first of my Kevin Costner double which includes the famous quote "If you build it...he will come". And yes, I did consider bulldozing the family backyard and creating a mini cricket ground after seeing this movie...but keeping it to real people as opposed to ghosts that came to drop in.
Turns out, if you have some spare cash and wish to make that long desired US property investment, the farm that was transformed into that famous baseball field is up for sale! http://www.fieldofdreamsmoviesite.com/aerial/FieldOfDreams.html
3. For Love of the Game: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0126916/
This is the perfect sports movie if you are in a relationship. The men can follow the story of whether pitcher Billy Chapel can throw the perfect game and the ladies can follow the love triangle between Chapel, Jane Aubrey and the game of baseball - in short, something for everyone.
This is the second Kevin Costner movie in this list which to me means he did his best work while playing baseball...lucky I am not into water sports that much as I could have referenced 'Waterworld'.
4. We are Marshall: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0758794/
This movie is a true story of the rebuilding of not only a football team but a community after the 1970 airplane crash that killed 75 people including the Marshall University football team, coaching staff, fans and community members. It's a great story, an inspirational story and for the ladies...Matthew McConaughey.
And once you have seen it, I dare you not to shout out "We are....Marshall!"
5. Rocky III: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0084602/
You can not have a top five without Rocky Balboa...and for me it is Rocky III. Please...Hulk Hogan, Clubber Lang (aka Mr T) beating Rocky for the title, teaming up with Apollo Creed for the return bout and of course...'Eye of the Tiger' by SurvivorI
If this movie doesn't sum up the 1980's, what other movie does?
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