Chef Gaston Discusses Wine and Food

Chef Gaston is an Iron Chef living in Paris, France. He runs a very successful 4 star restaurant called Merveilleux. Let's see how wine factors in this man's life.

Do you use a lot of wine in your recipes?
Yes, I do. In fact, I'm using some red wine to spruce up this shrimp bourgignon, a very popular dish in my restaurant.

Do you have a vast wine collection?
But of course, we wouldn't have gotten our four star rating without good choices of wine.

What wine do you recommend to go with the shrimp bourgignon? I recommend the 1920 Vintage Don Fictio red wine.

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Member Highlight: John_Whiner_287

Every week we interview one active registered member to see what his or her views are on the world of wine.

How long have you been an active member, John?
I've been an active member for about 3 years now.

What is your favorite section of the Vine?
The member highlight section. Haha, just kidding. I like the Wine of the Week. It keeps me posted on what new wines I should try.

Why the name John_Whiner_287?
Haha. Good question. Well, my first name is John and I thought it would be funny to play with the word wine and change it to wine. 287 is my lucky number.

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Juan Consuelos, Nothing to Whine About

Juan Consuelos is a successful wine store owner situated in the big apple, New York City. His store is called Nothing To W(h)ine About. His business is expanding and he is soon going to open another location in Times Square. How does a young man, 28 years old, such as himself run a successful wine store business? I ask him this question and more in this latest interview.

Stephen: Hi, Juan! How are you? Thanks for taking the time to meet with me today.

Juan: It's my pleasure, Stephen. I gotta do anything to help spread the word about my store and of course, the store I'm about to open.

Stephen: I bet spreading the word about your store does help business quite a bit, doesn't it?

Juan: Yes, it's true. I wouldn't be where I am today if it weren't for good publicity.

Stephen: So what else makes you a cut above the rest of the wine shops?

Juan: Good customer service is key. We only hire people who are passionate and knowledgeable about wine. Not only that, they must be people friendly and know how to entertain all types of people. In New York City, we have a diverse mixture of people. One must know how to adapt.

Stephen: Having the best wines doesn't hurt either?

Juan: Oh yeah, we import some of the best wines from all over the world. Spain, France, Germany, and Japan. You name it! We got it!

Stephen: As of right now, what is your favorite wine?

Juan: Ooh, that's a tough one. I have so many favorite choices this season. But if I had to choose one, my favorite would be the 2001 Chateau Barbosa Vino Port. It has a tangy, sweet and bold taste and it isn't too dry.

Stephen: Any last words you would like to give to our readers?

Juan: Yes. Our new store is opening in Times Square, December 31st, New Year's Eve. Make sure to stop by and celebrate the holidays right. Have a safe and happy holiday everyone!

-Posted by Stephen Glass, Restaurant/Club Chief Reporter