Beautiful Loser

Beautiful Loser

by | Jan 6, 2010 | Home, Movies | 0 comments

crazyheart.jpgThis one goes out for all you gals out there who ever lost your head over a man with long hair and a guitar. Crazy Heart.

Jeff Bridges has been nominated four times for an Oscar. But never won. In a way that’s the story of Bad Blake, a broken-down, still-defiant C&W singer who drinks, swears, smokes and drives his way through Crazy Heart, the Scott Cooper film starring Bridges.

Imagine if the Dude of Big Lebowski fame had talent and still burned for something he hadn’t quite gotten to. That would be close to the character Bridges burns into the screen in this gem of a performance.

Oh the film itself isn’t much, although it gives generously of burnished southwest scenery and foot-stompin’ country rock music. Not enough tension or plot to really give cinephiliacs something substantial to chew on. But I didn’t care. Bridges was quite enough to keep me in that seat. (more…)

Thinking Woman’s Merlot

by | Jan 6, 2010 | Home, Wine | 0 comments

That would be the 2007 Billy K Estate Merlot – from Alfaro Family Vineyards.

A tasty tipple indeed (I can’t believe I am recommending a merlot!), this is an enlightened wine with enough macho moves to please cab drinkers, and enough finesse to play hide ‘n’ seek with your favorite pinot.

The initial nose yielded apple, leather and plum, turning to sassafras and bacon – substantial and crying out for bbq chicken or pulled pork. We found it interesting in its own right, with a complex central core, and perfect for partnering most entrees this side of scallops.

Named for Richard Alfaro’s late father-in-law Billy Kempker, the wine is all estate, a beautiful ruby color and balanced to drink now, or age for a few years. At 14.5% alcohol this makes for a well-spent $30.