Notes from 50 years in wine
Wine has been my life’s work for over 50 years—from Ashbury Market to Wine.com. What began as a family buisness became a lifelong pursuit of tasting, storytelling, and discovery. This is where I share the wines, the moments, and the journey—one glass at a time. 🍷
Three Saint-Julien 2020s that hit my sweet spot
At the 2020 Union des Grands Crus de Bordeaux tasting in San Francisco on January 27, 2023, I tasted nearly all the wines poured, and in the end, three Saint-Juliens hit my sweet spot. While this is not an exhaustive look at the appellation—since many of my favorites (Ducru-Beaucaillou, Léoville-las-Cases, and Branaire-Ducru were not present, or I missed. Nevertheless, Châteaux Léoville Barton, Lagrange, and Gruaud Larose showed very well and are worthy choices for wine lovers.
Pauillac 2020, Union des Grands Crus de Bordeaux San Francisco
Ever since my first travel to Bordeaux, the region, the history, the wines, and the people have stayed in a special place in my wine journeys. As a young professional, I always dreamed of visiting Bordeaux, and in 1996 it came to pass. When I first experienced Bordeaux wines in the early 1970s, I knew that my education would be incomplete without tasting the wines and talking with the vintners on their own turf.
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Articles | Food, Drink, & Travel
Food, drinks, and travel—are three categories that can be difficult to navigate. My goal is to guide you and simplify the process.. Please join me on this journey, and we can enjoy the road together.
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Let's Connect
Please contact me for any questions. I am available to write stories, taste, and evaluate wines.
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About Wilfred
Wilfred (Willie) Wong’s 50-year wine career includes roles as Imported Wine Buyer for BevMo!, Chief Storyteller at Wine.com, Wine Judge, and Wine Journalist.
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Wine Stories
Wine and spirits have been an essential part of my life for 50 years. I spend plenty of time researching the subject, and over the years I’ve collected stories I look forward to sharing with you.
