TESS : Since we moved to the Valley, we’ve been waiting for The Flask on Ventura Blvd. to get its wine bar up and running. They finally did this fall, but unfortunately I didn’t notice until a few weeks ago, probably because I drink too much. But one sober day in early January we were driving down Ventura Blvd. and out of the corner of my eye I spotted a sandwich board on the sidewalk announcing “Wine Tastings.” I have a gift when it comes to finding these types of events. I’m like that kid in the Sixth Sense, except instead of dead people I see wine flights.
CHRIS : Since then, we’ve become regulars. The Flask Fine Wines and Spirits is a high end liquor store. The presence of a rug is a dead giveaway. Also, they don’t sell lottery tickets. This makes for a very comfortable atmosphere to sit and drink wine and not worry that someone in a ski mask will arrive and demand to see the contents of the cash register.
They have regular tastings on the weekends which feature wines from all over the world. It’s a great way to explore wines from outside of California.
TESS : Not that they neglect California wines. A recent tasting included all California Cabernet Sauvignons. For $13.99 we got to taste 6 Cabs. It was nice because it allowed you to taste the difference the climate and terrain can have on the grapes, in addition to the style of winemaking.
CHRIS : All of the cabs were great, but two stood out as awesome values. At $9.99, The 05 Central Coast Mountain View Cabernet is one of the best wines I’ve ever had for under 10 bucks.
TESS : And trust me, we’ve done our research. For years we’ve been in the field studying $10 wines with a crack team of bitter writers and out-of-work actors.
There are some great occasions for a good 10 dollar bottle of wine….
CHRIS : Tuesdays come to mind. They also make great gifts for people who wouldn’t know a decent bottle if Joseph Phelps shoved their head in a barrel of Insignia.
I also really enjoyed the 2004 Diamond Terrace Cabernet Sauvignon (Diamond Mountain.) It’s a 45 dollar wine that tastes like a 100 dollar bottle.
TESS: If you’ve never tried a 100 dollar bottle, congratulations, you probably have a healthy IRA account.
The Flask is located at 12194 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, CA 91604. ( 818-761-5373) They have tastings on the weekends.
AVA Hollywood 