Disney Magic - January 2-9, 2010

[ehagerty]

As so it begins....

......turns out it was a good time to get out of town - which is nearly always true in January around the Great Lakes.....

I took a bit of a chance - but a calculated risk - by planning to fly to MCO the "morning of " cruise departure. I knew it was the first flight of the day, the plane would already present from the night before, and it was nonstop. The airport is usually open except for extreme weather.

Here was the view from the plane, as we sat waiting for de-icing:

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v0/p359670050-4.jpg


Looks like it could be an ad for SWA - as in "let us help you get out of here"....

...and over to here (the view from the deck before sailaway):

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p316769164-4.jpg




Anyway, we arrived into MCO only ten minutes later than originally scheduled (10:30 am), walked over to pick up our Budget rental, arrived at the terminal around 11: 20 and checked in by 11:30 am. Assigned to Group 18 for boarding, after ascertaining that the ship was full and no upgrades available. Oddly, they boarded groups 18-25 in the same "call" and only a handful of us boarded - we were the last. DS dropped car at rental location after filling tank with $6 to avoid $15 fee for driving fewer than 75 miles. No problem. He was dropped back to terminal before we were even called for boarding. Couldn't have gone any better.



.

[Tinkerkell123]

Wow! Excellent timing! Can't wait to read more. We are there soon! Subbing... :surfweb:

[ehagerty]

We know where to head when boarding, especially since the family planner (me) was holding off final payment and basically missed the Palo's scheduling opportunity online. More specifically, I held two dinner reservations for 2 people, same day, different times and no brunch. DS21 and DS19 headed for Parrot Cay for lunch to get a table, I headed for Rockin' BarD.

Fortunately, I ended up with a reservation for the very next day (Sunday) for dinner, brunch on Thursday, and waitlist for other dinner opportunities (we ended up at Palo again for our last night - pretty perfect start and finish...).

Wouldn't you know, there was a wine tasting the very next day - our introduction to Palo's sommelier (therefore, I presume, the "head" sommelier). We've been to a wine tasting each cruise - it is always educational and reasonable value for the dollar (6 samples, $12).

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I have to say, first kudos for great Disney service experience goes to Shawn:

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p465700833-4.jpg

In this picture (above), he was preparing to demonstrate how to remove the cork (and top of the bottle) with a butter knife.


Things I learned from Shawn that I did not know before:
1.) Wine tastings are offered more than once per cruise (that, I knew) - and the wines are different for each tasting (now, I know). You can sign up for all of them and not experience the same wine twice.
2.) You can buy a wine aroma kit at home and practice identifying aromas at home (google "wine aroma kits"). There is quite a variety of kits, depending on how serious you are - and how much money you have to spend.
3.) They hold a sommlier wine tasting once per cruise (Thursday on our cruise). Cost = $30, but each of 4 wines come from the sommelier selection on the wine menu

Shawn was extremely articulate and friendly, very knowledgeable, and passionate about what he does.



We ordered the premium wine package - here Shawn is opening a bottle he recommended (Super Tuscan) as an upgrade (they deduct 1/7 of the wine package from any bottle you want - in 2010 dollars, that was $42 off the recommended bottle.)

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p100953386-4.jpg




which we enjoyed mightily....

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Your classic win-win. His knowledge and experience resulted in us trying more wine (thus, spending more) - and enjoying every minute of it.


Thanks, Shawn. I'll be sure to forward a link to this post to WDW.Guest.Communications@disneyworld.com. (I'd forward directly to DCL if I could figure out the email address - maybe next time).



If you are a wine enthusiast - and Shawn is on board, enjoy!!
.

[Cherc30]

Thank you for sharing. I am a first time vacationer, let alone cruiser. We leave next week. I can't wait. Thanks for the added enthusiaism
Cheryl

[iluvdisney]

That was a very nice cruise and it was good to see you again Ellen! Have to agree that getting away from reality that week could not have been a better time. I did a follow-up trip at WDW and it was mighty cold there so I relaxed a little more. Maybe I'll run into you on a future cruise!

[ehagerty]

Thank you for sharing. I am a first time vacationer, let alone cruiser. We leave next week. I can't wait. Thanks for the added enthusiasm
CherylI probably cannot post fast enough to complete before your departure, but I'll still be here when you get back.That was a very nice cruise and it was good to see you again Ellen! Have to agree that getting away from reality that week could not have been a better time. I did a follow-up trip at WDW and it was mighty cold there so I relaxed a little more. Maybe I'll run into you on a future cruise!Good to see you, too! I am surprised (but probably should not be) that, so far, I have always seen a DVC DCL member cruise on a subsequent, non DVC cruise. Of course, the DVC cruise is VERY social active, so we are a lot more likely to meet, know and remember people. This time I was with DS's as well. I find I socialize in inverse proportion to the number of family members with me!

Not doing DVC member cruise this year, but maybe 2011!?

[ehagerty]

Antipasto

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p451329917-4.jpg




Igor, pouring lemon olive oil on my tuna carpaccio (my favorite appetizer - although I like ALL of them). Igor gets his own post (next) , because, like Shawn, he deserves accolades for wonderful service.

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Beautiful AND yummy!!

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Mushroom Risotto (as least I think so - I always think I am going to remember and never take notes or ask for a menu. Duh!)

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A refreshing sorbet (in this case, basil) - traditionally served before fish, but has become so popular in general that they serve it to everyone, regardless of the meat to follow (at least that is what Igor said).

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Tuna

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Veal

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Halibut - Artful and Outstanding (I like my shared-table-taste so much, I ordered it myself the following Friday)

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Same dish after the parchment paper is removed

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Lamb Chop (my standing order)

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Strawberry Gelato

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Tiramisu

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Chocolate Souffle

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Hidden Mickey on the plate

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I wasn't fully into vacation mode (meaning full picture-taking mode) at this point in the vacation. More pictures of Palo dinner when we get to Friday!




At work in the open kitchen

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p80522864-4.jpg




Chef Christian - talented and genial - he and Pietro go back and forth between the Magic and Wonder as a tandem, ensuring consistency and quality...

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p340825368-4.jpg




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[AimeeJ]

Oh, how am I going to decide what to have at Palos next week after drooling over these wonderful pictures. :confused3 To have such problems. . :cloud9:

[TotallyAngelic]

WOW .. that food in Palo looks amazing ... I can't wait to dine there on our next cruise .... missed out on our first because it was our first and all booked up before we could book, but really looking forward to hopefully brunch and dinner on the transatlantic. Thanks for sharing your photos :goodvibes

[Kay1]

Thanks for sharing those nice shots of Palo.

:)

[ehagerty]

This is what you see when you approach the table in Diversions:

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p232292971-4.jpg





On the bar, they have bottles of the various tequilas in stock

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Your individual placemat, with the tequila to be poured, with pre-poured fresh lime juice, water and bloody-mary-mixer-like-only-better.

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p379659194-4.jpg





Bartender Rodolfo provided the commentary

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Your place setting once they add the first two shots

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Traditional margarita (left), melon version (right)

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Four people, selected at random, given free combo of tequlia shot inside something else. Mexican boiler-maker, I think

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Bottoms up

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Some of us are more comfortable drinking down than others....

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Rodolfo reviewing the bottles

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Summary / Assessment

- We enjoyed it
- Would I recommend it? Yes, if you like tequila - or are undecided about tequila - or would like to learn more about tequila.
- Would I do it again? Probably not, as I am not into hard liquor. But I am glad I did it once - I did learn quite a bit (Rodolfo really knows his stuff).

[SweetSpot]

I believe they would be carrying me out after drinking that much in such a short time. We did the vodka tasting. I really did like it but I was ready for a nap afterwards.

Looking forward to the rest of your report. I've loved your reports and beautiful pictures.

[ehagerty]

Toasting our choice of dinner beverage - Domain Chandon!!

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Escargot

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Tuna appetizer (tasty, but a bit fatty - not of the same quality as the carpaccio at Palo's)

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Shrimp appetizer (good, but shrimp - it is what it is - I guess it is good to have a selection for the unadverturesome)

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Something with a bone - short rib? veal?

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Fish

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Filet (nobody makes you eat the green beans, if you don't want to!!)

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Dessert

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p225842348-4.jpg




We were quite happy with the food. Don't remember what they all were at this point, as I was not taking notes. Posted here so people can get ideas - or relive the moment.

.

[ehagerty]

The table as you enter Cafe Cove

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p471466-4.jpg





A study in cognac

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Rodolfo teaching...

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p405492079-4.jpg




At this point, I was becoming selective about what I actually drank, vs what I tasted. I tasted the first two (VS, VSOP, but I actually drank the two XO's).

I enjoyed it.
I recommend it.
Having done it twice now, I probably won't do it again.
.

[ehagerty]

I didn't have expectations for St Maartin, except that I expected it to be more "developed" as a port than its alternative on our May cruise, Tortola (which was not very well developed - but more on that in its own thread).

Relatively speaking, St Martin was fine. Our goal was to do a shore excursion, and return to the ship early to have lunch, then hang out on the ship. We are not shoppers, gamblers, etc.

DS19 was off to his own excursion - the mountain biking. If / When I get access to his pictures, I will attempt to post them. DH, DS21 and I went on a motor boat / snorkel tour.

Looking back at the two ships in port. Believe it or not, the one on the right's name was something like Fahtwinde - made us laugh (Fart-Wind).

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p121280763-4.jpg




Photo Op near the pier

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View of St Martin from Deck 7 "hidden" verandah. This is sometimes referred to as an alternative for nearby cabins, which was part of my thinking in cabin selection. I believe this was the only time we stepped out on it....

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p514427637-4.jpg





Tour started out pretty choppy ("the seas were rough that day, my friend...."). The captain changed course, which took us through some inland marinas - past this sample house

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p37457673-4.jpg




... by these yachts - some of which are reputed to belong to the owner of Victoria's Secret and Tiger Woods (there was a lot of Tiger Woods gossip - like how he signed over his yacht to a friend until after the divorce - what, like divorce lawyers don't do a look back?)....

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p194142857-4.jpg




Once back in the ocean / sea, we passed the government officials home...

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p72458479-4.jpg





...around this very scenic corner

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p58713821-4.jpg




...my son (a rower) thought this guy rowing a rubber dinghy amusing

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Marigot - the French capital, and its old fort - was most scenic

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p233081175-4.jpg





Ultimately, we anchored near this rock. The captain explained that the weather had been very agitated for the past couple of weeks, therefore, the snorkeling visibility was not very good. Reality - NO visibility.

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p184360658-4.jpg




Instead, people just swam around and took turns jumping off the boat.

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v0/p514154074-4.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p368979703-4.jpg





... with the occasional traffic jam

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v0/p131727780-4.jpg





From psuedo-snorkeling, our guides took us to the beach as Grand Cas - described elsewhere as "picturesque" - probably marketing code for "a bit run down, but unpretentious and charming".

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v0/p299669166-4.jpg




People relaxed in many ways...

... sunning on the bow

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p112613902-4.jpg




... chatting

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... mugging with the guides

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p459616443-4.jpg




... swimming back from the beach

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p27787358-4.jpg




.. or just having fun

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http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p505512028-4.jpg




The return ride was VERY fast, a a tad bumpy. I loved it, but my backside was definitely sore the next day. Clearly, the guide was very familiar and comfortable...

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p487983427-4.jpg




Some of us were laughing more than others (DH has motion issues)

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p278564963-4.jpg





This family happened to sit across from me - so I took their picture. Here's hoping a fellow Dis-er can point them here...

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p370153710-4.jpg




Me, holding on for dear life, taking a picture with one hand. You get a lot of perspective here - the boat (lower left), my hand (lower right), St Maartin (center), Disney Magic (between boat and mountain).


http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p193840618-4.jpg




Safely returned to the pier - with the two docked ships behind all the new construction (to handle larger ships)

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p267364531-4.jpg



.

[MMitchell29]

WOW great report. I am very impressed and waiting for more:thumbsup2

[podsnel]

I am so excited you are doing a TR of your cruise!! I have always loved your photos-:goodvibes

[ehagerty]

... enjoying our Canon D10....

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Some images are nearly-duplicate, but I posted them for those who want to download / copy generic shots for their screen savers.....

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[ehagerty]

Shrimp appetizer

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p567049851-4.jpg




Crab Cake

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p630914801-4.jpg




Head Server, Fitz, pouring wine...

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p930841922-4.jpg




Beef

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p710147917-4.jpg




Red Snapper

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p1030835296-4.jpg




Sea Bass, I think - or else Halibut

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p817370760-4.jpg




More fish - I don't recall which one - DS19 typically ordered 3 entrees and I could not keep track.... Looks like a second order of snapper

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p769032048-4.jpg




Short rib (excellent)

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p816861813-4.jpg




Dessert Sampler

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Fruit Meringue

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Rum Raisin Ice Cream

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Ollie goofing with DS19

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[ehagerty]

Sunrise over St Thomas, from Topsiders breakfast deck

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Sailing over to St Johns - the sister boat

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Applying sunscreen - 80's and sunny

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Crew giving safety instructions

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View from the deck

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We anchor near the sister-boat off Honeymoon Beach, St John's ...

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p527088793-4.jpg




... don our snorkel gear

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p414892483-4.jpg




... get the "agitated waters" update (same issue as yesterday at St Martin) related to what we can expect for visibility, and take a couple of pictures anyway - a bit gray, but, gosh darn it, I have to get some use out of the waterproof camera!!

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p233466710-4.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p321926166-4.jpg




.. then bobble around in the water for a bit

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DS19 turns the camera on the lady who prefers to hide behind the camera...

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p198008648-4.jpg

[ehagerty]

Bought two tickets ($30/pp) - one for myself, and one for DS21. Somehow, with all the activity (scheduling updates), DS did not show up. I thought about drinking his portions as well, but instead, took them with me to early seating dinner.

Table:

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p684735608-4.jpg



Shawn, describing the wines

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Recap of wines served:

1. 2005 Grgich Hills Chardonnay (the producer that won against French judges in blind tasting - apparently there is a movie worth seeing about it - "Bottleshock" - which I have in my shopping cart on Amazon. These are the fun things you learn by participating in activities like this, with people who share interests....). I did not record the details that made this a selection on the sommelier wine list (there seems to be a range online)

2. 2006 Purple Angel - I didn't take notes, but here is an except from google:
Forbes Magazine highlighted the Montes Purple Angel2005 in its recent article "20 Exceptional Wines from South America." They declared that the Montes Purple Angel was "A flat-out steal. Carménère takes a new dimension," claims the label, and does it ever! From its confectionery vanilla icing, plum blossom and violet aroma to its silky, perfectly weighted palate feel and juicy flavors of ripe plum and blackberry, this a genuine aristocrat."

91 Pts. The Wine Spectator "Ripe and plush, with a dense but reserved core of plum and blackberry fruit that will need some cellaring to get past the mocha, coffee and loam notes. Long and dark on the finish, this is well put together. Carmenère and Petit Verdot. Now in its third vintage, and improving. Best from 2009 through 2011. 1500 cases made."


We had this bottle in May, at Frederick's (Wonder Palo Sommelier) recommendation. Average google price = $55, Palo = $99 (100% is a normal, fair mark-up - the lower end wines are marked up 200-300%)

3. 2007 Caymus Cabernet "Special Select"
Rated 94
Complex, riveting aromas of spice, cola and sassafras join wild berry, spice, black cherry and sage notes in this full-bodied, intensely flavored, tightly focused and very persistent display of fruit that's long and lingering. Drink now through 2017.

Wine Tasting Notes
Deep, almost purple crimson color. Concentrated aromas of cassis and plum lead to flavors of dark berry fruits, ripe currant and cocoa, framed by a slightly toasty oak. This incredibly rich and full-bodied wine shows well-structured, silky tannins and a long, velvety finish.
Retail $100-$160

4.Verve Clicquot - again, unsufficient notes to know why this particular bottle was on the sommelier list.....



Now, for the evaluation of the activity:

Enjoyed? Definitely
Repeat? Every time
Recommend? If you are into wine


What, if changed, would make it even better?

Light / Location - I like Diversions and Session OK, but the light is not good for evaluating the wine color.
Glasses - The debate goes on as to whether the shape of the glass influences nose and taste. Even if it were scientifically proven to have no bearing, I would prefer to taste sommelier-level wines in the Schott glasses from Palo's - even if it were only for ambiance. Quite honestly, holding up these glasses to the porthole light to check color revealed dish-washer rinse residue - that can't be good for taste or visuals. Nice, polished glasses.....


The best location (so far) for a wine tasting that I've experienced is Palo's (light). Just a suggestion. I know they have to set up for dinner, but if there are only a dozen participating, hold it in the special room there.....

[LV Disney Fan(atic)]

Really enjoying your review! Especially your descriptions of the tasting events. I've been a little hesitant to try those because I wasn't really sure what they were about, but I think you've convinced me. And thanks for the beautiful pictures - I got a D10 for Christmas and can't wait to use it on our March cruise :goodvibes

[Zeebs]

What wonderful photos.

I only started reading this trip report because I saw it was you writing it. It was your pics of Californian Grill that made us decide it would be a great place for our adult night out. Oh and it was, especially the sushi.

I look forward to reading more.

Kirsten

[Kurby]

i love your tr and LOVE your pics.

can't wait to read more

[lmhall2000]

I agree!! I can't get over your pictures! The one of Christian the chef should be on a brochure for Disney cruises!! Just insert 4 of your entrees you've taken pics of and you'll sell hundreds of cruises!!! :)

Love the scenic pictures, too, you have a good eye for filling the viewfinder!! :)

Tara

[FIREFLY01]

LOVE this TR can't wait for our cruise!!! your picts are awesome!!!

[TotallyAngelic]

WOW !!! Your photos are absolutely stunning :goodvibes:goodvibes

[ehagerty]

... and thank you podsnel for your cruise trip report - which I enjoyed immensely and enticed me to do the spa villa for one last May (I have my picture link around somehwere - will edit it back in later on)


My goal is to complete this picture-trip-report before I leave for London on Saturday. That should not be difficult as we only went on the cruise, and I have many pictures from previous cruises, which I did not take again.

Anyway, with all my wine tasting experience, I actually paid attention to label of what I am drinking with dinner at the moment, here to share with cab-fans (just an informal, google assessment from budbreak.blogspot):

2003 Sorrel Canyon Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon.

The foil cap says Windsor. The cork says Windsor. This very drinkable Cabernet is produced by Windsor Vineyards, those people who can put your name on wine to give to clients and the like. It differs in the fact that those old Windsors I have tried... always sucked. This is pretty pretty good.

From my bottle a week later;
Dark color. Out of the gate the wine was a bit awkward, but within in hour it had shown signs of elegance and structure one rarely encounters at this price point. ($8.99)

Mocha, creme de cassis, lush black fruits, tar, coffee, and a very credible tannin level. As it sat in my glass it just got better and better. What a 9 dollar stunner!

Not much info on the web about this one, but give it a try and let me know what you think. I grabbed a case....

postscript;

I can't state this enough; anyone who likes Cabernet should find this wine. I have had it 10 times to date and it just amazes me how a wine like this can still be produced and sold for under $10!! Lush, deep dark fruit. Tasted blind I would place this at about $30-$40. Really. Some friends of mine have tried and have bought cases. People who have some pretty deep cellars I should add.

I get nada for recommending this. But keep this in mind; If my name were Bob, this would be impossible to get.
You owe it to yourself. No?

I am very fortunate, in that I live fifteen minutes from a very good wine supplier - here is an excerpt:

Founded in 1943, Premier Liquor was purchased by a group headed by Burt Notarius in 1969 and expanded several times until it is now one of the largest wine and liquor stores in the United States. Premier was one of the first stores in New York State to discount liquor, to discount wine, to advertise exact prices and to offer a large selection of imported wines.

Premier’s Burt Notarius was named Retailer of the Year in 1993 by the publishers of The Wine Spectator in a poll of wine and spirits executives, and again in 1999 by the other top industry publication, Beverage Dynamics. Premier changed its name to Prime Wines in 1995 when it became part of the Premier Group.

I walk into the store and they have a section for "what's new in the 90's" - all wines rating >= 90 - you just walk around and pick out your varietal preference - or, if you are me, your price preference.

Sometimes, I just shop online, then drive the whole fifteen minutes to pick it up, boxed, checked out, and ready for my trunk.

Sometimes, I meander through the "odd bins" - getting - for example - a 2003 Flora Springs Chardonnay for $15/bottle, marked down from $35 (all 4 bottles were great - and consumed quickly). 93 points for $15 - who can resist?

93 POINTS - The Wine Spectator
"Smooth, rich and vibrant, with layers of ripe pear,fig, melon, vanilla and hazelnut, finishing long and lively. Elegant and sophisticated, this ends with a clean, refreshing aftertaste." — J.L.

Anyway, enough of my wine meandering. My point was - I don't have to be good at wine to be spoiled. This wine store makes is SO easy!!

Check it out - I signed up for a wine tasting there this week - 5 glasses of 1.5 oz each for the following:
We will taste 5 wines displaying the excellent quality of the 2007 vintage from various appellations of the southern Rhone. What factors create a great vintage? Taste some of the best examples while learning about this wine region in southern France.

Price??? Free!!!!
They do this sort of thing pretty much weekly.

Anyway, back to the cruise....

Tonight, we had the Conundrum wine. We've had it before at California Grill (it probably goes without saying that all of Disney shares the same wine supplier). After a few nights of earthy reds - and just coming from the sommelier wine tasting, this was a little sweet for me - but still, pleasant.

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p936656411-4.jpgp



Crab Gratinee - appetizer

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p589466480-4.jpg




Seared Ahi Tuna

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p820240948-4.jpg





Rib-eye with jerk spices

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p1066772767-4.jpg





Lemon Meringue pie

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p628290672-4.jpg




Mickey ice cream bar bliss

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p590278717-4.jpg




Lamb

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p639565051-4.jpg


.

[ehagerty]

Ice Sculpture and seafood table

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p549822783-4.jpg



http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p1039905300-4.jpg



http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p1005140763-4.jpg




Had (among other things), crab legs (cold; sweet, not salty), stone crab claws, smoked salmon and trout, big shrimp, shrimp shooters, caviar, salmon mousse, etc.




Breads

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p775677850-4.jpg





Antipasto

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p1030508673-4.jpg




Olives, peppers, meats, etc. (No calories wasted here....)




Display of omelettes and pancakes - so that you can get a preview before you order


http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p584228858-4.jpg





Various pouched eggs - benedict, julia, florentine, etc.


http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p687660505-4.jpg




Personal pizza, thin crust, wide variety

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p981116153-4.jpg





Pastries

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p546849151-4.jpg





The "new" stollen (left) and the "original" stollen (right)

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p809173905-4.jpg




Croissants, petite pain au chocolat, cinnamon roles, sticky pecan role, fresh whipped cream, fresh berries......

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p776036345-4.jpg




Cheeses

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p1067731344-4.jpg



http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p798942721-4.jpg

[ehagerty]

Petit Fours

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p1005351235-4.jpg


Normally, I avoid petit fours - too many mediocre ones growing up. But I did try the far left (coffee mousse?) and second in the from right (opera cake - coffee cream) and both were worthy of their calories.




Creme Brulee - without the crust, with fruit

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p1055569448-4.jpg




Tiramisu

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p807578988-4.jpg




Close up of the sugar sculptures

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p794240229-4.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p843239154-4.jpg

[ehagerty]

Our table - in modest disarray, but reminded me of some details, like the complimentary champagne AND the fact that, if you have dark pants on, the place a dark napkin on your lap. If light pants, you get a white napkin - so that any lint that might come off does not contrast with your clothes....

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p1057143697-4.jpg





http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p800258431-4.jpg





My plate - (clockwise) caviar, stone crab claw, crab leg, scallop, smoked whitefish, bresceola

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p975605796-4.jpg





http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p650402783-4.jpg






DH dish

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p601278602-4.jpg






Chilled strawberry soup

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p793839344-4.jpg





Hot mushroom soup

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p582325618-4.jpg






Fruit pizza

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p707104366-4.jpg





Pancake (I ordered just one - delicious - fluffy pancake, real whipped cream, raspberry, rum-raisin sauce)

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p854735536-4.jpg





Something-parmesan (veal?)

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p732948276-4.jpg





Tiramisu

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p756135643-4.jpg





Creme Brulee

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p973988879-4.jpg





Trifle

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p856496972-4.jpg




Opera Cake

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p689210560-4.jpg




Chocolate Pot

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p829808271-4.jpg




.

[ehagerty]

Piano, at the entrance

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p827845938-4.jpg




The ever photogenic Chef Christian, and the I-could-care-less-what-I-look-like-me

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p1020008398-4.jpg




Igor, our really great server for both dinners and brunch (on the right)...

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p157862638-4.jpg




Palo's Manager, Peitro - at his post!!

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p472304636-4.jpg







Taking a picture from the deck outside Palo, into the reflecting window
http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p635401390-4.jpg




.

[ehagerty]

.... we noticed the impact of the ship's movement on the adult pool - noticed the wave action against the upper ladder....

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p775311777-4.jpg




.... but it was sunny and warm

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p1035166853-4.jpg





http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p615766624-4.jpg






... and the family pool was always full ....

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p972510589-4.jpg




... not a great shot, but included here because it provides a real sense of "place"

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p939122236-4.jpg




Still to come - a couple more dinners (one at Palo) and Castaway Cay

.

[jessrose18]

enjoying the report:thumbsup2 signing on

[lvstitch]

Great report and pictures...thanks for sharing:cool1:

[croppincolburn]

Enjoying your tip report. Thanks! Hope our weather is as good next Jan when we sail.

[ehagerty]

On this trip, DS21 went parasailing. The rest of us have done it. Rather than post "like as" shots to what has already been posted, I refer you to these thread links:

Parasailing on Castaway Cay - Shot with Canon D10 - May 29 10:30 am (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2202552&page=1)


Parasailing - DVC Member Cruise, 2009 (http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33803565&postcount=1406)

Unfortunately, DS21 is not familiar enough with the D10 to know that he had to change the setting from "underwater" (St Thomas, day before) to AUTO, hence some of the shots have a greenish-cast.


Shot of a tandem

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p74064477-4.jpg




Taking off

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p449328703-4.jpg




Lifting

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p7571939-4.jpg




Higher

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p499867967-4.jpg




Looking straight down

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p133668735-4.jpg




Full out

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p359838999-4.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p203012217-4.jpg






You can get some unique shots from this vantage

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p514216488-4.jpg






DS21 chose a "full dunk" on return, slight miscalculation turned into "full dunk with collapse of parasail. He loved it.

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p109005074-4.jpg




Flying Dutchman

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p491852036-4.jpg



.

[ehagerty]

Slightly out of chronological sequence, but while I am here.....

Once back on board from out idyllic day at CC, we headed for a location I've really come to appreciate and frequent - the adult pool...

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p254340460-4.jpg




Guest visit to the hot tub

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p86357668-4.jpg




Hard to believe I was "too busy" the first 5-6 cruises to even bother with the pool - or gym. Now I use both regularly....

.

[ehagerty]

Photo Ops everywhere, starting with the view from the ship.

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p1012864086-4.jpg




Waiting for the initial wave of people to dismebark

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p767629363-4.jpg




Waiting at the parasail dock

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p1020944694-4.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p726143521-4.jpg




Always something beautiful to look at along the way

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p579120926-4.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p581439493-4.jpg




Checking in for jet skiing

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p1051424525-4.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p638617960-4.jpg




Instructions for the jet skis

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p1017040045-4.jpg




All aboard

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p1026634198-4.jpg




Following the leader

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p566402587-4.jpg




Returning to land

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p1024606906-4.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p950663676-4.jpg




Flowers

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p786883733-4.jpg



.

[ehagerty]

Stopped for lunch at Serenity Bay

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p587484239-4.jpg




Stood in the water. It wasn't cold, but no one was actually swimming, either.

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p922583298-4.jpg




Collected shells

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p553296614-4.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p621486404-4.jpg




View of former teen beach, currently under renovation...

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p721723931-4.jpg




With the new slides

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p867672167-4.jpg




A brief pause in paradise

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v0/p656955293-4.jpg



Views from the bar

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p768483249-4.jpg



http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p872645042-4.jpg



http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p668448947-4.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p215730056-4.jpg





DS 19 kicking the soccer ball in passing

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p150082054-4.jpg







Lead guitarist from "Soul Drive," chatting with DS21 and giving him a pick

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p4965776-4.jpg





A favorite spots - no longer a "hidden," but still a gem - quite populated today!! The hammock beach behind the snorkel shack.

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p307414571-4.jpg




The view from the hammock (borrowed for a few minutes to take pictures, then returned to the "owner" who has a towel on it...)

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p364638181-4.jpg




Last shot from the walk back

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p88974815-4.jpg




.

[ehagerty]

Jet Ski in the waning sun...

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p326725521-4.jpg




Parasailors in the waning sun

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p303375041-4.jpg




View of Topsiders and Castaway Cay marina

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p111016318-4.jpg




Back to our usual departure spot

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p31050131-4.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p392953555-4.jpg




.

[ehagerty]

Got back to the cabin to find message that we could dine again at Palo's tonight. We accepted immediately, although DH won't be joining us, because he was not feeling well.

Many of the dishes will look familiar. The menu is extensive, but not infinite; and we have our favoriates!!

Antipasto

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p249943369-4.jpg



Calamari

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p135316783-4.jpg




Tuna Carpaccio

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p330489211-4.jpg



Lobster Ravioli

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p129858878-4.jpg

(I did not order this the first night because I presumed the lobster content would be limited. The sauce alone was so good, I ordered it for myself on Friday)




Pasta Something (wasn't my dish)

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p513421562-4.jpg



Sorbet

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p25151216-4.jpg



Halibut

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p375055851-4.jpg




Osso Buco

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p228586143-4.jpg




Scallops

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p55426634-4.jpg



Filet

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p234705631-4.jpg




Pane Cotta (vanilla)

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p489662141-4.jpg





Chocolate Souffle

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p309396135-4.jpg




Igor poured in the cream

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p510542504-4.jpg




I have not provided commentary for each dish. They were all best-in-class. Bon Appetit!!

.

[podsnel]

Good morning!!

I have loved every inch of your report (as usual)! You have also gotten me very, very excited for my trip on Saturday- we're going to St John for 5 days. :beach: It is our 4th time, with other couples and we all leave the kids at home. :dance3: It is absolutely a wonderful time, we stay in a villa, eat in fabulous restaurants, snorkel in beautiful waters...ahhhhhhh.....We went to Honeymoon last year, it is a gorgeous beach ( and a hike from the parking lot when you don't arrive by boat!).

Thank-you for the wine recs, I will look for the Cab you mentioned when we return. And I feel so honored to have inspired YOU to do something- how was the spa villa? Did you feel it was worth the added expense? Also, how did the new menu in the regular restaurants compare to the old menus? Did you enjoy your "regular" meals on this cruise as much as previous ones? Oh, and we were in Fitz's rotation on our last cruise, too. He's a riot, and I LOVE him in the pirate hat! It really suits him, don't you think? :goodvibes

Have a great time in London-

Ellen:flower3:

[papertraveller]

Thanks for a wonderful TR! Your photos are not only magnificent, they're inspiring. Poor DH is getting really, really tired of me dragging him to the computer and making him read about other people's vacations ... but your wine reviews especially will make him sit up and notice. Soon I'll get him as excited about our forthcoming cruise as much as I am!

[ehagerty]

I don't know HOW I missed the last set of comments, but I did. I was just reviewing posts, as we are taking our "free" 4 night Wonder cruise in Dec - and taking mothers-in-law with us. My mom is on internet, so was planning to bundle up a link to her when I saw your comments. Apologies for not replying!

Good morning!!

I have loved every inch of your report (as usual)! You have also gotten me very, very excited for my trip on Saturday- we're going to St John for 5 days. :beach: It is our 4th time, with other couples and we all leave the kids at home. :dance3: It is absolutely a wonderful time, we stay in a villa, eat in fabulous restaurants, snorkel in beautiful waters...ahhhhhhh.....We went to Honeymoon last year, it is a gorgeous beach ( and a hike from the parking lot when you don't arrive by boat!).

Thank-you for the wine recs, I will look for the Cab you mentioned when we return. And I feel so honored to have inspired YOU to do something- how was the spa villa? Did you feel it was worth the added expense? Also, how did the new menu in the regular restaurants compare to the old menus? Did you enjoy your "regular" meals on this cruise as much as previous ones? Oh, and we were in Fitz's rotation on our last cruise, too. He's a riot, and I LOVE him in the pirate hat! It really suits him, don't you think? :goodvibes

In answer to your question - I really enjoyed the spa - here are pictures and "report" - Click here for Spa report (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2208189) - you made top billing!
Thanks for a wonderful TR! Your photos are not only magnificent, they're inspiring. Poor DH is getting really, really tired of me dragging him to the computer and making him read about other people's vacations ... but your wine reviews especially will make him sit up and notice. Soon I'll get him as excited about our forthcoming cruise as much as I am! How did you enjoy your cruise?