I went to Binny's on Marcey for the soirée wine. I still think of it as Sam's when I'm driving there. I had the case count, a budget and the relevant pages from Margot's beverage presentation.
She wants good wine that doesn't require discussion. Her tab is labeled ‘Wine Should Not Audition.’ I agree, although someone will always want to discuss it. We have sixty guests coming and a trio I'd like them to hear.
The whites and sparkling were straightforward. Then I cut through Burgundy, where a silver-haired man was reading a label. I reached for the vintage chart, and without looking up he said, ‘If you have to ask the chart, the chart has answered you.’
I didn't find that especially helpful. I did buy two bottles of what he was holding.
Those are staying upstairs. The party wine is all accounted for, and I have put the receipts together under catering. I will separate them if Jonathan asks for a more detailed breakdown.
— Ash