Yep, 3 major fouls--It sounds like you did about all you could do and your decision to not invite this individual to future tastings is the only conclusion.
Mike Nally
· 1 year ago
It sounds like you did the best you could do in this case. Your friends issue with alcohol is now evident to you and he clearly must be removed from future tastings until he at least gets some counciling to determine if this was an isolated mistake in judgement or a sign of a real problem. Don't spend too much energy trying to figure out what you should have done differently. This is very much his problem not yours.
David McDuff
· 1 year ago
Yikes, that's definitely out of hand. I've had my share of slightly difficult customers or overly thirsty drinkers at tastings over the year but have luckily avoided any encounters as extreme as yours from last night. It sounds like you handled it about as well as anyone could.
Jill
· 1 year ago
wow, that sounds like a bummer in so many ways. definitely sounds like you did the right thing last night. my only thought is that if you really like this guy, you should have a conversation with him about what happened. Who knows if he's even aware or if he was in black-out mode. He should hear from somebody other than his spouse that he has some issues with consumption that need to be addressed.
Dale Cruse
· 1 year ago
Jill, you're exactly right. He reads my blog and I'm hoping that our words of compassion resonate with him.
Lenn
· 1 year ago
Wow. I've never had this happen...mostly because my friends that can and do get like that don't drink wine.
I'm usually the loudest, most belligerent one at my own parties...is that bad? ;)
Dale Cruse
· 1 year ago
Lenn, I'd love to have you over for a wine party sometime!
Michelle
· 1 year ago
When I walked into the party last night I was pleased to see this guest and his wife. We had had good conversations at the previous wine gathering and were among the last to leave at the end of the night. I left last night before this unfortunate incident and was shocked to find out about it. I am worried about both people. I hope that he figures out he may have a problem and gets the help he needs and that she gets the support needed by a spouse in this situation.
Lisa
· 1 year ago
I think if I was hosting a gathering where a situation like this took place I'd want to not only talk to my guest to check in to see if they're ok but to also voice my displeasure at their behavior in my home, in front of other guests that are in my house to enjoy the company of old and new friends.
Dale Cruse
· 1 year ago
Thanks, Taster B. I feel like we've finally put this situation behind us. Sorry it ever happened, though.
Dale Cruse
· 1 year ago
I appreciate that, Mike. All these months later, I still wonder how this person is doing.
Dale Cruse
· 1 year ago
Thank you, David. Coming from someone who sounds like he has experience in these situations, that makes me feel a bit better. Thanks.
Dale Cruse
· 1 year ago
Lisa, unfortunately this was only the second time or so that we met this person and his wife. I don't think I would have been comfortable calling him out in front of everyone. I'm just glad there was at least one impartial witness.
All Comments
I'm usually the loudest, most belligerent one at my own parties...is that bad? ;)