2/28/2011

Review of Metrokane 6-Piece Deluxe Rabbit Wine Tool Kit

Easy and fast to use. Well constructed.
No more glass chips with this baby.
Lots of accessories included.
Luv it!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Metrokane 6-Piece Deluxe Rabbit Wine Tool Kit

Product Description:
Complete Six-Piece set starring the famous Rabbit Corkscrew in elegant velvet finish with die-cast handles, includes everything you need for opening, serving and preserving wine.

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2/27/2011

Review of Riedel Vinum Water Glass, Set of 2

As with all Riedel glasses, these are great quality and nice to use.I wish they were a tad larger, but other than that, they are perfect.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Riedel Vinum Water Glass, Set of 2

Product Description:
Perfect for water, beer, juice everyday, these Riedel water glasses feature a shorter stem, with a generous bowl. Machine-made in Germany by world-renowned glassmakers, these glasses are great for all-purpose use. Packed in a set of 2, these glasses stand 5-7/8 inches high, with a 12-3/8 ounce full capacity.

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2/26/2011

Review of WMF Vino Foil Cutter

I used this at a party recently and was in awe... just put it on the bottle, spin, and off flies the top! It feels great in your hand, and looks gorgeous wherever it lands on the table... unlike other foil cutters available.Also - it's very difficult to cut yourself with this thing, and it's also tough to break. I notice it's not available on amazon right now - but I saw it at Williams Sonoma, so you can look there if amazon doesn't have it.

Click Here to see more reviews about: WMF Vino Foil Cutter

Product Description:
This WMF Vino Foil Cutter removes the sealing foil with precision and ease. With its handsome European design, and 18/10 stainless steel construction with a sleek mirror finish, this foilcutter features a generous weight and that feels good in the hand, while underscoring WMF's highest quality standards.

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2/25/2011

Review of Oggi 26-Ounce Stainless Steel Cocktail Shaker

Well, a lot, surprisingly.

I just made my first martini so take my review with a grain of Lemon Twist.

First thing that went wrong: while shaking the ice and cocktail mix, the thing froze on the outside, bad enough that the ice stuck to my fingers. Why not make the exterior from some rubberized material?

And way worse: the cap stuck. When I attempted to pull the cap off, only its metal shell came off, and the plastic cap remained stuck. No amount of manual twisting (bare-handed, or with a towel) was enough to remove the cap, until I donned a rubber glove for better grip. This is not exactly acceptable - why not make a screw-in cap, like most bottle caps?

See customer images for what this affair looked like.

I'll return this to BevMo (which BTW sells it for double the price on Amazon).

Click Here to see more reviews about: Oggi 26-Ounce Stainless Steel Cocktail Shaker

Product Description:
With innovative designs and contemporary finishes, Oggi's kitchen, bar and bath wares are truly tomorrow's house wares today. Oggi's Cocktail Shaker is no exception. Made of durable stainless steel, this shaker will be a highlight at any gathering - great for parties and home bars. 26-ounce capacity.

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2/24/2011

Review of Taymor Ultimate Wine and Candle Bath Caddy

Now, i love the idea of having a chrome tub caddy until 2 months into having it, it begain to rust. Then the candle holder & the wine glass holder rusted off !!! I am now on the looking out for a plastic covered tub caddy. A caddy is awesome to have but not in chrome !!!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Taymor Ultimate Wine and Candle Bath Caddy

Product Description:
Taymor Ultimate Wine and Candle Bath Caddy will make your evening bath very enjoyable.Sit back in your bathtub, light a candle and pour yourself a glass of wine for a relaxing bath.This chrome bath caddy holds you wine glass and has a holder for your tapered or votive candle.The bath caddy extends to 38" and adjusts to fit most tub sizes.Its vinyl grips protect the bathtub from scratches.Spoil yourself and buy today!

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2/23/2011

Review of Cork Pops III Corkscrew Replacement Cartridges (Set of 2

Received my Corkpops opener as a gift three years ago & have been amazed at the ease of opening a bottle of wine ever since.I always order two boxes of Corkpops refills so I never run out of cartridges.Love it!!!!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Cork Pops III Corkscrew Replacement Cartridges (Set of 2

Product Description:
Set of two extra gas cartidges for your Cork Popper.

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2/22/2011

Review of Spiegelau Vino Grande Champagne, Set of 2

I am wine collector w a sommeliers diploma - so I've done a lot of tastings over the past 20 years. Obviously the top league is held by Riedel - the old guy did his research on glass shapes (although debatable whether optimal for every varietal).
I find the Spiegelau's better value for money in the long run.

Pro's:
1. Thicker and more durable than Riedels. I used to wash Riedels in a dishwasher - some breakages resulted. The Spiegelaus are tougher.
2. Specific to the champagne flutes - I find the overall balance of the glasses very good. They are stylish, yet still functional in that the closing tulip preserves the flavors.

Cons:
1. Not Riedel?

Great value - good for every day use, but will still serve as excellent tasting glasses.

Recommended.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Spiegelau Vino Grande Champagne, Set of 2

Product Description:
Designed for serving your favorite bubbly, these Spiegelau Vino Grande Champagne Flutes stand 9-inch tall, creating a gorgeous visual appeal. The thin cut and polished rims maximize your drinking pleasure. Vino Grande, one of the most prominent lines in the Spiegelau assortment with a long history of pleasing wine drinkers, are perfect; whether it's a relaxing night at home, or an evening of entertaining, these champagne flutes are a great companion to your sparkling wines. Packed in a set of 2

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2/21/2011

Review of Riedel Vinum Syrah Glasses, Set of 4

ANYONE who drinks wine, NEEDS these glasses.It makes any wine taste better.These are amazing-I can't say enough.If you do a side by side test-you won't believe it.Even someone who doesn't drink wine could taste the difference.If you do't own Riedel, you're not really that into wine.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Riedel Vinum Syrah Glasses, Set of 4

Product Description:
These Riedel Vinum Syrah glasses, an integral part of the ever-popular Vinum collection, were designed to highlight the tannins in wines made from the Australian Shiraz variety of grape, such as Amarone, Blaufränkisch, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Grenache, Hermitage Rouge, Malbec, Mourvèdre, Pinotage, Shiraz, and Syrah. Introduced in 1986, the Riedel Vinum line was the first machine-made series of glasses in history to be based exclusively on the characteristics of grape varietals. The Vinum series has had a strong and permanent impact on the wine glass culture around the globe. These glasses have proven to consumers and restauranteurs that the pleasure of consuming wines starts with the glass. Developed by 10th generation Georg Riedel on the principle that the contents commands the shape, Vinum is great for everyday use. These glasses are made with over 24% lead crystal.

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2/20/2011

Review of True Fabrications Beech Wooden Bottle Stopper

This is a beautiful bottle stopper but it's a little small and doesn't fit tightly in the bottle.

Click Here to see more reviews about: True Fabrications Beech Wooden Bottle Stopper

Product Description:
Preserve your wine up in style with this gorgeous collection of Wooden Wine Bottle Stoppers

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2/19/2011

Review of Metrokane Wax Wacker, Chrome Finish

Woks very well - I use it to prevent the corkscrew from wearing down when going through the wax seal.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Metrokane Wax Wacker, Chrome Finish

Product Description:
Removes wax seals from the top of wine bottles cleanly and easily.

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2/18/2011

Review of Screwpull Metal Champagne Star

I have had one of these "Screwpull" tools for years.I was getting new ones for friends that liked how easy Champagne was to open when you used this tool. You have control without losing any of the champagne.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Screwpull Metal Champagne Star

Product Description:
Screwpull's innovative Champagne star helps open bottles of sparkling wine with ease. Specially designed for those who have trouble twisting off plastic or jammed corks, this modern gadget effortlessly lifts the cork out of any bottle. It gives the user total control and eliminates the danger of releasing a pressurized cork near guests. Presented in a black gift box, Screwpull's metal Champagne star features a modern black nickel finish and should be hand washed. It measures approximately three by three by 1-1/2 inches, and comes with a five-year warranty.

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2/17/2011

Review of True Fabrications Lever Corkscrew Gift Set, 3-Piece

True Fabrications Lever Corkscrew is the best of the last three purchased corkscrews. My last corkscrew was the original and overpriced "Rabbit." The Rabbit is constructed of plastic parts and self destructed in less than one year. This one is made from metal and appears to be of far struder construction. So far so good. I would recommend its' purchase over the other junk constructed from plastic.

Click Here to see more reviews about: True Fabrications Lever Corkscrew Gift Set, 3-Piece

Product Description:
This lever corkscrew makes it easy and comfortable to open any bottle of wine with a simple pull

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2/16/2011

Review of Screwpull Classic Travel Corkscrew, Black

I got this for my spouse (as well as the non-travel style one) to replace a similar (off brand) that broke. He prefers using these Screwpull brand corkscrews. He appreciates that there is a very long screw thread so that when there is a cork that has broken this style of corkscrew always works. I'm not as thrilled, since in my smaller hands, everything feels more floppy, so I prefer the old-style heavy corkscrews that sit on top and have the 'wings'. But, when the cork crumbles on an old bottle, now we have no trouble extracting it instead of having to push it into the bottle.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Screwpull Classic Travel Corkscrew, Black

Product Description:
Just as there's nothing better than a bottle of wine at the beach, cabin, or campground; there's nothing worse than being stuck without a corkscrew. The travel corkscrew from Screwpull is not only compact and lightweight; it's a sophisticated tool friends will covet. Not only does this clever corkscrew take the work out of cork removal for effortless bottle opening, it now automatically twists the cork off the screw as well. To open, simply pull the handle and the durable Teflon screw drives precisely into the cork's center. Push lightly the other way and the cork climbs effortlessly out of the bottle. Then, while holding the corkscrew panels (and not the cork); pull the handle again and--voila, the device pushes the cork off the screw unscathed! Pinch down on the sides to keep the cork from falling off, and reinsert it with the same ease. Finally, fold up the corkscrew and pack it away.

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2/15/2011

Review of Red Wine French Country Kitchen Decor Art Print Framed

I've purchased products from Art by Tilliams prior to this order, and was very pleased, which is why I went first to their products this time.It, and the companion print, is exactly as pictured and is perfect for my use.I am also very pleased with the packaging.I think these could have fallen off a truck and still have been undamaged.Very secure.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Red Wine French Country Kitchen Decor Art Print Framed

Product Description:
Title: Red Wine Artist: Barbara FeliskyPaper: 8 x20 inches Image: 8 x 20 inches Shown framed with: Wide Black frame

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2/14/2011

Review of Riedel Sommeliers Series Chablis-Chardonnay Glass, Packed in a Gift Tube

The glass looks great. But as I held it in my hand, and believe me please, gently dried the inside with a paper towel, the stem snapped in my fingers. I can't tell you just how little pressure was applied and now that's $60 bucks down the tubes after only 2 glasses of wine!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Riedel Sommeliers Series Chablis-Chardonnay Glass, Packed in a Gift Tube

Product Description:
In the New World, especially, Chardonnay-s popularity stems from its creamy structure, which balances oakey, buttery flavors with low acidity. The variety produces wines of high alcoholic content, often aged in small oak barrels. Winemakers sometimes add tartaric acid to adjust for its low acidity. The Riedel Sommeliers Chablis-Chardonnay glass is designed so that this low acidity is delivered in a way that sets off the alcohol and rich flavors of the wine, highlighting its velvety, supple texture, emphasizing the fruit and ensuring a long, balanced finish. This classic Riedel shape allows young wines to express all their invigorating freshness, while more mature wines are encouraged to deliver the nutty, spicy, mineral flavors so typical of the variety. Recommended for: Albariño, Bourgogne Aligoté, White Bordeaux , White Burgundy , Chablis, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc,PinotBlanc, Pinot Grigio, Pinot Gris , Viognier, etc

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2/13/2011

Review of Wine Island

I'll start with some a couple bad things about my experience, but they don't reflect on the cart itself. If I could, I would rate the cart itself 5-stars and my experience 3.

First the bad things:

* THE CART IS NOT 34" HIGH!!!Most sites say it's 34" or 34.5" and the manufacturer's own literature says it's 34.5". They're all wrong. In truth, the cart reaches around 35.5" high with the wheels and all. This was really disappointing for me, because I had a 34.75" high space where I was planning on leaving it under most of the time. The manufacturer should be contacting retailers soon to give them the correct specs.

* Second, the assembly instructions are somewhat inconsistent. I'm told the product evolved slightly overtime, and the instructions weren't always modified to keep up. Fortunately, the inconsistencies are ones that, while they may leave you momentarily confused, would be unlikely to lead to a serious mistake.

Now the great things:

* The instructions come with the phone number of the manufacturer in case you have any questions. I called this number a couple times, and each time a human being picked up the phone after one ring and transferred the call to someone who had intimate knowledge of the product and it's assembly. So if you have any questions, just call the number they provide. Yes, the directions could have been clearer here and there, but the immediate telephone assistance more than made up for it. It's manufactured by a friendly, small company in upstate New York, not some huge faceless retailer, and they're nice to deal with.

* A friendly guy at the manufacturing company is custom-making me some replacement pieces so that the total height is 34.5" and shipping them to me, all free of charge.

* The cart itself is really good quality. It's solid wood where it's needed, and the rest is fiberboard with nice wood veneers. It looks great and it's sturdy when complete.

Overall, I would highly recommend this cart if you have the space for its correct dimensions. Just call the phone number if you have any questions during assembly, and you'll soon find yourself with a high-quality, great-looking, sturdy kitchen wine cart.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Wine Island

Product Description:
Open & Enclosed Wine Island is a classy companion for entertaining and serving. SAVE NOW! A convenient place to serve drinks and hors d'oeuvres. With the Wine Island from Catskill Craftsmen, you get a compact serving station that can be moved freely on casters. It holds up to 12 bottles of wine and has a storage door for other bottles and mixers. The Wine Island is made from North American hardwood and hardwood veneers for an elegant look that will complement your home's decor. Other features include: Large drawer has ample storage space for a variety of items; Open storage area keeps items in easy reach; Large single door also provides hidden storage area; Pewter finish metal handles on door and drawer; Oil finish seals and protects the beauty of the wood; Overall size: 34 x 17 x 34"h; some assembly required; Made in the USA. Unlike fine wine, this deal won't improve with age... order now! Please Note: This is a Heavy / Bulky item. $10.00 for heavy / bulky shipping and handling will be charged in addition to regular shipping and handling. Open & Enclosed Wine Island

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2/12/2011

Review of 75 Bottle Wire Wine Racks (Black) (20"W x 10.25"D x 62.25"H)

The hardware to fasten the rack to the wall is ill-designed. To find the proper spot for the bottom fasteners, you need to assemble the rack, mark the contour (you can't mark the drill hole because the holding rack is right in front), dissassemble the rack again, then fasten the hardware to the wall, then re-assemble the rack.
The vertical metal rods bent while I installed the rack, and the welding between the wave-shaped "shelves" and the vertical rod appear so weak, that you better not take the risk of putting any precious wine on this rack.
I regret having bought this item.

Click Here to see more reviews about: 75 Bottle Wire Wine Racks (Black) (20"W x 10.25"D x 62.25"H)

Product Description:
A great way to store your wine - safe and secure! 50 and 75 Bottle Wine Racks have an Epotherm coating; an epoxy-based coating (over 1/8" thick wire) which is visibly thicker than other coatings on the market, and offers at least 30% more coating protection. Epotherm is both durable and reliable and will not crack, chip, or discolor. The 50 Bottle Rack comes with four connectors to allow two units to be stacked together. The 75 Bottle Rack includes hardware to secure it safely to the wall to prevent tipping. Order today and bring order to your collection! Holds 1-liter bottles. .

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2/11/2011

Review of The Rabbit Corkscrew

I'd give zero stars if it was an option. Don't waste your time on this company.

My first Rabbit had a plastic handle.When it broke after several years of use, I replaced it with a metal handle Rabbit because it had 10-year warrantee.(I think the first one had a 2-year warrantee.)

The new Rabbit malfunctioned.A mission-critical piece of rubber tore, making the Rabbit useless.I sent the Rabbit to Metrokane per the package instructions.(I paid the postage and also had to enclose a check to cover *their* mailing costs.)

A week or so later, my Rabbit was returned to me without any repairs.Their note said that they couldn't find anything wrong with the thing.I phoned Metrokane to complain.They said that the rubber was not covered by the warrantee. I was told to get rubber glue to fix the thing.I checked the warrantee.Nowhere does it say that certain parts are not covered.Finally they agreed to replace it.

The replacement was defective.The Metrokane rep. copped an attitude when I complained, saying that I was probably using it incorrectly.(Remember, I'd owned a Rabbit and had used it for years, so I'm sure I knew how to use it.)

The company wouldn't send another Rabbit and I refused to spend more money to return the second defective product.I'm using a $10 knock-off now.It works every time.

Click Here to see more reviews about: The Rabbit Corkscrew

Product Description:
The original - uncorks bottles in seconds. The Rabbit Corkscrew from Metrokane is quick like a bunny! It will pull a wine cork in 3 seconds flat. After uncorking, the Rabbit Corkscrew quickly and easily ejects the cork from the worm. This popular corkscrew has been redesigned with a precision, metal gear mechanism that's laboratory tested to last through more than 10,000 uncorkings. The ergonomic design with black soft rubber grip pads puts an end to awkward wine bottle opening. Used by professionals. Includes foil cutter, extra worm and presentation box. Carries a 10-year manufacturers warranty.Also available in Black.This corkscrew is synthetic cork friendly

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2/10/2011

Review of Laguiole Corkscrew Rosewood with Case

Best corkscrew I ever had. Great stuff from a wine lover!!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Laguiole Corkscrew Rosewood with Case

Product Description:
The well known Laguiole corkscrew line has been celebrated as one of the finest line of corkscrews ever created and this rosewood set is no exception. This genuine Laguiole waiter's corkscrew features a bottle opener, serrated blade for cutting foil, a stainless steel grooved spiral for easy wine opening, and of course the trademark Laguiole corkscrew bee on the back. It comes with a protective leatherette case with a magnetic closure and belt clip for professional waiters and comes packed in a wooden box; perfect for gift giving! 5 year warranty. Common QuestionsIs this a real Laguiole corkscrew? Yes it is a officially licensed Laguiole product. The common misconception is that Laguiole itself is a manufacturer, it is not. Laguiole is actually a city in France, not a manufacturer. Laguiole just licenses their name and signature Laguiole bee to manufacturers whom meet their strict quality standards. There are actually dozens of manufacturers for Laguiole branded products, many of whom overcharge for the name.There are two main differences between this corkscrew and many of the more expensive Laguiole corkscrews you see elsewhere. 1) This corkscrew set is assembled in China, and much of it is made by machine to keep the cost down while still meeting the strict quality standards set forth by Laguiole.2) This Laguiole corkscrew carrys a 5 year manufacturer warranty, whereas many of the other handmade Laguiole products do not.

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2/09/2011

Review of Skybar Wine Preservation & Optimization System - Frontgate

I was very excited to get the Skybar wine system home and install it, However once i did i was disappointed. The unit is very loud. My house has all the typical noises plus i have a walk in wine cellar that has 2 continuous fans running. So there is a little more background noise than other houses. But the skybar add a whole other factor of noise! I can hear this thing from 60 + feet away. Take your typical refrigerator and multiply it by 10 and now you are getting close.
Also the rate of flow when pumping the wine is slow but I would have lived with it had the unit been quieter.
It looks cool and it is fun to walk over and push a button to get a glass of wine but I am going to go back to pouring.
Return the unit and would not recommend it.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Skybar Wine Preservation & Optimization System - Frontgate

Product Description:
Our Skybar (TM) Wine Preservation & Optimization System is the first wine bar for the home that perfectly chills and naturally preserves your favorite wines. An innovative pouring technique smoothly decants your preferred glass of wine, allowing you to enjoy all of its natural flavors and notes. Independently chilled chambers allow you and your guests to enjoy 3 different wines at one timeDigital temperature readings for each chamber ensure wine is served at its ideal temperatureSelect from 9 wine type presets or use the manual temperature controlsSleek pouring spout smoothly pours directly into your glass without disturbing the natural sediment in the wine bottle Innovative vacuum technology is free of any foreign substances, which can alter flavor and aromaPreserves open bottles of wine up to 10 daysElegantly highlight your choice wines with a brilliant LED light in each chamberEach chamber holds 1-1/2 liter bottleCraftedfrom oak and veneerNo replacement cartridges neededRead more wine system features110VRead instructions for use and care and cleaning tips.Commercial-sized wine preservation system not designed to fit under standard counters.

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2/08/2011

Review of Prodyne AP-98 Contours 3-1/2-Quart Ice Bucket, Clear

This ice bucket has a reasonable price but a really refined appeal.with the appearance of glass, it is lightweight acrylic, which handles well.It really has a elegant look and when setting up for the last catered party at my home, the ice bucket brought by the caters didn't compare to ours.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Prodyne AP-98 Contours 3-1/2-Quart Ice Bucket, Clear

Product Description:
The elegantly rounded design of this crystal clear ice bucket will be admired by all. The ice bucket is double wall insulated with a removable inner chamber and lid. 3-1/2-quart Capacity. Measures 7-1/2-inch deep by 9-1/2-inch high.

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2/07/2011

Review of Magic Slice Non-Slip Flexible Cutting Board, Gourmet Size 12" x 15", Wine by Michael Clark

These are thin, flexible, easy to clean and look good enough to serve on.The price is unbeatable.I replaced most of my other cutting boards with these.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Magic Slice Non-Slip Flexible Cutting Board, Gourmet Size 12" x 15", Wine by Michael Clark

Product Description:
Magic Slice Non-Slip Flexible Cutting Board is a thin, lightweight, embellished, 12 x 15 inch flexible plastic cutting board with an innovative Non-Slip backing. It can be rolled so you can funnel chopped food into pans and bowls. Magic Slice has exceptional graphics that can match your kitchen colors or theme (over 30 designs to choose from). Magic Slice is easily cleaned and has antibacterial construction using Tricloban™. In short, Magic Slice makes Food Preparation a Work of Art!Also, Magic Slice makes a great placemat!

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2/06/2011

Review of Wine and Dine Lazy Susan

If you are looking for an attractive yet functional glass lazy susan, this is perfect. It is big enough to hold what you want and still leave room on the table for placemats, plates, glasses, cutlery.One word of caution, a 42" table is absolutely the smallest table it will fit nicely and that is only if there are 2 people at the table; it is not a problem for me and my husband.At least a 48" table would be better if serving more than 2 people.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Wine and Dine Lazy Susan



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2/05/2011

Review of Mission style Wine Rack

It was a little difficult to assemble, but it looks good and is very sturdy.A good deal for the price.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Mission style Wine Rack

Product Description:
Not only is this piece functional for storage, it also has a handsome style. It's easy to coordinate with your decor.Carefully crafted with a solid hardwood frame and durable hardwood veneer, this wine rack offers structural integrity and years of dependable performance. Each piece is sanded and finished by hand in a lustrous hue. Place an order today. Actual size is 28 BOTTLES

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2/04/2011

Review of Brabantia 297625 Classic Corkscrew, White

This Brabantia cork screw remains my favorite corkscrew, even after over 11 years of almost unchanged design. It is the most user friendly one of them all and works with virtually any bottle.

The plastic one I bought lasted me 11 years. Now I'm buying a steel one of the same model. It may last the rest of my life.

Its foil cutter is unsurpassed. It always works. Any other cork screw has problems if one doe snot use the right angle, or traps my skin because it is made out of two moving pieces instead of one like this Brabantia one.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Brabantia 297625 Classic Corkscrew, White

Product Description:
Classic corkscrew for every wine-lover. The extra large turning handle makes opening wine bottles effortless: just a few turns to the right and the cork is pulled out of the bottle automatically. Features include an extra wide body, suitable for all bottleneck sizes, a built-in foil cutter, an open spiral with non-stick coating and precision-ground tip, and a centering ring, which assures that the spiral always bores into the middle of the cork.

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2/03/2011

Review of Haier XQJ50-31 1.7 Cubic Feet Agitator Washer With Led Touch Display, White

If you are like me, you are scouring these reviews trying to decide if this is the right product for you- if it will arrive safely, be easy to hook up, and work as promised.

Since this is a fairly large purchase for most, I thought I would add my own review, as a person who seriously debated buying this machine based on the reviews about damages and other difficulties. After much consideration, I finally ordered and received this washing machine and there are a few things I can tell you.

Firstly, it is going to come with some dings, almost guaranteed. As another reviewer mentioned, the tub is free floating inside and there is absolutely nothing to stop it from swinging into the metal housing during shipping. And you have to know it will get bumped hard enough in shipping to swing that tub around at least a little. It would have taken a dollar's worth of styrofoam to secure the tub inside, it is a shame they don't take care of that little problem. So, just resolve yourself to this idea and you won't be disappointed. Fortunately, the dings are only cosmetic, and you might have only a few, or you might have a lot. My machine arrived dinged up, but works perfectly. Most of the dings were caused by the tub pushing from inside out, but there were also a couple of indentions obviously from things hitting the box during shipping. Though I am making a thorough description of the damage, overall, it was not devastating.

Secondly, it's not that hard to hook up, and I found the instruction book adequate. The first thing you must do when you receive the machine, after you unpack it, is to lay it on its side an put the casters on. There are two stopper-type feet, and two adjustable level feet on it, out of the box. The adjustable level feet come right off. The stopper type feet will require a pipe wrench to remove. Don't even think you can do it with your hands or a cheap pair of pliers. They won't budge. But get yourself a pipe wrench and turn counter-clockwise and they will begin to unscrew, no problem. At this time, it will help you to have an electric screwdriver handy to mount the bottom (noise cancelling) panel. You can do it by hand if you want, but if you are doing it alone it will be difficult for you to hold it and put the screws in. Also, the electric screwdriver has a little more force, so if your frame is slightly dented, you can almost correct it by forcing the screws into the correct position.

Voila! Once you put the machine upright, it rolls very easily! The next task is to roll it over to the sink and set up your connections. Personally, I don't see any benefit to having a Y adapter if you only have one faucet. The hot and cold water are going to mix together before going to the intakes anyway, so what is the point? I hooked up only one hose, to the cold water intake. (There is a screw-on plug included for the other intake if you choose to hook up only one.) When the wash cycle begins, I have the hot water on, then after the tub fills I turn the hot water off, and the cold water on for the remaining 2 rinse cycles.

Next, the quick-connect adapter for the faucet is not difficult to install. You simply unscrew the aerator off your faucet, and add the quick-connect version which screws right in to replace it. Then attach the other piece of the quick-connect to the end of the cold water hose you just installed on the back of the washer. Now this hose will clip on to your faucet in one motion. Just push down the white piece, slip it over the piece on the faucet, and release. It makes a tight, reliable connection. If you leave the faucet piece on (you can still run water through it) then each time you want to wash, all you have to do is click the quick-connect on and you are ready to go. So, no worries about that part, it is a snap.

Now, the drain hose is another thing. It is too inflexible, and too short to be convenient. If you use this hose, be sure to use something to weight it so it remains in the sink when the water starts coming through! It is made of slick accordion plastic which does not stay in place easily. Myself, I went and bought some thick black rubber tubing in a longer length. A hose clamp is included, be sure to use it to secure whatever hose you might choose to use. If you don't clamp the hose on tightly, you will have a flood as soon as the pump kicks in.

OK, so that's what you can expect once the machine arrives. It seems like a bit of work, and all in all it will probably take you an hour and half before you get your first wash in. But that's where it pays off. This little machine washes just beautifully. The clothes are very clean after the generous wash and two rinse cycles. It spins them very well, so the clothes dry in 6-8 hours after you hang them up. (If you are an apartment dweller with no dryer, do a search on the internet for a "gull-wing clothes drying rack" for a neat solution for drying.)

I have to agree that the design on the detergent drawer could be much much better, but it works. It also has a fabric softener dispenser and a bleach dispenser! The electronic panel is just plain cool, as well. Like another reviewer, I hope it lasts a long time. There is also an available soak cycle which you can add to any of the regular cycles, which is very handy. When it comes to washing, this machine is A+. I really could not be happier with its performance. The tub actually holds much more than I anticipated-- I would guess about 2/3 of a "normal" washer.

I found this machine a good investment, considering the cost and inconvenience of going to a laundromat. If you are living in an apartment without hook-ups and are spending hours in the laundromat, this will change your life in a good way.

I will try to come back after some months and comment on the long term performance, but I am not anticipating any problems.

**UPDATE**

6 months later, and I am still very happy with this machine.Thrilled actually, not to have seen the inside of a laundromat for a good long while.

The only issue I have had is that if the machine is not on a nice level piece of flooring, it will have balance issues.Once I recognized what was causing the problem, I had to memorize the "sweet spot" on the floor in front of the sink where the machine has to sit precisely in order to avoid any balance problems.My kitchen floor is anything but level.As long as it is in the zone, it can hold an amazing amount of clothes and spin clean without a hitch.If it is not level, I can have even a small amount of clothes in it and it acts up by refilling itself over and over because it thinks the clothes are out of balance and it is trying to correct it by adding water (self-balancing feature.)So if you are having similar trouble, experiment moving the machine 3-4" this way or that, until you find the place it likes and it will perform like a champ.

Using my drying rack and opening the windows to create a cross-breeze in the house, the clothes are dry in 5-6 hours.There are other bonuses to this method.Not putting them in the dryer is also causing less wear and color loss to the fabrics, and stains do not set...so if you miss one, you can get it out the next time without the dryer having "cooked" it in forever.Then there's the simple environmental and cost savings of not running a dryer as well.

Thumbs up for this machine, dings and all.Kick your feet up in your favorite chair while the washer is working and think about how great it is not to be in some sweaty laundromat full of college kids.



Click Here to see more reviews about: Haier XQJ50-31 1.7 Cubic Feet Agitator Washer With Led Touch Display, White

Product Description:
The complete line of Haier Laundry Products provides styles and features for everyone. These features include ultra-quiet operation, stainless steel tub, self-locking door, water saver, water level options, self-cleaning lint filter, delay start option, load balance system, and much, much more. Haier's Laundry category is engineered and constructed with the consumer's needs and desires in mind.

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Review of Haier XQJ50-31 1.7 Cubic Feet Agitator Washer With Led Touch Display, White

If you are like me, you are scouring these reviews trying to decide if this is the right product for you- if it will arrive safely, be easy to hook up, and work as promised.

Since this is a fairly large purchase for most, I thought I would add my own review, as a person who seriously debated buying this machine based on the reviews about damages and other difficulties. After much consideration, I finally ordered and received this washing machine and there are a few things I can tell you.

Firstly, it is going to come with some dings, almost guaranteed. As another reviewer mentioned, the tub is free floating inside and there is absolutely nothing to stop it from swinging into the metal housing during shipping. And you have to know it will get bumped hard enough in shipping to swing that tub around at least a little. It would have taken a dollar's worth of styrofoam to secure the tub inside, it is a shame they don't take care of that little problem. So, just resolve yourself to this idea and you won't be disappointed. Fortunately, the dings are only cosmetic, and you might have only a few, or you might have a lot. My machine arrived dinged up, but works perfectly. Most of the dings were caused by the tub pushing from inside out, but there were also a couple of indentions obviously from things hitting the box during shipping. Though I am making a thorough description of the damage, overall, it was not devastating.

Secondly, it's not that hard to hook up, and I found the instruction book adequate. The first thing you must do when you receive the machine, after you unpack it, is to lay it on its side an put the casters on. There are two stopper-type feet, and two adjustable level feet on it, out of the box. The adjustable level feet come right off. The stopper type feet will require a pipe wrench to remove. Don't even think you can do it with your hands or a cheap pair of pliers. They won't budge. But get yourself a pipe wrench and turn counter-clockwise and they will begin to unscrew, no problem. At this time, it will help you to have an electric screwdriver handy to mount the bottom (noise cancelling) panel. You can do it by hand if you want, but if you are doing it alone it will be difficult for you to hold it and put the screws in. Also, the electric screwdriver has a little more force, so if your frame is slightly dented, you can almost correct it by forcing the screws into the correct position.

Voila! Once you put the machine upright, it rolls very easily! The next task is to roll it over to the sink and set up your connections. Personally, I don't see any benefit to having a Y adapter if you only have one faucet. The hot and cold water are going to mix together before going to the intakes anyway, so what is the point? I hooked up only one hose, to the cold water intake. (There is a screw-on plug included for the other intake if you choose to hook up only one.) When the wash cycle begins, I have the hot water on, then after the tub fills I turn the hot water off, and the cold water on for the remaining 2 rinse cycles.

Next, the quick-connect adapter for the faucet is not difficult to install. You simply unscrew the aerator off your faucet, and add the quick-connect version which screws right in to replace it. Then attach the other piece of the quick-connect to the end of the cold water hose you just installed on the back of the washer. Now this hose will clip on to your faucet in one motion. Just push down the white piece, slip it over the piece on the faucet, and release. It makes a tight, reliable connection. If you leave the faucet piece on (you can still run water through it) then each time you want to wash, all you have to do is click the quick-connect on and you are ready to go. So, no worries about that part, it is a snap.

Now, the drain hose is another thing. It is too inflexible, and too short to be convenient. If you use this hose, be sure to use something to weight it so it remains in the sink when the water starts coming through! It is made of slick accordion plastic which does not stay in place easily. Myself, I went and bought some thick black rubber tubing in a longer length. A hose clamp is included, be sure to use it to secure whatever hose you might choose to use. If you don't clamp the hose on tightly, you will have a flood as soon as the pump kicks in.

OK, so that's what you can expect once the machine arrives. It seems like a bit of work, and all in all it will probably take you an hour and half before you get your first wash in. But that's where it pays off. This little machine washes just beautifully. The clothes are very clean after the generous wash and two rinse cycles. It spins them very well, so the clothes dry in 6-8 hours after you hang them up. (If you are an apartment dweller with no dryer, do a search on the internet for a "gull-wing clothes drying rack" for a neat solution for drying.)

I have to agree that the design on the detergent drawer could be much much better, but it works. It also has a fabric softener dispenser and a bleach dispenser! The electronic panel is just plain cool, as well. Like another reviewer, I hope it lasts a long time. There is also an available soak cycle which you can add to any of the regular cycles, which is very handy. When it comes to washing, this machine is A+. I really could not be happier with its performance. The tub actually holds much more than I anticipated-- I would guess about 2/3 of a "normal" washer.

I found this machine a good investment, considering the cost and inconvenience of going to a laundromat. If you are living in an apartment without hook-ups and are spending hours in the laundromat, this will change your life in a good way.

I will try to come back after some months and comment on the long term performance, but I am not anticipating any problems.

**UPDATE**

6 months later, and I am still very happy with this machine.Thrilled actually, not to have seen the inside of a laundromat for a good long while.

The only issue I have had is that if the machine is not on a nice level piece of flooring, it will have balance issues.Once I recognized what was causing the problem, I had to memorize the "sweet spot" on the floor in front of the sink where the machine has to sit precisely in order to avoid any balance problems.My kitchen floor is anything but level.As long as it is in the zone, it can hold an amazing amount of clothes and spin clean without a hitch.If it is not level, I can have even a small amount of clothes in it and it acts up by refilling itself over and over because it thinks the clothes are out of balance and it is trying to correct it by adding water (self-balancing feature.)So if you are having similar trouble, experiment moving the machine 3-4" this way or that, until you find the place it likes and it will perform like a champ.

Using my drying rack and opening the windows to create a cross-breeze in the house, the clothes are dry in 5-6 hours.There are other bonuses to this method.Not putting them in the dryer is also causing less wear and color loss to the fabrics, and stains do not set...so if you miss one, you can get it out the next time without the dryer having "cooked" it in forever.Then there's the simple environmental and cost savings of not running a dryer as well.

Thumbs up for this machine, dings and all.Kick your feet up in your favorite chair while the washer is working and think about how great it is not to be in some sweaty laundromat full of college kids.



Click Here to see more reviews about: Haier XQJ50-31 1.7 Cubic Feet Agitator Washer With Led Touch Display, White

Product Description:
The complete line of Haier Laundry Products provides styles and features for everyone. These features include ultra-quiet operation, stainless steel tub, self-locking door, water saver, water level options, self-cleaning lint filter, delay start option, load balance system, and much, much more. Haier's Laundry category is engineered and constructed with the consumer's needs and desires in mind.

Buy Now

2/02/2011

Review of Bormioli Rocco Dedalo Decanter

I purchased this decanter as a Christmas gift and although it is designed for a Liquior container, it is going to be used as a Wine Bottle.It is the perfect size to fit on a tray with wine glasses.I loved it and so was the person that received it.It is like an antique cut glass and looks very expensive.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Bormioli Rocco Dedalo Decanter

Product Description:
The fine tradition of the Bormioli Rocco Group coincides with the very history of glass: the first glassworks was established in Parma in 1825. The company has always demonstrated a great drive to pioneer innovation: in machinery, materials and design. Over the years it has developed a special talent, that of combining time-honoured craftsmanship and the passion of master glassmakers with modern industrial processes. Bormioli Rocco is the leading company in its sector in Italy and a great ambassador of the Made in Italy label on international markets

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2/01/2011

Review of Outdoor Concrete "Pour The Wine" Tall Planter - Weathered Stone

DISAPPOINTED WITH THIS ONE.IT IS NOT DURABLE AN THE GLIDER PORTION CAME APART. HELENKA

Click Here to see more reviews about: Outdoor Concrete "Pour The Wine" Tall Planter - Weathered Stone

Product Description:
Do not allow concrete to stand in ice. Fountain bowls, shells, birdbath top, and planters must be drained then covered or overturned if left outdoors. Allowing ice to form will cause cracking and damage to the finish.

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