Chapter 53

It was a Chateau d’Armailhac Pauillac 2005.

“That’s an expensive bottle,” Jackie said. “According to the sign, Robert Parker gave it a ninety-three.”

“Robert Parker?” Crystal said.

“Robert Parker is just about the most influential wine critic in the country, if not the world,” Andy said. “He rates wine on a hundred-point scale, and he’s not noted for being overgenerous with scores above ninety.”

“Let’s try it,” Crystal said, “and I’ll pay for it.”

“Honey,” Jackie said, “you ply these folks with free wine of that quality, and they’ll follow you anywhere.”

Which was exactly what Crystal had in mind.

Crystal carried the wine to the counter, and the bottle was opened. By that time, three more people had joined us. The wine was carefully divided into equal-sized pours, and we all sniffed and took a sip.

“Oh, God,” Andy said, “that is wonderful.”

“What about you, George?” Crystal asked, microphone extended.