2009 Nimbus Estate pinot noir

You can't see, through the dark green glass, the mariachi band playing next door, nor hear the sounds of all the other neighbors' Sunday afternoon barbecue parties, and then the lawn mowers whirring. Nor can you taste or see either the disappointing dinner I made -- Julia Child's potée Normande, or "French boiled dinner," gad, boiled dinners are over-rated -- or the disappointing cocktail before that. Café San Juan. Why did I waste a jigger of good rum on a drink made with coffee, ice -- and lemon?

Thank heaven the wine was good.

Retail, about $16.