Cogill Wine and Film: A Perfect Pairing

The Cogill's appear perplexed by writer, and director Noah Baumbach's expensive, absurdist comedy set in the 1980s. Sometimes it works, but more often, it doesn't.As escapist fare, Hayley and Gary finally get around to watching Brad Pitt in, “Bullet Train” and enjoyed both the ability to laugh and be entertained by an off-the-rails Japanese mafia movie traveling at high speed.Sommelier, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, forgoes her wine expertise and pairs “White Noise" with the satirical bombardment of well-known brands and products continually flashing across the screen.For “Bullet Train,” she indulges in a well-known bottle of “Fiji Water” because it not only tastes good but becomes an intentional, well-defined character in Pitt's action movie.And finally, film critic, Gary Cogill, embraces the melancholy sadness of “The Whale,” and welcomes the return of Brendan Fraser to the big screen with an Oscar-worthy performance.

The Cogill's are slightly split on, “The Banshees Of Inisherin” considering the dark path the movie decides to take, including the removal of fingers over a silly rule. Like it or not, it's a movie filled with Oscar nominations.“The Menu" only pretends to be a film about food, when it's actually a dark sided horror film about a famous Chef who takes revenge on his tasteless patrons. Film critic, Gary Cogill, praises the performances but loathes the ending.Sommelier, Hayley Hamilton Cogill,” reminds us of her girls trip across Ireland which included the perfect, “Banshees,” pairing. A locally poured, Guinness Stout.For “The Menu,” our favorite Somm looked closely at the wine served in the film and spotted a beautiful bottle of Domaine Breton Cabernet Franc, from the stunning Loire Valley in France

The Cogill's love a good destination murder mystery and “Glass Onion, A Knives Out Mystery” is perfect example of style, substance, and cinematic flairThey also can't get enough of Jennifer Coolidge in, “White Lotus: Season 2,” who recites one of the greatest lines in recent  memory.Sommelier, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, recalls her trip to Santorini, Greece and can easily envision Kate Hudson sitting poolside drinking a refreshing Sigalas Assyrtiko.For the “White Lotus” pairing it's a beautiful Malvasia from Salina in the northwestern part of Sicily. 

The Cogill's believe “The Menu” is a well-made, well-acted, yet slightly disappointing thriller about a maniacal chef who knows all too much about his patrons.“Tar” could win Cate Blanchette her third Oscar in a great performance about a troubled Symphony conductor about to go through some things.Sommelier Hayley Hamilton Cogill expertly tackles “The Menu” with an expensive, highly renowned, bold Napa Valley red wine from Realm Winery called “The Absurd.”Hayley goes to Germany for the complicated, calculated “Tar” and pairs with an austere, lean, focused, slightly bitter Riesling from Mosel. 

“Avatar: The Way Of Water” is technically one of the best movies ever made, says film critic, Gary Cogill. A three hour marvel of cinematic magic.“Babylon” is an Oscar level film of excess and decadence, says The Cogill's, who appreciated its dazzling "all in” style of film making.Sommelier, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, pairs the new brilliant “Avatar" film with a sparkling, refreshing, bottled water from France called, “Badoit.”Hayley also offers insight into the old Hollywood world of “Babylon” by pouring a unique selection from the Prisoner Wine Company called “Eternally Silenced.”

The Cogill's are highly enthusiastic about Steven Spielberg's autobiographical, Oscar-contending film, “The Fabelmans,” which emulates the legendary director as a young boy growing up wide-eyed about the movie-making experience.“Women Talking” is a difficult true story told with honesty and eloquence about a religious community of women terrorized and abused by the men in their lives. Writer/ Director Sarah Polley has created a top-ten film that is well-written and acted while packing an unflinching punch.Sommelier, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, raises a memorable glass of wine to, “The Fabelmans,  with a captivating, historical wine from Beringer Vineyards, Beringer Knights Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.And, with “Women Talking,” Hayley toasts the female winemakers of Rias Baixas, Spain a region run by the strength of women, where over 50% of the winemakers are female.

The Cogill's celebrate "Blank Panther: Wakanda Forever” for it's thoughtful, respectful tribute to the late Chadwick Boseman.Film Critic, Gary Cogill, calls out the Oscar level performances of Carey Mulligan and Zoe Katan as Pulitzer Prize winning journalists on the predatory trail of movie mogul, Harvey Weinstein, in “She Said.”Sommelier Hayley Hamilton Cogill pairs "Wakanda Forever” with a Mcbride Sisters Collection Reserve Pinot Noir aptly labeled, “Cocky Mother*cker.”And in the spirit of, “She Said,” Hayley raises a glass of "King Street Vodka” created by actress Kate Hudson, who has been an outspoken voice for women's rights.  

The Cogill's are technically fascinated by the one take movie from England called, “Boiling Point.” A serious drama about a chef, his restaurant, his messy lifestyle, and the one night where he almost lost everything.Hayley & Gary can't say enough about the latest season of “Chefs Table” on Netflix and its six part examination of pizza from around the world. You have never seen pizza, like you see in this series.Sommelier Hayley Hamilton Cogill calls the shots and says pairing any alcohol with “Boiling Point” would be inappropriate.For "Chefs Table: Pizza" she turns to legendary Oregon wine maker, David Adelsheim and his beautiful "Breaking Ground" Pinot Noir.

The Cogill's love everything about Viola Davis playing a real life Africa warrior in, “The Woman King.” A film about female strength, wisdom, and skill.They can't say the same for Zach Efron's new film about a beer-drinking buddy who travels to Vietnam to share a brew with his buddies in “The Greatest Beer Run Ever.”Sommelier Hayley Hamilton Cogill pairs “The Woman King” with the Queen of wines, a Barbaresco from Piemonte.And for “The Greatest Beer Run Ever,” the couple toasts the feature libation, the historic beer from Milwaukee used in the film, Pabst Blue Ribbon.

The Cogill's are fans of writer/director Jordan Peele (Get Out) and found his latest film, Nope,” to be both a Cowboy/Sci Fi spectacle as well as a thought-provoking piece of social commentary.“House Of The Dragon” is the HBO prequel to the award-winning series, “Game Of Thrones,” dating back 200 years. Good acting, plenty of Dragons, and a fascinating female lead have kept the Cogills more than interested.Sommelier, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, pairs the cowboy-minded “Nope” with a wine labeled “The Walking Fool” from Suisun Valley. A red blend based on an 1881 Howell Mountain homesteader who walked down the mountain daily to find work.For “House Of The Dragon,” Hayley settles on a wine called “Dragon's Tooth,” from the Trefethen family honoring family matriarch, Catherine Trefethen.

The Cogill's enjoyed the enlightened West Texas dark comedy, Vengeance, from writer/director B.J. Novak. Especially when the gun-happy family from the red state makes their weekly trip to Whataburger.“Pinocchio” is back in both live action and CGI, starring Tom Hanks as Gepetto and directed by Oscar winner Robert Zemeckis. It is a visual dazzler, but the Cogill's considered it an overall mess of a movie.Sommelier, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, pairs the Texas-based film with a bottle of the 2018 vintage "1836 Red” from one of the oldest Texas wineries, Llano Estacado, as nod to the independence of their former home state.And for the pine puppet who dreams of becoming a real boy, Hayley suggests the well-known Greek wine, Restina, a pine-infused still wine beloved in the country but takes some getting used to.

The Cogill's are slightly confused about a wild movie that travels through time and space but ends up re-affirming the relationship between a mother and daughter. Michelle Yeoh stars in, “Everything Everywhere All At Once.”“Neat: The Story of Bourbon" has the Cogill's tasting a corn based spirit made only in America. What started in Kentucky is now in every state with it's own unique flavors and traits.Sommellier, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, pairs “Everywhere” with water from the Colorado River as a lesson to everyone that you can't take this precious liquid for granted.And for Bourbon, it's a quick trip to Texas where locally made Bourbon is on the rise and doing it's best to share the stage with its Kentucky rivals.

The Cogill's are hooked from the opening scene onward, and appreciate the important message of inclusion that infuses the R-rated Sci-Fi thriller, “Prey.”And, Oscar-winner Jeff Bridges displays some serious hand to hand combat as an aging CIA operative trying to stay alive for his daughter in the new Hulu series, “The Old Man.” Sommelier, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, pairs “Prey” with a wine from the first Native American winemaker, Tara Gomez. The wine is named “Camins 2 Dreams,” and when you see “Prey,” you will connect the dots.And for “The Old Man,” Hayley toasts the established old vines of Brandlin Estate.

The Cogill's raise a glass to Hulu and that it's new series based on a fine dining chef and a troubled Chicago sandwich shop called “The Bear.” Gary Cogill says the 8 episode season is one of the more rewarding offerings currently streaming. And, Steve Martin is back with Martin Short and Selena Gomez solving the mysteries that keep happening in their their famous New York City apartment building in Season 2 of “Only Murders In The Building.”Sommelier, Hayley  Hamilton Cogill pairs “The Bear” with a Cabernet Sauvignon  from the bear flag state called, Anakota. And with the award winning “Only Murders in The Building” Hayley recommends "The Unteachables" from Paso Robles winery Chronic Cellars, known for making "killer wines.

The Cogill's take us to France in the pre-revolution late 1700's when the first "fine dining" restaurant was established in the French countryside. The subject of a new well-made, mouth-watering film called, “Delicious.”Sommelier, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, feels it only right to pair a delicious French film with a delicious French wine, a Cabernet Franc from the Chinon region of the Loire Valley.Them it's off to Santa Barbara for wine tasting, and music, as the Cogill's celebrate Fathers by visiting the wineries of Hilt and Brewer-Clifton before taking their seats outdoors, under the stars at the historic Santa Barbara Bowl for a night of music featuring Lyle Lovett and Chris Isaak.

The Cogill's are excited and often inspired by the new Baz Lurhmann directed bio pic, “Elvis,” starring Austin Butler in the title role, which film-critic, Gary Cogill, believes may have Oscar potential.And an unexpected surprise movie has film-critic, Gary Cogill, smiling as he talks about writer, director, and star Cooper Raiff, and his good natured film called, “Cha Cha Real Smooth.”Sommelier, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, pairs “Elvis” with JCB “The Surrealist,” a flamboyant, bedazzled, luxurious Napa Valley offering from Jean Charles Boisset.For “Cha Cha,” Hayley pairs the unexpected gem of a film with a small production Sauvignon Blanc from Jonata Winery's Ballard Canyon, Santa Ynez Valley estate called, Flor (Flower).

The Cogill's admit, it's time to put an end to the "Jurassic Park" film series even though film critic Gary Cogill says the middle section of the latest film is better than expected.To honor America's WWII veterans, The Cogill's sing the praises of a new documentary narrated by Gary Sinise that centers around a reunion of flight over the beaches of Normandy during the 75th Anniversary of D Day. The film is called “Into Flight Once More.”Sommelier, Hayley Hamilton Cogill pairs “Jurassic World: Dominion” with a big bold "carnivorous" Argentine Syrah, pairing with a juicy steak and slow smoked brisket. The duo also sings the praises of Benovia Winery Co-Founder, Joe Anderson, not only for his luscious Russian River Valley wine, but his devotion to honoring those men and women who served in WWII.

The Cogills present a fascinating new documentary from director, Ron Howard, that examines the worldwide mission of Chef Jose Andresto provide chef-prepared meals to communities impacted by natural disasters and during prolonged humanitarian crises.World Central Kitchen is the remarkable nonprofit and “We Feed People” is the name of the film currently available on Disney+.Sommelier, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, toasts Washington State ultra-premium winery, Quilceda Creek, producing high end wines that raise money to benefit World Central KitchenIn its enormous humanitarian efforts, recently to the tune of over $300,000.  She also introduces us to some of the top wineries focusing on ending the climate crisis the world is facing, including Lail Vineyards, Symington, and Jackson Family Wines. 

Top Gun: Maverick” produced a record opening weekend for Tom Cruise as the Cogill's take a closer look at the hit sequel and decide if it's actually a better film than the 1986 original.Sommelier, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, goes high-flying with one of the most expensive wines on the planet, a tiny production Napa Valley winery with a cult following. One of the most expensive wines in the world, crafting only 500 cases a year.

The Cogill's celebrate the life and times off actor, Stanley Tucci, currently in his second season hosting the Emmy Award winning Series on CNN, “Stanley Tucci: Searching For Italy.”From "Big Night” and “The Devi Wears Prada” to “Julie & Julia” and “The Hunger Games,” Stanley Tucci remains a welcome addition to the food and travel genre.Wine Expert Hayley Hamilton Cogill celebrates the Italian-American actor with a Barolo made from 100% Nebbiolo, and emphasizes her love of white wines from the elevated altitude of Alto Adige in far Northwestern Italy.

The Cogill's return to toasting wine and film, sharing a little more about their perfect pairing, including surviving Covid, their dramatic move from the Big Island to Corona Del Mar, with brief but remarkable stops in New York City, Sonoma, Willamette Valley, and Waco, Texas.Welcome back to the world of film, wine, and food.

The Cogill’s return just in time for the 93rd Annual Academy Awards to discuss the nominees for Best Picture, Director, Actor, Actress and Screenplay. From Frances McDormand to Chadwick Boseman, from Viola Davis to Borat, it’s a free for all of nominated performances and films unlike any year in the past. Wine Expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, lights up the conversation with a Magnum of Piper Heidsieck bubbly, explores EGOT winner John Legend and his LVE Rose, and celebrates a fabulous year for women in film with wines from Kathryn Hall’s WALT winery, and Domaine Carneros. Add a bottle of 8 Years In The Desert by Orin Swift, and you have a wine and film pairing fit for an Oscar watch party. It’s Oscar time, let's celebrate! Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

It’s getting closer to Oscar time and The Cogill’s are talking about this years nominations including Brad Pitt in “Once Upon A Time In Hollywood” and Joaquin Phoenix in “Joker.” Film critic, Gary Cogill, is ecstatic South Korean director Bong Joon-Ho is nominated along side Martin Scorsese and Quentin Tarantino for Best Director. Wine expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, sings the praises of ZD Winery as they celebrate their 50th anniversary including the new release of the uber-premium, multi-vintage “Abacus” Cabernet Sauvignon

The Cogill’s are giddy over Tarantino’s “Once Upon A Time In Hollywood" and the performances by Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt. A movie with Ten Oscar nominations including Best Picture. Equally impressive and heavily creepy is the Oscar-nominated film from South Korea called “Parasite” from acclaimed director Bong Joon-Ha.  Wine expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, pairs Tarantino’s triumph with wines from Frank Family Vineyards and owner, Rich Frank, who got his start in Hollywood before moving to Napa.  Going against the norm of his country, South Korea Businessman, Hi Sang Lee developed a fascination with Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon which resulted in the incredibly delicious wines of Dana Estates and Vaso Cellars.

The Cogill’s are enthusiastic about, “Ford V Ferrari,” calling it one of the best films of the year featuring Oscar level performances and a fascinating true story. Film critic Gary Cogill says, “it reminded me of “The Right Stuff" but with cars.” The Southern California sound of the 1960’s is the subject of an enlighted musical documentary called, “Echo In The Canyon,” with Jakob Dylan exploring the early days of The Beach Boys, The Byrds, Buffalo Springfield, and The Mama’s And The Papa’s.”  Wine expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, pairs the high speed racing film with Adelsheim’s racy “Staking Claim” Chardonnay because both wine maker and car maker broke out of the norm to change their industry, changing the course of history.  Hayley also explores the delicious Soter Mineral Springs Pinot Noir for musical reasons that include a trip to Oregon to drink wine and see “Crosby Stills & Nash" perform live.  And, as the holidays are upon us, both the Cardonnay from Adelsheim and Soter's incredible Pinot Noir are perfect pairings for Thanksgiving. Happy Turkey Day!

“Rocketman” leaps off the screen, delivering a better film than “Bohemian Rhapsody," says The Cogill’s who loved the music, the dance numbers, and the story telling of the life and times of Elton John. “Aladdin” is better than expected,” says film critic, Gary Cogill, starring Will Smith as the fast talking, musical minded, big blue genie. Wine expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, pairs “Rocketman” with the Rock Block wines of Cliff Lede in Napa's Stags Leap District, which is currently showcasing a backstage winery experience featuring the art of Elton John’s lyricist, Bernie Taupin. For “Aladdin,” Hayley celebrates the historical wines of Armenia, including Zorah Wines, named by Bloomberg in 2012 as one of the best wines in the world.

The Cogill’s agree,"Long Shot,” is an elevated comedy starring Seth Rogan and Charlize Theron as opposites attracted to each other despite the divisive backdrop of presidential politics.  “Wine Country” on Netflix uses Napa as the location for a girls week-end starring Amy Poeler and Tina Fey. A comedy that made the Cogill’s giggle. Wine expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, pairs the Charlize Theron romantic comedy with a Gerard Betrand Cremant clearly connected to history and politics.  For “Wine Country,” Hayley recalls her recent trip to Sonoma, attending Signature Sonoma Valley, toasting the oldest wine region in Northern California, and the state’s first working winery, Buena Vista in 1857.

The Cogill’s agree, “Avengers: Endgame,” is a touching, well-made time travel spectacle that earns it’s place in history as the crowning achievement in the Marvel film series.  Wine expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, raises a glass of earth friendly Benziger Family Wines to the earth saving “Avengers” toasting their focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility. Then it’s on to the movie minded city of Waxahachie, and the "Crossroads Of Texas Film & Music Festival," where Duchman Wines and Deep Eddy Vodka set the stage for cowboy hats, cinema, and the great Ray Wylie Hubbard.

The Cogill’s are highly disappointed in the new Netflix action film, “Triple Threat,” starring Ben Affleck, Charlie Hunnam, and Oscar Issac. A macho minded firepower movie that takes place in South America where the lead characters would rather shoot first and ask questions later. Then it’s off to Argentina for The Cogill’s and the Mendoza wine region where the Malbecs are smooth and the wineries nestle comfortably near the base of the Andes mountains.

The Cogill’s enjoyed Brie Larson as “Captain Marvel” for it’s message of female empowerment but felt slightly underwhelmed overall. “Good but not great,” says film critic Gary Cogill. Wine expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, pairs the big budget comic book hero with Aluvé Wine from former fighter pilot Kelly Minozzi and “Primo Volo” from Walla Walla. The Cogill’s are also trying to wrap their head around the compelling two part HBO documentary, “Leaving Neverland,” which focuses on the life and times of two young boys and their alleged sexual relationship with the late Michael Jackson. A disturbing, well-made film that challenges the past as the boys are now grown men In their 30’s and 40’s wanting to set the record straight.

The Cogill’s agree Willem Dafoe deserved his Oscar nomination for playing artist Vincent Van Gogh in “At Eternity’s Gate.” The "Wine & Film" couple also sing the praises of two-time Oscar winner Mahershala Ali and Georgia actor Stephen Dorf in HBO’s “True Detective.” Wine expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, takes us to Provence where Van Gogh often painted and pairs with a luscious bottle of Mas de la Dame Rose. And, as March is "National Women Month” Hayley celebrates the Chloe Wine Collection and their current partnership with “Women In Film."

The Cogill’s travel over the Andes mountains from Santiago, Chile to the magnificent wine country of Mendoza, Argentina where they encounter a magical week of cooking over open flames, large cuts of beef, tasty bottles of Malbec, and some of the finest lodging in the world. From "The Vines Resort & Spa” and a Francis Mallman signature restaurant to “Cavas Wine Lodge” nestled in the foothills of the Andes mountains, it’s a trip to remember and you are invited.

Film critic, Gary Cogill, takes a look at the recent 2019 Oscar nominations and offers up a few thoughts on why some were left out (Bradley Cooper for directing), why some are deserving (Regina King), and why some are a sure thing (Alfonso Cuaron). While Hayley is away on assignment, Gary spends the entire time talking movies and even offers up a wine suggestion from WineAccess.com. It’s movie time and you are invited.

“The Favourite” is a bawdy, irreverent Oscar contender that takes place in 18th century England surrounding the life of the troubled, Queen Anne. Film critic, Gary Cogill, calls “Widows” an overlooked yet elevated heist movie led by Oscar winner, Viola Davis. Wine expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, pairs “The Favourite” with Bordeaux as the royal courts of England slurped fine French wine, often while being at war the France. Hayley also fondly pays tribute to widower Dave Miner and his “Emily’s” Cabernet Sauvignon named after his late wife. A portion of the proceeds of the wine sales goes to fighting lung cancer through the V Foundation.

Is “Roma” the best film of the year? Film critic, Gary Cogill, calls it a masterwork and a memory poem in black and white that takes place in Mexico City during the 1970’s. The Cogill’s rave about, “Mary Poppins Returns,” starring Emily Blunt and the smiling creator of "Hamilton.” Wine expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, pairs the magnificent “Roma,” with one of her favorite Napa Valley wines, Mi Sueño, with deep roots tied to rural Mexico. “Mary Poppins Returns” get a "surprise pairing" that might have something to do with the films co-star Lyn Manuel Miranda.

 “If Beale Street Could Talk” is a beautiful, Oscar-caliber film says, the Cogill's, examining love and racism in the 1970s from the director of “Moonlight.” Film critic, Gary Cogill, embraces the slow but respectful independent rodeo film, “The Rider,” which features a remarkable cast of non-actors telling their own personal life story. Wine expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, pairs the golden tone of “Beale” with liquid gold from Far Niente and their much-loved dessert wine, “Dolce.” For “The Rider,” she saddles up to passion and perseverance with a bottle of Parducci’s “True Grit” Petite Sirah.   

The Cogills discuss two films that center around parents, children, and making difficult choices. Both films starring Lucas Hedges. In “Ben Is Back” Julia Roberts plays the worried mother of a teenage son addicted to drugs who makes a surprise visit home from rehab. Film critic, Gary Cogill, calls the drama well-acted but not quite complete. “Boy Erased” has the Cogills talking about the true story of an Arkansas Pastor and his wife (Nicole Kidman, Russell Crowe) who send their 19 year old son to “Conversion Therapy” when they discover he is gay. The illogical nonsense of “praying away the gay” makes for a lively conversation and a film that is easily the best of the two. Wine expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, entertains the idea that you can taste the world through a good glass of wine. From Greece and Spain to Argentina and Uruguay, the wine regions and cultures of the world come alive in a glass of wine if you take the time to discover what’s inside the bottle. #everyglassisanadventure 

"Mary Queen Of Scots” might look great on the surface but the film lacks in depth and character-development, forcing the Cogill’s to call it, “a big disappointment.” Wine expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, improves the film experience by pairing the historical drama with Domain Carneros Cuvee de la Pompadour Brut Rose, named in honor of French King Louis XV’s great paramour, Madame de la Pompadour. Sake expert, Edwardo Dingler, joins The Cogill’s to chat about what goes into making the Japanese favorite using four key ingredients.

“Vice” is a scathing, well-made, political satire says film critic, Gary Cogill, offering Oscar caliber performances by Christian Bale as former Vice President Dick Chaney and Amy Adams as his wife, Lynne Chaney. The Cogill’s love the new International cooking competition series on Netflix called, “The Final Table,” because it respects and celebrates some of the finest chefs on the planet being judged by their remarkable peers. Wine expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, pairs “Vice” with wines from Ladera Vineyards, and a story that begins on a ranch in Big Sky Country but ends up on a steep slope in Napa created by Pat & Anne Stotesbery. Hayley also recommends some specific wine pairings that will light up your holiday table whether it’s seafood, beef, duck, or turkey. Tis the season.

“Roma” is masterwork and a contender for the best film of the year, says film critic Gary Cogill, calling it a memory poem in black and white that takes place in Mexico City during the 1970’s. The Cogill’s rave about, “Mary Poppins Returns,” starring Emily Blunt and the smiling creator of "Hamilton.” Wine expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, pairs the magnificent “Roma,” with one of her favorite Napa Valley wines, Mi Sueno, with deep roots tied to rural Mexico. “Mary Poppins Returns” get a "surprise pairing" that might have something to do with the films co-star Lyn Manuel Miranda.

The Cogill’s find “The Favourite” a sometimes shocking but consistently well-made Oscar contender that takes place in 18th century England surrounding the life of the troubled, Queen Anne. Film critic, Gary Cogill, calls “Widows” an elevated, scary heist movie led by an all star cast, including Oscar winner, Viola Davis. Wine expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, pairs “The Favourite” with Bordeaux as the royal courts of England slurped fine French wine, often while being at war the France. Hayley also fondly pays tribute to widower Dave Miner and his “Emily’s” Cabernet Sauvignon named after his late wife. A portion of the proceeds of the wine sales goes to fighting lung cancer through the V Foundation.

The Cogill’s agree “Beautiful Boy” is a beautifully made film about a father doing his best to deal with a drug addicted son starring Steve Carell and Timothee Chalamet .  Film critic, Gary Cogill, sings the praises of “Green Book, telling the true story about a 1960’s road trip through the segregated south, starring Mahershala Ali and Viggo Mortensen. Wine expert Hayley Hamilton Cogill pairs “Beautiful Boy” with Jeremy Nickel’s “The Vineyard House” Cabernet, and “Green Book” with Mac McDonald and his celebrated “Vision Cellars” Pinot Noir.

The Cogill’s discuss Hugh Jackman as Gary Hart in “The Front Runner,” alongside a serious Oscar level performance by Melissa McCarthy in “Can You Ever Forgive Me,” and a new Coen brothers western called “The Ballad Of Buster Scruggs.” Wine Expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, pairs the 1987 Gary Hart scandal with “The Snitch” Chardonnay and McCarthy’s fine performance with “Eternally Silenced” Pinot Noir, two wines under the tasty umbrella of Prisoner Wine Company.  To pair with the Coen brothers six part western Hayley goes all the way back to the 1800’s with California’s Murrieta’s Well, pairing “The Spur."

“The Outlaw King” stars Chris Pine as legendary Scottsman Robert The Bruce and The Cogill’s love the idea that feature films of this caliber are premiering on line (Netflix) the same time they open in theaters. Wine expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, celebrates her Scottish heritage with an aged blended Scotch whiskey, Chevis Regal 25 Year. Hayley also offers up an enlighten list of wines that go well with your Thanksgiving feast. All of them tried and true.

The Cogill’s agree, “Bohemian Rhasody” was better than expected and features not only one of the best endings of the year but one of the years finest performances by Rami Malek as Freddy Mercury, the late lead singer of the British rock band “Queen.” Wine expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, pairs with Cliff Lede Vineyards "rock blocks" vineyards, growing premium Stags Leap Cabernet Sauvignon fruit and aptly named "Bohemian Rhapsody". Also, on the Cogill's recent trip to Napa Hayley talks with legendary wine maker, Robin Lail, walking away inspired. Then it’s a memorable tasting at “Promontory” Winery where the wine, and the winery, are as good as it gets

One of the biggest art heists in history has The Cogill’s scratching their heads at the sheer stupidity of the young robbers involved in the film, “American Animals.” "French Laundry" in Napa Valley experienced one of the largest wine heists in 2014. It is still being talked about today, considering a half million dollars in rare wine was stolen, and the two culprits were caught and sentenced. But were they the only ones in on the scheme? Wine expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, has a few “movie” questions for her husband, and film critic Gary Cogill wants to dig deeper into Hayley’s world of wine. It’s a generous case of, "He Said, She Said." 

Film critic, Gary Cogill, says the new “Halloween” fright flick starring Jamie Leigh Curtis is a well made film and the best since the 1978 original. Wine expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, pairs the elevated slasher film with a dark wine from Argentina called, Alma Negra, which means “Black Soul” in Spanish. Gary also recalls the scariest movies he has ever seen from “The Changeling,”and “Picnic At Hanging Rock,” to “The Exorcist,” while Hayley intentifiy’s a number of affordable spooky labels on wine bottles (Chronic Cellars, Rabble Red, Apothic Dark) that might be just right for your upcoming Halloween party.

“First Man” is a first rate, Oscar caliber film says, The Cogill’s, admiring the introspective approach to telling the personal story of astronaut Neil Armstrong, the first man to step foot on the surface of the moon. Wine Expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, says if you want to explore the early days of the Texas wine industry you might start with Dr. Clinton McPherson, the "first man" to plant Sangivese in Texas cotton farming country. And finally, The Cogill’s mourn the loss of chef turned adventure traveler, Anthony Bordain. From "Les Halles" to "Kitchen Confidential" to "Parts Unknown," it was a life lived with wide eyed wonder.

The Cogill’s welcome the return of the series “Chef’s Table” on Netflix highlighting Chef Cristina Martinez of the acclaimed Philadelphia Mexican restaurant, “South Philly Barbacoa,” and one of the leaders of Spain’s culinary avant-garde scene, Albert Adria, formerly of "El Bulli.” Wine expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, pairs Adria's culinary brilliance with one of her wine travel highlights, recalling a trip to Spain hunting for tuffles and drinking the wines of Beronia and Secastilla Film Critic, Gary Cogill, says “Free Solo” is a thrilling, Oscar contending film about an attempt to climb the face of El Capitan in Yosemite without ropes. Hayley takes us to the high altitude terrain of Alto Adige, Italy where spectacular wines are grown on soaring slopes at high elevations at the base of the Dolomite Mountains

The Cogill’s agree, “A Star Is Born,” is an early Oscar contender with stand out performances by Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga. A beautifully made romantic punch to the gut that soars with great music and top notch directing. Wine expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, pairs Gaga’s version of “La Vie En Rose” in the film with a juicy, aromatic Chateau Roubine 2017 La Vie En Rose’ from Provence. Film critic Gary Cogill sings the praises of the award-winning documentary, “Science Fair,” which follows a group of intelligent, nervous teenagers competing in ISEF, the worlds’ most prestigious science and engineering event. His failed science project attempt in high school makes him appreciate the mind of these inspiring kids that much more.

“Won’t You Be My Neighbor” is an Oscar contending documentary says, The Cogill’s, exploring the life and times of the iconic children’s tv host, Mr. Rogers. Kindness, generosity, and love are the major themes in one of the finest films of the year. Wine expert, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, pairs with wineries who generously give back to society including Napa Valley’s Ca Momi, Columbia Winery in Washington, and California's Mountain Winery.  The Cogill’s also recall their childhood viewing favorites including, "Mr. Rogers", “Easter Parade,” “West Side Story”, “King Kong" and NBC soap operas.