Aloha oenophiles. I’m looking to get into bordeaux wines for the first time and I’m hoping for some suggestions on good wines to buy. I realize that, in the end, it’s a personal preference as to which types I will like but, at least in the beginning, I’d like to hear what other people enjoy so that I can go out and get a wide variety of bottles/tastes.
First of all, was 2000 really as good of a year as they (the vintners) make it sound?
Secondly, are the Grand Cru’s really worth it or is those just for the snobs who like to brag about drinking $500 (U.S.) bottles of wine.
Third, whats your favorite region or Chateaux? Can you describe why?
Fourth, how long should I be prepared to age them? I’m in Southern California where it’s usually too warm to keep them without some special refrigeration or storage facility. Anything that needs to be kept over 3 years could be troublesome.
Lastly, who wants to join me in tasting them? 
Thanks
(Mods: I put this here because it’s somewhat recipe/entertainment related. It this is more IMHO type stuff, then please move it, then ban me and anyone who’s glanced at this thread.)