). He actually liked to refer to himself as an "International Marketeer" - I kid you not! 
The irony, as you noted, was that the Portugese gentleman (in the true sense) did not mean it as anything but a matter-of-fact statement, presuming his guests knew that Mateuse Rose was sub-standard (especially given the quality of what he was serving!). The dork had no comeback, his foot was probably still in his mouth. 
Yes, a lot of the French ones are good, - and so cheap! I was amazed, after seeing them so exorbitant in Oz. There are some nice Italian ones too, at reasonable prices. The trouble with finding a wine you like is that you have to try so many bummers before you hit the jackpot! That's why I like to experiment 'cheap' first, till I get to know which winemakers to trust. I actually discovered some favourite Californian wines as a dinner guest; thank heaven our hosts had our (good?) taste.
I think I could just about make it as a probationary member of your "IWS League", couldn't I? So long as I don't say tres ordinaire to describe a mediocre wine, I could pass.
Salut,
Makera
