You can't install Vista 64-bit from a recovery disc (as far as I know), but you can install from an install disc and activate with your key.
Vista was a blip because it wasn't popular; many held out for 7, which was a big improvement. I have a collection of a dozen or so PCs, but none of them have Vista installed. (Two or three are dual boot with XP.)
I don't see desktops going away, because they can do things laptops can't.