I have a love/hate relationship with Pinot Noir. Other than Cabernet Sauvignon, there’s probably no tougher grape to find reliable versions of under $20. It’s so finicky in the vineyard that expert cultivation requires more attention to detail than a library full of Where’s Waldo. Burgundy in this price range? Forget it. Oregon Pinot at $15? Not happening. There are some good California ones to be had - Mark West is the most reliable cheap Pinot. But I find myself going back to New Zealand to find super-underrated gems. I humbly submit the 2007 Saint Clair Vicar’s Choice Pinot Noir from Marlborough as the most complex and interesting one i’ve had all year. It’s not a timid rose-water Burgundian Pinot, nor is it a super smooth raspberry California Pinot. It almost has a flavor profile more akin to Cabernet Franc. It’s one worth pondering [and definitely worth gifting]. Pick it up at Surdyk’s for $17.99.
[...] made its $10K goal and will presumably start selling us great doughnuts sometime soon, and a good locally available New Zealand pinot wine pick. » Cupcake Happy Hour at Sweets and Morning Roundup » Print Version [...]