By Lou Phillips ·
The Mysterious Dr. Vin with the Romanée-Conti priced around $30,000 ·
For more than a century, the title of World’s Most Coveted and expensive wine was held by the revered reds of Bordeaux. But a new sheriff has rolled into town by the name of Pinot Noir. Hailing from Burgundy, top Pinots command more than $10,000 per bottle, and even in California and Oregon, being on the list for the privilege of purchasing the best and most expensive Pinots is today’s Holy Grail for wine trophy hunters.
All this Pinot buzz seems like an invitation to put Pinots from top regions to the taste test and decide if they live up to the hype.
The Good Times Wine Crew did just that, but instead of giving our 2-cents we decided to provide brief descriptions of the typical styles of each region, and so you don’t have to break the bank, we suggest Pinot Noirs between $15 and $25 for your own Judgment of Pinot Party.
The Navarro Crew are, from left, Ted Bennett, Deborah Cahn, and Sarah and Aaron Bennett ·
Let’s start in the Russian River Valley where Siduri Winery winemaker Adam Lee makes classic Pinots that deliver bright cherry, berry cola flavors and refined tannins typical of the region.
California’s new Pinot hot-spot is Anderson Valley in Mendocino. These wines are usually a cross between California and Oregon, having the up-front fruit of the former and restrained texture of the latter. Navarro Vineyards has been the domain of non-reformed hippies Ted Bennett and Deborah Cahn since the 70s and their Pinot is a valley classic that adds a compelling spicy component.
Maysara’s Jamsheed bottling typifies Pinot from the Willamette Valley of Oregon, which are known for black fruit profiles, forest-floor aromas, medium body and lighter color extraction. Maysara is also a leader in sustainable viticulture having been committed to organic practices from day one.
Another newcomer to the Pinot party is New Zealand, which lies at the southernmost latitudes for wine production. This location boasts a cool climate, which is a major factor in their ability to produce Pinots of distinction. These are bold wines that feature up-front fruit, crisp acidity and bright mineral notes. Jules Taylor produces a nice version from Marlborough.
The Former Champ – Bordeaux ·
Classic Burgundies feature fresh cherry and plum fruit, earthy/mushroom aromas, minerality and savory flavors. While top-quality levels such as Grand and Premier Cru Burgundies can reach the stratosphere in prices, there are wines at the regional level, labeled simply Bourgogne or with Village Names that are of good quality such as the offerings of Domaine Faiveley.
Hopefully, you have learned some things about wine history and economics, as well as about Pinot Noir regions and styles. But more importantly, I hope you accept the Pinot Party call to action. So download the movie “Sideways” and become your own Pinot geniuses.
Lou Phillips is a Level 3 Advanced Sommelier and his consulting business WineProwest.com assists in the selling, buying and managing wine collections. He may be reached at (775) 544-3435 or lou@wineprowest.com. Visit TheTahoeWeekly.com for more wine columns.
