Varietal: Â Pinot Noir
Region: Â Monterey, California – USA
Cost: Â $15 (SRP)
Winemaker’s Notes: Â Noble Vines 667 Pinot Noir exhibits appealing aromas of black cherry, earth and a touch of vanilla. Plush tannins and balanced acidity support core flavors of ripe Bing cherry, bittersweet cocoa powder, and delicate hints of sage. Enjoy on its own or with salmon, Veal Parmesan, or grilled lamb.
My Review: Â This was one of those rare cases where I actually got to try the wine twice over an extended period of time, and then see if my initial impressions held up on the second go around thanks to a pair of the 2012 Noble Vines 667 Pinot Noirs showing up at my house. Having tried the first bottle a few weeks back, it was time to open the second.
In the glass the wine was what I at least refer to as typical Pinot Noir – a light shade of red that most people would refer to as garnet. On the nose I picked up dark cherry notes and a touch of vanilla, while in the mouth the wine was smooth, with more notes of cherry and a subtle tartness on the finish.
Thanks to being balanced and versatile, this wine was a great pairing with a dinner that involved a table full of munchies and finger foods, including cheese and crackers, hummus with carrots, celery, and pita chips, and meatballs cooked up in some teriyaki sauce.
For the price point ($15) you can do a lot worse, and in fact I’ve spent more on a bottle of Pinot Noir that I didn’t find to be any better, and in some cases, a lot worse. There are, of course, other budget Pinots that outshine this one, but it is by no means a wine that I’d shy away from, nor that I would recommend somebody avoid when wandering down the aisle of their local store.
A good wine to share with friends or to open up at home either while you’re cooking or with dinner.
Editors Note: I received this wine as a free sample for review.
