Varietal:Â 100% Pinot Noir
Region:Â Willamette Valley – Oregon
Cost:Â $21
Winemaker’s Notes:Â This Pinot Noir was produced from twelve distinct vineyard blocks on our estate. The cooler 2010 vintage produced wines with bright aromatics and pronounced berry character accented with spice and mocha. While it’s a delicious wine now, this cool-climate Pinot Noir will age gracefully and will pair well with a wide variety of dishes.
My Review:Â On a recent trip to the wine store to pick up a bottle as a present, I noticed the 2010 Montinore Estate Pinot Noir on a rock and decided to give it a try. I’ve been a big fan of the 2009 Montinore Estate Reserve Pinot Noir, and while this bottle isn’t the reserve, I felt compelled to give it a try anyways since I’m down to my last bottle of the 2009.
In the glass the wine was a very light garnet color, easy to see through the glass to what was on the other side. On the nose I got berry and spice, mostly cherry, with a hint of tartness. In the mouth the wine was very light, with tart cherry flavors and a hint of cola on the finish as well. Paired with a dinner of chicken and potatoes the wine was a decent pairing, though it neither complimented nor contrasted against the food in any real memorable way.
I’d be lying if I said I was blown away by this wine, but neither was I disappointed in it either. For the price it’s a good wine, and I’d be interested to see it after some aging. That being said, having tried a Reserve from Montinore I’d like to try the 2010 to compare to the 2009, as I don’t think the 2010 non-reserve is a fair comparison. Still, if you’re looking for a respectable Pinot Noir, and you’re in the market for a wine made from organic grapes, which this is, it’s certainly not money wasted.
If you want to try this wine and can’t find it at your local store, follow this link and have it shipped directly to you.
