30 All-American Pinot Noirs
BY THE EDITORS OF WINE ENTHUSIAST
CLOCKWISE: WILLIAMS SELYEM 2017 PINOT NOIR (SONOMA COUNTY); ROAR 2017 SIERRA MAR VINEYARD PINOT NOIR (SANTA LUCIA HIGHLANDS); GARY FARRELL 2016 LANCEL CREEK VINEYARD PINOT NOIR (RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY); SIDURI 2017 PINOT NOIR (SANTA BARBARA COUNTY); JOYCE 2017 SUBMARINE CANYON PINOT NOIR (MONTEREY); AND MACROSTIE 2016 PINOT NOIR (RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY) / PHOTO BY SARA LITTLEJOHN
The lightest and most ethereal of the noble red grapes, as well as one of the most fickle and demanding in the vineyard, Pinot Noir has always been a darling of the wine world. From its spiritual home in Burgundy, France, to the variety of New World wine regions that have eagerly adopted the grape with tremendous success, it has a global reputation for producing some of the world’s greatest wines.
But Pinot Noir has seen seriously impressive growth within the United States, both in acreage and adoration. With more than 65,000 acres grown across the country, it’s now the third most planted wine grape, behind Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, respectively.
While commonly light to medium in body and marked by red fruit and earthy characteristics, wines made from Pinot Noir can exhibit a fairly wide range of aromas, textures and flavors. New World bottlings tend to be a bit more fruit-driven than their Old World brethren, with rich berry sensations that are framed by a plush yet silky mouthfeel and additional notes of sweet oak and baking spice.
The 30 wines highlighted here, all of which offer high quality for the price and are ready to drink now, will start you on the path to American Pinot bliss.
Joyce 2017 Submarine Canyon Pinot Noir (Monterey); $25, 93 points. This is a great entry-level wine from Russell Joyce, starting with aromas of candied Bing cherry, earthy forest floor and umami-laced shiitake mushrooms. The palate is bright and snappy with raspberry, marjoram, bay leaf and pine needle flavors, framed by taut tannins and brilliant acidity. Editors’ Choice. —M.K.
Read the full article here: https://www.winemag.com/2019/06/19/30-all-american-pinot-noirs/