2011 Jonata The Hilt The Vanguard Pinot Noir

2011 Jonata The Hilt The Vanguard Pinot Noir

2011 The HiltBold, rich and deep wine that’s really pretty perfect.  The medium-bodied Pinot Noir offers aromas of ripe blackberry with spiced notes in the glass. Dark cherry with earthy, minty flavors on the palate with a very dry, slightly peppery finish. Could use a few more years to fully come to its absolute best.

Famed Jonata winemaker Matt Dees uses 45% new oak on this stellar Santa Barbara County Pinot Noir.

Pairings: Mushroom risotto, roasted duck or pork.

Style: Red Wine

Grape Type(s): Pinot Noir

Region: Santa Barbara County, California, USA

Price: $50

2010 Clone 5 Pinot Noir

2010 Clone 5 Pinot Noir

2010 Clone 5 Pinot NoirNice bright cherry red in the glass with equally nice and bright cherry aromas jumping out of the glass. Cherry continues on the palate but with raspberry and even strawberry present. The body is medium in heaviness with a smooth, silky mouthfeel. Finish offers a little pepper.

Nice example of Santa Barbara County Pinot Noir and perfect to uncork at a barbecue.

Pairings: Pizza, red sauced dishes, burgers.

Style: Red Wine

Grape Type(s): Pinot Noir

Region: Santa Barbara County, California, USA

Price: $20

2007 Williams Selyem Pinot Noir Central Coast

2007 Williams Selyem Pinot Noir Central Coast

2007 Williams Selyem Pinot NoirAs a huge Pinot Noir fan (and who isn’t?), I thought this 2007 Williams Selyem Pinot Noir Central Coast was pretty outstanding. It’s not easy to find, and after buying through a reputable online seller, I was eager to sip it.

In the glass, it’s a beautiful, vibrant red color. The aromas are of dark raspberries and pumpkin pie spices with some floral notes. The palate offers big, ripe cherry flavors and that silky, velvety mouthfeel other Pinots wish they could attain. The finish is long and earthy.

Pairings: Duck, turkey, grilled chicken, any mushroom-centered dish

Style: Red Wine

Grape Type(s): Pinot Noir

Region: Central Coast, CA, USA

Price: $75