Pinot Noir’s light tannins and berry flavors pair well with roasted pork, other light meats, and heavier fish like salmon.

There are many Pinot Noirs (and French Red Burgundies, made with 100% Pinot Noir grapes) for under $20, even many under $10. But finding a Pinot Noir that is representative of the variety for under $20 can be a challenge.

One of our favorite and affordable Pinot Noirs is by Sebastiani. From the Sonoma Coast, their 2007 is made from 100% Pinot Noir and is a multi-vineyard blend which creates fruit-forward wines “with richness and complexity”. It has fresh cherry flavors with hints of maraschino cherries and “hints of oriental spice, vanilla and mocha”. The color is rich crimson. The grapes were cold-soaked before crushing to prevent tearing, keeping the tannins low for early drinkability. It was aged in Hungarian and French oak barrels for 5 months, giving it hints of toasty oak flavors. Alcohol is 13.5% by volume.

The current PLCB sale price is $12.99, but supplies are running low so check the PLCB Web site or call your local store to check availability. When you find it, ask them to hold it for you and go now! The PLCB product code is 004985.

If you would prefer trying a Pennsylvania winery Pinot Noir, as we often do, Pinnacle Ridge Winery north of Kutztown, Manatawny Creek Winery outside of Douglassville, Vynecrest Winery near Breinigsville and Blair Vineyards outside of Mertztown all carry excellent Pinot Noirs at or under $20. And you can taste and make sure they suit your tastes before purchasing them.

For more information on Pinot Noir, go to the Vintage Connections blog site at
http://vintageconnectionswineinfo.blogspot.com/2009/12/wine-tip-of-week-7-pinot-noir.html