The Heartbreak Grape
Pinot Noir, affectionately known as the “heartbreak grape,” is famously temperamental. It requires precise conditions to thrive, making it one of the most challenging grapes to cultivate. Interestingly, Paso Robles winemakers contend that Zinfandel bears similar difficulties, though Zinfandel can withstand higher temperatures more readily.
The Evolution of Pinot
Due to its delicate, volatile nature, Pinot Noir used to be synonymous with high prices and high society. However, with advancements in science, technology, growing practices, and viticultural techniques, Pinot Noir is now more affordable and accessible without sacrificing quality.
Burgundy: The Pinnacle/Birthplace of Pinot Noir
The Burgundy (Bourgogne) region in France is the birthplace of Pinot Noir. Among its most esteemed offerings is Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Romanée-Conti Grand Cru, which can command prices up to $38,000 upon release. And that’s before aging, which is always recommended for a wine of this quality. That’s also more than my Hyundai cost when it was new!
The most expensive bottle of wine ever sold at auction (Sotheby’s, of course) was 1945 Romanee-Conti in 2023 for the mind-boggling price of $585,000. Not a typo.
Global Pinots
Pinots from regions outside of Burgundy don’t approach these eye-watering prices, yet many are exceptionally good. They remain relatively costly (about $45+) but offer a different expression of this wine.
Some of the more exceptional regions where Pinot Noir is grown include Chile, Argentina, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, California (Sonoma Coast and Central Coast being my personal favorites), and, of course, the Willamette region of Oregon. As one Master Sommelier said to a class I attended, “If you can’t decide if it’s Burgundy or California, it’s probably Oregon.” It was a blind tasting, and while we knew it was a Pinot, we disagreed about the origin. It was Oregon.
Everyday Pinots
Many wine enthusiasts seek a Pinot Noir for everyday drinking and small gatherings. These wines, while not to be confused with higher-end pinots, are versatile, pairing well with meals. In my opinion, Oregon Pinots are the best for pairing with salmon.
Disclaimer: My experience with wines over $150 is limited to the occasional gifted bottle with generous friends, although savoring a high-end wine is absolutely on my bucket list.
Recommended Pinots
You don’t have to dive into Burgundy’s prestigious (and mostly pricy) vineyards to discover outstanding Pinot Noirs. Here are a few fantastic options at various price points, all about $30 more or less:
- Hahn SLH (Santa Lucia Highlands) Pinot Noir: This California Pinot is one of my favorites with its lush fruit flavors and smooth finish. It is widely available and reasonably priced.
- La Crema Pinot Noir (Sonoma Coast): Known for its elegant structure and balanced acidity, this Sonoma County Pinot offers great quality at an accessible price.
- Decoy Limited Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir: From the famed Duckhorn winery noted for its Cabs and Merlot, they produce wines with lush, refined tannins, opulent layers of fruit, and lively natural acidity.
- Mascota Vineyards Unanime Pinot Noir (Argentina): Dried orange peel gives a savory dimension to the black raspberries and spicy, mineral character. This is a serious and structured pinot with an ethereal mid-palate but coated by very tight and chalky tannins. Broad, long, and savory (James Suckling).
- King Estate Willamette Valley Pinot Noir: This is a beautifully complex wine with elegant fruit and structure. Classic Pinot Noir aromas and flavors of dark fruit – black raspberry, marionberry, blueberry, and ripe dark cherry – are joined by accents of black tea, clove, vanilla, toast, orange zest, and forest floor. Supple tannins and bright acidity on the palate lead to a coating finish with lingering spiciness.
- Calera Central Coast Pinot Noir: The lowest cost of Calera’s stable of 11 Pinots, this Pinot offers enticing aromatics, soft, velvety tannins, and vibrant fruit and spice. It is nuanced and complex with a long, lush finish, making it a benchmark for the region.
These Pinot Noirs are just a few of many reasonably priced wines that give the whole Pinot experience without the heart-stopping price. And Pinot’s complex nature and rewarding flavors continue to entice wine lovers worldwide, whether indulging in a rare grand cru or enjoying a dependable everyday bottle.
Oh! International Pinot Noir Day is every August 18!
