Pinot noir isn’t particularly the expertise of the Italians, but this inexpensive pinot doesn’t suck. The grapes are sourced from the cooler, mountainous climes of northeastern Italy, an environment pinot loves. This wine isn’t magical, but great for the price, and everything a pinot noir should be. Lighthearted with berry fruit and fresh with a delicious, earthy finish.
Sweetness: 1 out of 10
Rating: 3 stars out of 5
Price: $10
Occasion: Tasted with a distributor rep and placed this on a restaurant wine list I created.
Food pairing: Seared duck, pizza with mushroom and pepperoni, sausage-stuffed portobello mushrooms (recipe)
Availability: Grocery stores.