It’s damn hard finding a Pinot Noir worth drinking under $20. Really, really hard. Some might even say under $30 is challenging, but I’m not that hard core. But forget under $15… it’s normally sweetened grape juice with a touch of earthiness likely added in with wood chips. But occasionally, if you look and wish hard enough, you can find a wine treasure that you can enjoy everyday without feeling the pinch too much.
I tried the Mark West 2013 Pinot Noir in a blind tasting lineup and pretty much everyone (from wine novices to wine pros) thought it was solid. Especially for the low, low price of $12.
The Mark West 2013 Pinot Noir is blended with 6% Syrah and 4% Petite Sirah to give it some oomph. But it bears the Pinot hallmarks of tart red cherry, ripe raspberry and a smidge of smoky, toasted oakiness. Light-bodied, feminine and pretty. It’s not going to set the world on fire but definitely appropriate for an every day grog. Chill it down for about 30 minutes in the fridge for maximum enjoyment.
Mark West 2013 Pinot Noir
Sweetness: 2 out of 10
Price: $10-$12
Occasion: Sample sent from winery
Availability: Grocery stores and big box retail stores
Food Pairings: Grilled burgers, Pesto and Smoked Salmon, Black Bean Burgers or medium-hard cheeses like Asiago.
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It is really famous as I know a few friends of mine who had one of the best bottles in their collection. They recently brought one of the bottles of a party so I got the opportunity to taste it.