2010 Ventana Pinot Noir Estate (Arroyo Seco Monterey, California) … $17.99
June puts me in the mood for two kinds of wine… Rose` and pinot noir. I love both year round, but with the salmon becoming abundant and the weather getting warmer, a lighter style red always hits the spot. To find a quality pinot noir for under twenty bucks can be quite a chore. I have a couple that a fall back on over and over again, so I was pleased to run across this stellar example recently.
Ventana pinot noir represents the best of both worlds. Too many pinot noir can be laden down with heavy, extracted fruit giving an almost syrah characteristic to the juice. I don’t mind this style in cooler weather with a hearty stew, but for salmon or just sipping in the back yard I want a pinot that is lighter and delicious. Burgundy comes to mind, but I do not have the cash to spend thirty-plus dollars on a weekly basis. In comes Ventana.
Aromas of Earth and minerals backed by ripe dark cherries and hints of raspberries. Earth driven on the palate (Very Burgundian) backed by ripe dark cherries and black tea. Excellent balance across the palate with good acidity that is not overbearing. Finishes with notes of cherry, black tea and hints of tar. This is an elegant, delicious pinot with an “Old World” edge to it. A steal for eighteen bucks and one that I will be enjoying throughout the summer months and more. 94 points
