Pinot Noir from the Russian River Valley, California.
SRP of $26 and available for as low as $19.99.
From the bottle:
"Sebastopol, California flanked by artisan vineyards, is where we call home. Looking for unique wines from premium growing regions.
13.9% Alcohol"
Russian River Valley (RRV) Pinot Noir is a tough nut to crack for under $20. The Russian River Valley, which is a small section of Sonoma County, accounts for 20% of the total Pinot Noir plantings in the entire state of California simply because the conditions in this area are so good for growing this grape. It's also why it's hard to find examples under $20 -- wines from this region demand a premium.
We've covered a couple RRV Pinot Noirs in the past, but only one was under $20, the Ninety Plus (90+) Cellars Reserve Lot 56 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir 2008 - Eminently Drinkable. The other RRV Pinot Noir we've covered was as a Saturday Splurge: Echelon Collection Series Russian River Valley Pinot Noir 2010 - A Flavorful And Spicy Saturday Splurge.
The 2010 Sebastopol Oaks Russian River Pinot Noir begins with an excellent aroma of maraschino cherries, cedar and spice. The wine tastes smooth and juicy with a little kick of spice near the end. The cherry flavors from the nose continue when tasting along with some other tart berry fruit, lots of black tea and a hint of red licorice. This wine has soft tannins which help to make it very easy to drink. A very food flexible and delicious wine that is even better on day two!
Overall Rating: 7.0
