3 Delicious Pinot Power Wines For The Summer
Hot weather doesn’t always lend itself well to drinking big red wines. However, that doesn’t mean you have to ditch the dark grapes until the temps drop. Just pick the right ones. Like these 3 delicious Pinot Power wines for the summer and Wine Wednesday.
Pinot as in Pinot Noir, also known as the heartbreak grape because of its thin skin and temperament in the field. The grape is grown all over the work and those from France’s Burgundy region are highly revered. When you seen burgundy on a bottle of red it is always pinot noir. On white, it’s a chardonnay.
I was in Paris a few weeks ago and one of my friends asked for a glass of Bordeaux. The area is famous for it’s world-class merlot and cabernet sauvignon. The server said “No.” As she sat dumfounded by his denial, he explained it is too big for summer.
We had a similar experience at the Micheline starred Le Jules Verne in the Eiffel Tower. During the 7+ course meal, only one of the wines was red. While I understand the summer pairing theory, I was a little disappointed there was not at least one more.
Perhaps those two events are part of the inspiration for this post.
Lighter, fruitier red wines are more ideal for summer sipping and cuisine. That being said, I know not all pinot noirs fit the bill. Some can be big boys, especially those from California which I feature here. But they are generally excellent food wines and good to rotate in for summer sauces, vegetables, and grilled meats.
Affodable Pinot Power Wines For The Summer
First, pinot noir is one of those wines where quite often, you get what you pay for. It isn’t easy to find a really good, affordable pinot. But they do exist.
As a brand, Hahn is one that is easy to find in retailers and produces consistent, sustainably produced wines. Lucien, pictured above is more mid-tier.
Other large producers of everyday pinot noir that will do for budget buyers include Landmark Vineyards Overlook, Argyle, Decoy, and Mark West.
Pinot Power Wines That Are A Step Up
Donum Estate 2022 Carneros Estate Pinot Noir
Donum is in the esteemed Carneros AVA of Sonoma. They take great pride in their various organic certifications. The owners are also dedicated to artistry. Not just in their wine but in their vineyards. They have erected large scale sculptures throughout the vineyard. It is a stunning place to visit.
Bouchaine Swan Clone Pinot Noir, Estate Selection
Bouchaine Vineyards is also located in the Carneros AVA. Founded in 1981 it’s one of the oldest, continuously family-owned properties in the Carneros AVA today. Most of their vineyards are planted with pinot noir followed by chardonnay.
Les Plus Haut Pinot Noir
This one comes from Sonoma-Cutrer which also produces a pinot in the every day category. This is translated to mean “the most elevated.” It’s part of the 2024 Winemaker’s Release which is a series of wines that highlight craftsmanship and quality.
Cheers to Wine Wednesday.
Drink Responsibly.
