The Wine of Romance

If I had to choose one wine that evokes romance and desire, it would have to be Pinot Noir. Sure Champagne comes to mind, but nothing quite captures romance than that of Pinot Noir. Great Pinots can be earth shattering like a first kiss. Not so great Pinots can be like a bad date you can't wait to end. 

With its thin skin and sensitive temperament, Pinot Noir can be one of the most difficult and fragile grapes to grow. With abundant love, care and patience, this grape can evolve into a lovely, graceful and elegant beauty. It can also pack a powerful punch that will tantalize your senses. Master Sommelier Madeline Triffon  refers to Pinot Noir as, "sex in a glass."

As soon as you lift the glass of a perfect Pinot, notes of soft perfume, truffle, earth, spice and fruit envelope your senses creating a captivating experience that can take your breath away.  Then as your palate comes into full contact with a waterfall of liquid garnet, your heart melts as you slowly savor each sip. 

There are so many different styles of Pinot Noir, it can be quite elusive, even for an expert. The classic Burgundian style often has more earth, truffle and barnyard aromas than its new world counterparts, which are often made with more fruit and alcohol. Either style you choose, well-made Pinot Noirs can be quite seductive and leave you yearning for more.  There are so many amazing Pinot's to choose from, I have listed a few of my current favorites below! 

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Recommendations:

2009 Chateau de Chamirey, Mercurey, Burgundy, France: Medium bodied with lovely dark cherry, earth and smoke with nice acidity, making this a lovely match with cedar plank salmon and lentils. (Retail $25)

2008 Anam Cara, Willamette Valley, Oregon: Medium bodied and elegant with black cherry, raspberry, hints of smoke and cedar. This is a lovely sipper and one of my favorite Thanksgiving wines. (Retail: $35)

2011 Belle Glos, Clark & Telephone, Central Coast California: Medium bodied and bold with lots of spice, plum, cranberry and blackberry.  This wine boasts the best of new and old world styles. I also love this bottle. Belle Glos seals the wine with red wax.  Try this one with a grilled steak. (Retail: $35) This producer also makes the Belle Glos Meomi which is kind of like the baby sister of the Clark and Telephone. This one is under $20 and a great wine for the price.