A Quest for Good Cheap Pinot Noir

They say it can’t be done, but once again I’m taking on the naysayers.  I’m am now officially starting my search for a good, inexpensive Pinot Noir.

OK… let’s get the Sideways crap out of the way.  Everyone knows that you can’t talk about Pinot Noir anymore without addressing the movie Sideways.  It is true, Pinot Noir was praised in this movie and the result was skyrocketing sales for Pinot Noir–followed by skyrocketing prices.  Supply and demand kicked in.  It seems that people crave guidance on wine, and why not get it from fictional characters in a movie?

It’s certainly arguable that many of the things said about Pinot Noir in that movie hold some validity.  But are the masses of movie-goers really that sheepish?  Yes, they are.  In fact, it’s even become a tourist phenomonom to go on the Sideways wine tour, drink the wines they drank, and imitate the things they do.  Like at the Foxen Winery, trying to pour a full glass when the server turns her back.

What cracks me up about all this is the fact that the characters people are imitating were a couple of loser douchebags (I realize that was redundant, but I felt the redundancy was justified).  Why would anyone want to be like these guys?

I like Pinot Noir, but I’m not as passionate about it as the characters in this movie.  But then, I’m not as passionate about anything in life as fictional movie characters appear to be.  I just hope that we don’t get another movie praising my beloved Spanish Garnacha and driving those prices up too.   I guess I’m passionate about getting a good deal on wine!

Anyway, my first cheap Pinot Noir that I tried is not a winner.  Blackstone Pinot Noir 2005 from Monterey County, California is one point for the naysayers.  This wine has made my “don’t buy it again” list.  It was only about $8 where I bought it and I think I’ve seen it for less at Trader Joes.  I’d say it’s worth about $3.  It has an oaky bouquet with a hint of cherry, but not much.  It lacks fruit… in fact it’s bland.  There’s a bit of spice, but it’s understated.  What really kills this wine is an underlying bitterness.  It’s just not very enjoyable and I gave it a 73.

There’s one down.  I’ll just hope the next one is the magic bullet.  Cheers!