A lot of wine snobs like to say it’s impossible to find good pinot noir for under $20. While it’s not as easy as some other varietals, it can be done and this wine from Parducci is a great example. Not only is this a good pinot noir for under $20, it’s a good pinot noir for under $15.
The wine comes from Mendocino County, California, where Parducci is the longest running winery in the county — celebrating its 85th anniversary this year. It’s still a family-owned winery and their growing practices are certified sustainable by the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance.
While this pinot noir isn’t one I would put in the cellar to age, it’s great for an everyday wine.
The nose is super aromatic and complex, showing loads of spice, floral, raspberry and cherry aromas. The palate is bright and delicious, offering rich cherry flavors along with currant, strawberry, coffee and spices. The mouthfeel is nice. The acidity is spot on. It finishes relatively long with spiced berry flavors and black tea tannins. This is a very food-friendly wine and an incredible value.
Wine: Parducci Small Lot Pinot Noir
Variety: Pinot noir
Vintage: 2014
Alcohol: 13.5%
Rating: 90
Price: $14.99
Disclosure: This wine was received as a media sample.
