Willamette Valley, Oregon – $15
Holy crap! I’m always skeptical when I buy an inexpensive Pinot Noir but the 2007 O’Reilly Pinot Noir now tops my list for the best Pinot under $20. After doing a little research, I learned this is a second label of Owen Roe – one the best new wineries in the country.
The Basics: This wine exists because some of the grapes purchase to make the single vineyard wines don’t fit with the style. Instead of wasting the juice, they make this bottle – drastically reduced in price.
The Professional Response: Run out and buy as much of this wine as you can get your hands on! This is a lighter Oregon Pinot with great fruit and a suprisingly firm structure. I would have paid $30 for this wine, but don’t tell the retailers.
Drink With: Salmon, light pasta or a beet salad
Last year my boyfriend took me to a swanky restraunt in Los Gatos, California. The waitress recommended a wine that I had yet to taste. We went with another couple, and had steak along with this Pinot. I was in heaven!! Ever since then, I have not been able to find this wine in any retail store. I think Im going to order a case and keep it coming. The best Pinot ever.