When thinking of reds to enjoy during a summertime dinner, my go-to red is Pinot Noir. Typically Pinot Noir is not as substantial as other red varieties. Good Pinot Noir can be very versatile. Here are two wines that one should consider this summer.
First, let’s go to the Anderson Valley and discover Domaine Anderson Pinot Noir. The winery is the latest acquisition of the Louis Roederer family’s estate. The grapes come from the estates, Dach Vineyard. This vineyard recently received organic and biodynamic certification; therefore the grapes are farmed in this manner.
After sampling the 2013 Pinot Noir, I found a bright yet light Pinot Noir. Although lighter in texture the wine seems as it has a bolder presence. One finds richness and complexity. Aromas of dark cherries, earth and cloves are prevalent while the flavors deliver cherry and plum with hints of spice. The wine ages 16 months with 30% being in new oak. The wine is an excellent example of good Pinot Noir produces in the Anderson Valley with its fog-cooled hillsides.
Located in the Cortina s.s.d.v. of the Alto Adige – South Tyrol region of Italy, Peter Zimmer Winery finds itself one of the only villages situated in the South Tyrolean Lowlands/’Unterland’. Established in 1928 and now run by the families third generation, the winery utilizes innovation through sustainable practices.
Although Pinot Noir is not an indigenous grape to Italy, Alto Adige is defined as one of the best regions in the country to grow this variety. The Peter Zemmer Rolhut Pinot Noir, Alto Adige DOC, blew me away. This particular Pinot Noir was my first from this region. The wine is seamless and perfect in all aspects. One finds elegance in this wine with a soft velvety quality to its style. The wine is very drinkable, smooth and balanced. I found fruity flavors of red fruit.
Good Pinot Noir
Both Pinot Noirs are excellent in their own right and represent two distinct styles; the Peter Zemmer Rolhut wine favors old-world style while the Domaine Anderson combines old and new world philosophies of winemaking. All in all, each represents good Pinot Noir. You cannot go wrong with either of them.
Note: Common to the wine industry, this writer was hosted to the wines sampled. While it has not influenced this review, the writer believes in full Disclosure.