I have been asked to bring a couple of bottles of Pinot to a dinner party tomorrow. I know nothing about them and it is probably my least favorite red wine. What are some good buys for under $12?
Under $12 is a tall order. The best inexpensive Pinot I have had in recent years is Firesteed from Oregon. You should be able to find it for under $15. Sticking with Oregon, if you can go $18 to $20, A to Z, Broadley, and Territorial are all good options. Seems like I have seen some of them at Central Market recently.
From my quick internet research I found out there is really no such thing as a good, cheap Pinot Noir. Maybe that's why I have not liked the ones I have had in the past. I find they are really earthy tasting..
there are some decent ones in that range. rex goliath, bogle, rodney strong, erath. even parducci and kenwood arent too bad. thats about my price range too, but its getting more difficult. spec's used to do their 12 under 12 list, and now its become 12 under $15. this economy is hitting us cheapskates hard too. shoulda taken that job at aig.
There are a couple that I think are very good and reasonably priced. Mirassou Pinot is around $10 or $12. Clos du Bois is about $16. Both are smooth and buttery. Great with a rare steak.
i promise you will not be disappointed if you go to spec's and buy Muirwood Pinot Noir (2006 - Arroyo Seco). $12. i have been drinking that for a few months and everyone who has tried it has loved it. i would put it on par with most any $20-25 bottle and it goes well with almost any meal as it is relatively light. this, but 2006:
Not sure how much Mark West is in Austin, but they have a good Pinot....also try O'reilly our of Oregon....I will also second A to Z
I'm late responding for your party, but I really like Robert Mondavi, and it's right at $10 at HEB...Castle Rock is okay too, a couple of dollars more.
Agree on going with a bottle from Oregon. I love 'J' but it can be upwards of $40 depending on the bottle.
late response as well but i had a Ventisquero pinot noir from Chile over the weekend... bottle was $16, but i've since found it online for $10. one of the better ones i've ever tried.
Well, I ended up going to the Spec's in Midtown and Lockwood Pinot Noir was suggested. Another person also brought Lockwood and Mark West. I enjoyed both. Thanks again for all the suggestions, I look forward to trying them all, or at least trying to!
