Pinot Noir Wine between $10 and $25

The 2011 Elk Cove Vineyards Pinot Gris has sweet and unctuous aromatics while showing crispness on the palate with vibrant citrus and grapefruit. True to Elk Cove Vineyards’ style, a rich mouthfeel leads to a full and satisfying balanced finish. Drink this lovely white wine as an aperitif or with a variety of food pairings from salmon and main-course salads to Asian and Thai influenced dishes.

Easy-going and vivaciously fruity, this 100% Pinot Noir is completely delightful. It reminded me of a hypothetical three-way cross between light, fresh Côte de Beaune Burgundy, a Cru Beaujolais and a Sancerre, with plenty of grapy freshness, but also distinct notes of the flinty Sancerre terroir rising toward the finish. The bright red Pinot Noir fruit is abundant, supple, and pure, with surprising grip and intensity for Sancerre rouge. Highly recommended.
-- Ben Giliberti, CW Director of Wine Education