Pinot Noir – California versus Oregon Challenge

Wine Appraiser

Tonight, our wine-tasting duo takes part in our first-ever head-to-head challenge. We will examine the differences between the two wines and help you decide which wine is right for you.

Pinot Noir is the wine that made Burgundy France famous, but what about Pinot from the New World, specifically, California and Oregon.

Oregon is known for its Pinot, and its cooler climate has perfect growing conditions. Oregon Pinot is known for its earthiness, minerality, and fruitiness.

California Pinot is often a slightly heavier body, darker, and more fruit-forward wine.

Tonight, we taste:

1. 2019 Talbott, Kali Hart Pinot Noir. https://www.talbottvineyards.com/ Purchased from Costco for $17.49. James Suckling gave this wine a 93. Wine Enthusiast rated it a 92. It comes from Monterey, Central Coast, California. Estate-grown, fruit-driven with just a touch of French Oak. Wine Enthusiast said aromas of cedar, grilled strawberry, and cracked pepper. Flavors of mace and cumin.

2. 2021 Willamette Valley Vineyards Pinot Noir. https://www.wvv.com/ Purchased from Costco for $17.00. This wine comes from the Willamette Valley in Oregon. The Vineyard has iron-rich volcanic soils. They thin the grapes to increase the intensity of the grapes. It has raspberry, strawberry preserves, cardamom spice, and earth aromas. Another source says aromas of dried dark cherries, cinnamon, and cranberry. Taste of cherry, leather, tobacco, and fresh acidity. Ph of 3.33 - 3.50. Stainless steel barrels are used for fermentation.

Next week we will have a Bargain Hunt Show looking for great tasting white wines under $10. The wines will include:

1. 2022 Bouchard Aine & Fils, Chardonnay, purchased at Costco for $9.99.

2. 2023 Famille Perrin, Cotes Du Rhone from Costco for $9.99.

3. 2023 Vignobles Lacheteau, Sauvignon Blanc purchased at Trader Joe’s for $6.99.