Great Oregon Pinot Noirs

Filed in archive Northwestern US Wines on November 14, 2007

I'm sure you've seen pinot noir mentioned on at least a few of the Thanksgiving wine lists that are being posted across the Web, and Oregon might be one of the first places that spring to mind when you think about this varietal. But while many of these wines are delicious, I have to agree with Paul Gregutt of the Seattle Times who feels that some are overpriced:

I have called out Oregon producers for overpricing their pinot noirs, for making too many single-vineyard wines that taste like components rather than complete blends and for confusing consumers with a parade of new appellations that seem to have put the dirt cart before the flavor horse.

In fairness, I should point out some Oregon wines and wineries that are really doing a great job with their pinot noirs. Pricing on these wines remains generally high, but the same can be said for pinots from California and certainly from France.

Mr. Gregutt goes on to recommend several Oregon pinots that he feels are good buys and their prices range from
$20-$60, showing you that you don't have to shell out upwards of $75 for a great bottle. Check out his list which includes wines from Ponzi, Coelho, and Eola Hills. If I were to add anything to the list I would have included a bottle from Rex Hill. Although I am not a huge fan of Pinot Noir, I was captivated by their Reserve Pinot Noir. Although is certainly pricier than your bottle of everyday wine, it is lush and full of delicate fruit. Worth every penny in my book. Their lower-end Pinot Noirs are quite nice as well.