Our go-to-guide for selecting the perfect Pinot this Holiday Season
Serving Pinot Noir to guests during the busiest time of the year for parties, celebrations, and holidays is always encouraged. In general, the grape tends to be approachable and silky, and with classic notes of cinnamon, clove, vanilla, cranberry, orange, and cherry, the flavor profile tends to match the season well.
DEPS has over 200 different Pinot Noir Selections from all over the world, although Pinots from France, Oregon, and California tend to be the most popular. Check out our Best of the Bunch: Pinot Noir, where we have chosen one Pinot Noir from each famed region, and use it for reference when entertaining over the next couple months.
Value: Best under $15
California: Schug Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir $14.98 91pts, James Suckling “complex…fine red fruit, laced with rosemary”
France: Joseph Drouhin ‘LaForet’ Bourgogne Rouge $12.98Iconic Burgundy producer, Amazing price
Oregon: Walnut City Wineworks ‘OPN’ $12.98 Staff favorite! Willamette Valley typicity under $15
Friends & Family:
Special bottles to share with loved ones under $30
California: Hahn ‘SLH’ Pinot Noir $19.98 Great deal, (normally $29.99), 91 points Wine Spectator “cranberry and pomegranate flavors with dried herbs”
France: Vincent Girardin Bourgogne Rouge $27.99 Insanely delicious Pinot from one of Burgundy’s Rising Stars
Oregon: Patricia Green Cellars Reserve Pinot Noir $24.98 A consistent store favorite, 93 points Wine Spectator “raspberry, green tea and orange peel”
Reserve List: When you want to treat yourself
California: Anthill Farms Sonoma coast Pinot Noir $34.99 92 points Vinous, “terrific depth and richness, plum and spice”
France: Vincent Girardin Pommard $49.99 A total Knock-Out, Black fruits, Organic, Old Vine
Oregon: The Eyrie Vineyards Dundee Hills Estate Pinot Noir $34.99 First Family of Oregon Pinot Noir, Organic, 92 points James Suckling “cranberries and blueberries, with undertones of rose bush and leaves”
Collector’s Corner: For the most discerning of palates
California: Mount Eden Estate Pinot Noir $61.99 96 points Robert Parker, “This is a sensational Pinot Noir that can be enjoyed today, or cellared for a decade or more.”
France: Hubert Lignier Morey Saint Denis ‘Trilogie’ $98.00 96 points Robert Parker, “From vines planted as far back as the 1930s, with an introspective bouquet at first and then gradually unfolds to reveal enticing blackberry, briary and cold stone scents—all very sophisticated and poised. This is just a magnificent Morey-Saint-Denis. Top of the class.”
Oregon: Cristom ‘Eileen Vineyard’ Pinot Noir $54.99 95 points Vinous,“Dark berry, potpourri and baking spice …Combines power and finesse.”