November 29, 2009

2008 Castle Rock Mendocino County Pinot Noir - $9.99

For such a young pinot, this wine was quite the surprise. To start, it's a bit darker in color than your average pinot and just barely light enough to pass the can-I-see-my-fingers-through-it test. The nose is wonderful with a hint of smoke and a load of bacon. Flavor wise, its on the bigger side of things with rich plum and dark berry flavors. On the finish, I get what can only be described as apricot fruit leather. By far, the best Pinot Noir I've had from Trader Joe's under $10.

thumbs up - 89

8 comments:

  1. glad to hear it. I was a big fan of the '07 and had heard some back and forth things over the '08. I'll give it a try and let you know what I think...

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  2. This is the first Mendocino County version I've seen in the Portland area. Our typical Castle Rock pinot is from Willamette Valley grapes.

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  3. My first sip impression was Beaujolias.

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  4. Dave, I love a *good* Beaujolias and will have to give this a shot! I loved the 2007, and have been a bit scared to try the '08 but perhaps it'll surprise me!

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  5. Castle Rock Mendocino has great taste and delicious happinesses throughout. I read somewhere that certain people pee on the Castle Rock Willamette, though that might have been a particular year.

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  6. Thank you for this and the other recommendations. I thoroughly enjoyed the Castle Rock 2008 Pinot--and surprisingly, I found it to taste the best two nights after opening the bottle. Your blog has proved to be an invaluable resource. I hope you keep up the great work. Cheers, D

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  7. D, thanks for the aging tip on this one. Glad you're enjoying the reviews.

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  8. There seem to be 2008 Pinots from quite a few regions. Which is the best to serve at a beach wedding?
    Tessa

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