Sips & Snacks in September

Wine

Pinot Noir

-The history of Pinot Noir-

(pee-noh nwhahr)

Serve at 55-60

Pinot Noir is the product of patience within the process. The finicky, hard to grow, thin skinned, high maintenance grape rewards you greatly if it produces. Pinot Noir is nearly 1000 years older than Cabernet Sauvignon and is grown, for the most part, in the Burgundy region of France and has earned the nickname "the noble grape of Burgundy". Several winemakers in other regions have tried (and failed) to grow the "heartbreak grape" and in terms of other regional Pinot Noir success, the Willamette Valley of Oregon has seen the greatest. Pinot Noir grapes take up a mere 5-10% of grapes grown in California proving this grape is indeed a challenge to winemakers. American Pinot tends to be a bit more fruity (often jammy) and sippable than it's French companion. Germany and Austria have been making some waves in the Pinot Noir production game too. They tend to be a little more earthy and smoky - with a softer acidity - they are a great option and tend to be a bit more affordable.

My Sweet Spot selection this month is a STEAL from the Burgundy region of France and my Special Day selection is from the Russian River Valley region of Sonoma County California and I highly recommend this for your Thanksgiving table in November!

You will love both - I Pinot promise!

Sweet Spot Pinot Noir -

Domaine St Germain Bourgogne Rouge Vieilles Vignes Pinot Noir - $19.99

Are you looking for a bottle for under $20 that tastes like it's $50? This is for you. It isn't easy to find a higher quality Pinot Noir from France that brings this much complexity. You'll find this medium body sip to be filled with hints of black cherry and berries, yet not sweet. I love it with a tomato pasta dish and you'll find it quite easy to pair with many foods.

Special Day Pinot Noir-

Amici Pinot Noir 2022 - $44.99

This is one of the best Pinot Noir's I've ever tasted. I'm thankful the expert at Total Wine led me here :) It is a legit sexy sip and feels balanced with berries, a hint of spice, and a velvety finish. This will be on my Thanksgiving table - it is made for that "big time" meal. I hope you love it just as much!

Food Pairing

If a lovely glass of your favorite Pinot Noir was searching for the perfect mate, here is what should be on that list.

Meats: filet mignon, roast turkey, bbq ribs, duck

Seafood: tuna, salmon

Veggies/Fruits: mushrooms, dried fruits, strawberries

Spices/Herbs: cinnamon, clove, nutmeg

Cheeses : brie, gouda, herbed goat

Sauces: teriyaki, tomato

Dessert: chocolate covered strawberries, salted caramel

The perfect dish to pair with this month's Sweet Spot wine is my Tomato, Basil & Brie Linguine. It's light, summery and showcases tomatoes and basil from your garden or seasonal farmer's market. You can add some grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.