Though Napa Valley has historically been known for its luscious Cabernet Sauvignon, in the early days that followed Prohibition in Napa, many premium producers tried their hand at Pinot Noir and were fairly successful.
Because very few top Pinot Noir producers remain from the region, not too many vineyards dedicated to growing Pinot, and the onslaught of Cabernet, you don’t really hear about them. Traditionally, most of Napa Valley was considered too hot for this fickle, thin-skinned grape.
The Pinot Noir that I recently tasted and featuring here is from the Monterey AVA in California. Located in one of the largest American Viticultural Areas, the Monterey AVA runs from the Monterey Bay to the border with Paso Robles.
The cooling fog that rolls in from Monterey Bay each morning, combined with dramatic diurnal temperature shifts and diverse soil compositions, allows grapes to develop intense flavors while maintaining the bright natural acidity that defines world-class Pinot Noir.
With the cool maritime influence, chilling fog and strong afternoon breezes roll in from the Pacific Ocean and the Salinas Valley, creating an ideal cool climate for Pinot Noir. It is one of the most diverse in terms of climatic make-up and types of grapes grown. The most important factor for all farmers in the appellation is their location in relation to the chilly waters of the Pacific Ocean.
What distinguishes Monterey County Pinot Noir from other regions, including California’s Sonoma, Alexander Valley, and Carneros, is its distinctive balance and vibrant red fruit notes dancing between cherry and cranberry, underscored by earthy minerality and subtle spice elements. typically features bright acidity, structured tannins, and rich dark or red fruit flavors balanced by a distinct mineral quality.
The Chasing Lions Pinot Noir from Nine North Wine Company (pictured) is a red wine that showcases the best of California Pinot. The Monterey vineyard features a unique microclimate, with cool ocean breezes and well-drained soils, which contribute to the wine’s distinct character.
The winemaking process involves gentle handling of the grapes, allowing the delicate flavors and aromas to shine through. The result is a beautifully balanced wine with notes of ripe red berries, subtle spice, and a silky-smooth texture.
The Chasing Lions Pinot Noir is elegant and refined. It displays a beautiful ruby color enticing the senses with its vibrant appearance. On the nose, this wine offers a bouquet of red fruits, such as cherry and raspberry, accompanied by subtle vanilla notes from the interplay of oak.
The acidity provides a refreshing and lively mouthfeel, while the medium body adds to its overall elegance. The palate has a silky texture with delicate tannins and showcases flavors of ripe strawberries, dark raspberry, cranberries, some Bing cherry, and a hint of spice creating a harmonious and well-balanced profile.
The minerality and hints of oak, chocolate, and coffee complement without the heavy mouthfeel and fuller body.
From the Vintner – “This Pinot Noir opens with ripe cherries, orange peel, violets and black figs. True to form, the
balanced, “pinot noir” spice comes through vividly in this wine and is layered with slight flavors of oak, vanilla bean, cinnamon and clove.”
It is very versatile with a variety of dishes and pairs well with meat and vegetables, including roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or pork tenderloin, but is also excellent drank on its own.
It is aged for 6 months in French, American & Hungarian oak with a 13.5% ABV. Ideally, drink now through November 2026.
It is a 90 points “Best Buy” from Wine Enthusiast and under $20 USD. Grab it when you can because the 2024 vintage may be sold out soon and it’s reaching its peak. I picked up this bottle in Camillus, NY, but widely available in other locations and online.
I liked it very much. I’m always on the hunt for under-the-radar and value wines that won’t break the bank, Any good, inexpensive quality red wine coming out of Napa that is not a Cabernet is music to my ears.
If you enjoyed this post and would like to see more this, please give it a thumbs up. I’m a Pinot Noir fanatic so I would be happy to share more PN recommendations and all wine.
(Cover photo from foggy Monterey, California vineyards)
Cheers & Sante,
Michael Nagy
Note: my email address, michael@michaelpour.com, is currently inactive so send all emails to michael.troy.nagy@gmail.com