Summer is a great time for grilling, and if you’re a fan of lighter, healthier options, like chicken or fish, then Pinot Noir or Pinot Gris will make for an excellent pairing. So whatever is on your menu, here are a handful of Pinots that deliver good quality at a nice price.

 

Grape(s): 100% Pinot Noir

Region: Sonoma County, Ca

Price: 15-20

Tasting Notes:

A bouquet of dark cherries, strawberries, creamy oak, and dark chocolate greets the senses. Lovely flavors of black cherry, plum, and strawberry meld with expressions of vanilla and mocha on the palate. Good fruit and a welcoming acidity make this Pinot a standout for it’s price point.

Rating: 90

La Crema 2017 Pinot Noir Rose

Grape(s): 100% Pinot Noir

Region: Monterery County, Ca

Price: 10-15

Tasting Notes:

Lots of strawberr, melon, and lemon aromas come up from a freshly swirled glass. The palate presents with strawberry, peach, and lemon flavors leading the way and a few earthy and mineral hints backing that up. Friendly with a fresh acidity, it’s a good candidate for sipping on a summer afternoon or with grilled salmon.

Rating: 90

Hann SLH 2016 Pinot Noir

Grape(s): 100% Pinot Noir

Region: Monterery County, Ca

Price: 15-20

Tasting Notes:

Aromas of black cherries, strawberries, and raspberries draw one into a glass, along with suggestions of cola, floral earth, and tea. On the palate, jammy strawberry, cherry, and raspberry interweave among expressions of cola, toasty oak, and black tea. Mouth-filling with a nice intensity of flavors, open a bottle when you grilled chicken with a balsamic glaze.

Rating: 90

J Vineyards 2017 Pinot Gris

Grape(s): 100% Pinot Gris

Region: California

Price: 10-15

Tasting Notes:

Notes of pears, melon, and peaches meld among hints of citrus blossoms. Honeydew, pineapple, and pear come forth on the palate, intermingling with suggestions of wet stone and white blossoms. A welcoming acidity and nice fruit character make this a food-friendly wine. Serve grilled white fish when you open a bottle.

Rating: 90

 

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