A favourite of ours here at WhatWinesWhen and universally popular but also one of the most difficult grapes to grow (nicknamed “the heartache grape”) so bargain prices are really tough to find.
However, we have some great suggestions for you.
Mission Hill Five Vineyards Pinot Noir VQA (Okanagan - $14.30)
A typical cool climate light to medium bodied wine with strawberry, raspberry, and cherry flavours, it drinks smoothly with minimal tannins and a touch of sweetness.
Serve it with baked salmon in a Teriyaki glaze.
ABV 12.5%, sugar 7 g/L.
LATE UPDATE: APPARENTLY THE LCBO HAS RUN OUT OF STERLING VINTNERS PINOT NOIR AND THE PRODUCT IS NO LONGER AVAILABLE (BUT IS STILL ON THEIR WEBSITE)
Sterling Vintner’s Collection Pinot Noir (California - $10.85)
Surprisingly inexpensive for a California Pinot Noir, a lighter bodied version with typical raspberry and cherry flavours and a touch of spice on the finish.
Pairs well with fatty fish like Arctic char.
ABV 13.5%, 4 g/L residual sugar.
G. Marquis Silver Line Pinot Noir VQA (Niagara - $19.95)
Canada is making some really good Pinot Noirs and this is one of the best under $20, typical cherry, raspberry, smoke and earth in an elegant wine.
The winemaker suggests serving it with a mushroom risotto.
ABV 12.5%, 6 g/L residual sugar.
Cigar Box Pinot Noir (Chile - $12.70)
Very drinkable with dark cherry, plum and mushroom tastes, it is medium bodied, dry and smooth, slightly sweet and peppery on the finish.
Enjoy it with pork marinated in a soy ginger marinade.
ABV 13.5%, 7 g/L residual sugar.
Villa Wolf Pinot Noir Pfalz (Germany - $15.00)
Fruit forward with oak and smoke in a lighter body with low tannins making for easy drinking.
Surprising fact, Germany is the world’s third largest producer of Pinot Noir, we suggest serving with some of their grilled sausages.
ABV 12.5%, 5 g/L residual sugar.
Insider Tip
Montes Limited Selection Pinot Noir 2018 (Chile - $14.95)
To be released in Vintages on October 31 so head to that corner of the store and grab a bottle, this is a fresh wine with lots of cherry and red berry flavours.
Smooth easy drinking which can be drunk on its own or with grilled salmon.
ABV 14.0%, 3 g/L residual sugar.