Denise's Press Fractions Wine Blog: What's in my Glass Wednesdays! 2010 Pinot Noir by Anthony Road Winery

Pinot Noir is a mysteriously seductive grape variety. And it makes one of those wines that you either love or hate. Some people live their life obsessed with the search for perfect Pinot Noir. Others never touch it. And then there is the lot of us that try to find some unique Pinots at a value price (aka not $2000 a bottle!). I can't really say what entices someone to an obsession with Pinot - it just happens. It's a very difficult grape to grow and a difficult wine to produce!

It's not a deep red colored variety like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. In fact, it shouldn't persuade you to not purchase a Pinot that is light red to light brickish red in color. It does not retain color very well like other red varieties, but this is not an indication of quality.

This one from Anthony Road Winery was quite exquisite. I really enjoyed the value: a great style for a good price. I hope you enjoy this review!

2010 Pinot Noir by Anthony Road Winery

2010 Pinot Noir

(Photo by author)

The D-2010 Scale

2008 Sparkling Teroldego by Red Tail Ridge Winery (Seneca Lake, Finger Lakes NY, United States)

Appearance (10 points possible): Light red in color with slight brownish edges. Brilliantly clear - 10 points

Aroma/Bouquet (20 points possible): Bright fresh, cherry fruit, toasty oak, coffee, and slight hints of cranberry. - 18 points

Taste (10 points possible): Medium-bodied with crisp acidity. Light on the palate, but substantially powerful with slight astringency and body from oak. Fresh cherry, licorice, spice, and toast flavors. Finish is everlasting with toasty oak and cherry flavors. - 9 points

Balance (5 points possible): The only part of this wine that I find a bit overpowering is the oak. At some points, the oak overtakes the delicate flavors of the Pinot fruit. - 4 points

Finish (5 points possible): Well noticed oak astringency and flavors with a hint of cherry fruit. Finish is everlasting and pleasant. - 5 points

Packaging *Introduction to the D-2010 Scale*

Quality of Package (5 points possible): Burgundian style bottle with a classic label approach. This is the traditional style of Anthony Road Winery. Corked and capsuled appropriately. - 4 points

Label Marketability (10 points possible): The label is clean and easy to read, as well as classy, but I'm not so sure it's catchy. For me there is just a tad missing, but the appearance definitely reflects a serious wine. - 8 points

Other (5 points possible): No big extras on this one. - 3 points

Total Points: 91 points

Overall Thought: I think what I love about the Finger Lakes is that they introduced me to a new style of Pinot Noir. I spent years trying Russian River and Carneros Pinot Noirs, but have not found one that particularly interests me (yet). :) These wines, however, are interesting. Finger Lakes Pinots tend to lack the typical cherry cough syrup character that one often finds in certain Pinots. I find the fresh cherry flavor a bit more refreshing and more of interest. I like how this lighter bodied Pinot had a touch of oak accompanying the bright fruit and low alcohol is quite pleasant. It's very approachable, fruity, and a good first-start Pinot for those that have never tried it before.

Food Pairings: I would suggest Portobello mushroom sandwich or a beet salad. Classic Pinot pairings. Why not try a cherry based glaze on a steak or chicken breast? Yummmm....

Cost: $19.99

Splurge Factor (out of 4): 2... It's hard to find a good Pinot under $30, but this is a good one to start. You won't find a bulk Pinot Noir out there that compares to this one.

Where to buy: Check out Anthony Road Winery for retail information