April 20, 2021
20-Buck Bottle: Affordable pinot noir that hits the high notes
A California cool climate selection
Cambria Clone 4 Santa Maria Valley 2015 Pinot Noir
AVAILABLE AT: winestore., Total Wine
PRICE: $16.99
ON THE NOSE
Plum, cherry, allspice, star anise
ON THE PALATE
Earthy, dried orange peel, medium body, smooth, hints of tannin and chocolate
ON THE PLATE
Pair with pan-fried salmon, vegetarian fare, simple roast pork, complex salads
OUR TAKE
It is very difficult for me to find a pinot noir under $20 that I find drinkable — they are often too sweet or oaky, or have no character. This wine is a welcome surprise. It is not going to compare to a Patricia Green from Oregon or a Côte de Nuits from Burgundy, but it is representative of the grape and is well made.
FUN FACT
The Santa Maria Valley has a cool climate with morning fog and a long, slow growing season. Cambria winery is owned by Jess and Barbara Jackson of Kendall-Jackson. This property specializes in pinot noir and chardonnay. Two of the vineyards are named after their daughters, Katherine and Julia. These wines are also around town in specialty wine stores, and are also reasonable in price, very good pours.
