Hi! Today we review a pinot noir from Mendocino, California that I bought for $11.
Parducci is a family winery, which I like. Their website lists many varietals, from $11 to $35, including a rose and a port. And you just know they have more. I am excited to tell you that the Parducci Small Lot Blend will be an elegant, light-bodied and speecy-spicy addition to your dinner table. Don’t be fooled by the word blend — this is 100% pinot noir (maybe that’s how it avoids the “generic red-wine-goulash” taste of some other value-oriented California pinots). It’s not as complex as more expensive bottles, but with this grape, at $11, you mainly just want it to taste good.
And it does. With aromas of cedar and raspberries, Parducci Small Lot Blend lands on your tongue with a fun, acidic kick of red fruit, roses and some mellow vanilla. This is a REALLY good food wine for $11, people. Probably why Martha Stewart rated it a smart buy.
Drink slightly chilled, but not cold (30 mins. in the fridge before tasting). The acidity might prevent it from being a massive crowd-pleaser at your next party, but at 14% alcohol, this one is definitely a feel-good Winner-For-Dinner.
Recommended.
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