Barrel Ranch 2009 Pinot Noir - ~$13

This California Pinot Noir, from Fresh & Easy's Barrel Ranch line, shows an appealing tawny color in the glass (not really relevant to the whole taste experience, but it really is a nice red hue) and offers scents of cherry, white flowers, and earthy mushroom.

In the mouth, it's medium-bodied and well-rounded, featuring flavors of strawberry, sour cherry, and and tart rhubarb.

Overall, it's a wine that straddles the bright red fruit/sinuous earthiness divide that often distinguishes California and Oregon Pinots from each other.  I'm reminded somewhat of Erath's entry-level Pinot Noir in terms of style, though not quite in terms of finesse or complexity, and so at ~$13 it seems to be priced about right.



Score

Drinkability: 8.5/10
Price: 3/5
Total value: 11.5/15