2009 Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve California Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., >50,000 cases, $18. Jackson Estates grown. · Generous aromas of cherries, raspberries and strawberries with hints of exotic woods. Medium-weight flavors of slightly confected red cherries and berries with the slightest oak vanillin evident. Impressively smooth like Elvis on velvet. I kept sipping over an extended period and the wine kept delivering appealing fruit flavor. All you could ask for at this price: low alcohol, smooth texture, simple but tasty fruit, instant drinkability, ease of acquisition, all from a renowned producer. Good (+). Reviewed March 2, 2011

Winery: Kendall-Jackson Wine Estates
From article: Mining for Good Under-$30 Pinot: Inflation Tamers