Hi All! I hope you have had a fantastic week. I decided to break the rules and review a wine that is not as widely distributed in stores, but is a great Pinot Noir. My friends, Elizabeth and Bob, recommended the Left Coast Pinot Noir. I have enjoyed wine with these two folks a few times. Ok…a lot of times. They know what they’re talking about, but I’m not sure how well I listen. The wine I’m reviewing today is the 2014 Left Coast Cellars Cali’s Cuvee Pinot Noir, but might not be the exact Left Coast they suggested. (oops). What I heard mutated a bit from what they said. Odd choice of words, but I’m getting there. This wine is from the Willamette Valley in Oregon. Oregon is known for their Pinot Noir and Willamette Valley is an area where some of the best Pinot Noir is made. This is a Cuvee, a blend, of Dijon, Pommard and Wädenswil which are Pinot Noir clones. Pinot Noir grapes are the oldest grape varieties and are, like other grapes, subject to mutation where a clone of the grape will then form. This Pinot has plum and cherry essence in the nose, but it mellows when you taste it. It isn’t too fruity at all, slightly bold at first taste, but still smooth enough for someone who doesn’t drink a lot of reds. There was a slight hint of molasses, but it really made the taste. This is a good wine to just drink on its own or with chicken or medium-flavored foods. I did enjoy this wine. Let’s face it, I enjoy most all wines. However, this is really a good drinking wine for folks looking for a medium and tasteful red. You can find it at Whole Foods for $24 per bottle. You can also find all natural foods, foods with no artificial color, flavor or preservatives. I just went in for the wine…and found a clone. Enjoy your weekend!