Pinot Meunier is actually a genetic mutation of Pinot Noir. That doesn’t make it sound too romantic, does it? Pinot Meunier is also the primary grape of Champagne and that improves its romantic quotient significantly.

The Van der Kamps actually produced their own sparkling wine for many years which is why they planted Meunier in the first place. They always told us of the great aromatic complexity of the grapes which is why, when they offered us an acre of fruit we were extremely excited to try it. Boy, were they right!

The 2004 Novy Pinot Meunier possessed the best natural acidity of anything we harvested in 2004 (better even than the Oregon fruit). Because of the vineyard’s low yields (less than 2 tons per acre) it also possesses great concentration, somewhat usual in Meunier. The wine smells of violets and a sour cherry compote. In the mouth the fruit is distinctly cranberry with a long, refreshing finish. We think this is the perfect Thanksgiving wine and will certainly have a bottle (or two) on our table.

Reviews & Accolades - click here

printer-friendly version of this page - click here