For those of you who have seen the movie “Sideways” you may remember the scene where Miles makes the statement (“I’m not drinking any f***ing Merlot”). I certainly remember it because during that time all I drank was Merlot and I loved it. I couldn’t wrap my head around why he felt Merlot was bad and Pinot noir was superior. In the clip above, however, Miles’ passion for this grape and the wine it produces is made clear.

I must admit that my palate has matured slightly and I can now relate (somewhat). You see I have tried various Pinot noirs and have like some and hated others. Some of them I’ve found to be very soft and smooth, delicate even on the tongue. Others were quite garish with a lingering aftertaste. I was just about at a point to categorize them as “so-so” when I discovered the 2007 Limited Selection Pinot Noir from Gainey Vineyards.  In the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley, Gainey is located near many of the places that served as location spots while the movie “Sideways” was being shot.

This Pinot noir however has really made me re-think the grape as well as the wine. The smell of dark fruit and spice teases your nose, while taste of dark cherries and blackberries overtake your taste buds. This wine is rich but not over-powering. It is very luscious and full, something that is lacking with a lot of Pinot noirs. As Miles mentioned in the movie the Pinot noir grape is hard to grow, so for it to produce a wine with a structure this solid is quite impressive.

I wasn’t a huge fan of Pinot noir in the past but I am willing to give them another chance; at least when it comes to Gainey’s Limited Selection Pinot Noir.

If you are into wines and haven’t seen “Sideways” you’ve missed a treat. Head to your video store to day and rent a copy. I am sure you’ll love it.  Check out the trailer below…