By: Ed “The Wine Guy”
The
thin-skinned Pinot Noir grape is a difficult grape both to grow and to be
turned into a noteworthy wine, demanding great skill and sensitivity - just as
thin-skinned people do. The majority of growers and vintners (wine makers)
avoid it. Mark West Winery has accepted the challenge, and produces good Pinot
Noirs. Many of you are already familiar with the entry-level Mark West Pinot
Noir; it is our best-selling California Pinot Noir. A step up from that is the
BLACK version, darker, richer, and more intense. It is medium- to full-bodied,
with aromas and
flavors of
dark cherries, plums, mocha, vanilla, and caramel; the tannins are soft, and it
finishes long and lush. It pairs well with foods from the barbecue, and with
dark chocolate for a decadent dessert.