Pinot Noirs are among the most popular grape varietals in the world, loved by connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts alike. With Chameleon-like tendencies, they have a knack for emulating the terroir in which they are grown, carrying unique flavors with them from vineyard to bottle. Pinot Noirs make an excellent wine to go with dinner, celebrate a special occasion, or simply sip on while the sun goes down. Whatever occasion you might be looking to share over your next bottle, our guide is sure to have what you’re looking for. We’ve highlighted our favorite Pinot Noirs for every budget to ensure that you’ll find the perfect bottle for your taste buds and wallet below.
The Best Pinot Noir
Clos de Tart | 2016
The 2016 Clos de Tart Grand Cru might be the best Pinot Noir money can buy. This is, of course, just an opinion. But, when that opinion comes from Vinous, who rated this bottle at 99+ and referred to it as, “The best ever—simple as that.” It’s an opinion not to be taken lightly. Coming from the French wine region of Burgundy, this is a genuinely classic Pinot Noir. 2016 was a special year for Pinot Noir in Burgundy, but even for its class, this bottle remains a step above the rest.
The Best Pinot Noir Under $100
Louis Jadot Chambolle-Musigny Les Sentiers | 2016
For those seeking a top-rated Pinot Noir for under $100, turn to the Louis Jadot Chambolle-Musigny Les Sentiers from 2016. This bottle comes from the same unbelievable year in Burgundy as the bottle above and is an exceptional value for anyone looking for a high-quality Pinot Noir. It’s light, conservative, and mild, with fine tannins and moderate acidity. Look for notes of tobacco and cedar hidden amongst flavors of raspberry, cherry, and flowers.
The Best Pinot Noir Under $50
Nicolas Jay Pinot Noir | 2018
Shopping under the $50 mark still leaves numerous exceptionally well-rated bottles of Pinot Noir to choose from. Our favorite would be the Nicolas Jay Pinot Noir, vintage 2018. This bottle has received impressive critical acclaim, holding strong ratings from sources including Vinous and Wine Spectator. This Pinot Noir heralds from the Williamette Valley of Oregon and offers sophisticated notes of blueberries and cherries backed by a hint of fresh herbs. It’s savory, sweet, and faintly spicy. This wine is ready to drink today, but you could easily hold this bottle until 2030 if you’re looking to build your collection.
The Best Pinot Noir Under $25
J.K. Carriere Provocateur Pinot Noir
J.K. Carriere Provocateur’s Pinot Noir also comes from the Williamette Valley of Oregon but can be had for approximately half the price of the bottle above. Half the price is a pretty incredible value, considering that this wine still received 91 points when reviewed by JamesSuckling.com. This wine presents strong floral notes and cedar and spice amongst the classic notes of raspberry for which Pinot Noirs are often known.
The Best Pinot Noir On a Budget
Manos Negras Pinot Noir
If you’re looking for the best Pinot Noir at the best price point, turn to the Manos Negras Pinot Noir. This bottle can be had for just $15 and features reviews so good that you’ll have to try it and see for yourself. Here’s what Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate had to say about it:
“The 2015 Pinot Noir is now sourced from a district called Cervantes in the province of Río Negro close to General Roca. Part of full clusters were used to ferment it with indigenous yeasts in cement vats, it was kept with the fine lees, and bottled unoaked. There is good freshness and clean aromas of red berries with the faintest hints of earth. The palate is juicy and soft, with a silky texture and a supple finish. Pleasant and accessible, this is a great value and represents a superb entry level to the place and variety.”
Where to Find Top Rated Pinot Noirs
Still on the hunt for your new favorite Pinot Noir? Check out Winedeals.com. They have an incredible selection of top-rated Pinot Noirs sourced from all over the world. Whatever you might be searching for, you’ll likely find it there.
