Pinot Noir Questions From A Beginner

[Thomas]

A good Pinot Noir (or Burgundy from France) is one of the most outstanding wines on earth. I am not familiar with the Beringer to which you refer but I suppose the vanilla in the description is from wood (oak) aging and the cherry is part of the fruit characteristics of Pinot Noir.

In my opinion, Beringer has displayed a heavy hand with oak in its Chardonnay, so I would be wary when the winery speaks of vanilla, unless you like oaky wines.

In general, Pinot Noir is great with grilled salmon, fine with certain lamb dishes, you get the idea.