2003 Garrison McBride Pinot Noir

[wondersofwine]

The 2002 was listed at a DC store (usually higher prices than other cities) at $11.99. I had a glass at a Raleigh restaurant so didn't pay for a bottle but Garrison McBride's other wines (Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay)) sell for around $9.99 or $10.99 in cities like Nashville and New Orleans, thus qualifying as a best buy.

Grapes for this Pinot Noir were from Carneros, CA. Purple color with garnet around the rim. Almost opaque. Dark cherry and plummy nose. Strong cherry flavor with smoky, peppery undertones. Substantial mouthfeel and a good finish. Suggestion of Syrah, Bucko, but struck me as more Pinot Noir than Syrah. One to consider alongside Castle Rock as a bargain domestic P.N.

[Bucko]

Run away! Run away! ;-) Nah, sounds like I can handle that one.

[LLeBeaux]

I love Garrison McBride Pinot Noir. That was the wine that made me fall in love with Pinot.