In the late 1980s, you couldn’t find decent California Pinot around $10—but you can now. The key is sticking with producers you know are reputable, like Bogle. This blend is 100 percent Pinot grown in the Russian River Valley, Monterey County, and Clarksburg wine regions. It offers tangy cherry flavors nicely balanced with subtle notes of plums, herbs, and spice. This easy-drinking red is quite versatile at the table. Pair it with roast beef, herb-roasted chicken, mushroom pizza, or Santa Maria style tri-tip. Widely available at grocery and chain stores, you’ll find this California State Fair gold medal winner at BevMo!, currently on sale for $10.99.
This article appears in Sep 22-29, 2011.