Our host asked for a wine with “soft tannins” as the food to be served was Asian-inspired flavors with fish as the main course. Most people think of fish and white wine, personally, I prefer to consider the time of year and flavors. In this case, it was also the dead of winter. My thoughts immediately leaned toward Pinot Noir, Gamay, or Bobal. I decided on two wines, two grapes varieties; one French and one American.
The french wine was from producer Domaine Georges Lignier & Fils noted for his premier cru wines from Burgundy. I chose the Bourgogne-Passetoutgrain $25. Passetoutgrain 2020 AKA as Passe-Tout-Grain is Appellation d’origine contrôlée (AOC) and must contain more than 30% Pinot noir and more than 15% Gamay. In this case the Bourgogne-Passetoutgrain is 70% Pinot Noir 30% Gamay.
The other wine was Grochau Cellars Pinot Noir Commuter Cuvée 2021 from Willamette Valley, Oregon. 100% Pinot Noir grape $25. The grapes are sourced from 11 vineyards throughout the Willamette Valley and aged approximately 9 months, 70% french oak, and 30% stainless steel. A very fresh, easy-to-drink, “go-to” wine for just about any occasion.
The Commuter Cuvée was fruity and fresh with cherry aromas and notes of mint. It is a bit spicy on the palette with a warm spice finish that blankets the fruit and a long finish. Enjoy now.
The Passetoutgrain was a bit more complex and presents its Côte de Nuits terroir and intricacy of Cru Beaujolais. The nose is beautiful, full of mouthwatering fresh berries and cherry, and lush plum fruit, followed by rose petals and rich earthiness. Both the Gamay and Pinot Noir show well. The former with its rich dark color and blueberries. Pinot Noir brings acidity and some tannins. Ready to consume now but also something you’d want to stash away for a couple of years.
Both are delicious wines and moderately priced.
Grochau Cellars Pinot Noir Commuter Cuvée
Domaine Georges Lignier & Fils Bourgogne-Passetoutgrain