Brancott Vineyards Pinot Noir Marlborough 2011

Supple, with raspberry, green tea and wild strawberry flavors underscored by vanilla oak- and herb-tinged tannins. Drink now.

Racy black plum and cherry flavors are found in this dependable Pinot Noir. The fine tannins and savory quality of this wine make it an ideal match for herb-crusted salmon or roast pork.

A lightweight, delicate Pinot Noir, with a light ruby hue and pretty cherry and herb flavors framed by oaky notes of brown sugar and vanilla. Good value.

Sheer noir, this transparent black wine has a raspberry edge of flavor. That, along with the scent of violets, makes it easy to place with food, its acidity ready to cut through a salmon steak in a beefy wine reduction, or roasted marrow bones.

Finding a great value Pinot Noir can be challenging. Yoursquo;ve probably heard how difficult Pinot Noir is to cultivate, requiring some hands in the vineyard to do it well, which often translates to big bucks on the consumerrsquo;s end. Inexpensive Pinot Noir, even when drinkable, often lacks varietal identity (ldquo;this has notes ofhellip; red winerdquo;). The Brancott 2009 Pinot Noir, however, is both delicious and distinctly Pinot. The aromas of pomegranate, tart cherry, baking spice, and a subtle umami nuance have depth and persistence. Light and refreshing, not thin and washed-out, this delivers incredible flavor for the money.

Light in body, with a bright garnet hue. Bursting with cherry and ripe strawberry fruits, with gentle spice and silky tannins.

Montana (sold as Brancott here in the U.S.) has been trying to make good Pinot at a good price for years, and they seem to be getting closer to their goal. The 2007 South Island Pinot blends fruit from Waipara and Marlborough into a soft, round, cuddly whole, redolent of root beer and beet root and ending with a flourish of tart cherries. Drink now.