2009 Jacob's Creek Reserve Adelaide Hills Pinot Noir

 

2009 Jacob's Creek Reserve

Adelaide Hills

Pinot Noir

Origin: South Australia

Alcohol: 13.5%

Pinot Noir is an interesting grape variety.  It is extremely difficult to grow and tricky to get consistent results from.  Its flavors can vary greatly, giving many Pinot Noir wines a whole host of flavors and nuances that other wines just don't exhibit, including everything from a sublime elegant fruitiness, to a barnyard funk in others.  

 

Jacob's Creek out of Australia makes a host of different wines.  I was fortunate enough to try their 2009 Vintage Reserve Pinot Noir from the Adelaide Hills region. 

It pours a dark garnet and has aromas of strawberry jam and subdued cranberries.  It had a light-to-medium body, typically of Pinot Noir.  On the palette, I get dry plum, black cherry, hints of spice, a touch of oak, and a savory, earthy finish.  The tannins are present, but fairly light. 

This is a solid, savory and earthy Pinot Noir which would fit well with duck or some lighter game dishes.

Drink This: if you want a quality Pinot Noir on the savory, earthy side of things.  It's only around $13, making it a great value and perfect for when the mood strikes for a dry, savory red.
Don't Drink This: if you are looking for a sweeter, red wine.