While some of my WestToast colleagues have their back pockets filled with "That's A Steal" ideas, I am at the opposite end of the spectrum. I don't mind an inexpensive wine but I struggle to find bottles that I like enough to buy again. The bottle I finally found is actually the third one I've attempts for the purpose of this post.
Tonight, as many Portlanders avoided the record setting September rain, I scoured the aisles of North Portland's New Seasons for a bottle worthy of a post. Since those failed attemps earlier in the month - I decided I was going to go with an inexpensive bottle of one of my favorite varietals. It's hard to miss when it comes to Oregon Pinot Noir. It's big, bold and almost like a meal of flavor across your palette.
You might recognize the Rascal label because of the angel dog image on the label. The Oregon Pinot Noir is from The Great Oregon Wine Co. part of Stone Wolf Vineyards and was actually created just a few years ago as winemakers looked for a way to deal with an overabundance of grapes. You can read more in the 2010 story in The Oregonian.
I paid $8.99 for it at PCC but I'd guess you can find it for even less at other stores. The bottle is one that will go down easily either on its own or mixed with your favorite rainy day dinner. There are great cherry and earth tones inside the inexpensive bottle - even Moose thinks the rascally goodness inside is lipsmacking good.
I'm starting a list of wines to always have on my shelf and this will be one of them - though I'm sure there will be more than one Pinot Noir on it because if you like it big and bold - these black grape wines can't be beat. Enjoy a glass, or three, tonight. You can afford to throw back a little Rascal.
$8.99 for an Oregon pinot...truly is a steal.
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