INSIDER'S PICK: 2013 MEINKLANG PINOT NOIR BURGENLAND $16.99

This is routinely one of our favorite 'forgotten' wines in the store, where we get in the routine of showing customers Pinot Noirs from the usual suspect areas like California, Oregon, or Burgundy. You would think that if it came from a region called Burgenland it would stick in our collective brains a little better. But that is what the Insider's Pick is best used for, to bring these gems to light. Austria in general has produced some exciting interpretations of Pinot Noir over recent years, but this house in particular has really nailed it for both quality and value vintage after vintage. Certified Biodynamic, this has always been a house that brings the farm mentality to fine wine for a remarkable price.
Despite being in a warmer climate, the Burgenland Pinot Noirs always seem to follow more of a French style (power of suggestion, perhaps?), and the Meinklang drinks like a quality 'basic' Burgundy. Savory cherry skins and hints of earthy red fruits start on the aroma, with perhaps a bit of New World style sweeter red fruit coming through as it opens up, but overall staying very savory. The palate isn't as acidic as most Burgundies, and some would say that's to it's benefit as it takes some of the harsher edges off the higher toned red fruit character. There is a softer mouthfeel behind the cranberry and Bing cherry, allowing some of the more subtler herb and savory earth flavors through. A great deal for Pinot Noir no matter where it came from!
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