This lovely Pinot debuted on Valentine’s Day Eve with a simple meal of baked chicken with rosemary and roasted red pepper flakes, baked sweet potatos, and steamed broccoli. The garnet-colored Pinot was a great balance of bright fruit and supple tannins. I love a Pinot that shows off its fruit without being a fruit bomb, and this is an excellent example!

Although I can’t find a website for Arthur Wilbanks, the label describes the wine nicely (except for the usage of the “&” sign versus spelling out “and”… grammer nerd, I know!

Wine, like music, should be savored, cherished & involve the senses. Our gentle sloping vineyards rest in a cool maritime climate allowing a lengthy ripening period accentuating the smooth, succulent character. Soft & delicate with elusive tannins, red fruits, and carressing structure, our wine harmonizes with vast cuisine and lively conversation.

Also, this wine goes great with watching the Vancouver Winter Olympics!

Origin: Edna Valley, San Luis Obispo, California
Where: Highland Wine
Price: $12
Next time: Get a glass!

Byron Pinot Noir

I bought this wine in memory of my grandpa, whose first name was Byron. According to the label, this winemaker was the first commercial vineyard planted in Santa Barbara County, back in 1964. Pretty cool!

Origin: Santa Barbara County, California

Where: Smyrna WOB; $19.99 bottle

Unfortunately, this wine was nothing what I was hoping for. This past week has not been a successful wine-tasting week… lots of “I’ll pass” on these Pinots that lack the light-medium, punchy fruit-forward flavor that I’m looking for. Oh well, at least I won’t be craving this $20 bottle.

Next time: I’ll pass.