Searching the World for the Elusive Good-value Pinot Noir: New Zealand and Chile

Good-value pinot noirs are worth a search of the entire world. Here, two potential value-priced pinot noirs are reviewed - one from the Casablanca Valley region of Chile and the other from the Waipara region of New Zealand. The Chilean wine - from Veranda - was seen to be of especially high quality for the price.

Review, Mount Cass Pinot Noir:

Mount Cass Pinot Noir is made from grapes primarily from the Waipara Valley area of New Zealand. New Zealand itself is primarily known for its steely sauvignon blancs and tight pinot noirs. The Mount Cass is made from clones 375 and 115, aged in new and one-year-old French barrels. We are trying the 2002 vintage, now about seven years old from its vintage data, at the later end of its expected lifespan.

In the glass, Mount Cass shows as medium light brick red, consistent with its age. Aromas show the bright pinot style, but intermixed with a definite funkedelic low-end buzz - might blow off with a bit of air. Right now it's a mix of red cherry and sauerkraut.

On the palate, all is well, however, when the sweet, bright, red cherry touches your cheeks. A bit of darkness unfolds from the oak, and the finish is clean, modest in length, tight and bracingly acidic with just a hint of sweetness.

At this point, I can't say I would return for another bottle, so I'll give it two stars. I will let it decant for awhile, though, thinking it may knit together a bit more. It definitely doesn't want additional age.
...

After a one-hour decant, much of the funkiest of aromas have blown away, leaving a broccoli-element to the nose. Rounder mouthfeel. Adding a plus to the two stars because of its intrigue.

Review, Veranda Pinot Noir:

The excellent, value-priced pinot noir remains a very elusive goal. This pinot noir, the Veranda 2007, is from a moderate price range, and hails from the Casablanca Valley of Chile. It is from a cooler section, with a Mediterranean Sea influence. The Veranda Pinot Noir is aged in French oak barrels for 10 months.

In the glass, Veranda is medium ruby red. Upon swirling, it yields fresh, robust red fruit aromas, showing spicy red cherries and black tea.

On the palate, a moderately full experience unfolds, wrapping beefy red currant in a robe of earthy silt. Finish brings on sweet and tangy elements, with a moderately long, fresh close. Clean and beckoning for the next sip. Three stars because I would return for another bottle. Add a plus for its impeccable balance. Good value in a Chilean pinot noir.