💎 Welcome Back 💎
Your down-to-earth, wallet-friendly wine guide is back for the week ahead. We’re still on our mission to unearth the best wines under $15 and prove that a budget bottle can hit the spot, whether you’re at a dinner party or just kicking back on the couch.
This week...a Pinot Noir that's worth a try to decide for yourself. Let’s dive in.
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A Pinot Noir That’s Nice, But Could Use a Bit More Muscle 💪
🍷 Just Like Magic Pinot Noir (2023)
Alright, so Just Like Magic Pinot Noir is smooth and easy to drink, which is all well and good, but if you’re after a bolder red with a bit of grunt, this one’s on the lighter side. Think of it as the wine equivalent of a one-arm hug rather than a loving cuddle. It’s got those subtle berry flavours, with just a hint of spice at the end, but doesn’t quite bring the intensity if you’re in the mood for something weightier. A sommelier might refer to it as "young".
Now, it’s not without charm! For a Pinot under $10, it’s decent...smooth, approachable, and won’t knock anyone’s socks off in either direction. This makes it a safe bet if you’ve got mates who aren’t keen on heavy reds but still want a bit of character. It’d go nicely with a Friday pizza night or an easy pasta dinner, just don’t expect it to steal the spotlight.
What we will say is that the 2023 vintage we tasted this time around doesn’t quite have the same spark that earlier years brought to the table.
In the end, this one’s ideal if you’re looking for something casual and uncomplicated, but it might leave you wishing for a bit more depth and oomph. It’s a good starter wine for those new to Pinot, but for anyone after something that sticks to your ribs, this might not be the one.
VITR Official Score: 6.5 / 10
👍 Reality vs Perception: Price-wise, we picked this up for $9.50, and for what you’re getting that's pretty good. For a friend that's new to wine, maybe it passes for $15 to $20. For a more experienced drinker...reality matches perception.
👩🎨 Label Aesthetics: Pretty slick-looking bottle to be honest. It won’t turn heads, but the cute little bunny will fit in just fine.
👴 Comparison to Nonno’s Home Brew: It’s a bit mild for Nonno’s tastes, but he might appreciate the easy-drinking vibe.
🪩 Fit for an Engagement Party: Absolutely. Light enough to keep everyone happy, smooth enough to sip all night, but not quite bold enough to be the main event.
🤑 Keep the Change: At under $10, there's still a bit left from our $15 budget to invest in a two-for-one special on Pizza Shapes.
Real Talk
📖 Fake It 'Til You Make It
Acidity: When it comes to wine, acidity doesn’t mean sour. Think “zingy” or “fresh.” Higher acidity wines leave you refreshed, like that feeling after you’ve had a good squeeze of lemon.
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💡 Sip Tip
Serving Pinot: Pinot Noir tastes best slightly cooler than room temp. Forget a specific temperature though, just pop it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before pouring to bring out its flavors.
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🍿 Sip & Snack
Champagne & French Fries: Bubbles and fries—because life is about balance, and this balance is delicious. After all, it's very French.
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Until Next Week, Cheers 🍷
We’ll be back next Thursday with a bargain Tempranillo. Got a favourite bottle under $15? Reply to this email and help us on the hunt! (We’re already preparing a few of your recommendations for some upcoming issues.)
P.S. Know a wine-lover who’d dig Vine in the Rough? Feel free to share the love. 🙏
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