Over the past couple of months, I've tasted a bunch of reds from all parts of the globe. I was looking for THE ONE that I could tout as the Perfect Thanksgiving Red, and I found it in Torii Mor's 2021 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir.
I am enamored with this wine you all -- you will be too! Showcasing classic and vibrant Willamette Valley character at an incredible price, it's almost as if this was custom-made for the classic holiday feast. From the wonderful 2021 vintage, this balances ripe and spicy fruit against food-friendly acids and silky tannins.
I guarantee and promise you this will heighten the flavors of your turkey, ham, and sides, and those dishes will enhance the flavors of the wine. That's what I call magic!
2021 Torii Mor Pinot Noir Willamette Valley
The top Willamette Valley Pinot Noir value in the marketplace.
ORDER NOW in our online store.
If you know me, you know I love Pinot Noir, and it's my #1 red wine suggestion for Thanksgiving. Pinot Noir's soft tannins, bright acids, and sensuous texture make it ideal for the meal. It won't overwhelm the flavors of your turkey, and it melds beautifully with all of the earthy sides. The version from Torii Mor, one of Oregon's most trusted estates, is clicking on all cylinders this vintage.
My pick for the top 2021 domestic Pinot Noir value, if you love Oregon Pinot Noir, I guarantee you'll love this wine. I'm not kidding when I say that I've tasted over 75 domestic Pinots this year, all in this same price range. There were some strong contenders, but this one really rang my bell, and took home the title of the "Perfect Thanksgiving Red."
The balance of ripe and sumptuous fruit, complex spice, and zesty acids make this a perfect fit for the holiday feast. Rich and complex on the nose, with notes of ripe cherry, warm dark berries, and wild strawberry, this develops more floral and baking spice notes as it sits in the glass. Silky, plush, and elegant on the palate, the finish is long and satisfying, with a harmonious mix of fruit, juicy tannins, and savory earth nuances.
I love the way this wine transforms in the glass from one that is more fruit-driven to one that is more detailed and complete. It doesn't take long either -- just pour it and leave it alone for 15-20 minutes and you'll sense what I'm saying. It's a reminder that wine is quite a bit different, on an experiential level, than other libations. Enjoy the journey :)
Torii Mor is one of Oregon's most trusted and respected producers, and since 2004, Burgundy-born Jacques Tardy has made their wines. With his Burgundian heritage and 5 generations of winemakers preceding him, Jacques used his familial experience and intuition to develop the style for which Torii Mor is now recognized. With a keen focus on structure and balance, the elegance of Jacques' wines has branded Torii Mor as one of the top-ranked producers of Pinot Noir in the United States.
Whether you need a no-brainer Thanksgiving Pinot Noir or you want a delicious Pinot on-hand "just because," this is the wine for you. Cheers to happy drinking and eating this holiday season!
ORDER NOW in our online store.
Josh Spurling
Owner, Operator, Wine Monger
Table Wine Asheville