SOLD OUT! If that title didn't get your attention, the next statement should -- the 2019 Solena Grande Cuvee Pinot Noir is also LESS THAN $30! Plus, it drinks and rates like a wine that would typically run you $50 to $75. Run, don't walk, to the store to take advantage of this deal.
Laurent and Danielle Montalieu have crafted what I believe to be the best Pinot Noir value on the planet. Their Grande Cuvee is always fantastic, but in the generous 2019 vintage, it exceeded all expectations. After tasting this with my rep last week, I promptly ordered their last 20 cases.
2019 Solena Grande Cuvee Pinot Noir
93 points Wine Spectator
SOLD OUT
Solena calls this wine "Grande Cuvee" because it is quite grand and quite special, no doubt due to the Montalieu's access to top Willamette Valley vineyards. This includes the 80-acre Solena Estate, the couple's Domaine Danielle Laurent in Yamhill-Carlton, and the Hyland Vineyard in McMinnville. We're talking top-notch real estate here folks.
All of the grapes that go into the Grande Cuvee come from these prized vineyards that are located throughout the Willamette Valley. The combination of pedigree of site, the mixed terroirs of each vineyard, and expert winemaking combine to make this a complete and downright enthralling bottle of Oregon Pinot Noir. When it comes to quality, complexity, and price, I have not tasted a finer Pinot Noir value in the world.
What I found most attractive about this wine, besides its price tag, was it's stylish and soulful personality. It offers up classic aromas and flavors of ripe cherry, raspberry, cranberry, rose petal, and exotic spices. All of these flavors are offered up on a plush, sensual, and medium-bodied palate. It's just really hard for me to say anything negative about this wine.
Wine Spectator had a similar opinion, even though their notes were a bit shorter than mine. "Showing style and personality, this Pinot is expressive with raspberry, savory forest floor and dusky spice flavors that take on structure toward refined tannins. Drink now through 2029."
I'll bet you money that this wine will be in the Top 20 of their Top 100 Wines of 2021. By that time, this one will be long gone. Stock up now, and serve this gorgeous Willamette Valley Pinot with Thanksgiving dinner. You'll be glad you did!
Josh Spurling
Owner, Operator, Wine Monger
Table Wine Asheville