Arrowhead Spring Vineyards Pinot Noir

If you haven’t tasted Niagara Pinot Noir yet, you’re missing out on something exciting. The varietal is finding a new voice on the slope of the Escarpment as top producers begin turning out their own versions, and this first offering from Arrowhead Spring Vineyards is a fantastic example at an unbeatable price. Made from Escarpment fruit nurtured by local grower Don DeMaison, this lovely bottling from the cool 2009 vintage shows a gorgeous nose of raspberry, vanilla and the woodsy character of a hiking trail in the fall. On the palate, gorgeous acid and focused raspberry flavors, with subtle, refined oak treatment, make for a wine that’s long on flavor but light on its feet. The finish is scrumptious thanks to the mouthwatering acidity that benchmarks this vintage. This is a perfect sipper but an even better food wine, particularly with rustic vegetarian fare or cheeses. Owner and vineyard manager Robin Ross recommends a pairing of wood-fire pizza with caramelized onions and gruyère.