Annabella, Carneros (California) Pinot Noir 2014

Yum.  This is terrific “budget” Pinot that shows excellent purity and naturalness, but not at the cost of aroma or flavor.  There’s nice acidity beneath the dark cherry fruit, and there’s just a little whiff of oak to lend added complexity.  Thanks to its soft texture, this would work very well as a walk-around red for parties or bars (restaurateurs, take note), but will also prove very versatile at the table.