The wines from Bouchaine, the oldest continuously operating winery in the Carneros District, according to their website, fly under the radar. I certainly can’t explain it given the stature of their Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, which show why Carneros is a prized area for those varietals. This Pinot Meunier, a grape used extensively in Champagne, but rarely seen as a single varietal still wine, conveys a lovely combination of earth and fruit flavors. Fresh and smoky, it doesn’t fatigue the palate. Supple tannins allow immediate enjoyment.
Bouchaine, Carneros (Napa Valley, California) Pinot Meunier 2013
By Michael Apstein