As stated above, Oregon has quickly become one of the premier regions for Pinot. It's not the only one though, there are MANY many great regions from all over the world. Cool climates and all that. Check out one of the latest Wine Spectator issues for a write up on Pinot in general and also the top 30 Californian producers. Or, at least, THEIR top 30.

Pinot isn't often the first varietal sought out when getting into wines, but with time and palate development, it often becomes a favorite. It's a more delicate grape, thin skinned, tricky to grow well and subject to more issues when making the wine. Get it right though and it's liquid silk :)

shipping wines has become a hot topic and a lot of changes are coming out of the Costco case etc. Check out this link for info on that:

http://www.wineinstitute.org/programs/shipwine/

Right now, some of the best values in wine are coming from places like Chile, Argentina and Australia. Also, look at Spain for some great values.

Next time you are in Costco, check out the foreign stuff. Costco is pretty good about carrying quality and will typically post a review to help you decide. Almost anytime you see a 90 or greater from Wine Speculator, Robert Parker etc. you can bet it will be enjoyable.

Salut SmileWavy


-Chris

Don't forget "heidi-pop" (Heidelberg)...often the choice of the collegiate on a tight budget. The $pendy brews were Oly and Blitz. I preferred Blitz. To those not in the NW back in the 60's...that's Olympia and Blitz Weinhard. Oly brewed in Washington State, Blitz in Oregon.

I'd agree, for a single state, Oregon produces the best beer in America. No German beer, unless consumed at the brewery in Germany, can compare if you look around. Oregon brews so many varieties, you can find at least one you like.

Pat is right for a change.

When I visited Portland there were many small pubs that brewed their own beer that you could only get at the pub.

"The $pendy brews were Oly and Blitz."

I don't remember Blitz, my time there was early '70's. Wasn't Bohemien like $.70 a sixpack? Granted, this was in 1970's cents.
Jim

Re: Oregon pinot noir, what is it about this stuff?
 

I think it's the poppies and special herbs they grow between the vines. ;)

They generally grow the special herbs indoors. You're thinking of the 'shrooms. Lendaddy likes the 'shroom effect.