Pinot Noir is Hot, Hot, Hot!

by Jay Hendrick

As if you didn't already know, Pinot Noir—that mystifying grape from the famous Burgundy region of France—has made quite a name for itself here in the USA. Especially with the surge in popularity attributed to the superb movie Sideways, which touted the amazing qualities of this fine grape.

We are enjoying a string of vintages that are extraordinary, especially the 2004 and 2005. And, Wine Spectator says to look especially for the 2006 vintage, which should be fantastic.

Pacifica's wine buyer J.T. Hutchens recommends you seek out Pinot Noir from the regions of Santa Barbara, Sonoma, and Oregon especially. Extremely versatile and food friendly, try a bottle with your favorite dish. From fresh seafood, steak and grilled meats, to salads and pasta, this bright, silky, smooth wine is sure to please.

The trick is finding a great restaurant with a very good Pinot program. Pacifica Del Mar offers 18 to 22 Pinots by the bottle and three by the glass at any given time... even the hard-to-find Merry Edwards, the top-rated Pinot producer rated three years running by Wine Spectator.

Plus, did you know Sonoma Cutrer makes a Pinot Noir? Yes, they do! And, Pacifica Del Mar is one of the few Southern California restaurants to offer it.

Tempted? Come in for Pacifica's "Half Off Wine Bottle Night" every Thursday and live Sideways!