“It’s a funny thing about life; if you refuse to accept anything but the best, you very often get it.” – W. Somerset Maugham
Jim Ball makes damn fine pinot noir. Wine Harlots have delayed writing about the exceptional wine, as our feeble words can’t convey the beauty, the elegance, the grace of the pinot noir created by Jim Ball Vineyards, and we are fearful that our mediocre attempts would be a disservice of this brillantly crafted treasure.
But where Wine Harlots delayed, you must not. Wine & Spirits Magazine, in the April 2011 issue has declared Jim Ball Vineyards as one of the Year’s Best American Pinot Noirs and a Best Buy. The edition hasn’t hit the streets yet, but the word is getting out. Get yours while you can. You shouldn’t come to the Wine Harlots for stock tips, but for wine tips, we’ll always send you in the right direction. And the direction today is Jim Ball. It’s a buy recommendation all the way.
The wine is classic New World pinot noir. Clear ruby, flavors of cherry predominating, with notes of chocolate, cola and saddle leather. Well integrated, with a pleasing acid/tannin balance. The perfect pairing is Hazelnut Crusted Rack of Lamb with Cherry Wine Reduction.
The details: 14.5% alcohol. Cork closure. Varietal: pinot noir. Appellation: Anderson Valley. The wine retails for $45 USD, available directly from Jim Ball Vineyards. This was a media sample generously provided by the winery.
The music match is “Best I Ever Had (Grey Sky Morning)” from Vertical Horizon from the album Everything You Want. Wine Harlots say refuse to accept anything less than the best. If you want the best pinot, don’t delay.
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SOLD! I am absolutely intrigued after reading this. Way to go, Jim!
Try it! You’ll like it!
Really a beautiful bottle of wine.
Cheers!
“ONE” of the Best … I don’t want to be misquoted or dishonor the others mentioned in the upcoming article!! But Thanks Everyone!!!
Oh fine, Jim!
I haven’t read the article, but doesn’t the cover say “Best American Pinot Noir”?
(To be fair, I did make the distinction in my post, it was just in my teases that I resorted to hyperbole!)
Thank you so much for the sample.
It was such a beautiful wine it haunts me still.
Congratulations and all the best!
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