HIP SIPS


Sideways Compliment


    Wine drinkers have enjoyed the velvety tannins of Pinot Noir for centuries; however, with the release of the wine-centric film Sideways, Pinot Noirs from around the world have suddenly experienced a boost in sales.
    Alameda wine merchants Dan Marshall of Du Vin Fine Wines and Jeff Diamond of Farmstead Cheeses and Wines agree that Pinot Noir’s supporting role in the film has piqued consumer interest in a wine that has never gone out of style.
    And while Burgundy, the French Pinot Noir, has always had a good reputation, the quality of California and Oregon Pinot Noirs has increased significantly in last 10 to 15 years, according to Marshall. “The newer consumers are finding affordable Pinot Noir options for everyday drinking, and exploring pricier choices on special occasions,” says Marshall.
    One of the oldest grape varieties cultivated for the purpose of making wine, Pinot Noir can be made into light, fresh and fruity or robust, full-bodied-style wines, making it complementary to almost all foods.
    Diamond suggests pairing the bigger and bolder Sonoma County Pinot Noir with beef and roasted meats and uniting the Oregon and French versions with chicken and fish. “Grilled salmon screams for Pinot Noir,’’ Diamond says, adding that all styles go well with cheese.
    And as with any wine, when Pinot Noir is good, it is very, very good, says Diamond. “When it hits, boy, oh, boy—you understand what it is all about,” he adds.
PINOT NOIR RECOMMENDATIONS:
    2002 Block 13 Pinot Noir,
        Sonoma Coast, $19.99
    2003 Lafond, Santa Rita Hills,
        Central Coast, $19.99
    2002 Robert Sinskey Pinot Noir,    
        Carneros, $28.99
—Laurie Isola