Top Pinot Noir Wines Loved by Sommeliers (and Why)

Sat, May 31, 25

When it comes to red wine, bold bottles like Cabernet or Syrah often steal the spotlight. But ask any wine lover what they keep coming back to, and you’ll probably hear the same answer: Pinot Noir.

This isn’t a wine that shouts. Pinot Noir is soft-spoken, graceful, and layered with personality. It doesn’t try to impress you in the first sip. It unfolds slowly—and that’s exactly why it’s unforgettable. In fact, some of the top Pinot Noir wines are those that reward your patience with elegance, balance, and pure expression of place.

So, whether you’re just starting your wine journey or looking to try something beyond the usual suspects, here’s everything you need to know about Pinot Noir—and how to find the top bottles worth your attention.

What Is Pinot Noir?

Pinot Noir is a red grape variety that’s light to medium in body, naturally high in acidity, and low in tannins. It originated in Burgundy, France, where it’s been grown for over a thousand years. The name comes from the French words pin (pine) and noir (black)—a nod to the grape’s tight, pinecone-shaped clusters.

What makes Pinot Noir so unique is how sensitive it is—to weather, soil, and even how it’s handled in the cellar. It’s famously difficult to grow, which is why top Pinot Noir wines often come from regions where conditions are just right.

Where Do the Top Pinot Noir Wines Come From?

Pinot Noir thrives in cooler climates where it can ripen slowly and retain its delicate character. Each region puts its own spin on this versatile grape, and that’s what makes tasting through Pinot so exciting.

Here are some of the top regions producing exceptional Pinot Noir today:

Each region produces top Pinot Noir wines with its own voice—making Pinot one of the most fascinating varietals to explore.

What Does Top Pinot Noir Taste Like?

Pinot Noir is often described as light, silky, and complex. Its charm lies in its layers. A good Pinot won’t hit you over the head—it’ll keep you coming back for more.

Here’s what to expect from the top Pinot Noir wines:

Fruits: Cherry, raspberry, cranberry, strawberry
Earthy tones: Mushroom, forest floor, dried leaves, truffle
Spice & oak: Clove, cinnamon, vanilla—especially in oak-aged bottles

The best Pinot Noirs strike a beautiful balance: fruit, earth, acid, and elegance—without ever feeling heavy.

Pinot Noir is one of the most versatile red wines when it comes to food pairing. Thanks to its light body, bright acidity, and silky tannins, it complements a wide range of dishes—from roast chicken and duck to grilled salmon, mushroom risotto, and soft cheeses like Brie or goat cheese.

Whether you’re serving poultry, seafood, pasta, or pork, the best Pinot Noir adds elegance and balance to your meal—enhancing flavors without overpowering the plate.

Best Pinot Noir wines to try now

Meiomi Pinot Noir

Crafted from California’s premier coastal vineyards, Meiomi Pinot Noir is bold, polished, and irresistibly smooth. With its rich fruit character and silky texture, it’s a go-to red for any occasion—effortlessly balancing elegance and intensity in every glass.

Appearance: Deep garnet with a ruby-tinged rim
Aroma: Ripe jammy fruit layered with notes of toasty oak and warm spice
Palate: A bold yet silky profile featuring dark berries, juicy strawberry, and touches of mocha, vanilla, and toasty oak
Texture: Smooth and velvety with well-balanced acidity
Finish: Long, full-bodied, and flavor-packed, leaving a lasting impression

Food Pairing
Pair this expressive California Pinot Noir with thin crust pizza, grilled meats, or savory mushroom dishes for a satisfying, crowd-pleasing experience.

Bread and Butter Pinot Noir

A best-selling favorite, this California Pinot Noir is known for its crowd-pleasing charm—beautifully balanced, fruit-forward, and effortlessly elegant from first sip to finish.

Aroma: Juicy red cherries, raspberries, and a touch of cassis with hints of cedar and bay leaf.
Palate: Bright red fruit layered with soft oak and light savory notes.
Texture: Smooth and rich with a velvety mouthfeel.
Finish: Long, elegant, and beautifully balanced.
Style: Fruit-forward, approachable, and food-friendly.

Food Pairing
Perfect with herb-roasted chicken, grilled salmon, mushroom risotto, soft cheeses like Brie, and savory flatbreads.

Josh Pinot Noir

A perennial favorite and best-seller, this Pinot Noir delivers depth, elegance, and irresistible charm in every sip.

Aroma: Bright cherries, ripe raspberries, and warm toasty oak
Palate: Opens with dark cherry and vanilla bean, evolving into earthy notes and warm spice
Texture: Medium-bodied with smooth, well-integrated tannins
Finish: Long, layered, and intensely satisfying
Perfect Pairing: Roasted vegetables, mushrooms, turkey, or duck

Hob Nob Pinot Noir

As elegant as a bouquet of violets and bursting with cherry flavors, this Pinot Noir is medium-bodied with soft tannins, to create a smooth, rich texture. Excellent with prime rib, sausage, and heavier fare.

Appearance: Deep ruby with a soft crimson hue : Fragrant bouquet of violets, ripe cherries, and subtle spice
Aroma: Fragrant bouquet of violets, ripe cherries, and subtle spice
Palate: Bright cherry and red berry flavors upfront, complemented by gentle notes of spice and a touch of earthiness
Texture: Medium-bodied with soft tannins and a smooth, rich mouthfeel
Finish: Clean and lingering, with balanced acidity and a hint of red fruit sweetness

Food Pairing
Pairs well with prime rib, grilled sausages, mushroom-based dishes, and hearty stews

How to Choose the Right Pinot Noir

Looking for a great bottle? Here are a few tips to help you pick one of the top Pinot Noir wines for your taste and budget:

Check the region: France offers earthier, more structured wines. California and New Zealand bring bold fruit. Oregon lands somewhere beautifully in the middle.
Pay attention to vintage: Cooler years usually mean more acidity and subtlety. Warmer years bring out ripe fruit flavors.
Balance your budget: You can find good Pinots around $15–$20, but standout bottles—especially from Burgundy or single-vineyard producers—can go well above $50.
Look at alcohol content: Lighter styles hover around 12.5%, while richer ones might be 14%+.

Final Thoughts: Why Pinot Noir Deserves Your Attention

Pinot Noir isn’t flashy. It doesn’t dominate the room. But for those who take the time to explore it, it’s deeply rewarding. It’s a wine that reflects place, patience, and precision. And that’s what makes it timeless.

So whether you’re just getting into red wines or building a collection, top Pinot Noir wines are always worth exploring.

At Arlington Wine & Liquor, we carry a thoughtfully curated range of top Pinot Noirs from around the world—each with its own story, style, and soul.

By Arlington Wine and Liquor