Juris Pinot Noir "Reserve" '12

Austria is a standout when it comes to wines that deliver  quality and value, and this 2012 Pinot Noir is another cuvée to add to the list. The Juris winery is located in the historic center of Gols on the Lake Neusiedler in Burgenland, the warmest part of Austria, with the most hours of sunshine annually. Between Vienna and Budapest, the area is influenced by the warm Pannonian climate. The Stiegelmar family has been cultivating grapes in this wine area for generations, with records dating back to 1571. The vineyards cover 18 hectares of land and include all of Austria’s most important red wine varieties, but special focus is given to the grapes of the Burgundy family, St. Laurent and Pinot Noir. While high-quality noble sweet wines once accounted for the majority of wine production,  80 percent of the total wines are now red.

The 2012 Reserve was aged for one year in barrique and six months in large oak barrel. It shows notes of ripe dark cherries and dark raspberry, with dried herb and spice notes, potpourri, dried mushroom, and a hint of smokiness that deepens the savory character of the wine. On the palate, the tannins are well integrated, and the acidity is still fresh. This is a full bodied wine with a long finish, ideal to match with hearty fare and rich, savory dishes, such as braised or roasted meats and stews, gamey meats, and mushrooms. Decant it ahead of time, and enjoy as it continues to open in your glass.