My preferred style of Pinot is Sonoma Coast – creamy fruit with slight spices and a touch of sweet oak.   So any time I try an Oregon Pinot, I know that I should keep an open mind because it will be made differently.   This one had a cherry cola and clove nose, and a very pretty ruby color.   Tart fruit on the midpalate, and the finish almost reminded me of eating Sour Patch Kids.

$14/bottle

Single for me, Double for the less snobby Pinot drinker

I tried this Malbec while having lunch at the always awesome Son Cubano     Nose was a bit closed off, think about a rose before it really opens up.  Bit of berries and currant but not much complexity or oomph.   Juicy midpalate with a sweet, oaky slightly dry finish.    Paired well with the food but would have been a bit boring by itself.   It was a well made wine though so I may try another vintage or give this one more time in the bottle!

Price = $10/bottle wine.com ($11 per glass at Son Cubano, yes wine by the glass in the city is very overpriced!)

Score = Single