We shop for wines in the $10-$30 price range. 

Quite often, we’ll sample wines in that range

where it’s clear that the producers have cut corners. 

They’ll play with the ratios, mixing 15% of this grape

and 10% of that grape to supplement the star grape. 

Or they’ll add some cheaper bulk juice, sometimes from another state or region,

to stretch the more expensive stuff. 

As a result, it can be challenging to determine

what the wine actually is and/or where it’s actually from.

It’s Wine Thursday!, our weekly good-wine-at-a-good-price-

that-you-can-find recommendation, just in time for your weekend.   

This week we’re checking out a wine that is true to the

character of the grape and the region where it is produced.

After 100 years of crafting classic Burgundy in France,

the Drouhin family started a winery in Oregon. 

In short order, Domaine Drouhin became one of the most acclaimed

producers of Willamette Valley Pinot Noir. 

Several years ago, Drouhin launched Cloudline,

a more accessible i.e. value Pinot Noir brand. 

In that time, Cloudline has earned a reputation

for delivering good value on a consistent basis.

In 2019,  Cloudline stayed on its roll.

This release shows all of the characteristics typical of Willamette Valley Pinot Noir. 

There are berry, cherry and cranberry notes along with a hint of earthiness. 

It’s light, straightforward and ready to go.  No need to lay this down. 

It’s ready for dinner tonight.  

The best price we found for Cloudline 2019 Pinot Noir was

$14.99 at Internet Wines & Spirits  

https://internetwines.com  

Total Wine has it on the shelf for $15.99. 

Same price at Stirling Fine Wines 

https://www.stirlingfinewine.co

QFC and Fred Meyer sells it for $18.99. 

 You’ll find it at Wine.com for $19.99.