My review of Mark West Pinot Noir, one of the best low-priced value reds on the market.
In my previous review, I touted the attributes of popular French table wines, which are the spokes in my Shangrila wheelhouse. If there’s a California counterpart to the snootiness and smoothness of my preferred French classics, it’s some wonderfully delicious value-based products from outlier areas that might be under your radar. Allow me to introduce you to one of my staple California budget classics — Mark West.
I love Mark West wines. There’s nothing pretentious about them. They’re just wonderful. These are among the best wines on the market for the money.
Think classic French table wine, with some fruitiness. It doesn’t pretend to be something it’s not. Mark West is the “Target” of retail wines, and that’s not a bad thing. Will this impress judges and tasters at a prestigious wine competition? Probably not. Will this satisfy every palate as a single go-to accompaniment to any evening? Absolutely.
From the tasting notes: “One of California’s most widely recognized Pinot Noirs, the Mark West possesses generous flavors of cherries, red berries, dark fruit, and a hint of baking spices. The soft finish is silky smooth and gentle.”
It should be pointed out Pinot Noir is Mark West’s specialty. They do produce other, more expensive wines. But this is their best-seller, and claim to fame.
Mark West began winemaking in 1978. They are based in Modesto, which is roughly between the Bay Area and Sacramento. They don’t get as much appreciation at Sonoma or Napa wines but are every bit as reliable and delicious.
I’ve never had a Mark West wine that wasn’t totally pleasing and fulfilling as a bargain go-to daily treat. Highly recommended for most tastes.
Grade (100 point scale): 90
Value: (10 point scale): 9
Price: $7.50
Recommended: Yes (highest possible grade for simple gatherings)