Weekly Wine Review - Chilean Red - 2009 Viña Cono Sur Pinot Noir Ocio

I have stated before that while I strive not to be a big ole' wine snob, I do fail when it comes to Pinot Noir. Only certain regions, and certain wineries within those regions are able to coax something wonderful from this temperamental grape.  However, I'm not too big a Pinot Snob to admit when I'm wrong.  Recently I was very surprised by a wonderfully old world style Pinot from...are you ready???... CANADA!!!  I have six bottles being graciously stored for me in Chicago by a generous comrade in wine as we found that wine at a big Pinot fest in Chicago.  So... while thinking that lightning likely won't strike twice, here is a bottle that we were gifted at the Wine Spectator Grand Tour in Vegas - but didn't get a chance to taste while we were there.  This one is from Chile, mostly know for Cabernet... but you never know!

Wine: 2009 Viña Cono Sur Pinot Noir Ocio

Region: Casablanca Valley, Chile
Grape Varieties: Pinot Noir

Obtained from: Wine Spectator Grand Tour

Price: $45

Wino4Life Category: Weekend Wine

Aeration before tasting: Just a swirl or two, no special aeration.

Cork Condition: Natural cork - no defects or issues.

Appearance: Clear, dark red with a pink rim.

Aroma: Lots of red fruit, baking spices, and some earth.
Taste: Full bodied, with super ripe fruit...all new world. Great finish, excellent balance.

The Grade: I give this one an A. Wow - another wonderful Pinot surprise. I had to think a while about this grade a while given the near $50 price tag... but ultimately this wine stacks up nicely against other California and Oregon Pinots at the same price point. I would definitely buy more!