Alta Maria Vineyards makes mostly very serious and seriously delicious Pinot Noirs. This one, though, is lighthearted and fun. Made by fermenting whole clusters the way they do in Beaujolais, the Carbonic Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir delights with its bright fruit and unabashed charm.
Easy drinking, this pretty Pinot is perfect with fish and fowl, salade Nicoise or a pizza. Keep an eye out too for the winery’s 2011 Alta Maria “Reserva” Pinot Noir.
Region: Central Coast
Price: About $22
Style: Lighthearted easy drinking
What it goes with: Fish or fowl, salade Nicoise, pizza
