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The Motif Monterey Pinot Noir 2023 is a $4.99 Trader Joe’s exclusive. The Motif line of wines has been at TJ’s for the last 4 or 5 years, in the past they have offered a Red Hills AVA Cabernet Sauvignon, also selling for $4.99.
The Story
I checked with the California Wine Cola Registry, which is in charge of approving wine labels. It showed that this Pinot Noir was “vinted and bottled by” Barrel Ten Quarter Circle, Inc. Vinted and bottled by only indicates that they bottled the wine. In this age of LLCs, companies can be separated into multiple independent (legally) companies.
Barrel Ten Quater Circle, Inc. looks to be an entity controlled by Bronco Wine Co. of Two Buck Chuck fame. Ten to fifteen years ago, it seemed like Bronco made half of Trader Joe’s wines. That is an exaggeration, but only slightly.
The Motif Monterey Pinot Noir 2023 does not have any available Production or tasting notes at $4.99 there is no money left for anything that is not necessary.
The Monterey AVA inside the Central Coast AVA can be a top location for growing Pinot Noir grapes. Many areas have the cool climate and the morning fog that helps the Pinot Noir grapes achieve a long full growing season.
The alcohol content is 14.5%. Pinot Noir grapes can be difficult to grow and need ideal conditions to show their best, so the thought of a sub-$5 Pinot Noir isn’t always welcome.
The Motif Monterey Pinot Noir 2023 Tasting Notes
The color is slightly see-through cherry red. The nose is red berries, spice, herbs, black pepper, and raspberry jam. The Motif Monterey Pinot Noir 2023 has a rounded mouthfeel and cherry and spice flavors.
This Pinot Noir tastes like tart cherry, dried strawberry, a slap of exotic spice, black pepper, and ripe plum. It is not complex, but what is in the glass sips well.
The tannins are soft and the acidity is balanced.
The Summary
- The Motif Monterey Pinot Noir 2023 is priced at less than five bucks, so it can’t compete with the expensive Pinot Noir wines. But it does drink well for the price.
- This is a party wine, four bottles for $20, or backyard sipping with the neighbors.
- It is a useful, well-priced wine.
