18 Dec Please The Palate Wine of the Week: River Road Family Vineyards and Winery 2023 Pinot Meunier, Russian River Valley

I have said it once, twice, and probably more. But I will say it again. I love Pinot Meunier (still wine). I have yet to taste one I have not liked and this week’s wine is no exception. This week, in honor of Pinot Meunier Day on December 16th (because even Pinot Meunier gets a “wine day”), I opened the River Road Reserve 2023 Pinot Meunier and it is the Please The Palate wine of the week.

About River Road Vineyard and Winery

Ron Rubin is a beverage industry veteran. He always dreamed of having his own winery, beginning in 1971 when he was studying viticulture and enology at UC Davis. Ron went on to work for his family wholesale liquor business, sold Clearly Canadian Sparkling Water, and procures teas from around the world for The Republic of Tea. But after 40 years, his dream of owning a winery came true. In 2011, he purchased River Road Family Vineyards and Winery in the Green Valley in the Russian River Valley in Sonoma County.

River Road Vineyard and Winery produces primarily Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, which they grow on the estate vineyard. River Road Vineyard also produces Cabernet Sauvignon and in 2023 they made their first Pinot Meunier, sourcing the fruit from a vineyard in the Russian River.

Tasting Notes

The 2023 Pinot Meunier was fermented in stainless steel and aged for 8 months in neutral oak barrels. The wine is a vibrant cherry red color and has aromas of black cherry, raspberry, and red currant and earthy notes. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied but has a lightness to it. Tannins are present and the lively acidity leave the mouth watering and wanting another sip.

Food Pairing

Pinot Meunier is a fun wine to pair with food, including many dishes you might also think to pair with Pinot Noir. Try this wine with roasted chicken, salmon, grilled vegetables, or even sushi. This is also a good wine for a holiday dinner as it will easily and enjoyably pair with all the dishes on the table. I personally enjoyed this wine as an aperitif. I went to the farmers market and bought a baguette and California Fromage Blanc from Achadinha (Osh-a-deen-a) Cheese Company. The fresh, unaged cow’s milk cheese was smooth and tangy which harmonized with the smoothness of the wine.

Where To Purchase

The River Road Family Vineyards and Winery 2023 Pinot Meunier retails for $24.99 and can be found at Total Wine & More. And if you miss the 2023 Pinot Meunier, don’t worry as there is a 2024 vintage coming.