Wine | Meiomi

Meiomi is one of the best-selling Pinot Noirs in America, and there is a clear reason for that: it tastes the way many people wish Pinot Noir tasted. It is richer, darker and softer than the lean, earthy style of Burgundy or Oregon. Joe Wagner started the brand; his family also founded Caymus. The name comes from a Wappo word meaning "coast", and the wine is exactly that: a blend of fruit from California's coastal counties rather than from one vineyard.

The Pinot Noir, three ways

Meiomi Pinot Noir ($24.99) is the flagship: jammy strawberry and dark cherry, a touch of mocha and vanilla from oak, and a soft finish. It is a crowd-pleaser, and on a holiday table it is the red that the Cabernet drinkers and the white-wine drinkers will both drink. Meiomi Pinot Noir 375Ml ($14.99) is the same wine in a half bottle, which is the right size for a weeknight dinner for two. Meiomi Bright Pinot Noir ($24.99) is the lighter, lower-alcohol version at 8% ABV, for when you want the flavour with less alcohol.

Beyond Pinot

Meiomi Chardonnay ($20.99) follows the same approach, with ripe stone fruit and a creamy texture, and it is not heavy on oak. Meiomi Sauvignon Blanc ($14.99) is the brightest and least expensive bottle in the range. Meiomi Cabernet Sauvignon ($25.99) rounds it out when it is in stock.

If you like Meiomi, try these next

Want the same generous California style from a single region? Try La Crema Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast ($28.99). For a step up to single-vineyard Pinot from the same Wagner family, Belle Glos Dairyman Vineyard Pinot Noir ($54.99) is the natural next bottle. If you are planning a holiday table, our Thanksgiving wine guide explains why Pinot Noir is the safest red with turkey.

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