What We're Drinking Now: Argentine Pinot Noir

08 Pulenta Estate

So far we have sought out mainly Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon during our South American travels, but for our Valentines Day celebrations at Gran Bar Danzon we decided to branch out and taste how Pinot Noir is expressed in Argentina. 

This 2008 Pulenta Estate Pinot Noir caught our eye for two reasons: first, it was from a producer we had not yet tried, and second, it was from Lujan de Cuyo which produces wines of great depth and structure. 

We opened it up and right away got dense, bing cherry flavors and a silky smooth mouth feel. Our entrees of Risotto with chicken croquettes, pink salmon with sweet potato puree and a summer salad of arugula, peaches, pistachios, prosciutto and goat cheese were great additions to the wine. 

As it opened, we noticed more spice, especially on the front palate, and even a medicinal note reminiscent of Robitussin.  While a white wine would have also paired well with these dishes, the spice and robust qualities in this Pinot Noir complemented the rich risotto, the creaminess of the potato puree and the sweet and savory components of the salad.