Last Updated on March 19, 2024 by Lydia Martin
While the best Pinot Noir wines come with a hefty price tag (next to Cabernet Sauvignon), you’ll be surprised when we say there are excellent Pinot Noirs under $50.
We’ve tasted many Pinot Noir wines, and now, we’re sharing the top choices if you want affordability and quality.
So, get ready to enjoy velvety richness and amazing flavors with the best Pinot Noir under $50, which we guarantee to impress your taste buds.
Table of Contents
ToggleTop 12 Pinot Noir Bottles Under $50
1. Flowers Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2021
Average Price: Approximately $49.99/750ml (Total Wine & More)
Alcohol Content: 14.1% ABV
Nose: Lilac, roses
Palate: Santa Rosa plum, cranberry, cedar, clove
Star Rating: ★★★★★
Why We Like It: We like this wine for its floral fragrances and palate – made possible by Sonoma County Pinot Noir wine grapes. It’s not the best Pinot Noir wine, but we like the balance and smooth texture.
Its captivating blend of Santa Rosa plum aromas and flavors makes it a delightful choice if you appreciate a nuanced and lingering experience.
2. Belle Glos Clark & Telephone Pinot Noir 2017
Average Price: About $48/750ml (Wine-Searcher)
Alcohol Content: 14.6% ABV
Nose: Cranberry, raspberry, clove, cedar
Palate: Crushed cherry, cranberry, blueberry
Star Rating: ★★★★★
Why We Like It: The deep ruby hue of this Pinot Noir is beautiful, and upon sipping, it bursts with red fruit aromas with just a hint of holiday spices.
The Pinot Noir wine’s rich, lively texture carries into a warm, structured finish. Actually, this is one of the most complex wines we’ve tried, but it’s worth the sip.
“I invite you to celebrate with our Belle Glos Pinot Noir. A wine that’s close to the coast, my family, and my heart.” — Joseph Wagner, Owner/Winemaker
3. Gary Farrell Winery (2021 Russian River Selection Pinot Noir)
Average Price: Approximately $50/750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 13.9% ABV
Nose: Cherry liquor, sweet tobacco, fennel, rose petal
Palate: Blood orange, sour cherry, tamarind, raspberry, green plantains
Star Rating: ★★★★☆
Why We Like It: This Pinot Noir from the Gary Farrell Winery enchants us with its captivating aromas and flavors.
The Noir grapes boast firm tannins [1] and tangy acidity, creating a full-bodied texture and a long, spicy finish. So, among other wines from the brand, this Pinot Noir is one of our favorites, alongside Chardonnay [2].
4. Brooks Pinot Noir (2018 Cahiers Pinot Noir)
Average Price: Approximately $50/750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: About 14.5%
Nose: Black cherry, dark fruits
Palate: Concentrated, velvety, smooth
Star Rating: ★★★★★
Why We Like It: This Cahiers 2018 Pinot Noir is a tribute to Jimi Brooks, embodied in the winery process – concentrated aromas and robust profile. Besides, we like how velvety and smooth the finish is.
This Pinot Noir vintage delivers remarkable taste and carries a heartwarming story (within the wine industry) that enhances our overall experience.
5. 2017 Sebastiani Robert’s Vineyard Pinot Noir
Average Price: Approximately $49/750ml (Wine-Searcher)
Alcohol Content: 14% ABV
Nose: Cranberries, raspberry, baking spices
Palate: Vanilla, toast, ripe fruit
Star Rating: ★★★★★
Why We Like It: Winemaker David Nakaji’s dedication shines through in this Pinot Noir vintage as he draws upon his experience interning in the esteemed Grand Cru vineyards of Burgundy.
We like this wine’s velvety smoothness, creating a lasting impression. This wine reflects Nakaji’s expertise and pays homage to the legacy of fine Pinot Noirs from both Old and New World regions.
6. Migration Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2020
Average Price: Around $44/750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 13.9%
Nose: Blackberry, raspberry, cranberry
Palate: Layers of fruit, forest floor, toasty oak
Star Rating: ★★★★☆
Why We Like It: This fruit-forward Pinot Noir harmonizes texture and tension perfectly. It has a rich and polished finish with bright acidity.
The Pinot Noir grapes embody the Sonoma Coast’s allure, providing a memorable experience with its intricate layers and vibrant character.
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7. 2016 Roth Reserve Trenton Vineyard Pinot Noir (Russian River)
Average Price: About $42.99/750ml (Vivino)
Alcohol Content: 14.8%
Nose: Wild blackberries, raspberry, black tea
Palate: Earthy, lively acidity, firm tannins
Star Rating: ★★★★☆
Why We Like It: We find this Roth Estate Pinot Noir a unique drink for its delightful black tea notes, accompanied by a hint of earthiness.
It’s made from the Roth Estate Pinot Noir grapes and delivers a balanced palate. The wine’s acidity harmonizes with its creaminess and umami elements, enhancing its earthy nuances.
8. 2018 Chalk Hill Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast
Average Price: around $20/750ml (Wine-Searcher)
Alcohol Content: 13% ABV
Nose: Cherries, black plum, mocha
Palate: Velvety tannins, dark chocolate
Star Rating: ★★★★☆
Why We Like It: This great Pinot Noir wine from Sonoma Coast captivates us with its harmonious blend of aromas and flavors.
It’s refined and accessible, which pairs exquisitely with charcuterie, cheeses, and gourmet spreads.
9. Four Graces Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2021
Average Price: Around $21/750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 13.5% ABV
Nose: Raspberry, Bing cherry, earthy forest floor
Palate: Cherry, cranberry, black pepper, coffee
Star Rating: ★★★★☆
Why We Like It: We like this medium-bodied wine for its pleasing tasting notes blending red fruits and subtle earth tones. This is a well-balanced and flavorful choice.
Also, it’s the best Pinot Noir under $50 if you’re looking for a finish that boasts lively flavors and vibrant acidity.
10. Juggernaut Pinot Noir (Russian River Valley)
Average Price: Around $20/750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 14.5% ABV
Nose: Stargazer lilies, vanilla, oak
Palate: Red cherry, berries, oak
Star Rating: ★★★★☆
Why We Like It: The cool climate of the Russian River Valley and the French oak aging influence how this Pinot Noir turns out. We like the delightful blend of red fruit and enchanting Stargazer lily perfume.
This is an amazing Pinot Noir, giving a glimpse of the rich character of the region, perfect for those who appreciate a touch of elegance and vibrant fruit flavors.
11. Cherry Pie Three Counties Pinot Noir 2019
Average Price: Approximately $20/750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 14.2%
Nose: Toasty oak, cherries, cranberries
Palate: Rainier cherries, balanced, silky finish
Star Rating: ★★★★☆
Why We Like It: This Pinot Noir mesmerizes us with its sweet and toasty aroma. We can say that it has complex flavors, but they’re expertly balanced, leading to a long and velvety smooth finish.
This complex wine [3] is a true gem that encapsulates the essence of the Three Counties (Monterey County, Napa County, and Santa Barbara County), earning its place among our favorites.
Read: Pinot Grigio vs Pinot Noir
12. Parducci Small Lot Pinot Noir 2021
Average Price: Around $18/750ml (Wine Enthusiast)
Alcohol Content: 14.5% ABV
Nose: Ripe plum, raspberry, boysenberry
Palate: Rhubarb, strawberry, chocolate, basil, toasted wood
Star Rating: ★★★☆☆
Why We Like It: Parducci Pinot Noir delivers a harmonious blend of red taste profiles, providing an enjoyable and easy-drinking experience.
“Sip the affordable elegance of Pinot Noir – luxury within reach.” – Liquor Laboratory
We like the diverse palate that makes this drink a versatile choice for various occasions, like dinner parties or special holidays. This is the best Pinot Noir wine if you seek a well-rounded expression.
*Note: The star rating was determined based on a blind test, with 1 being the lowest and 5 being the highest. Each product was evaluated on its quality, flavor profile, complexity, smoothness, and overall enjoyment.
FAQs Related to Best Pinot Noir
What are some of the best Pinot Noir wines available for under $50?
Several excellent Pinot Noir wines can be found for under $50, including La Crema Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, Meiomi Pinot Noir, Erath Oregon Pinot Noir, and Siduri Willamette Valley Pinot Noir.
Why is La Crema Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir often recommended in the under $50 category?
La Crema Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir is renowned for its consistent quality, with vibrant fruit flavors, silky texture, and balanced acidity. It offers exceptional value for its price and is widely accessible.
What sets Meiomi Pinot Noir apart as a great option in this price range?
Meiomi Pinot Noir is known for its lush and fruit-forward style, with flavors of ripe berries, dark cherries, and a touch of spice. It’s approachable, well-balanced, and offers a luxurious drinking experience.
Can you recommend a specific vintage of Erath Oregon Pinot Noir under $50?
Erath Oregon Pinot Noir consistently delivers quality across vintages. Look for recent releases to enjoy its fresh fruit expression and characteristic Oregon terroir.
Are there other notable producers of Pinot Noir worth exploring in the under $50 category?
Yes, producers like Belle Glos, Cambria, MacMurray Estate Vineyards, and Acrobat offer high-quality Pinot Noir wines at affordable prices, showcasing the diversity of the varietal.
Final Verdict
We’ve explored diverse vintages that tantalize our senses, and these expressions, the Flowers Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2021, stand tall as our favorite.
With floral aromas, vibrant red fruit flavors, and a touch of spice, it captures the essence of Sonoma Coast. We like its elegance and character, exemplifying this wine’s affordable excellence.
But all these Pinot Noir wines are worth the sip and experience. As always – the best one will always depend on your preference. Enjoy!
References:
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/tannin
- https://www.theaustralian.com.au/life/food-drink/best-chardonnays-blend-ripened-fruit-flavours-with-coolclimate-freshness-and-subtle-french-oak/news-story/88d295771daf908af732d1520bc2bc6c
- https://www.britannica.com/topic/wine
- https://www.cnbctv18.com/travel/food-and-drinks/exploring-the-finest-red-wine-grapes-variety-pinot-noir-a-journey-of-flavours-17608131.htm