Domaine Chandon, the Napa Valley descendant of Moet & Chandon, is well known for making delicious sparkling wines (aka Champagne). But when I visited the winery recently, I learned that they also make varietal wines, including a very nice Chardonnay, a true Carneros Pinot Noir, and get this, a Pinot Meunier.
I've never tried a Pinot Meunier before, and the Chandon left me wanting more. I suppose I would describe it as a Pinot Noir with attitude. Think of subtle plum, cherry, and… Havana tobacco… overtones. (I'll probably get dinged by the wine snobs for that one.)
Both the 2002 and 2003 vintages were well worth trying, if you can find them.
