Executive editor Thomas Matthews joined Wine Spectator in 1988. His tasting beats are Spain and New York.

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A Pinot Noir Value

Familia Schroeder Pinot Noir Patagonia Saurus 2007

Thomas Matthews
Posted: March 4, 2009

Like many of my wine-loving friends, I'm always hunting for affordable Pinot Noir. Alas, much as I love Burgundy, most of its reds are beyond my budget for everyday wines. So when I read James Molesworth's recent article on Patagonia, an emerging wine region in the far south of Argentina, and his praise for the Pinot Noirs being made there, I decided to look for one.

I found not only a delicious Pinot, but a great value: the Saurus Pinot Noir 2007, for $13. It's made by Familia Schroeder winery in the Neuquén region of Patagonia. Molesworth has liked earlier vintages of the wine, and the 2007 didn't disappoint. It was supple in texture, with light tannins that supported bright berry and cherry fruit, finishing with notes of herbs and mineral. I served it with filet mignon, and the mushrooms I sautéed with garlic brought out an earthy note in the wine that added some depth. 86 points, non-blind.