Heart & Hands 2012 Pinot Noir

By Sally Kral

When I headed into Red Feet Wine Market & Spirit Provisions last weekend, I knew I wanted a Finger Lakes red but I wasn’t sure which varietal. Cabernet Franc seemed the obvious choice, though I’ve tasted quite a few in my travels around the area and wanted to step off the beaten path a bit. That’s when the 2012 Pinot Noir from Heart & Hands Wine Company caught my eye (admittedly with a little guidance from the great staff at Red Feet).

The Finger Lakes may not be as well known for its Pinot Noir production as it is for its Rieslings and Cab Francs, but that doesn’t mean you should shy away. And with wineries like Heart & Hands, Forge Cellars and Bellwether specializing only in Riesling and Pinot Noir, it’s safe to say Finger Lakes Pinot Noir is on the rise. Watch out, Oregon!

In the past, my taste for Pinot Noir has gone back and forth. I tend to prefer my reds to be on the heavier side, and Pinots are generally light bodied and fruity. I like a red with dark berry flavors and earthiness to it, and I’m not always sure that a Pinot Noir will fit this bill. That being said, this Heart & Hands Pinot Noir did not disappoint! With aromas of dark red berries, I knew almost immediately that I would enjoy this wine. While certainly light bodied, this Pinot’s berry flavors blend with subtle smokiness giving way to an earthy, dry finish. Because of its delicate body, this wine is very food-friendly. In fact, it’s hard for me to think of a food this wine wouldn’t pair with—it’s light enough for roasted chicken or fish but bold enough for steak. I actually went the vegetarian route, enjoying it with spicy broccoli rabe ravioli. The lightness of the wine was the perfect match for the spiciness of the pasta.

Sally Kral is the print and digital managing editor of Edible Finger Lakes as well as a freelance writer focused on national wine, beer and spirits trends.