As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting and analyzing many different wines, including the Smoking Loon Pinot Noir. When it comes to determining whether a wine is sweet or not, it is essential to consider a few factors.
Firstly, the color of the Smoking Loon Pinot Noir is brick red, which is typical for this varietal. The color itself does not necessarily indicate sweetness, as it is primarily influenced by the grape skin contact during the winemaking process.
Moving on to the aroma, the wine exhibits notes of strawberry, rhubarb, plum, and vanilla. These aromas are characteristic of a Pinot Noir and do not necessarily suggest sweetness. Instead, they showcase the fruity and sometimes floral characteristics of the grape.
When it comes to taste, the Smoking Loon Pinot Noir offers flavors of cherry, raspberry, and cranberry sauce. These flavors, combined, create a light and fruity sweetness on the palate. However, it is important to note that this sweetness is not overwhelming or cloying. It is balanced by the natural acidity of the wine, which prevents it from becoming overly sugary.
In my personal experience, I have found the Smoking Loon Pinot Noir to be a well-balanced wine with a touch of sweetness. It is not a dessert wine by any means but rather a versatile red wine that pairs well with a variety of dishes.
To summarize, while the Smoking Loon Pinot Noir does have some fruity sweetness, it is not overly sweet or dessert-like. The balance of flavors and acidity in the wine make it suitable for those who prefer a touch of sweetness without it being overpowering.