10 Outstanding California Pinot Noirs at $50 or Less

We have kept a close eye on the fantastic quality of Pinot Noir made in California, where the grape's popularity continues to grow. It is the second-most widely planted red variety in the Golden State (Cabernet Sauvignon remains king), with more than 47,000 acres across primarily cooler sites, including many influenced by the Pacific ocean. This week, we've highlighted recently rated California Pinot Noirs that have earned at least 90 points. Even better, these reds are made in sizable volumes, which should make them easier to find on shelves.

Santa Barbara County has more than 5,500 acres planted to Pinot Noir. Cool summer fogs and Pacific breezes are hallmarks of this region, but there is some climate variation: Vineyards farther west will experience lower temperatures than those to the east. This means that several styles of Pinot Noir can be made here, depending on location. Rusack Vineyards's Pinot Noir uses grapes grown throughout Santa Barbara, and it displays blood orange, raspberry and savory notes. Meanwhile, Etude's red from Santa Maria Valley, a subregion of Santa Barbara, shows red tea and mulberry notes with a lightly toasty finish.

This lineup includes Freeman's Pinot Noir West Sonoma Coast 2021, one of the top scorers, which is bright and engaging with cherry, mulberry and savory notes. Read on to get our full score and tasting note for this California Pinot Noir and nine others!

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