2003 O’Reilly’s Pinot Noir

David O’Reilly, winemaker at the highly regarded Owen Roe in the Pacific Northwest, designed O’Reilly’s Pinot Noir as an affordable Pinot for everyday drinking.

He really nailed it. Sourced from small vineyards all over Oregon, the 2003 vintage is a beautifully supple and drinkable Pinot with loads of bright fruit -- dark cherry, plums, currants.

Put away those tannic Cabernets and Barolos until weather takes a turn for the cool: This is the perfect summer-weight red. In warm weather, serve it ever so slightly chilled. And a word of caution: One bottle is not going to be nearly enough. It drinks well with anything from the grill or barbecue, plays up to the ever-reliable roast chicken or duck, and simply loves beef and lamb. In short, a lovely and versatile Pinot Noir at a price that doesn’t require a special occasion.

-- S. Irene Virbila

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Quick swirl

Region: Oregon

Price: About $13

Style: Lush and fruity

Food it goes with: Barbecued meats, especially lamb, roast birds

Where you find it: Diamond Star in Los Angeles, (323) 937-0700; Hi-Time Wine Cellars in Costa Mesa, (949) 650-8463; Wine Exchange in Orange, (714) 974-1454; Woodland Hills Wine Company in Woodland Hills, (818) 222-1111