Blueprint Pinot Noir from Waitrose is part of a range created to highlight excellent-value, classic wines from around the world. Each bottle is chosen not just for quality, but for how faithfully it represents its style and place of origin. The label design reflects the winemaker’s region, adding a touch of visual charm to the experience.
This particular Pinot Noir stands out by delivering impressive quality despite not coming from one of the traditionally celebrated regions for the grape. Produced in Romania by Cramele Recaș, it offers a fresh take on the variety and demonstrates that Pinot doesn’t have to be expensive or from Burgundy. It was also a finalist in the own label category of the 2025 Peoples’ Choice Awards.
At 12.5% ABV and from the 2024 vintage, it opens with a cherry-scented, slightly earthy aroma. On tasting, it’s light to medium bodied, with flavours of raspberry and ripe strawberry layered with a slight savoury character providing a gentle umami quality that makes it surprisingly moreish. There’s more length to the finish than you might expect at this price point and it has a versatility that suggests it could be served lightly chilled. It would pair well with white meats such as chicken.
At £7 from Waitrose, and occasionally dropping to £5.25 during their 25% off promotions, this bottle represents outstanding value. It’s a fine example of how lesser-known regions can deliver wines that punch well above their price.
