91 points - Wine Spectator
95 points & Double Gold - San Francisco International Wine Competition
The 2015 Estate Pinot Noir expresses the terroir of our three vineyards - the original planting by Founder, Jim Bernau at the winery in the Salem Hills, Tualatin Estate planted by Oregon wine pioneer Bill Fuller in the foothills of the Coastal Range and Elton planted by Dick and Betty O'Brien on the east face of the Eola-Amity Hills.
This wine exemplifies the "Oregon style" opening with aromas of raspberry, black currant, dried herbs and black pepper to create an elegant bouquet. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied with a silky mouthfeel and flavors of cherry, blackberry, bergamot, anise and earth. Exceptionally balanced with velvety tannins, lively acidity and a lingering finish.
Sourced exclusively from 15 acres of Pinot Noir from the first plantings at the Estate Vineyard, Founder Jim Bernau planted these vines using a Christmas tree planter pulled behind his 33 horsepower tractor. He grafted the French clones 667 and 777 on a portion of the vines when they became available.
Focused notes of florals, including violet and lavender, flow into ripe red fruits of cherry and raspberry accented by nutmeg and cedar aromas. The palate is satin textured over an elegant frame of bright acidity and firm tannins surround mouth-filling flavors of cranberry, earth and savory herbs.
The bouquet opens with notes of mixed red and black fruits, spice, minerality and earth. On the palate, red fruit flavors of raspberry and cherry are accented by barrel-driven characteristics of mocha, white pepper and cedar. The wine features a medium-bodied frame structured by fine tannins and balancing acidity.
Featuring a nose of fresh red cherries, caramel, and cedar, the palate is equally as alluring with dried fruits, vanilla, anise and floral notes emerging. A lengthy finish with balancing acidity, structure and oak influence round out the wine.
