2011 Seven of Hearts Very Special Reserve Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

12.5% alc., 98 cases, $75. Clones 114, 777, Pommard, Wädenswil and Mariafeld. Sourced from three sub-appellations (Armstrong, Lia’s and Luminous Hills vineyards) including both volcanic and sedimentary soils. Aged in 23% new French oak barrels. This wine is made only in special vintages. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. The shy nose offers delicate aromas of dark red cherries, forest floor, musk and oak spice. A little more stuffing and structural bones than the Special Reserve, with a bigger, more persistent finish. Overall, more ephemeral and sexy. Can be enjoyed now, but will benefit from aging. Better the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Score: 91. Reviewed September 5, 2013

Winery: Seven of Hearts Wine
From article: Small Sips of Recently Tasted Pinot Noir and a Few Whites