2008 Argyle Extended Tirage Brut Willamette Valley Sparkling Wine

12.5% alc.,1300 cases, $80. Harvest Brix 19.6º. 63% Pinot Noir, 37% Chardonnay. Bottle fermented. Aged on the lees for 10 years before disgorgement (disgorged July 2018) in 25% neutral barrel and 75% stainless steel. 25% MLF. Dosage 4 g/L. · Light white peach color in the glass. The nose is more savory and less fruity than the 2015 vintage offering aromas of roasted nuts, warm brioche, and yellow plum. Complex on the palate, with flavors of citrus, green apple gripping and saturating the palate. Plenty of energy, crispness and minerality, literally taking the breath away on the extended finish. Score: 95

2015 Argyle Vintage Brut Willamette Valley Sparkling Wine

12.5% alc., $28. A portion of this wine will be held back for extended aging and will become the Extended Tirage Brut. 70% Pinot Noir, 20% Chardonnay and 10% Pinot Meunier. Harvest Brix 19.2º. Aged in 93% stainless steel and 7% neutral oak. Dosage 6 g/L. · Light white peach color in the glass. Very enticing, clean aromas of apricot, grilled lemon, pastry creme, yeast and roasted nuts. Vibrant flavors of white peach and Rainer cherry. Slightly creamy with a hint of tannin on the knife-edged finish. Score: 92

2017 Argyle Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., $27, screw cap. Made from 100% estate grapes, with 50% of the fruit from Lone Star Vineyard and 50% from Knudsen Vineyard and Spirit Hill Vineyard. Harvest Brix 23.0º. Fermented in 1.5-ton lots with hand punch downs. · Light ruby red color in the glass. Aromas of red cherry, red cranberry and baking spices. Light to mid weight in extraction and red fruited in character, with a modest oak underbelly. Easy drinking, with silky tannins and a slightly astringent finish. Score: 88

2017 Big Table Farm Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 2,509 cases, $45. Released March 4, 2019. All Northern Willamette Valley vineyards that winemaker Brian Marcy works with are included in this blend. More affordable because more of it is made, but it gets the same care and handling as the rest of the wines. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. A complex nose reflects whole cluster fermentation, with aromas of dark berries, fertile earth, burnt tobacco, rose petal, herbs and exotic spices. A wine with character, offering flavors of dark red cherries and berries, earth and mushroom. Sleek, with healthy tannins and good energy. Better when tasted the following day from a previously opened bottle, although the whole cluster tannins may require a few years to fully resolve. Score: 91

2017 Big Table Farm Pelos Sandberg Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 241 cases, $62. Released March 4, 2019. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Nicely perfumed with aromas of black cherry, fertile earth, dried herbs and pipe smoke. Filled with succulent cherry and berry fruits and accented with a note of creosote and tobacco typical of this vineyard. Currently, the lavish tannins show up as some astringency on the finish. An intriguing wine with an extended finish. Unchanged when sampled from a previously opened bottle the following day. Score: 92

2017 Big Table Farm Earth Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., 104 cases, $105, $240 magnum. Released April 15, 2019. 4 barrels that are the best of the vintage. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Lively and captivating aromas of black cherry, spice, fertile soil and pipe smoke. Delicious mid weight flavors of blueberry, black cherry, black raspberry, spice and burnt tobacco. Discretely concentrated with a noticeable mid palate impression and finish. Silky in texture, with felty, fine-grain tannins on the backend. Excellent balance and sure to go the distance. Spice up your life with this beauty. Score: 95

2018 Chehalem Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir Rosé

13.2% alc., pH 3.16, TA 0.67, $25, screw cap. · Light pink color in the glass. Very shy aromas of orange peel and rose petal. Light in weight, featuring demure flavors of red berry and yellow peach. Pleasant and nicely balanced, but so austere it is not eye-catching. Score: 88

2017 Chehalem Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., pH 3.41, TA 0.58, $N/A, screw cap. · Light garnet color in the glass. Pleasant aroma of cherry gum drop. A straightforward, amicable wine with flavors of oak-kissed dark red cherry and purple berry framed by modest tannins, finishing modestly with a sweet cherry tone. Score: 88

2016 Coeur de Terre Oregon Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., 2,168 cases, $22. 60% of fruit from the Estate Vineyard combined with fruit from other vineyards in the McMinnville AVA and one vineyard that borders the AVA. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Effusive aromas of dark cherry, raspberry and rhubarb please the nose and reach more intensity over time in the glass. Oak-kissed black cherry core in an easygoing, forward-drinking style that has enviable balance and an energetic, juicy finish. A great value in a wine that would make the perfect companion to everyday meals. Score: 91

2016 Coeur de Terre Héritage Reserve Estate McMinnville Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., 303 cases, $38. This wine is meant to capture the expression of the oldest vines on the estate vineyard. It is a barrel selection of all four blocks. Yield 1.86 tons per acre. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Brooding aromas of black fruits, fertile earth and botanical input. An array of purple and black fruits are beautifully balanced by benevolent tannins and acidity. There is an underlying savory vegetal thread. Nothing earth shaking here, but a very solid and satisfying effort. Score: 92

2016 Coeur de Terre Renelle’s Block Reserve McMinnville Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., 69 cases, $65. Willakenzie sedimentary soils. The oldest block on Coeur de Terre Vineyard planted in the spring of 1999. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Expressive aromas of blackberry, cassis, and vanilla. Notably graceful and polished with a discretely concentrated core of blackberry and pomegranate fruit flavors. The exquisite balance and extremely long finish make this wine stand out among all the 2016 Block offerings. Score: 94

2016 Coeur de Terre Sarah Jane’s Block Reserve McMinnville Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., 68 cases, $65. Willakenzie soils. A mixture of six clones planted in 2000. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Aromas of plum, black cherry and pomegranate are reflected in the flavors of this voluptuous wine that is infused with dominating tannins. Still, the wine has good juiciness and a gloriously intense finish. Score: 92

2016 Coeur de Terre Tallulah’s Run Reserve McMinnville Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., 68 cases, $65. Dijon 115, 667 and 777. Both volcanic and sedimentary soils. This block was planted in 2004 with 1778 vines per acre. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Generous aromas of spiced blackberry and friendly oak lead to a middleweight-styled wine with earth enhanced fruit flavors of black cherry and blackberry. Silken and seductive in texture, with fine-grain tannins and a persistent, sweet, blackberry-infused finish. Score: 93

2017 Evesham Wood Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.0% alc., $22. · Light garnet color in the glass. Slightly reduced upon opening, offering aromas of cherry, savory dried herbs and underbrush. Light to mid weight in style and quite savory in character, featuring oak-kissed red and black fruit flavors with an underpinning of dried herbs. Soft and congenial in the mouth, with modest tannins, juicy acidity and an unpretentious finish. More giving and fruity when tasted the following day from a previously opened bottle. Score: 89

2016 Evesham Wood Le Puits Sec Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.0% alc., $40. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Purple fruits, floral goodness and a hint of oak combine to produce a pleasing nose. A charming wine offering well-spiced fruit flavors of black cherry and purple berry and complimentary oak. The wine was considerably more enjoyable when tasted a day after opening when the initial slightly astringent finish had smoothed out completely. Score: 92

2016 Evesham Wood Cuvée J Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.0% alc., $50. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. The nose is oak-laden upon opening, but more fruity and enticing when the wine was tasted the following day from a previously opened bottle. Waves of black raspberry and Marionberry fruit flavors greet the mid palate. A healthy tannic backbone balances the fruit load. The wine has the longest finish by far of any of the 2016 Evesham Pinot Noir wines.Considerably better when tasted the following day from a previously opened bottle when the tannins and oak treatment had mellowed and the wine’s awkwardness had resolved. Be patient and you will be rewarded! Score: 94

2016 Evesham Wood Temperance Hill Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.0% alc., $36. Made from certified organic grapes. · Dark garnet color in the glass. Aromas of purple fruits, woodshed and blood initially, becoming more fruit driven over time in the glass. Fullbodied and a bit rugged as is typical of this vineyard, displaying an array of purple and black fruits backed by substantial tannins. A big wine with gorgeous fruit that is reticent upon opening. When tasted the following day from a previously opened bottle, the wine was more open and giving, with some mellowing of tannins. Score: 92

2016 Evesham Wood Sojourner Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.0% alc., $36. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Aromas of cherry tart, peppery herbs and vanilla. Mid weight flavors of black cherry and purple berry with a welcome touch of spice. Satiny in texture with reserved tannins, accessible fruit and a persistent, aromatically intense finish. This vineyard has produced several remarkable wines from a notable producers in the past few vintages and is one to focus on when making purchasing decisions. Score: 93

2017 Geødesy Chehalem Mountain Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., pH 3.45, TA 0.60, 115 cases, $80. Harvest Brix 24.3º. 15% whole cluster. Concrete open-top tank 18-day maceration including a 5-day cold soak. Native MLF and aging 15 months on the lees in French oak barrels, 50% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Pleasing array of aromas including black raspberry, blackberry, baking spices, dark cocoa, vanilla and toast. Mid weight plus in style with a burly core of deep people and black fruits framed by evident tannins. The finish is long and fruity. This wine has propelled by burly fruit and shows a little less charm than the Eola Springs Vineyard bottling. Score: 91

2017 Geødesy Eola Springs Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., pH 3.55, TA 0.59, 143 cases, $80. Harvest Brix 24.3º. 5-day cold soak, native yeast and native malolactic fermentation, aged in French oak barrels, 57% new and balance 1-year-old. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Engaging black cherry aromas rise from the glass. Seamless, refined and polished in a mid weight plus style featuring dark cherry and raspberry flavors with commendable oak integration. Modest tannins, enviable balance, and a persistent, graceful finish. Less concentration but more charm than the Chehalem Mountain Vineyard bottling. Score: 93

2016 Jackalope Wine Cellars Silvershot Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $N/A. Spontaneous fermentation, 10% whole cluster, aged 11 months in French oak barrels. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. A very savory nose initial with aromas of earthy flora, tobacco, creosote and dark berries. Velvety in the mouth offering mid weight flavors of black raspberry and blueberry with an animale character. When tasted the followed day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the wine was less savory and more fruity with a very pleasing finish of uncommon length. Score: 90

2017 Jackalope Wine Cellars Nemarniki Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

12.1% alc., $26. Native yeast fermentation, 30% whole cluster, aged 12 months in French oak barrels. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Light ruby red color in the glass. Aromas of red cherry, cranberry, raspberry and leaf. Light in weight and red fruited with a hint of spice and green herbs in the background. Smooth in texture, with a lasting red licorice finish. Score: 89

2016 Iris Vineyards Areté Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., pH 3.57, TA 0.58, RS 0.1 g/L, 100 cases, $59.99. Released August 2019. A selection of the best barrels from the best blocks of the estate vineyard. Harvest Brix 24.5º. Wädenswil, Pommard, 115 and 113 clones. 100% de-stemmed into 1.25-ton open-top fermenters. Aged in French oak barrels, 25% new. · The nose is primarily oak-driven , even when sampled the following day from a previously opened bottle. There is some nice black cherry and purple berry fruits at the heart of this wine, but the oak treatment overrides the pleasure. The silky texture is quite appealing as is the finish that has some purpose. When tasted the following day, the oak had somewhat integrated indicating this wine would benefit from more time in the cellar but will always be oak infused. Just not my cup of tea. Score: 89

2017 Iris Vineyards Chalice Estate D Block Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

12.7% alc., pH 3.64, TA 0.56, RS <0.1 g/L, 300 cases, $39.99. Released March 2019. Style is intended to be full-bodied, rich, fruit forward and with a strong French oak influence. Harvest Brix 20.8º. Dijon 115. 100% de-stemmed, aged 11 months in French oak barrels, 20% new, 20% once-used. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Leading off are aromas of espresso, smoke and red cherry. The mid weight flavors of black cherry and raspberry build in intensity over time in the glass. Bright acidity propels the wine that has balanced tannins and a juicy finish. A thread of smoky oak plies the background. Unchanged when tasted the following day from a previously opened bottle. Score: 88

2016 Keeler Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.6% alc., pH 3.53, TA 0.58, 237 cases, $38. Released April 29, 2018. Made with biodynamic grapes. Dijon 943, 667, 115, 777 and Pommard. Harvest Brix 23.8º. Aged 18 months in French oak barrels, 17% new and 83% neutral. After 10 months, 3 neutral barrels of Dijon 115 were moved to a concrete egg vessel to finish for 8 months. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. The aromas and flavors come more alive over time in the glass. The nose offers scents of cherry, spice and fertile earth with some oak embellishment. A gentle, lighter weighted wine driven by red fruits and companion oak with silky tannins. There is a slight underlying creosote/ash flavor that does not appeal to me. Score: 88

2016 Keeler Craig’s Reserve Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., pH 3.53, TA 0.535, 75 cases, $55. Released October 20, 2018. Made with biodynamic grapes. A three barrel blend of Pommard, 115 (30% whole cluster) and 667. Aged 18 months in French oak barrels, 67% 2-year-old and 33% neutral. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Nicely appointed aromas of cherry and friendly oak. Very similar to the regular 2016 bottling, but with more extraction and finish. Polished and silky in the mouth, featuring red cherry and berry flavors and a modicum of oak in the background. No creosote note in this wine. Score: 92

2017 Le Cadeau Côte Est Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., 145 cases, $50. This cuvée combines fruit from a cooler part of the estate vineyard with clones 114, 115 and 667 planted in Nekia (volcanic) soils. Aged 10 months in French oak barrels. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Lovely aromas of black cherry, raspberry and spice box with an espresso note in the background. Mid weight plus in concentration and bursting with black cherry goodness. Silky in the mouth with gracious tannins and noticeable oak support. Score: 92

2017 Le Cadeau Diversité Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., 245 cases, $50. Nine clones including Pommard, Mariafeld, Dijon 667, 777, 113, 114, and 115, Mt Eden and Calera planted in the Northern end of the Le Cadeau Vineyard. Aged 11 months in French oak barrels. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. The nose offers aromas of cherry, fertile earth and oak-driven spice and toast. Suave and silky on the palate, with a mid weight charge of dark cherry fruit framed by a shadow of oak. The gossamer tannins and seductive texture are enticing although the finish is only modest in length. Score: 91

2017 Le Cadeau Rocheux Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., 174 cases, $50. This cuvée is sourced from the rockiest portion of the estate vineyard, the warmer Western slope. Dijon 777, Pommard and a small amount of Wädenswil. Aged 11 months in French oak barrels. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Striking aromas of dark red cherry, rose in bloom and subtle oak. Appealing energy and juiciness, featuring mid weight flavors of dusty cherry and raspberry framed by fine-grain tannins. Appealing in many ways, with fine-grain tannins, a little earthiness and textural interest from entry to finish. Score: 93

2016 Le Cadeau Merci Reserve Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 124 cases, $80. This wine is composed of estate plantings of heritage clones of Pinot Noir - Mt Eden, Swan and Calera, planted in 2006 and 2008. Aged 14 months in French oak barrels. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Textbook Pinot Noir aromas of black cherry and spicy oak. Mid weight plus in style, offering well-ripened fruit flavors of purple and black berries. A hedonist’s delight, with modest tannins and a big, black-fruited finish. My only nit is the slightest sense of alcoholic warmth. Score: 93

2018 LUMOS Chiquita Rosé Wren Vineyard Willamette Valley Rosé of Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 172 cases, $25. Released April 2019. · Moderate pinkish red color in the glass. Pleasant aromas of red berry and cherry. A bolder rosé style, featuring a hardy core of darker red and blue fruit flavors with a savory herb note. The wine veers toward a still Pinot Noir in body and character, lacking the delicacy usually associated with Pinot Noir Rosés. Score: 87

2016 LUMOS Five Blocks Temperance Hill Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 143 cases, $25. Released October 2018. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Complex and satisfying nose revealing aromas of black cherry, boysenberry, fertile earth and smoky oak. Velvety in the mouth, with a discrete charge of black cherry and blackberry fruits underlain with a subtle savory thread. Nicely balanced, with integrated tannins, well-managed oak and a modest finish. A solid wine at this price that doesn’t try to do too much. Score: 89

2016 LUMOS Temperance Hill Temperance Hill Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 145 cases, $35. Released October 2018. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Blackest cherry and wintergreen aromas show up over time in the glass. Gracious and accessible in a mid weight style infused with an array of black fruits framed by modest tannins. Unchanged when tasted the following day from a previously opened ad re-corked bottle. A basic entry into the Temperance Hills Vineyard. Score: 90

2016 LUMOS North Temperance Hill Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.0% alc., 91 cases, $48. Released July 2018. Featured wine at the 2018 International Pinot Noir Festival Grand Seminar. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. This mid weight plus wine offers enticing aromas and flavors of spice, black cherry, boysenberry, dark chocolate and floral goodness with a friendly hint of oak in the background. Silky in texture, with a long, suave finish. Highly enjoyable, with admirable balance. Noticeable better when tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Score: 93

2016 LUMOS The G Temperance Hill Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 59 cases, $48. Released October 2018. · Dark garnet color in the glass. Brooding, but pleasant aromas of blackberry and black walnut. Sturdy and full-bodied, yet with nice polish and charm, featuring flavors of purple berries. Excellent barrel management, with a compliment of tannins, a soft mouth feel and some finishing generosity. Noticeably better when tasted the following day, exhibiting a big, sweet-fruited finish. Score: 93

2016 LUMOS PumpHouse Temperance Hill Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 45 cases, $48. Released October 2018. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Aromas of wine cave, underbrush and rusty iron evolve over time in the glass to reveal purple berry and rose petal aromas. Score: 93

2016 LUMOS Upper Bench Temperance Hill Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 67 cases, $48. Released October 2018. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. The nose is primarily oak-driven. Full-bodied in style with a sturdy, full and diverse array of black fruit flavors. Gushing with fruit, but lacking in nuance and monotone in character. A modicum of toasty oak adds support. Quite approachable, with modest tannins and some finish. Score: 89

2016 Open Claim Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 80 cases, $75. Release fall 2019. 40% 667, 40% 777 and 20% Wädenswil. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 40% new. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. A little burnt match reduction is evident upon opening but resolves completely by the following day when dark fruits and spice come to the forefront on the nose. Very suave in the mouth, with a mid weight plus core of boysenberry and blackberry fruits that are expansive and expressive. Seamless, with peach-skin tannins, and a remarkably long finish. Even more refined and sophisticated when tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. This wine has pizzazz. Score: 94

2017 Siduri Anderson Valley Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., $40, screw cap. Sourced from three vineyards. 4-day cold soak, aged 15 months in French oak barrels, 35% new. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Revealing aromas of red cherry and berry, spice and toast. Nicely composed and ready to roll now, with middleweight flavors of red cherry, red raspberry and baking spices. Sleek tannins contribute a polished mouthfeel. I would like this wine more if it was priced at $30. Score: 89

2017 Siduri Edmeades Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., $50, screw cap. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Persistent aromas of darker cherry and sous-bois. More power, intensity and finish in a mid weight plus style featuring flavors of plum, pomegranate and a citric thread. A good tannic backbone provides balance. Quite appealing, with uplifting energy and a cherry cola finish. Score: 92

2018 Stoller Willamette Valley Pinot Noir Rosé

12.5% alc., pH 3.01, TA 0.735, 15,000 cases, $25. Fruit harvested from several sites intentionally for rosé. Multiple clones are whole cluster pressed and fermented in stainless steel. Bottled January 2019. · Light pink color in the glass. Enticing perfume of strawberry, yellow peach and dried red rose petal. Good richness of flavor, offering tastes of strawberry, cranberry, peach, blood orange and dried herbs. The fruit really attracts your attention and infuses the finish with generosity. Score: 91

2017 Stoller Dundee Hills Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., pH 3.50, TA 0.58, 21,500 cases, $30, screw cap. A mosiac of Pinot Noir from the estate including a mix of all the planted clones. Mostly whole berry and primarily native yeast fermentation before aging for almost a year in French oak barrels, 15% new, 85% neutral. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Dark red cherry and berry fruits are featured on the nose and palate in this middleweight wine that is straightforward and simple. A fine introduction to Oregon Pinot Noir. Score: 87

2017 Walter Scott Dubay Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $55. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Aromas of black raspberry, black cherry, rose petal and refined oak. Mid weight plus in style, with flavors of black cherry and purple berry. A little dark chocolate chimes in with the boisterous, dark fruits. There is some umami at play as well. This wine grabs your attention by virtue of its excellent balance, joyous tannic backbone and harmony. Score: 92

2017 Walter Scott Freedom Hill Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $55. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Pleasing aromas of dark cherry, ripe strawberry, Prada leather coat and toasty oak. Engaging and giving with a mid weight plus core of dark red and purple fruits with an earthy undertone. Slightly gruff but not intrusive tannins, a sleek texture and a very intense and lingering finish The fruit flavor really brings the taste buds to attention. Score: 94

2017 Walter Scott Sojourner Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $55. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. The aromas really draw you into the glass with a perfume of rose petal, muddled cherry, pomegranate and spice. Highly pleasurable from start to finish, offering mid weight flavors of black cherry, black raspberry and spice. Impeccable balance, with a dry, black cherry infused, bombastic finish. Wow! Score: 95

2017 Walter Scott Sequitur Vineyard Ribbon Ridge Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $ sold out. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Classic Pinot Noir aromatic profile of crushed cherry, rose petal, exotic spice and congenial oak. Delicious cherry core, even hypnotizing. No hard edges in this wine with balanced tannins, invigorating acidity and a captivating finish flush with cherry goodness. It is easy to find superlatives for this beauty. Score: 94

2017 Walter Scott Seven Springs Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $65. · Light ruby red color in the glass. Enticing aromas of dusty rose, red cherry and sous-bois. Lighter in style but packs a wallop of flavor. Dark red cherry and cranberry fruits really grab hold of the mid palate and finish juicy and strong. Gracious oak, with modest tannins and a welcome backbone of acidity in a very elegant package. Score: 93

2017 Walter Scott Temperance Hill Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $ sold out. · Light ruby red color in the glass. Really nice aromas of red cherry, cranberry and spice. A cherry bombast in the mouth with supportive oak. The tannins are quite modest and there is a good bolt of acidity. The flavors build in intensity over time in the glass. A tame, less ripe interpretation of this vineyard in this vintage. Score: 93

2018 Anam Cara Chehalem Mountains Rosé of Pinot Noir

13.2% alc., 110 cases, $25, screw cap. 100% Wädenswil clone from the Nicholas Estate Vineyard. 3-day cold soak, aged in neutral French oak barrels. · Watermelon color in the glass. Aromas of red berry, yellow nectarine and rose petal. Suave in texture and easy to cozy up to, with flavors of strawberry and cranberry. Score: 89

2016 Cameron Clos Electrique Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.2% alc., $66. This winery is a member of deep roots coalition and practices sustainable viticulture techniques without irrigating. · A very savory wine with aromas of underbrush, peat moss and piquant herbs with a hint of blackberry. Soft and sleek in the mouth, with a mid weight plus core of purple and black berry fruits and a subtle thread of green bell pepper. Gentle tannins, with a long, fruity finish. More appealing when tasted the following day from a previously opened bottle. A wine for savory character enthusiasts. Score: 91

2016 Cristom Marjorie Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 300 cases, $69. This is the only vineyard that was kept intact when the property was bought in 1992 and has old time wide row spacing. That said, this is always my favorite vineyarddesignate from Cristom. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Deep aromas of black cherry, spice and burnt tobacco. Decisive attack of black cherry fruit in a mid weight style with just the right accent of oak spice. Reserved, fine-grain tannins add support and lend a hand to the suave texture. Still a bit reserved but can be enjoyed now and the balance predicts at least ten years of pleasure down the road. There are only three things in life that are certain: death, taxes and the excellence of Cristom Pinot Noir. Score: 96

2016 Drouhin RoseRock Zephirine Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., $52. A LIVE certified sustainable vineyard with volcanic soils. A barrel selection by winemaker Veronique Drouhin. The name refers to Zephirine Drouhin variety of climbing rose known for its fragrance and beauty. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. The wine is very ripe fruited with aromas and flavors reflecting this. The nose offers scents of boysenberry, plum and vanilla. Plump boysenberry and blackberry fruits are composed in a mid weight plus style and accented with benevolent tannins in the background. Intensely fruity and somewhat sweet with noticeable oak-driven vanilla and cigar notes. Honestly, this wine reminded me of Meomi Pinot Noir. This wine is very highly rated in the wine press so what do I know? Score: 92

2016 Etude Yamhela Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., pH 3.41, TA 0.65, 673 cases, $65. Dijon 113 and Pommard. The vineyard is Oregon LIVE and Salmon Safe. Aged 14 months in French oak barrels, 25% new. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. The nose is dominated by roasted coffee aroma. Mid weight in style with fruit flavors of black cherry and black raspberry and oak-infused flavors of toast and espresso. Nothing notable except good acidity. A slight bit of alcoholic warmth shows up on the modest finish. This wine tastes like a cellar sample from a new, well-toasted oak barrel. No second bottle to sample. Score: 87

2017 Game of Thrones Oregon Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., $17. Game of Thrones wines are the official wines of the HBO series and include an Oregon Pinot Noir and Central Coast Chardonnay released in the spring of · Light ruby red color in the glass. Aromas of red cherry, sandalwood and botanical lead to a lighter styled wine offering darker red berry and stone fruit flavors permeated by an underlying vegetative and smoky note that was unpleasant. Gracious and juicy with a mild tannic grip on the short finish. Not nearly as good as the HBO show. Score: 85

2017 Résonance Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $65. Maison Louis Jadot’s first wine project outside of Burgundy, France since the winery’s founding in 1859. Estate grown from the organically farmed Résonance Vineyard that was planted on ungrafted rootstock in 1981. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. The nose appeals with aromas of red cherry, strawberry, sandalwood and graham. Light to mid weight in style, offering a core of dark red cherry fruit accented with savory herbs and earthiness. Very French in tone, with savory characters dominating fruit notes. The muscular tannins impart an astringent finish. Score: 88

2016 Sequitur Ribbon Ridge Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.6% alc., $100. Unfined and unfiltered. Crafted by veteran winemaker Michael Etzel (Beaux Freres). · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Aromas of black cherry, sous-bois, cedary oak and a subtle dried herb note. Enchanting charge of well-spiced dark cherry, boysenberry and black raspberry fruits envelope the palate with goodness. A firm backbone of tannins is supportive, an arrow of acidity adds vigor and toasty oak contributes complimentary accents. All the flavors come together in an exalted finish of uncommon length. Score: 94

2017 Walter Scott X Novo Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Chardonnay

13.0% alc., $65. · Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. An array of citrus fruit aromas are shadowed with a hint of flint. Rich and full on the palate, with fresh, juicy flavors of lemon, pineapple, tarte tatin and graphite. A sophisticated offering with a pleasing arrow of acidity and a lip smacking finish that seems to go on and on and on. A very special wine. Score: 95

2017 Walter Scott Seven Springs Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Chardonnay

13.0% alc., $65. · Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. Aromas of lemon oil, iron and flint. Graceful and satisfying, offering the essence of lemon complimented by bashful oak. Bright acidity propels the wine to a long, lemony finish that has a hint of graphite. This wine has a regal quality and is as comforting as silk sheets. Score: 94

2017 Big Table Farm The Elusive Queen Willamette Valley Chardonnay

13.1% alc., 102 cases, $85, $195 magnum. Released April 15, 2019. The best Chardonnay from the winery’s 2017 vintage. Unfined and unfiltered. · Light golden yellow color in the glass. Clean aromas of lemon, white peach, apple, white flower blossom, petrichor, beach sand and brioche. Delicious flavors of lemon, pineapple, and pear in a sleek and harmonious style with a saline edge. This beauty urges you to take another sip. Score: 93

2017 Morgen Long Seven Springs Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Chardonnay

13.0% alc., pH 3.26, TA 0.65, RS 1.4 g/L, 67 cases, $60. Dijon clones 95 and 76 planted in Jory and Nekia volcanic soils. After whole cluster pressing, the juice was lightly chaptalized and underwent native fermentation, 100% MLF. Aged 12 months in French oak barrels, 33% new, then transferred to stainless steel for a second winter on the lees. After six months in steel, a light fining with bentonite was followed by bottling unfiltered. · Light golden yellow color in the glass. Harmonious aromas of lemon zest, brioche and caramel. Noticeably viscosity on the palate, with flavors of poached pear, lemon-lime, Golden Delicious apples and a hint of vanilla. Classy juice that has plenty of welcome acidity and length of flavor. Score: 93

2017 Walter Scott Freedom Hill Vineyard Willamette Valley Chardonnay

13.0% alc., $ Sold out. · Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. Pleasing aromas of white peach and shaved oak. The essence of lemon shines through and is complimented by a grounded earthy component. Tremendous lemony grip on the very long finish. Exquisite balance and very gracious acidity. This wine goes down like mother’s milk. Score: 93

2016 Keeler Estate Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Chardonnay

12.5% alc., pH 3.53, TA 0.54, 128 cases, $40. Released October 20, 2018. Dijon clones 96 and 76 (biodynamic). Harvest Brix 20.4º. Aged 14 months on the lees in 75% French oak barrels, 30% new and 25% in stainless steel. · Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. Delightful aromas of lemon oil, butter, baked yellow apple and pineapple on the grill. Effusive flavors of ripe pear, pineapple, yellow apple and banana. Oily in texture with a ripe fruited finish. Not an acid-driven style, but still has good spirit. Score: 92

2017 Morgen Long Willamette Valley Chardonnay

13.0% alc., pH 3.31, TA 0.63, RS 1.2 g/L, 313 cases, $33. 50% Seven Springs Vineyard Dijon 95 and 76 clones. 20% AlexEli Vineyard 37-year-old clone 108. 10% Loubejac Vineyard, clone 96, 10% Durant Vineyard clones 95 and 76, and 10% Yamhill Vineyard 34-year-old clone 108. Whole cluster pressed. Barrel fermented with some lots chaptalized. Fermentation commenced with native yeasts and full malolactic conversion occurred. After one year in 25% new French oak barrels and 75% neutral French barrels, the wine was blended in stainless steel for a second winter on lees. After five months in steel on the lees, the wine was lightly fined with bentonite before a gentle lenticular filtration. · Light golden yellow color in the glass. Aromas of lemon oil, apple pastry and nutty oak lead to a satisfying wine that is crisp and bright due to hi-strung acidity.. Flavors of lemon-lime, apple, honey and vanilla culminate in a boisterous finish that attracts another sip. Very similar to the Black label bottling but a step above. Score: 92

2017 Walter Scott Justice Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Chardonnay

13.0% alc., $55. · Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. Shy and reductive nose. Very good richness of lemon, pineapple, spice, graphite, flint and dirty oak flavors with a touch of matchstick. Very suave in the mouth, with a trace of tannins and some length to the refreshing finish. Score: 92

2017 Morgen Long Black Label Willamette Valley Chardonnay

12.75% alc., pH 3.27, TA 0.64, RS 0.5 g/L, 172 cases, $25. 25% each Seven Springs, Durant, AlexEli and Yamhill vineyards. Dijon 95, 76, and 34 to 37-year-old clone 108. Native yeast fermentation, full MLF. Aged 6 months in French oak barrels, 10% new, and transferred to stainless steel for 11 months. Lightly fined with bentonite before a gentle lenticular filtration. Black label. · Very light golden yellow color in the glass. Pleasing aromas of baked apple, spice, white flower blossom and toast lead to a bright, fresh and clean-styled wine that is citrus driven and shot through with an arrow of acidity. There is an appealing steely and briny quality to the wine and a cleansing, dry finish. Score: 91

2017 Big Table Farm The Wild Bee Willamette Valley Chardonnay

13.1% alc., 525 cases, $28. Combination of six sites. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. Pleasant aromas of white peach and wood shop. Driven by vigorous lemon flavors and a tremendous lemony grip on a very long finish. Exquisite balance with dreamy acidity and a grounded earthy component. Score: 91

2016 LUMOS Wren Vineyard Willamette Valley Chardonnay

12.5% alc., 107 cases, $35. Released October 2018. · Moderate golden yellow color in the glass. A striking aroma of honey is augmented with notes of chalk dust and bruised apple. Flavors of honey, lemon, and golden apple in a discretely rich style with a luscious, silken texture. A bit of oak-driven flavors of nuts, toast and vanilla chime in. Score: 90

2016 Open Claim Vineyards Willamette Valley Chardonnay

13.5% alc., 80 cases, $75. Released May 2019. Dijon clones 95 and 76. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 33% new. · Light golden yellow color in the glass. A range of aromas including lemon, apple, warm biscuit and hazelnut cream. Somewhat austere in an acid-driven style, with flavors of lemon, grapefruit, pear and vanilla, finishing upbeat and quenching with a lemon-lime flourish. Score: 90

2018 Chehalem INOX™ Unoaked Willamette Valley Chardonnay

12.9% alc., pH 3.27, TA 0.68, $20, screw cap. Sourced from two estate vineyards. · Very light golden yellow color in the glass. The nose reminds of Pinot Gris with aromas of lychee, white peach and grass. Flavors of lemon-lime, cantaloupe, green apple and a slight grassy note underlain with guarded acidity. I like the wine for its fruitiness, but not as a Chardonnay, for it could easily be mistaken for a Pinot Gris or Sauvignon Blanc. Score: 88

2017 Geødesy Chehalem Mountains Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Chardonnay

14.1% alc., pH 3.20, TA 0.60, 59 cases, $75. Native yeast fermentation, native MLF, barrel fermented, aged 15 months in French oak barrels, and bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Light golden yellow color in the glass. Very shy nose with faint aromas of wax and yeast. More expressive on the palate, with flavors of lemon, grapefruit, pear and honey. Gentle and refined with vibrant acidity and a lip-smacking finish. Quite agreeable, but I wanted more fruit. Score: 89

2018 Stoller Family Estate Dundee Hills Willamette Valley Chardonnay

12.5% alc., pH 3.18, TA 0.68, $28, screw cap. Unoaked. A mix of all the Chardonnay clones on the estate property. · Light golden yellow color with a little spritz in the glass. Aromas of tropical citrus, spiced pear, white peach, tequila and mulch. Slightly creamy on the palate, with flavors of pear, white peach, lemon and honeydew melon. The finish is zippy with quenching natural acidity. Score: 89

2017 Walter Scott Cuvée Anne Willamette Valley Chardonnay

13.0% alc., $40. · Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. The nose is quite reductive with aromas of matchstick, Bartlett pear, butter and a hint of toast. Slightly viscous and soothing in the mouth, with a lemon-lime core accented with toasty oak and a bit of flint. The lemon-driven finish has some length. Score: 89

2017 Geødesy Eola Springs Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Chardonnay

13.7% alc., pH 3.25, TA 0.60, 47 cases, $75. Whole cluster pressed, barrel fermented with native yeast, native MLF, aged 15 months on the lees, and bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Light golden yellow color in the glass. Reserved aromas of white nectarine, ocean breeze and botanical notes. Rather austere, with demure flavors of lemon, grapefruit and pear with no noticeable oak input. Less acid-driven than the Chehalem Mountains Vineyard bottling. Easygoing, but might put you to sleep. Score: 88

NV Canned Oregon WHITE Pinot Gris

12.5% alc., pH 3.30, TA 0.62. · Nearly clear in color in the glass. Enticing aromas of pear, white melon and pineapple. Juicy flavors of pear, mango and white melon with ideal balance and a dry finish. Consumers will find this wine pleasing and surprisingly high in quality. Score: 90

NV Canned Oregon PINK Rosé

12.5% alc., pH 3.30, TA 0.63. · Moderate pink color in the glass. Aromas of strawberry, blood orange, rose petal and dried herbs are replicated in the fresh and invigorating flavors. Refreshing, and best served chilled. Score: 89

NV Canned Oregon RED Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., pH 3.60, TA 0.52. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Very shy aromas of cherry and sandalwood that do not evolve over time. True to the varietal, with flavors of cherry and cranberry in a light to mid weight style. Minimal tannins make this an easy quaff. Score: 87

NV Canned Oregon WHITE Bubbles

12.5% alc., pH 3.26, TA 0.69. · Light golden yellow color in the glass. Aromas and flavors of pear, white peach, lychee and gooseberry with a good bead and uplifting acidity. Score: 87

NV Canned Oregon PINK Rosé Bubbles

12.5% alc., pH 3.20, TA 0.70. · Moderate pink color in the glass. Lively and upbeat, with aromas of strawberry and watermelon and flavors of red berry and herbs with a slightly sweet finish featuring light red fruits. Score: 88