2015 Walter Scott Clos des Oiseaux Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Oregon Pinot Noir

13.4% alc., 275 cases, $50. Walter Scott began leasing this 2.8-acre vineyard in 2011. Today the land is owned by Kecia and John Keller who farm the vineyard organically, with Ken doing most of the tractor work, sprays and helping with the hand work under the direction of viticulturist Ryan Hannaford. Fermented with ambient yeasts and aged 15 months in French oak barrels, 40% new. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Reductive upon opening with aromas of flinty oak, resolving over time as elevating blackberry aromas arise. Luscious by Oregon standards, with a mid weight plus core of blackberry and Marionberry fruit flavors that offer intense sappiness. Despite the concentration, the wine is streamlined and balanced with a wonderful fruited finish. More giving the following day when tasted from a previously opened and re-corked bottle with an extraordinary fruit-filled finish. With this richness of fruit you might think Syrah, but this wine is Pinot at heart all the way. I sense that this wine is still a bit tight so patience will be rewarded. Score: 92-93. Reviewed May 7, 2017

Winery: Walter Scott Wines
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted Oregon Pinot Noir