2015 Bow & Arrow Hughes Hollow Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

12.5% alc., $29. An interesting story behind this vineyard. Originally planted 30+ years ago on a north-facing slope, it was not given a name and was used by large production houses for color and bulk. Bow & Arrow winemaker Scott Frank convinced the owner to switch to organic farming and sell him the Gamay block planted on the site. Pinot Noir became part of the deal grudgingly, but it has turned out that this is the best source of Pinot Noir that Frank has worked with. Dry farmed vines. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Aromas of fresh cherry, oak spice and burnt tobacco. Generous mid weight flavors of purple and black berries that charm the palate through a noticeably long finish. The tannins are well-matched, and there is a modest oak contribution. This wine is more appealing than the Vitae Springs bottling and has a much longer finish. Score: 90. Reviewed November 2, 2018

Winery: Bow & Arrow
From article: Recently Tasted Willamette Valley Pinot Noir