2009 Pali “Alphabets” Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 1,030 cases, $19. Aged 10 months in 20% new French oak barrels. · This wine rises above its humble upbringing. Lovely aromas of raspberry jam on brioche with a hint of coffee: breakfast in a Pinot. Very tasty medium weighted flavors of raspberries and cherries with accents of dark chocolate and coffee. Juicy, crisp and refreshing, this smooth player has just enough intense flavor and persistence on the finish to make you sit up and take notice. Very good. Reviewed March 2, 2011

Winery: Pali Wine Co.
From article: Mining for Good Under-$30 Pinot: Inflation Tamers