2014 Evolution Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., 6,300 cases, $20. From Sokol Blosser Winery. 100% Pinot Noir, aged 85% in stainless steel and 15% in neutral oak for 5 months. Produced to be easy to drink now at a young age. Some French oak staves are added to the stainless steel tanks for 2-3 months during aging to enhance mouthfeel and structure. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. The pleasing aroma of black cherry is tempered by scents of tobacco and weed (marijuana). The mid weight core of black cherry fruit is infused with oak driven notes of spice, tobacco and herbs. Silky in the mouth with minimal tannins and a modest berry fruited finish. Forward and easy drinking. The wine was delivered to my wine locker on a day in which the temperature reached 96ºF, but there was no sign of seepage or other heat damage. Score: 86. Reviewed August 29, 2016

Winery: Sokol Blosser Winery
From article: Oregon Pinot Noir Starts Here: A Sampling of Entry Level Wines