Anam Cara Cellars

Articles About Anam Cara Cellars

Reviewed Wines

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. Reviewed July 8, 2019 ARTICLE »

2017 Anam Cara Cellars Chehalem Mountains Rosé of Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 110 cases, $22, screw cap. Dijon 114 from Nicholas Vineyard. This clone is grown in the coolest part of the vineyard and was a benefit in this relatively hot vintage. Fermented on skins for two days. · Moderate ruby red color in the glass (the color predicts what is to follow). Substantial aromas of strawberry, red cherry, nectarine and a hint of dried herbs. Very fruity, with mid weight flavors of Damsel plum, cranberry, and yellow peach. Very slight tannins with balancing acidity. Luscious for a rosé, and will stand up to hearty and savory foods. Score: 90. Reviewed May 12, 2018 ARTICLE »

2016 Anam Cara Nicholas Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 335 cases, $39. 37% field blend of Pommard, 115 and 114, 37% 114, 22% 115, and 4% Wädenswil. Aged in French oak barrels, 15% new, 25% once-filled. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Aromas of cherry, ripe cranberry, underbrush, BBQ rub and sawn oak. Light to mid weight in style, offering flavors of black cherry and dark red berries. Straightforward and simple, with a silky mouthfeel and modest finish. Score: 89. Reviewed July 21, 2018 ARTICLE »

2016 Anam Cara Nicholas Vineyard Reserve Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 150 cases, $53. Sourced from reserve rows that yield no more than 1.5 tons per acre. A barrel selection. Wädenswil, 16% 115, 16% 114 and 18% field blend of Pommard, 115 and 114. Aged in French oak barrels, 22% new, 22% once-filled. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Glorious aromas of black cherry, blackberry, spice and earthy flora. Very pleasing in the mouth, displaying black cherry, black raspberry and cassis flavors with a deft touch of oak. Silky and well-balanced, with mid weight plus concentration, finishing with some purpose. Score: 91. Reviewed July 21, 2018 ARTICLE »

2016 Anam Cara Mark X Nicholas Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $75. A blend from Reserve rows and barrels that is boldly crafted. 90% field blend of Pommard, 115 and 114, 10% Wädenswil. Aged in French oak barrels, 30% new, 30% once-filled. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Shy, but pleasant aromas of black fruits lead off. Bold, rich and full-bodied, yet possessing good energy and spirit. The core of blackberry and black current fruits are blessed with commendable oak integration. The tannins are reigned in, the texture is velvety and the finish is noticeably lengthy. Considerably more open and giving when tasted the next day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Best to decant first for current drinking. Score: 93. Reviewed July 21, 2018 ARTICLE »

2015 Anam Cara Nicholas Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., 400 cases, $35. Released fall 2017. A reflection of the entire vineyard in this vintage. Clones include 114, 115, Wädenswil, Pommard and “field blend.” Aged in 19% new French oak barrels. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Fresh aromas of iced cherry, blueberry and spice cabinet. Light to mid weight in style with eager flavors of cherry, blueberry and spice, and just a kiss of oak. Forward drinking and easy going, displaying upbeat juiciness and an elegant demeanor. A “little” wine that has a lot to give. Score: 90. Reviewed February 21, 2018 ARTICLE »

2015 Anam Cara Nicholas Vineyard Reserve Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., 125 cases, $50. Released fall 2017. Clones are 20% Wädenswil, 20% Dijon 115 snd 60% “field blend.” Aged in 40% new French oak barrels. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. The nose offers a highly compatible marriage of ripened dark fruits and oak with that Pinot earthiness that can be so appealing. Intensely endowed with well-spiced purple berry and black cherry fruit flavors that sing all the high notes and offer superb length in the mouth. Impeccably balanced, with a long finish infused with cherry goodness. This wine is clearly a step up and worthy of the “Reserve” designation. Score: 94. Reviewed February 21, 2018 ARTICLE »

2015 Anam Cara Nicholas Vineyard Wädenswil Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., 100 cases, $55. Release in spring 2018. 100% Wädenswil clone planted in a 2-acre block in 2008. Aged in 25% new, 25% once-filled and 50% neutral French oak barrels. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Very engaging aromas of crushed cherry, plum, marionberry, rose petal and bread dough. Delightful middleweight flavors of black cherry, boysenberry, spice and Hoison sauce. The energetic sap is backed by gentle tannins and offers a sexy texture. Quite approachable, with good finishing pleasure. I am more of a Pommard guy, but I must admit that this is one of the best Wädenswil single clone Pinot Noirs I have ever experienced. Score: 93. Reviewed February 21, 2018 ARTICLE »

2015 Anam Cara Heather’s Reserve Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., 48 cases, $75. Release in spring 2018. Normally the Heather’s bottling reflects the most elegant expression of the vintage. Sourced from the coolest part of the vineyard, a 5-acre block of Dijon clone 114. Originally this bottling came exclusively from this block, but over time other qualifying once-filled barrels have been added to the blend. 50% Dijon 114 (reserve rows), 25% Wädenswil and 25% Dijon 115. Aged in 100% once-filled French oak barrels. The 2015 vintage produced a rather gender-bending expression of Heather’s in that the wine is much bolder than in year’s past. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Shy, but pleasant aromas of darker cherry, Nutella and white chocolate. The opulent black cherry and plum fruit is heady yet light on its feet and well supported by mature tannins. Not as elegant as in past vintages, and maybe not as giving at this stage as other wines in the lineup, but doesn’t disappoint. Score: 92. Reviewed February 21, 2018 ARTICLE »

2015 Anam Cara Mark IX Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 50 cases, $75. Release spring 2018. This wine is named for Nick and Sheila’s son, Mark, and intended to be the boldest cuvée of the vintage. This is both a vineyard and barrel blend, sourced from reserve rows cropped to 1.5 tons per acre. 75% Pommard reserve rows, 25% “field blend.” Aged in 50% new French oak barrels. No Mark bottling was offered in 2013, and the Roman numerals denote the wine’s place in the series. Like Heather’s, the Mark bottling is atypical in this vintage, more metrosexual than macho. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. The nose reveals its charms slowly over time in the glass, offering aromas of wild berries and pleasant oak. Very engaging on the palate with a real mouthful of cherry and strawberry fruit goodness. There is plenty of spice accent to satisfy and the barrel management is first class. Slightly more elegant than the Heather’s bottling, even metrosexual, this wine is quite forward in this vintage and grabs your attention. Score: 94. Reviewed February 21, 2018 ARTICLE »

2014 Anam Cara Cellars Nicholas Estate Reserve Chehalem Mountains Oregon Chardonnay

13.2% alc., $32, screwcap. Dijon clones from 2 acres. Fermented and aged 10 months in neutral French oak barrels with a small steel tank addition. · Moderately light golden yellow color and clear in the glass. Aromas of lemon, honey and subtle bruised apple lead off. Acidity plays a bigger role than fruit in this wine with flavors of yellow stone fruits and citrus. I wanted more fruit generosity in the mid palate and finish, but the overall impression was very conducive and easy to cozy up to. Score: 88. Reviewed July 9, 2016 ARTICLE »

2014 Anam Cara Nicholas Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir

187 cases, $37. Release spring 2017. 20% Dijon 115, 20% Pommard, 20% Dijon 114, 20% Wädenswil and 20% Dijon 777. Aged in French oak barrels, 22% new. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Highly engaging aromas of cherry, forest floor, spice and rose petal. Mid weight flavors of cherry and raspberry please. A cheerful, bright wine, with nice balance, the slightest bit of oak seasoning, and a bit of cherry persistence on the finish. Score: 90. Reviewed October 19, 2016 ARTICLE »

2014 Anam Cara Nicholas Vineyard Reserve Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir

147 cases, $50. Release spring 2017. 40% Dijon 777, 20% Dijon 115, 20% Pommard, 10% Dijon 114 and 10% Wädenswil. Aged in French oak barrels, 35% new. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Soaring perfume of black cherry, earthy flora and spice lead to a vibrant and expansive palate of dark cherry, raspberry and red currant flavors framed by vigorous but complimentary tannins. Silk and satin in texture, with graded oak seasoning, and impressive length on the juicy finish. Score: 92. Reviewed October 19, 2016 ARTICLE »

2014 Anam Cara Heather’s Reserve Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., 50 cases, $70. Release spring 2017. Nicholas Vineyard. 35% Dijon 114, 35% Dijon 115 and 30% Wädenswil. A selection of specific rows and vines pruned for low yields and barrels that excelled before blending. An elegant expression of the vineyard in this vintage. Aged in French oak barrels, 75% once-filled. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Lovely perfume of crushed black cherries, raspberries and wood spice. Discreetly concentrated flavors of cherry and cranberry with a submerged oak accent. Light on its feet, crisp and juicy, with a suede texture and a vibrant finish. An elegant wine that will seduce with its aromatics and lithe demeanor. Score: 92. Reviewed October 19, 2016 ARTICLE »

2014 Anam Cara Mark VIII Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

50 cases, $70. Release spring 2017. Nicholas Vineyard. A selection from reserve barrels with the highest percentage of new oak (40%) meant to be a bold expression of the vineyard in this vintage. 50% Pommard and 50% Dijon 777. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of black cherry, black raspberry, spice and tobacco lead off. Full-bodied and structured, with flavors of purple and black fruits. Sleek and velvety in the mouth, offering the slightest oak imprint, and exhibiting a very long and mighty finish. A masculine, fruit-driven wine. Score: 92. Reviewed October 19, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 Anam Cara Cellars Nicholas Estate Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir

13.4% alc., 250 cases, $33. Wädenswil (40%), Pommard (20%), Dijon 114 (25%), Dijon 777 (15%). Aged in French oak barrels, 27% new. · Light cherry red color in the glass. Nicely perfumed with aromas of fresh cherry, strawberry, red rose petal and sandalwood. Engaging on the palate, with discretely concentrated flavors of red cherry, cranberry and Damsel plum. On the delicate side with modest tannins, a silky mouthfeel, and a modest finish. Very Oregonian in demeanor, this wine should pick up intensity over time in bottle. Score: 89-90. Reviewed April 2, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 Anam Cara Cellars Nicholas Estate Reserve Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir

13.4% alc., 47 cases, $45. Dijon 777 (50%) and Pommard (50%). Aged in French oak barrels, 37% new. · Moderately light cherry red color in the glass. Clearly a step up in quality, this wine offers bright aromas of cherry and red berry preserves leading to a middleweight core of black cherry, blackberry, cola, spice and mocha flavors backed by mildly firm and deft tannins. More sappy than the regular Nicholas Estate bottling, with a bigger finish. A very gracious wine that engages with flavor and transparency. Score: 92. Reviewed April 2, 2016 ARTICLE »

2012 Anam Cara Heather’s Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., pH 3.70, TA 0.51, 90 cases. 100% 114. Aged in once-filled French oak barrels. Unfiltered. · Noticeably elegant and silky with charming flavors of cherry and hi-tone spice. The gossamer tannins are well matched to juicy acidity, making for harmonious drinking. Score: 93. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2012 Anam Cara Nicholas Estate Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., pH 3.70, TA 0.54, 1,700 cases. 20% 667, 20% 115, 20% 114, 20% 777, 20% Pommard. Aged in 21% new French oak barrels. · Still young and fresh featuring dark cherry, dark raspberry, blueberry and spice aromas and flavors with a delicate touch of oak. Enticing, with a lingering finish. Score: 93. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2012 Anam Cara Estate Reserve Chehalem Mountains Williamette Valley Chardonnay

$32. Inaugural release. Dijon clones. Fermented in 2 new French oak barrels and 8 neutral French oak barrels. Stirred weekly on the lees for 4 months before settling for another 4 months. · Light golden yellow with a faint apricot hue in the glass. Likable nose with fresh aromas of tropical fruits, grapefruit, vanilla and roasted nuts. Bright, clean and refreshing with flavors of lemon and pear with oak in the background. Soft in the mouth and easy to like with some finishing lemon-driven persistence. Score: 90. Reviewed January 20, 2014 ARTICLE »

2012 Anam Cara Cellars Nicholas Estate Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 1,700 cases, $33. 20% 114, 20% 115, 20% 777, 10% 114 and 10% 667. Aged in 21% new French oak. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Lovely aromas of fresh cherry coulis and sandalwood. Delicious array of mid weight fruit flavors including black cherry and black raspberry with plenty of spice and a graceful oak sheen. Impressive harmony with remarkable persistence on the royal finish. Score: 94. Reviewed June 29, 2014 ARTICLE »

2012 Anam Cara Cellars Nicholas Estate Reserve Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 420 cases, $46. 30% Pommard, 30% 777, 20% 115, 10% 114 and 10% 667. Aged in 37% new and 29% once-filled French oak. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. The nose invigorates with effusive aromas of fresh cherries, spice and dark red rose petals. Bright and elegant on the palate, with a pleasing core of cherry fruit accented with hints of brown spice and white chocolate. The suave tannins are nicely integrated, the texture is silky, and the finish is clean and refreshing. Score: 94. Reviewed June 29, 2014 ARTICLE »

2012 Anam Cara Cellars Nicholas Estate Wädenswil Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 95 cases, $55. 100% Wädenswil clone. Aged in 25% new and 25% once-filled French oak. · Moderate reddish purple hue in the glass. The wine offers a darker fruit profile, including black cherry, blackberry along side flavors of cola, sassafras, spice and graham. All silk and satin in the mouth with firm, but integrated tannins. Definitely unique in character. Score: 93. Reviewed June 29, 2014 ARTICLE »

2012 Anam Cara Cellars Nicholas Estate Heather’s Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 90 cases, $66. 50% 114, 20% 777, 15% 667, and 15% 115. Aged in all once-filled French oak barrels. The most elegant expression of the vineyard which contains the most clone 114. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Seductive aromas of Bing cherry, raspberry, spice and sandalwood lead to a feminine, graceful wine with light flavors of cherry and red berries, brown spice and subtle oak. The fine-grain tannins are embracing and the cherry-laden finish is charming. Score: 92. Reviewed June 29, 2014 ARTICLE »

2012 Anam Cara Cellars Nicholas Estate Mark VII Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 90 cases, $66. 50% Pommard and 50% 777. Aged in 50% new French oak. The only unfiltered wine in lineup. A masculine, age worthy expression of the vineyard. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. My notes say,“fantastic nose,” with aromas of an array of dark red fruits and exotic spices. Discreetly bold flavors of dark red cherries and berries and red plums with a hint of dark chocolate in the background. A grand wine with excellent balance and length, ending on a high note with a rush of aromatic sweet cherries. Score: 94. Reviewed June 29, 2014 ARTICLE »

2011 Anam Cara Heather’s Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir

12.4% alc., pH 3.60, TA 0.55, 50 cases. 75% 114, 25% 777. Aged in once-filled French oak barrels. · A very demure and delicate wine that is almost rose in character. Flavors of red cherry and cranberry are infused with a touch of dried herbs and backed by smooth tannins. Score: 90. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2011 Anam Cara Nicholas Estate Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir

12.4% alc., pH 3.60, TA 0.56, 1,700 cases. 33% 114, 27% 115, 15% Pommard, 14% 777, and 11% 667. Aged in 21% new French oak barrels. · Much lighter in weight but highly flavorful with an array of juicy red fruits that are vibrant. Easy to like, with a driving, cleansing finish. Score: 91. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2011 Anam Cara Cellars Nicholas Estate Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Chardonnay

13.5% alc., $26, screwcap. Inaugural Chardonnay from Anam Cara. Estate Dijon clone grapes. Fermented 70% in neutral oak and 30% in stainless steel. · Light straw color in the glass. A ravishing wine with bright aromas of white peach, passion fruit, lemon curd, apple cider and fir tree. Delicious, fresh, crisp and lively, with flavors of nectarine, baked apple, lemon, and a little nuttiness and minerality. The oak is kept under wraps, the texture is seamless, and the finish is long and refreshing. One of the best Oregon Chardonnays I have had in my recent memory. Reviewed November 24, 2012 ARTICLE »

2011 Anam Cara Nicholas Estate Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

12.4% alc., pH 3.60, 1,700 cases, $32. Released winter 2013. Clones 114, 115, 777, 667, and Pommard. Aged in 21% new French oak. The winery’s flagship wine reflecting all five original blocks of Pinot Noir. · Light reddish purple color in the glass. Nicely perfumed with aromas of strawberry, red cherry, spice, red rose petal and dried herbs. Demure and elegant with flavors of red cherry, red plum and strawberry. Very giving with soft, dry tannins and juicy acidity. A delightful wine that exudes pinot elegance. Score: 90. Reviewed January 20, 2014 ARTICLE »

2011 Anam Cara Estate Reserve Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

12.5% alc., pH 3.60, 420 cases, $45. Release winter 2013. 10 rows in each block are set aside as reserve potential and maintain a yield of no more than 1.5 tons per acre. The final blend is determined by barrel selection. Clones 777, 115, 114, 667 and Pommard. · Light reddish purple color in the glass. The aromatics are engaging with scents of black cherry, blackberry and spice. Modest in weight but big in flavor with mouth coating tastes of dark stone fruits and berries, finishing with a delightful candied cherry note. The wine has balanced firm tannins and bright acidity for aging, with a welcome integration of oak. Not as open as the Estate bottling, but possesses more layered flavors and age ability. Score: 92. Reviewed January 20, 2014 ARTICLE »

2011 Anam Cara Wädenswil Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

12.2% alc., pH 3.70, 95 cases, $55. Release fall 2013. The inaugural wine from a 2-acre block of Wädenswil clone, planted in 2008. Picked at the highest Brix of the vintage (23º). Aged in 25% new and 25% 1-year French oak barrels. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Shy but pleasant aromas of darker berry preserves, dark chocolate and rose petal. The most extracted wine in the 2011 lineup with bold, flamboyant flavors of black grape, blackberry and boysenberry underlain with toasty oak. Brooding and fruit-driven with rugged tannins. Should benefit from 2-3 years in the cellar. Score: 88. Reviewed January 20, 2014 ARTICLE »

2011 Anam Cara Heather’s Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

12.4% alc., pH 3.60, 90 cases, $65. Release late fall 2013. The most elegant expression of the Nicholas Vineyard. The wine is selected from reserve row once-filled oak barrels. Clones 114, 777, 667, and 115. Aged in 100% once-filled French oak barrels. · Light reddish purple color in the glass. Pleasant aromas of black cherry, baking spice and underbrush. An elegant wine with charming flavors of darker red cherries and berries accented by savory herbs. The supple tannins make for easy drinking now, but the wine may pick up more weight and interest over time in the bottle. Score: 89. Reviewed January 20, 2014 ARTICLE »

2011 Anam Cara Mark VI Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

12.4% alc., pH 3.50, 90 cases, $65. Release spring 2014. The highest percentage of new oak in the vintage. Intended to be a big and rich wine, blended from the reserve rows and barrels. Named for the Nicholas’ son Mark, the Roman numerals denote the wine’s place in the series. Clones are Pommard, 777 and 667. Aged in 50% new French oak barrels. · Light reddish purple hue in the glass. Aromas of black cherry and raspberry with a hint of dried herbs lead to a flavorful core of intense black raspberry fruit which fans out in peacock tail fashion on the huge, grand cru finish. Not as concentrated as previous vintages, but has the tannic structure to last. Score: 91. Reviewed January 20, 2014 ARTICLE »

2010 Anam Cara Heather’s Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir

13.4% alc., pH 3.60, TA 0.57, 50 cases. 50% 114, 26% 777 and 24% Pommard. Aged in once-filled French oak barrels. · I was enthralled with this wine when I reviewed it in 2012, but this bottle didn’t have the same appeal. Austere, under ripe and slightly herbaceous. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2010 Anam Cara Nicholas Estate Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir

13.2% alc., pH 3.60, TA 0.55, 1,200 cases. 30% 115, 20% 777, 20% Pommard, 18% 667, 12% 114. Aged in 23% new French oak barrels. · Slightly under ripe in character but highly aromatic featuring an uplifting perfume of fresh crushed cherries and a deep cherry flavor on the palate. Tobacco and herbal notes contribute a savory bent. Score: 90. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2010 Anam Cara Vineyard Selection Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

13.0% alc., 450 cases, $24, screw cap. Primarily a restaurant by-the-glass program wine. Aged in once-filled and neutral oak. Predominantly Dijon 114. · Light reddish color in the glass. Pleasant perfume of red berries, wild strawberries and spice. Soft, smooth and elegant, with a lighter-weighted core of red fruits accented with notes of herbs and tar. Decent. Reviewed September 12, 2012 ARTICLE »

2010 Anam Cara Nicholas Estate Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

13.2% alc., 1,200 cases, $32. The flagship wine, reflecting all five blocks of the vineyard Pinot Noir. Aged in 23% new French oak. A mix of Dijon and Pommard clones. · Light red color in the glass. Very fragrant, plush with bright aromas of fresh berries and red plums. A pretty wine that exudes finesse, offering tasty raspberry and marionberry flavors, framed by gossamer tannins, finishing with a tasty raspberry display. Very good. Reviewed September 12, 2012 ARTICLE »

2010 Anam Cara Reserve Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

13.4% alc., 195 cases, $45. 10 rows in each block are set aside as Reserve potential and maintain a yield of not more than 1.5 tons per acre. The final blend is chosen by barrel selection. Dijon clones 777, 115, 114 and Pommard. Aged in 37% new French oak. · Light reddish-purple color in the glass. Deeply perfumed with dark red pie cherries, fraise du bois and stem. Middleweight flavors of dark red berries fan out nicely on the palate, with notes of earth, tar and oak adding interest. A second pass at the wine was made after pouring through a Venturi. The wine became much more expressive aromatically with aromas and flavors of fresh-picked berries and savory herbs. Elegant and soft in the mouth with a plush finish. Not fully forthcoming, but well balanced, and should be terrific after a few years in the cellar. A commendable expression of the vintage. Very good. Reviewed September 12, 2012 ARTICLE »

2010 Anam Cara Heather’s Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

13.4% alc., 50 cases, $65. The most elegant expression of the vineyard, using the lightest oak treatment (no new oak, 100% once-filled barrels). 50% Dijon 114, 36% Dijon 777 and 14% Pommard. Usually the wine is from ten rows of Dijon clone 114 in a late ripening block cropped to 1.5 tons per acre. The 2010 bird invasion wiped out these rows which abutted the tree line. The blending process then opened to include other clones. The wine is named for the Nicholas’ daughter. · Light reddish-purple color in the glass. Very fragrant, like a well-perfumed woman with a dab of crushed cherries and sandalwood behind her ear. See-through elegance, featuring ripe dark candied griottes cherries, sweet and seductive in the middle and languorous and slinky at the end. Will pick up intensity with more time in the bottle. Very good (+). Reviewed September 12, 2012 ARTICLE »

2010 Anam Cara Mark V Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

13.4% alc., 50 cases, $65. Largest percentage of new oak (50%). 77% 777, 13% Pommard and 10% 667. Crafted to be big and rich choosing the boldest clones and blend from the Reserve rows and barrels. Named for the Nicholas’ son, the Roman numerals denote the wine’s place in the series. · Deepest reddish-purple color in the lineup. Intensely perfumed with perfectly ripe dark red berries with a complimentary scent of oak and dark rose petals. The most intense wine in this vintage and the wine with the most length. It hits the mid palate with a vengeance, expands in the mouth, and ends with a voluptuous charge of fruit that satiates the senses for a minute. A very young, but remarkable wine that is the best ever Mark release from Anam Cara. Grab a few bottles for your cellar; you will thank me down the line. Very good (+). Reviewed September 12, 2012 ARTICLE »

2009 Anam Cara Heather’s Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., pH 3.70, TA 0.53. 70% 114, 19% Pommard, 11% 777. Aged in once-filled French oak barrels. · Very soft, elegant and lacy on the palate, featuring layers of darker stone and berry fruits that immerse the palate in goodness. Plenty of spice to entice. Score: 92. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2009 Anam Cara Nicholas Estate Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., pH 3.60, TA 0.54, 627 cases. 37% 667, 18% 115, 17% Pommard, 15% 777, 13% 114. Aged in 16% new French oak barrels. · This wine will bring you to attention. Intense attack of cherry and blueberry fruits that persist long after the wine is swallowed. Impressive fruit expression with engaging aromatics, and a firm tannic backbone that leaves a bit of astringency behind on the aftertaste. Score: 90. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2009 Anam Cara Cellars Nicholas Estate Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir

13.6% alc., 627 cases, $32. A mix of all clones (except 2A) in the estate vineyard with predominantly 667. Aged in 16% new French oak barrels. · Light reddish-purple color in the glass. The nose has mostly oak-driven aromas initially, but becomes more fruity over time in the glass offering scents of red raspberries and red cherries. The wine has a light weight core of juicy cherry and blueberry fruit with an underpinning of oak. A little more body than the Heather’s bottling. Silky in the mouth with very soft tannins. An easy drinker whose delicate fruit is outflanked by oak currently but the balance should improve over the next year in bottle. Good. Reviewed January 12, 2012 ARTICLE »

2009 Anam Cara Cellars Estate Reserve Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., 240 cases, $42. From special sections and rows of the vineyard with Reserve potential and a best barrel selection. Yields 1.5 tons per acre. Clones are Pommard, 114, 115 and 777. Aged in 24% new French oak barrels. · Light reddish-purple color in the glass. Reserved but welcoming aromas of black cherries and darker red berries. Striking medium-bodied black cherry core which impresses the mid palate and lingers for half a minute on the finish. Smooth as a baby’s bottom with reserved tannins. Very classy and always the best wine in the Anam Cara stable. More reserved and elegant than the 2008 version of this wine, but more Pinot character. Reviewed January 12, 2012 ARTICLE »

2009 Anam Cara Cellars Heather’s Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., 55 cases, $65. 100% Dijon 114. Aged in 22% 1-year-old and 78% 2-year-old French oak barrels. Intended to be the most elegant expression of the vineyard and thereby the lightest touch of French oak. From 10 rows of what are considered reserve quality vines, cropped to 1.5 tons per acre. This wine is named after the owners’ daughter. · Very light reddish-purple color in the glass. Terrific aromatics featuring an enticing perfume of red cherries, red raspberries, Christmas spice, herbs and crusty bread. Light in weight but flavorful, picking up intensity over time in the glass. Cherries are the theme with hints of savory herbs and oak. Silky and feminine in style like fine red lingerie. Very good. Reviewed January 12, 2012 ARTICLE »

2009 Anam Cara Cellars Mark IV Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., pH 3.50, TA 0.53, 55 cases, $65. A blend from the most intense barrels which can handle more new oak. 75% Dijon 777 with lesser amounts of 114, Pommard and 115. Aged 11 months in 22% new French oak barrels. Will not be released until the spring of 2012. · Light reddish-purple hue in the glass. The nose develops very slowly in the glass, reluctantly revealing aromas of dark red fruits and dark red rose petals. Similar to the Reserve in flavor profile but possessing a bigger tannic backbone. Seductive flavors of crushed black cherries, red raspberries and red currants with subtle complimentary oak and reigned in sinew. Smoothly fashioned with a long, scented finish. Not as expressive as it will be in a few years and may supersede the Reserve with a few years in the cellar. Very good (+). Reviewed January 12, 2012 ARTICLE »

2008 Anam Cara Heather’s Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., pH 3.90, TA 0.47, 50 cases. Unfiltered. 100% Dijon 114. 100% once-filled French oak barrels. · Scents of red cherry and raspberry leap from the glass. Attention-grabbing on entry, with layers of cherry and red berry flavors complimented by a hint of spice and oak. Silky and feminine, yet with a bold, velvet hammer finish. Score: 92. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2008 Anam Cara Nicholas Estate Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., pH 3.80, TA 0.49. 37% 667, 25% Pommard, 13% 114, 13% 115, 12% 777. Aged in 18% new French oak barrels. · Full-bodied and ripe, showing a bit of tertiary characters with age such as marzipan and floral bouquet. Appealing suave texture with plenty of sweet black cherry and black raspberry flavors to delight. Score: 90. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2008 Anam Cara Cellars Nicholas Estate Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., 1,000 cases, $30. The flagship wine containing all five blocks of Pinot Noir. Aged in 18% new, 12% 1- year-old, and 70% neutral French oak barrels. 667 (37%), Pommard (22%), 115 (16%), 114 (13%) and 777 (12%). · Moderate reddispurple color. Glass-filling perfume of ripe berries, concord grapes and a subtle whiff of oak. Velvety on the palate with a discreetly concentrated mix of fresh black cherry and dark red berry flavors set off by complimentary oak. A seamless, solid drinker to be enjoyed now. Very Good. Reviewed August 13, 2011 ARTICLE »

2008 Anam Cara Cellars Estate Reserve Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., 180 cases, $40. From selected rows in each block with yields of less than 1.5 tons per acre. Aged in 17% new, 52% 1-year-old and 31% 2-year-old French oak barrels. 114 (48%), 777 (35%) and Pommard (17%). · Moderate reddish-purple hue in the glass. Very alluring aromas of dark plums, blackberries and black cherries with a complimentary hint of oak. Lovely core of earth-kissed and intensely flavored black cherry and black raspberry fruit. Ripe and sweet, round and polished. Silky smooth with perfect integration of oak and a glorious finish that lasts and lasts. Best Reserve ever from Anam Cara. Reviewed August 13, 2011 ARTICLE »

2008 Anam Cara Cellars Heather’s Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., 50 cases, $60. The most elegant wine in the lineup, using the lightest amount of oak. Sourced from a special ten rows cropped to 1.5 tons per acre. 114 (100%). The wine is named after the owners’ daughter. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Initially reserved, but pleasing scents of red cherries and raspberries emerge over time with air. A demure wine on the palate offering a silky array of red Pinot fruits and very supple tannins. Assumes more interest and intensity over time in the glass. A charming ingenue.You can drink it now for its upfront sexiness, but it will be even more striking with additional maturity. Reviewed August 13, 2011 ARTICLE »

2008 Anam Cara Cellars Mark III Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 50 cases, $60. The antithesis of Heather’s: as big and rich as could be crafted using the boldest clones from the Reserve rows and barrels and the highest percentage of new oak (67%). 777 (67%) and Pommard (33%). Named for the owners’ son Mark, with the Roman numerals indicating the wine’s place in the series. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. A metrosexual wine that is not as big and muscled as past vintages offering a lovely core of darker fruit hidden presently by the oak-derived aroma and flavor of coffee. Like the other Anam Cara Pinot Noirs in 2008, the texture is all silk and satin. This wine needs a few years in bottle to come together and integrate the oak, but I suspect it will always be at least modestly oaky. Good. Reviewed August 13, 2011 ARTICLE »

2007 Anam Cara Heather’s Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir

13.4% alc., pH 3.80, TA 0.50, 70 cases. 90% Dijon 114, 10% Pommard. Aged in once-filled French oak barrels. · The aromatics are stunning, featuring a mix of red cherry, grape and nutty oak scents. Delicate with gossamer tannins and a slippery finish. Much better than the bottle reviewed in 2010. Score: 90. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2007 Anam Cara Nicholas Estate Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir

12.8% alc., pH 3.80, TA 0.48, 1,100 cases. 29% 667, 26% 115, 23% 114, 23% 777, 9% Pommard. Aged in 21% French oak barrels. · Still retaining gregarious aromas of fresh cherry pie glaze. Soft and gracious on the palate, with a charge of spice enhancing the red fruits. Quite juicy and enjoyable. Much better than the bottle reviewed in 2010. Score: 92. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2007 Anam Cara Cellars Nicholas Estate Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

13.4% alc., 1,100 cases, $33. Composed of all the clones in the estate vineyard. Aged 11 months in 21% new French oak. · Hi-tone black cherry aromas are underscored by toasty oak on the nose. Tasty essence of dark cherries and berries with oak toast and mocha in the background. The tannins are supple giving the wine a welcoming drinkability. The oak tends to overshadow the fruit. Decent. Reviewed January 22, 2010 ARTICLE »

2007 Anam Cara Cellars Estate Reserve Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

13.4% alc., 280 cases, $45. Composed of selected barrels sourced from specific rows thinned to low yields (1.5 tons per acre). · Alluring perfume of blackberries, plum and tea with a hint of oak. Rich but not cloying array of berry fruits that are thoroughly engaging. Admirable finesse, perfect harmony and a finish that keeps you coming back for more. Great two days later from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. A keeper that is liquid nobility. Reviewed January 22, 2010 ARTICLE »

2007 Anam Cara Cellars Heather’s Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

13.4% alc., 70 cases, $65.100% Dijon 114 clone. Aged 11 months in neutral barrels. · Aromas of red cherries and berries with a whiff of oak. Elegantly styled, soft and sensual focused on an earth-kissed red cherry core of fruit. The tannins are silky and the bright acidity supports a refreshing finish. May be too light in flavor intensity for this price range, but this wine is intended to be feminine in style. This style probably works better in an Oregon vintage like 2006. Decent (+). Reviewed January 22, 2010 ARTICLE »

2007 Anam Cara Cellars Mark II Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

13.4% alc., 70 cases, $65. Aged in 51% new French oak for 11 months. 69% Pommard and 31% Dijon 777. A boldly styled wine consisting of a vineyard and barrel selection named for the owner’s son, Mark. · Brooding aromatics slowly revealing dark stone fruits, mocha java and toasted oak. Delicious attack of plums, blackberries, cola and mocha flavors that are still immature and evolving. Great stuffing and amazing persistence on the fruit-filled finish. Needs time to soften the firm tannins and fully integrate the new oak, but patience will be rewarded. Still rather closed two days later from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Very good. Reviewed January 22, 2010 ARTICLE »

2006 Anam Cara Heather’s Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir

15.1% alc., pH 4.0, TA 0.41, 50 cases. 100% Dijon 114. Aged in once-filled French oak barrels. · Much better than the Estate bottling. The nose is strikingly aromatic, featuring a perfume of fresh dark stone fruits and berries. The fruit is delicately presented but flavorful, and the cherry-fueled finish is delightfully spiced. Score: 91. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2006 Anam Cara Nicholas Estate Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir

15.2% alc., pH 3.90, TA 0.42. Aged in 22% new French oak barrels. · Very ripe fruited, with notes of prune and raisin. The oak has nicely integrated over time. A bit cloying and flat on the finish which lacks verve. Score: 87. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2006 Anam Cara Cellars Nicholas Estate Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

15.0% alc., 700 cases, $33. The words Anam Cara are Celtic for “friend of my soul” and symbolize the journey the owners, Sheila and Nick Nicholas have taken to make their wine. The winemaker is Aron Hess. Primarily Dijon 115 with added 667 and 777. Aged in 22% new, 15% once filled and 63% neutral French oak for 10 months. · Dark reddish-purple color. Sappy black cherry encased in oak vanillin and toast. Plush and generous, the wine retains a healthy elegance and the silky finish leaves a memorable impression. Reviewed December 17, 2008 ARTICLE »

2006 Anam Cara Cellars Nicholas Estate Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

15.0% alc., $33. · The nose offers demure cherry and raspberry fruit with prominent oak and a touch of good barnyard. Showy dark fruits on the palate with riffs of cola, and showy oak caramel and smoke. Very smooth and harmonious. Reviewed May 7, 2009 ARTICLE »

2006 Anam Cara Cellars Nicholas Estate Reserve Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

15.0% alc., $45. A few select barrels in the cellar. · The most fragrant wine in the lineup with alluring aromas of red plum, black cherry and dark red raspberries framed by toasty oak. Delicious raspberry fruit core that is full and rich with a touch of anise, tea and oak. A big-boned wine yet it dances smoothly across the palate, leaving a little heat in its wake. Reviewed May 7, 2009 ARTICLE »

2006 Anam Cara Cellars Nicholas Estate Reserve Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

15.0% alc., $45. Blended from ten select barrels in the cellar. · Very fragrant berry fruit with a hint of toasted oak. Dark garnet color. Delicious black raspberry and blackberry core of fruit that dances and cascades smoothly through the palate. A touch of anise, tea and oak adds interest. A big wine with glassfilling presence that leaves a little heat on the back end. Reviewed March 26, 2009 ARTICLE »

2006 Anam Cara Cellars Heather’s Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

15.0% alc., 50 cases, $65. This wine is named after the Nicholas’s daughter and is the most feminine wine in the lineup. Sourced from a 5-acre block of Dijon 114. · Aromas of ripe black cherries, herbs and oak char. Smooth and velvety in the mouth with rich but not jammy dark stone fruits and berries, herbs and a deft touch of oak. Clean and juicy with a refreshing acid driven tang on the finish. I like this wine for its elegance. Reviewed January 30, 2008 ARTICLE »

2006 Anam Cara Cellars Heather’s Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

15.0% alc., 50 cases, $65. This wine is named after the Nicholas’s daughter and is the most feminine wine in the lineup. Sourced from a 5-acre block of Dijon 114. · Aromas of ripe black cherries, herbs and oak char. Smooth and velvety in the mouth with rich but not jammy dark stone fruits and berries, herbs and a deft touch of oak. Clean and juicy with a refreshing acid driven tang on the finish. I like this wine for its elegance. Reviewed May 7, 2009 ARTICLE »

2006 Anam Cara Cellars Mark I Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

15.0% alc., 50 cases, $65. This wine is an estate vineyard barrel selection aged in 50% new French oak barrels. Primarily Pommard clone. Named for son, Mark, and is the first vintage of this wine. Intended for the cellar. · Reserved scents of dark cherries and strawberries with a hint of oak. Thick and chewy dark fruits which are at first brooding but pick up life and interest with time in the glass. Nicely composed and balanced. Like a big bear in hibernation who has yet to emerge. Potentially the most magnificent wine in the lineup, but 3-5 years away from maturity. Reviewed May 7, 2009 ARTICLE »

2005 Anam Cara Heather’s Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., pH 3.90, TA 0.45, 70 cases. 100% Dijon 114. Aged in once-filled French oak barrels. · Incredibly, this wine is still delightful after ten years. Definitely has an aged Pinot character but still pumping out plenty of Bing cherry fruit flavor. Very languorous on the palate, with a bit of astringency showing up on the finish. Score: 89. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2005 Anam Cara Nicholas Estate Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir

13.6% alc., pH 3.80, TA 0.48, 213 cases. 25% Pommard, 25% 667, 20% 114, 15% 115, 15% 777. Aged in 30% new French oak barrels. · The most savory wine in the lineup that is showing its age. That said, it is still quite enjoyable for the tertiary characters of tobacco, mulch and leather enhancing the fading black cherry core.` Time to drink up. Score: 88. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2005 Anam Cara Cellars Nicholas Estate Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

A featured winery in the next issue of the PinotFile (#36). · Reviewed August 6, 2007 ARTICLE »

2005 Anam Cara Cellars Nicholas Estate Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., 678 cases, $30. This is a blend of all five blocks of the estate vineyard. Aged in 25% new French oak. · Alluring scents of spiced cherries lead to a soft, smooth and elegant wine packed with charming red and black Pinot fruits and faultless oak integration. The lingering finish displays a peacock tail of fruits and spices. A great expression of Pinot Noir. Reviewed January 30, 2008 ARTICLE »

2005 Anam Cara Cellars Nicholas Estate Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., 678 cases, $30. This is a blend of all five blocks of the estate vineyard. · I tasted the wine briefly at an alfresco luncheon at IPNC and this made the hairs stand up on the back of my neck. It was soft and elegant, but packed with charming red and black Pinot fruits. Most striking was the peacock tail finish which I rarely encounter. Reviewed August 13, 2007 ARTICLE »

2005 Anam Cara Cellars Nicholas Estate Reserve Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., 213 cases, $42. This was the wine chosen by IPNC to be poured at the event. It represents fruit from specific rows which are cropped to insure low tonnage and maximal flavor concentration. · This Pinot Noir has more power and structure than the bottling above and will need a few years in the cellar to flesh out. That said, it is completely fine now, with charming notes of black fruits, earth, cocoa, and spice. Reviewed August 13, 2007 ARTICLE »

2005 Anam Cara Cellars Nicholas Estate Reserve Chehalem Mountians Willamette Valley

13.7% alc., 213 cases, $42. A blend of a few special barrels from the estate vineyard. · Noticeably bigger and fruitier than the above wine featuring blackberry and black cherry flavors with hints of spice and smoke. A little more fullness on the palate and a little more chewy. Beautifully balanced. This wine is still a bit shy and needs a few years in the cellar to show all of its charms. Reviewed January 30, 2008 ARTICLE »

2005 Anam Cara Cellars Heather’s Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., 75 cases, $60. This inaugural release originates from three barrels from a single 5-acre block of Dijon clone 114 vines that were remarkable for their softness and complexity. The wine takes its inspiration from daughter Heather Nicholas. · Heady ripe cherries, wild berries and raisins lead the flavor parade. Very smooth, even glossy, with seamless elegance and a touch of bitterness on the lengthy finish. Still a little reticent but on its way to many surprises. Reviewed January 30, 2008 ARTICLE »

2005 Anam Cara Cellars Heather’s Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., 75 cases, $60. This wine came from three barrels originating from a single block of Dijon clone 114 vines that were remarkable for their softness and complexity. The decision was to bottle them separately as blending in with the Estate and Reserve would overwhelm the charm. A special wine for sure, it takes its inspiration from daughter heather Nicholas, and as Sheila notes, “is continuously evolving, deeply expressive, and full of surprises.” Not tasted. · Reviewed August 13, 2007 ARTICLE »