Willamette Valley Vineyards Whole Cluster Pinot Noir 2009
Pinot Noir
from Willamette Valley, Oregon
winemaker's notes:
The stylistic vision of this wine is to capture
pure Pinot Noir fruit carbonically fermented
with beautiful depth and structure. The
methodology includes attention to detail from
vineyard to bottle. The vineyards for this wine
are chosen for the ripe style of wine they tend
to produce. The fruit is gently conveyed into
the top manway of stainless steel fermenters
which have been sparged with CO2 gas. The
whole clusters of fruit are sprayed with yeast,
then dropped gently into the tank. The tanks
are heated to 85 degrees F and sealed tightly
to contain the carbonic atmosphere. The
fermentation is allowed to go 14-21 days and
pressing takes place when the fruit character is
ideal and tannin levels from the stems are not
yet expressed. After pressing, fermentation
is completed over a 7 - 10 day period in
stainless steel tanks. PH is monitored closely
as malolactic fermentation commences
until the desired balance is achieved.
As refreshing as liquid fruit salad in a glass, this wine opens with explosive aromas of wild strawberry, raspberry, black cherry, and a hint of smoke and anise. Flavors mirror the aromas and are complemented by balanced, soft tannins and ripe acidity. Juicy flavors lead to a juicy pomegranite finish. This wine holds an elegant, refined weight on the palate throughout, inviting another sip. Meant to drink young. Enjoy this wine now through 2014.
Perfect with bold cheeses, Thai food and pizza. If lightly chilled, the perfect pairing for a summer picnic. Also an excellent match for grilled fish or chicken - a good choice for a summer BBQ.
critical acclaim:
"A light and jazzy red, displaying pretty cherry and raspberry fruit on a deftly balanced frame, lingering nicely. Drink now through 2014. 12,125 cases made."
88 Points
Wine Spectator
"The 2009 Pinot Noir Whole Cluster Fermented is light ruby red with a fruity, Beaujolais-like nose that jumps from the glass. On the palate it sports loads of juicy, spicy red fruit with enough acidity for balance. Drink this easygoing, uncomplicated, but pleasure-bent effort over the next 2-3 years. It is a very good value.
Willamette Valley Vineyards is a reliable producer of quality Pinot Noir."
87 Points
The Wine Advocate
"At just 12.5% alcohol, you’ll find this lively, light, fruity Pinot has a sweet core of pretty cherry fruit. Nonetheless, it’s dry and finishes with an astringent, leafy, palate-refreshing scrape of tannin. A fine sipping wine, with a resonant finish."
87 Points
Wine Enthusiast
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