Andrew Rich Cuvee B Pinot Noir 2008 Front Label
Andrew Rich Cuvee B Pinot Noir 2008 Front Label

Winemaker Notes

With its darker color and deep aromas of graphite, crushed red and black berries, and a hint of wild herbs, the Cuvée announces itself as a wine that is altogether more "serious" than the Prelude. (And for those who have been following this wine for the last 10 vintages, it should be noted that with this vintage the B has been promoted: it is no longer our "entry-level" Pinot, though in order to attain an elevated rank it was necessary to bottle much less than previously—about one-half of normal.) In the mouth the wine seems more savory than overtly fruity, with a round, sweet, rich mid-palate. It is full and lush with any excess weight (a hallmark of 2008). There is excellent length here, with well-integrated tannins and vibrant acidity to keep the wine focused and fresh. Delicious now, this will go five years at least.

Professional Ratings

  • 91
    Juicy and expressive, this is a classical Willamette Valley pinot with broad scents of wild strawberries and briar. The wine is high-toned and fine, makred by a sinewy texture, firm tannins and a finish that lasts. Should pair beautifully with a pork chop.
  • 90
    Crisp tannins surround a supple core of sassafras-accented black cherry, plum and mineral flavors, which remain deft and agile as the finish persists impressively. Best from 2012 through 2018. 530 cases made.
Andrew Rich

Andrew Rich

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Home of some of the planet’s most amazingly elegant and expressive Pinot noir, the Willamette Valley is a pastoral, mixed landscape of green, bucolic rolling hills, dramatic forestlands and small, independent, friendly wine growers. As a leader in environmental stewardship, the valley has some of the nation’s most protective land use policies, with two-thirds of its vineyards farmed sustainably and over half, organically. While the valley claims a cool, continental climate, and is heavily influenced by the cold, moist winds of the Pacific Ocean, its warm and dry summers allow for the steady, even ripening of Pinot noir.

The potential of Willamette Valley Pinot noir continues to attract the investment of serious growers and winemakers both locally and from abroad, as naturally the finished wines bring accolades from professionals and enthusiasts. With a range of styles from delicate dried cherry, raspberry and hibiscus to stronger notes of truffle, mocha, plum and spice, a fine Willamette Valley Pinot noir is a perfect expression of both character and grace.

NWWANDRICHPINOT_2008 Item# 108265