Winemaker Notes
The 2021 vintage exhibits traits typical of the Cygnus Block: gorgeousred fruits and an initial platform of sweetness that extends throughthe palate. Aromas of native wild strawberries, bing cherries, black cardamom and Earl Grey tea permeate, while subtle floral notes on thefront of the palate lead to savory nuances in the mid-palate and finish. Enjoy now through 2036.
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2021 Pinot Noir Cygnus Block has layered aromas of raspberry, strawberry, Angostura bitters and forest floor. The light-bodied palate is silky and refreshing with nuanced flavors and a long, gently flinty finish.
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Wine Enthusiast
The wine's aromatics channel Doc Holliday whispering, “I'm your huckleberry.” Huckleberries dominate this aromatic set, joined by vanilla and holster leather. Tart blueberries meet sweet Sungold tomatoes on the palate, along with an earthy blackberry-tea flavor. Great acidity here, with velvety tannins.
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.