Last night, a trio of Esquinites (Jeff, Scott, me) attended a trade-only tasting at a distributor’s South-end warehouse. The were some outstanding wines most of which I’ll write up soon (1994 Chateau Musar, 2003 Jacqueson Mercurey 1er cru Naugues, etc.).
All of us enjoyed the 2006 Angela Pinot Noir from Oregon, which we tasted together. It was rich, lush Pinot from Oregon’s highly respected Ken Wright. Naturally, we had to taste it several times to confirm our first impressions. Our own Scott Schaefer enthusiastically wrote up his notes on the spot, giving the wine 94 Esquin points. I thought you might enjoy reading his notes below.
Cheers!
Arnie
Last night I had the pleasure of tasting a fantastic Pinot Noir from our neighbors to the south, Oregon. This wine has it all; the classic varietal characteristics that too many Oregon Pinots lack, the complexity of a Premier Cru Burgundy, enough grip and tannin to suggest short term cellaring…and, as if that weren’t enough, the wine is crafted by none other than the Godfather of Oregon winemaking, Ken Wright. This is only their second vintage, but their first made quite a splash in the wine community, earning a 93 point rating from the Wine Spectator (I have included the review of the 2005, but that wine is not currently available). The highly touted 2006 vintage shines through in their latest effort, which displays a degree of elegance when compared to other 2006 Oregon Pinots I have encountered, this medium to full bodied effort tips the scales at a mere 13.5% ABV, instead of the 14-15.5% that encumbers some of its peers from Oregon in 2006. Supplies are limited on this wine and once the rating is released it will vanish in short order.
2005 Angela Pinot Noir Clawson Vineyard- 93 points Wine Spectator
Lithe and light, this is open-textured, an expressive wine, with floral and balsamic accents to the effusive raspberry and red plum fruit, lingering as the finish waxes. Impressive length and balance. Drink now through 2015. 300 cases made.
2006 Angela Pinot Noir Clawson Vineyard- 94 Esquin Points- $52.99/bottle
Deep ruby hued, lightening slightly at the edge. Classic Oregon nose, with notes of ripe plum and black cherry almost overshadowing the more subtle black tea and forrest floor notes that are present. The palate is silky but assertive, with black raspberry and bing cherry on display, with a touch of white pepper in the finish. An incredible wine that is completely harmonious and in balance, with a finish that refuses to quit.