2016 Pinot Noir Appellation Cuvee Willamette Valley
I confess, I am amused by the marketing of wines under $25.
Not only is it fun, there are actually some pretty good wines.
Now I must also confess that the next level up has some wines that
are much better. I just reaffirmed that with the 2016 Willamette Valley
Pinot Noir Appellation Cuvee.
The Willamette Valley in Oregon brags about having the best Pinot Noir grapes
in the world. The geography helps make the case. Two parallel mountain ranges
form the long valley. The weather patterns from the Pacific make the area
an actual rain forest.
This cuvee is a blend of the pinot noir grapes from Willamette Valley Vineyards Estate,
Elton and Tualatin Estate Vineyards in the valley.
This wine is so very drinkable. The dark fruitiness with a long finish floated on the perfect balance
of acidity, tannin and a rich mouth feel. The 16 months in French Oak barrels added another
level of complexity.
You won't find anything eye-catching on the label.
When it's that good, people ask for it by name.
Sometimes extra cha-ching gets you the extra bling.
Comments