2017 Founders Reserve Pinot Noir Willamette Valley Vineyards
What is a “Founders Reserve” Pinot Noir? It’s a blend of AVA Willamette Valley Vineyard Pinot Noir grapes. Plus, a need-to-know: it’s a no-nonsense, classic Pinot. This wine tells anyone at the first sip it is an actual Pinot Noir; this is what Pinot should taste like. By this, I mean the wine embodies those features of light fruitiness, a moist earthy nose and taste, along with the velvety feel. This year’s Founders reminds me of sitting in front of one of the Classic Masters at a Museum. I recall reflecting on Claude Monet’s work, Water Lilies. His painting actually was 3 panels of painted water lilies, which stretched nearly 42 feet, standing 6 ½ feet tall. Monet was called the Master of light and color, and he captured these on a pond of water lilies. How did he manage the same thing in so many different ways? His color and composition are masterful. This Pinot Noir does much the same sort of blending. If a buyer’s desire is of big fruit or sweetness, then try other Pinots. If the desire is for an ultimate taste of a soft velvety, true Pinot Noir, here is a winner. Founders could be a philosopher’s or a historian’s choice. It would fit well with a social conservation. Serve this Pinot with music: listen, sip, and reflect. A feeling of enjoyment went with me when leaving the wall of Water Lilies. I very much enjoyed this Founders Reserve. Fortunately, there are places to see Monet. Of course, there is a source for more great and wonderful Pinot Noirs.
