2011 Easkoot Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

Price: $30
Region: Willamette Valley < Oregon 
Grapes: Pinot Noir
Vineyard/Cellar Stats: Biodynamic farming, dry farmed, Soils are Helvetia, Steiwer, and Santiam silts which were formed primarily from ancient marine sedimentary rock; fermented in open vats and aged in used oak; 100 cases
Winemaker: Shane McManigle

This is cool-climate Pinot from a really cold vintage – lean, elegant, and very Burgundian in style, but not for everyone. From the Johan Vineyard in the Valley’s Van Duiser Corridor, where winds from the pacific create the coldest corner within the coldest AVA of the valley. Add to this the coldest growing season on record and you achieve ripeness at just 12.2% alcohol. Guys, this is not your typical, jammy, silky, luscious Cali Pinot Noir. But it is freaking delicious! Everyone who tasted this wine blind mistook it for a Burgundy. It shows some bite from racy acidity and solid tannin structure, with pretty cranberry and cassis fruit and a lovely earthiness. DECANT FOR AN HOUR OR TWO then enjoy without restraint – because it is that good and food-friendly, and ONLY 12% alcohol!