If this is a sign of the much-heralded 2012 vintage, devotees of Oregon Pinot Noir will enjoy drinking in the history. And here, winemaker David O’Reilly also offers a lesson in Irish history as the photo on the label is taken from Kilmore, which is near where legendary solider Owen Roe O’Neill died as Cromwell and his English forces swept across Ireland in brutal fashion in 1649. O’Reilly’s tribute here continues his work with Lenne Vineyard and Merriman Vineyard for this bottling that’s primarily of Dijon (80%) clonal fruit. The aromas bring hints of strawberry, cherry fruit leather, milk chocolate, moist earth and allspice. Inside, it’s a supple and luscious drink of Bing cherry, dark strawberry and black currant. Good acidity, chocolaty tannins and a finish of dried strawberry combine to give it remarkable length. These wines are distributed by Ex Cellars in the Portland area, Salem and Eugene, while as Vinum Importing handles their wines in Washington and all other Oregon locations.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 833 cases
Alcohol: 14.1%
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