Chehalem Wines 2012 Corral Creek Vineyards Pinot Noir, Chehalem Mountains, $50
Founding winemaker Harry Peterson-Nedry compares the 2012 vintage to that of 1998 and 2004, which gave his winemaking daughter, Wynne, the building blocks for a smooth and plush Oregon Pinot Noir from this estate planting. The picking was wrapped up by Oct. 14, and the finished product opens with aromas of fruit punch, along with Rainier cherry, cranberry, tangerine and a hint of Butterfinger, a sign of the 40% new barrels. It’s more strawberry-rhubarb compote on the palate, joined by flavors of raspberry and cherry as the building of acidity overtakes the tannin. Suggested pairings range from pork and chicken to salmon and halibut.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 237 cases
Alcohol: 14%
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