Kathken Vineyards 2012 Reserve Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, $19
Twenty years ago, the Slussers purchased their vineyard in the Eola-Amity Hills, and after selling off their fruit to other Willamette Valley wineries, they decided to launch their own winery in 2001. Historically, their reserve is a blend of four clones — Dijon 114, Dijon 115, Pommard and Wadensvil — and it’s a beautiful example of a stellar vintage. Aromas of strawberry-rhubarb pie, cranberry and cherry taffy are joined by cola, white pepper and sweet herbs. There’s brightness on the palate from beginning to end as the theme is one of cranberry, white strawberry and Rainier cherry with notes of woodruff and sandy tannins. And the price is a veritable bargain for Pinot Noir in the Willamette Valley.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 300 cases
Alcohol: 13.2%
Had to think out the math problem… We can’t thank you enough.