Best Buy! Second-generation vintner Elizabeth Chambers has been managing this southern Willamette Valley label — founded by Doyle Hinman — for two decades, and she’s developed this into 8,000-case brand. There’s a remarkable bit of grace and elegance to this bargain-priced Pinot Noir, starting with 15 months in 100% neutral French oak barrels. Aromas of cranberry juice, smoky Marionberry and vanilla cream include black pepper and k and light charcoal. The pour brings immediate and vibrant acidity with flavors of cranberry, red currant and plum, amid a structure of sandy tannins and a finish of orange zest and elderberry. Chambers pays tribute to the memory of her mother, Carolyn, who purchased the Eugene winery in 1991, with blue butterflies on the label.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 969 cases
Alcohol: 13.5%
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