The gradual rise of Ryan Harms within the Oregon wine industry has made his Union Wine Company the fourth-largest producer in the state, and he’s done that largely on the shoulders of his successful and accessible entry-level Underwood brand. Meanwhile, his Alchemist Pinot Noir has captured our top rating from both cool vintages (2011) and warmer ones such as this. Here, the Willamette Valley-focused blend of Carabella (40%), Roe & Roe (33%) and Hawks View vineyards opens with a nose that immediately shows balance with fruit and barrel by hinting at bright notes of Queen Anne cherry, cranberry, red currant and boysenberry, backed by light toast. Its well-structured palate presents a succulent entry of Montmorency cherry and pomegranate, leading to a round and luscious finish of black cherry and vanilla cream.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 375 cases
Alcohol: 13%
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