Oregon State grad Byron Dooley is both a refugee of the high-tech industry and product of Napa Valley College’s wine program. Much of the focus in his Carlton, Ore., tasting room is on Pinot Noir – after all, he worked for William Selyem – he also works with Bordeaux varieties grown along the Columbia Gorge. This Right Bank-style blend leads with Merlot (55%), Cabernet Sauvignon (36%) and Cabernet Franc from two vineyards not far from Maryhill, Hellsgate and Stonehenge. It takes an Old World approach with light cherry and cassis notes, joined by herbal and earthy undertones. Its flavor profile is bright, light and food-friendly with cherry and light blackberry tones. Behind those are touches of coffee, cherry tomato and tapenade, leading to a long finish of cranberry that adds finesse.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 273 cases
Alcohol: 14.1%
Subscribe to Thursday’s Wine of the Week newsletter
Leave a Reply