Seven of Hearts 2013 Armstrong Vineyard Curmudgeon Cuvée Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge, $42
Willamette Valley winemaker Byron Dooley pays tribute to the late Bob Wood, a friend to the Oregon wine industry, with this lightly oaked, low-alcohol Pinot Noir from Armstrong Vineyard – a site favored by his “impudent” friend. The wine began with the Oct. 4 harvest from vines of Pommard, 114 and 667 clones, and the single neutral French barrel with 50% whole-cluster fermentation creates aromas of Bing cherry, raspberry and strawberry with light caramel and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. Its elegant flavor profile is reminiscent of ripe strawberry, Rainier cherry and cranberries with mild tannins and bright acidity. A nibble of olive creates a savory and long finish.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 25 cases
Alcohol: 12.9%
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