Stephen Reustle’s delicious versatility in Southern Oregon’s Umpqua Valley doesn’t seem to be slowing down, and his example of reserve Pinot Noir from Oregon’s classic 2016 vintage is drinking beautifully. A nearly even blend of Wädenswil with Dijon clones 115 and 114 was devoted to a French oak program with 80% of those barrel being new. That shows in the rich nose with baking spices, cherry jam, cola, brown sugar and a sense of forest floor. Bing cherry and pomegranate flavors are met with bright raspberry. Its structure is sturdy yet soft, and the bittersweet chocolate tannins will serve it well with wild duck rubbed with star anise, grilled salmon, lamb, blue cheese or beef tenderloin with a Dijon cream sauce.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 350 cases
Alcohol: 13.9%
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