One of the Willamette Valley’s most underrated winemakers, Jim Sanders, took over this program from the esteemed Robert Brittan, and this high-ranking Pinot Noir adds to our argument. Pommard clones dominate this former home to filbert groves and Christmas trees in what’s now Laurelwood District appellation near Newberg, Ore. That clonal selection begins to explain the approachable nature of this Pinot Noir, redolent of rose petals, black cherries and ripe strawberries carried along by vanilla cream. Qualifying award: Oregon Wine Awards (gold)
Rating: Double Platinum • 95 points
Production: 300 cases
Alcohol: 14.5%
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