The trailblazing Carlton Winemakers Studio opened in 2002, and Andrew Rich has been there as long as CWS founder — Eric Hamacher. Rich shifted his career away from journalism, leaving New York City for winemaking school in Burgundy, and seemingly never looked back. His approach to this Pinot Noir is rather fascinating, selecting vines specifically planted in soils such as Bellpine, Dupee and Willakenzie, which makes this distinctive of both his “Volcanic” tier and that from the Eola-Amity Hills region. The appearance is a bit reminiscent of a rosé, and the scant involvement of oak accents the minearlity, slate and blue fruited approach. Pleasingly soft tannins set up a medium-long finish of finely ground black pepper and elderberry juice. Suggested pairing with this wine include Crispy Polenta with Spiced Lamb Ragù, and bottles are available at the Carlton Winemakers Studio tasting room.
Rating: Outstanding! — 91 points
Production: 443 cases
Alcohol: 13.5%
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