The Specter family blends Pommard clone Pinot Noir from their estate above Newberg, Ore., with Dijon clone 115 and 777 from Plum Hill Vineyard — 20 miles to the northwest near Forest Grove — for a deliciously delicate interpretation of the Willamette Valley’s prized variety. Its pale ruby color carries along aromas of watermelon, strawberry taffy, cinnamon dust and a faint whiff of caramel — a sign of its 12 months in French oak (32% new.) The supple structure makes this a Pinot Noir of finesse, featuring flavors of creamy strawberry-rhubarb compote, golden raspberry, Ruby Red grapefruit and a finish akin to black cherry juice.
Rating: 92 points — Outstanding!
Production: 110 cases
Alcohol: 12.9%
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