Oregon State University grad Aaron Lieberman scored Platinums with two bottlings of Pinot Noir from the 2021 vintage, the reserve tier under the Areté label and this flagship release for Iris Vineyards. It’s a blend of four distinct growing regions and includes the Chalice Estate (36%) and underrated Methven (27%) in the Eola-Amity Hills. The nose includes Rainier cherry, violets, moist earth, cola and sweet spices. As for the flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser offering strawberry jam and raspberry compote, sweet herbs and ginger root. Qualifying awards: Great American International (best of show), McMinnville (double gold), Los Angeles Invitational Wine & Spirits Challenge (double gold), Cascadia International (gold)
Rating: Platinum • 91 points
Production: 7,600 cases
Alcohol: 13.7%
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