Monday, December 14, 2009

Firesteed Willamet Valley Pinot Noir 2005 Oregon


The jolt I get from this Pinot is reminding me of those candies I loved as a kid... you know... those chocolate rings with a chewy raspberry jelly inside. Then aromas of pomegranate, black cherries, grilled meats, and figs. The flavors are a mix of marzipan, black tea and a bit of cocoa at the end. Very, very nice and a long finish.

Winemaker notes:
Cool and slightly damp weather in early June caused vineyards to set a small crop for the second consecutive vintage. The hot, dry summer ran out of steam early in September and high temperatures at the winery stayed in the 60's and 70's for a full month prior to harvest. Requiring neither sunscreen nor umbrellas, crushing peaked mid-October. As the season began to wind down it became clear that the year 2005 could rank among Oregon's finest vintages.

Select lots of prime Willamette Valley Pinot Noir grapes were chosen to be fermented in small vessels with a high percentage of berries remaining whole. After fermentation the young wine was gently pressed into new, one, two and three-year old French oak barrels for 12 months of aging. The top-quality barrels were then selected and blended together for this cuvee.


Full disclosure: This bottle was a complimentary sample for Vigna Uva Vino from Firesteed Cellars.

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