2012 DANCIN Vineyards “Élevé” Barrel Select Southern Oregon Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 99 cases, $34. Named after a ballet movement in which you rise up high on to the balls of your feet relates to the grapes for this wine sourced from the estate’s highest elevation vineyard at nearly 2,000 feet. A blend of 777, Pommard and 115. 100% destemmed, fermented in small bins with indigenous yeast, aged 15 months in 40% new French oak barrels. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of black raspberry, black cherry and cigar box evolve slowly over time in the glass. Ripe-fruited and robust on the palate with sappy flavors of black cherry and black raspberry framed by firm but felty tannins and juicy acidity. Some of the black cherry fragrance returns to haunt the lengthy finish. Score: 90. Reviewed January 23, 2015

Winery: DANCIN Vineyards
From article: DANCIN Vineyards: Rogue Valley Wines of Distinction