2012 Domaine Serene Mark Bradford Vineyard Dundee Hills Oregon Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 344 cases, $125. Named after Ken and Grace Evenstad’s son and was the first Pinot Noir vineyard planted at Domaine Serene. Estate grown, produced and bottled. Vineyard is one of seven estate vineyards. Dry-farmed, west-facing hillside site at 650 to 750 feet elevation closely planted to several clones of Pinot Noir in Jory soil. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 74% new. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. A slowly evolving, but exceptional nose, offering aromas of cherry tart, raspberry jam, earth and tobacco. The mid weight plus core of black cherry and black raspberry fruits attack with a fury and sustain a presence that really alerts the senses. A somewhat muscular and aggressively styled wine that nonetheless reflects its Pinot Noir genetics and remains silky in its demeanor. The plucky tannins are well balanced as is the smart new oak and the deliciously spicy and berry-fueled finish leaves a memorable impression. When tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the wine was notable for its seamless character. Score: 94. Reviewed March 12, 2016

Winery: Domaine Serene
From article: Recent Oregon Pinot Noir Tastings Confirm Consistent Excellence