2015 Walter Scott Temperance Hill Vineyard Eola-Amity Hills Oregon Pinot Noir

13.6% alc., 100 cases, $50. This iconic vineyard sits on the crown of the Eola-Amity hills at elevations of 600 to 900 feet. The site, farmed by owner Dai Crisp, is exposed to cool afternoon marine breezes that define the wines and contribute to late ripening. Sourced from a block containing 24-year-old vines. Fermented with ambient yeasts and aged 15 months in French oak barrels, 40% new. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. I was at a loss of words in describing this joyful nose offering aromas of dark berries, spice and underbrush with a feral tone. One can really taste the Temperance Hill terroir in this wine, with its structured sense and its typically vigorous black cherry and black raspberry fruit flavors. The wine is in perfect harmony, with a silky mouthfeel, gracious acidity, fine-grain tannins, and a lasting finish. Still an overwhelming experience when tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Pinot Noirs from this vineyard are consistently captivating. Score: 96-97. Reviewed May 7, 2017

Winery: Walter Scott Wines
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted Oregon Pinot Noir