2012 TREOS Estate Founder’s Choice Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

15.5% alc., 195 cases, $48. Clones 667 and 777. Yields 0.8 tons per acre. Intention to create the richest, boldest expression of Pinot Noir that can make. Aged in Sirugue French oak barrels. · Dark reddish purple color in the glass. The winemaker has achieved his objective for this is a BIG, weighty, lush wine playing in the realm of Syrah. The aromatics are muted with demure scents of raw beef, dark berry, vanilla and spearmint. Soft and velvety on the palate, the sap is intense, brooding and earthy with flavors of purple and black berries, spice and vanilla. The palate is much more interesting than the nose at this stage. There is plenty of backbone to back up the fruit. The alcohol is well hidden but still peaks out a skosh on the finish. Score: 88. Reviewed August 15, 2014

Winery: Treos Wines
From article: Recent Sips of Oregon Pinot Noir & Chardonnay