2008 Pinot Noir, Heather’s Vineyard, Nicholas Estate, Chehalem Mountains

STELLAR SELECTION

Pretty pastel rose color. Wonderfully spicy scents of vanilla-wrapped cherry fruit are pleasingly assertive, with gentle tinges of chocolate and mint. In the mouth, pure Pinot fruit flavors are clear and composed: cherry and raspberry tastes, with a light herbal fringe and distinct minerality. Well-balanced acidity adds verve, while fine-grained tannins give unobtrusive structure. The finish is powerful, with cherry echoes reverberating into the distance. Clean, fruity, and forceful, this is the perfect wine to pair with local favorite, alder-grilled wild Chinook salmon. (50 cases made.) $60