2015 Chestnut Hill Vineyard Pinot noir

At a maximum elevation of 1,000 feet, Chestnut Hill Vineyard is one of the highest vineyards in the North Willamette Valley. In warm years, elevation lends restraint; in cool years, ripeness can be elusive.  As our coolest vineyard site, it responded exceedingly well to the warmth of the 2015 vintage and beautifully inherited the elegance associated with cool climate viticulture and the ripeness of a warm growing season.   The high-toned nose reveals boysenberry, cherry, allspice, and a leathery, savory quality. The palate shows even more depth with black cherry, earth and plum carried on a silken carriage of sweet tobacco spice to a delicate, fruit and mineral finish.

92 pts – Lots of strawberry compote, blackberry crumble, glazed cherries and herbs and spices.  The palate is very fruity with a wealth of burnt oranges and tangy fruit as well as some velvety tannins.  Fruit-forward finish.  Drink now. – James Suckling 92 pts – Vivid red.  Lively, mineral-laced red fruit, floral and cola scents, backed by vanilla and woodsmoke nuances.  Juicy and focused on the palate, offering bitter cherry and raspberry flavors that become sweeter as the wine opens up.  Shows very good depth as well as energy and closes with strong, red-fruit-driven persistence and silky tannins that add gentle grip. – Vinous (Josh Raynolds)