Colene Clemens Vineyards, Chehalem Mountains (Willamette Valley, Oregon) Pinot Noir 2021

 Beginning with the 2008 vintage, Colene Clemens has focused on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from different sites.  Made from several clones, the Dopp Creek Pinot is presented as the winery’s “most approachable and versatile style.”  Don’t know about earlier vintages but this 2021 certainly struck me as pretty and approachable.  That is remarkable given the fact that 2021 was unusually warm and dry.  Its aroma combines raspberry with earthy, coffee and oak spice nuances.  On the palate, it is smooth, silky and delicate with subtle red cherry and oak spice flavors.  With velvety tannins, the finish is long and smooth.  The wine was aged for 11 months in 32% new French oak. 4,843 cases were made.