First of 3 Pinots to be released by Valley View Winery under its new label, this is from the nearby Oshala Vineyards. Planted to the Pommard and 115 clones, the 14 year old vineyard is managed by Valley View. With 10% whole cluster added, the juice was wild yeast fermented and hand punched. The wine was barreled with the lees and aged for 10 months in 75% once used French oak. A precocious Pinot, this wine opens up immediately to reveal ripe black cherry and earthy, spicy aromas. Medium full on the palate, it comes across with a velvety smooth texture while delivering plenty of bright red cherry, plum flavors. Well-integrated tannins are part of the rounded, long finish. Attractive now, and probably best to drink over the next 3 to 4 years.
Domaine Rogue, Applegate Valley (Oregon) Pinot Noir 2021
By Norm Roby