Elk Cove Vineyards, Willamette Valley (Oregon) Pinot Noir 2020

 Producing Pinot Noir since the 1977 vintage, Elk Cove is one of Oregon’s true pioneers and has remained family owned.  It makes several single vineyard Pinots along with this popular entry level version.  The 2020 vintage yielded a smaller than normal crop, and it was also a vintage that was threatened by smoke from wildfires.  A melange of the winery’s 6 estate vineyards, this Estate Pinot apparently escaped all damage and in fact exudes nothing but charm and elegance. The components were fermented in open top tanks and the final blend was aged in French oak for 10 months.  The wine is immediately appealing with its lovely aromas of cherry, raspberry and cloves.  On the palate it is smooth, delicate and velvety, and the flavors emphasize youthful cherry fruit and lead to an intriguing earthy, oaky background.  The finish is savory and juicy.