Elk Cove Vineyard lies in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA in the Willamette Valley of Oregon. The first vines were planted in this natural amphitheater in 1974 by Joe and Pat Campbell – a time when there were fewer than 10 wineries in the state. Now there are nearly 1000 Oregon wineries and Elk Cove still ranks among the best. The Roosevelt Vineyard lies just below the winery on a steep hillside. This four acre plot was planted in 1993 and quickly became one of the winery’s most favored sites. The 2021 Roosevelt Pinot Noir reveals scents of pure ripe cherry, blackberry and raspberry fruits interwoven with floral, vanilla, herb, cocoa and spice nuances. On the palate, its impressive layers of cherry, blackberry, and raspberry fruits are enhanced by nuances of vanilla, cocoa, cinnamon and clove. It has a full texture and mouthfeel. This elegant and finely balanced Pinot Noir will provide great tasting pleasure for another 5 to 10 years.
Elk Cove Vineyards, Yamhill-Carlton (Willamette Valley, Oregon) Pinot Noir 2021
By Wayne Belding