Maysara’s Asha Pinot Noir comes from the same vineyard as the Jamsheed, but since the vineyard is large with multiple soils and numerous clones of Pinot Noir, they have the ability to create different blends. As enthralled as I was with the Jamsheed, this one is more spell-binding. The focus is also on the mineral-infused savory aspect of Pinot Noir, rather than its fruitiness. And the suave texture is similar. But somehow, the Asha just has an extra dimension. It’s a brilliant expression of Willamette — really McMinnville — Pinot Noir, and despite the price tag, it’s still a bargain.
Maysara, McMinnville, Willamette Valley (Oregon) Pinot Noir 2012
By Michael Apstein