Penner-Ash, Willamette Valley (Oregon) Pinot Noir 2015

 Penner-Ash’s flagship bottling leans into the dark side of Pinot Noir possibilities, with loads of black and blue fruit balancing rich damp earth, forest floor and brown spice aromas and flavors, a mouth filling texture and a long finish that doesn’t push, but doesn’t falter either — it just hangs in from the initial presentation for a good while.  This is ready to drink, either as a fine solo glass, or with red meat dishes.  Wines where the acidity is this soft often have some weak spots, but this one works on all fronts.