This week we travel to Oregon as we tasted Cornerstone Cellars 2008 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir. We received this selection with our Oregon Pinot Noir Club shipment. Robert Parker gave this wine a rating of 92 and there are only 50 cases of this wine produced.
This Pinot Noir had a beautiful bouquet of black cherry and red berry with hints of earthiness.
The palate – well just say it put a smile on my face! Black cherry, plum with earthy notes and soft tannins. Very well crafted! A wonderful wine! Good job Craig Camp!
If you are interested where the grapes came from and how it was aged:
75% Pommard clone, 25% 115 clone
50% Eola Hills AVA, 50% Yamhill Carlton AVA
15 months in 60 gallon French Oak barrels, 50% new, 50% 1 year old
We also opened a Valley of the Moon 2006 Port. We were never into Port, but seem to be liking it these days. Especially when I am craving something sweet after dinner. It agrees with me much better than the ice cream I would have plated for myself.
We purchased this port in October when we visited the winery. The port is a blend of 77% Souzao and 23% Syrah. Aged in older French oak barrels for 24 months. Comes in at 19% alcohol.
Aromas of cherry, currants and hints of raisin on the nose.
On the palate I found light raisin, currants ending with cinnamon and a hint of nutmeg.