Le Cadeau Pinot noir Diversite 08

2004 Vintage Tasting Notes

Wine Spectator 93 points

"Fine and focused, with a plush texture that presents the blueberry, plum and creamy spice flavors as if on a pillow-lined pedestal. The finish lingers enticingly against crisp, fine-textured tannins. Best from 2008 through 2014. 175 cases made.-HS

Sam Tannahill assisted Gary Andrus at Archery Summit during the "knockout years" of super high ratings and huge wines. Cheryl Francis was winemaker at Chehalem, creating numerous highly rated and respected Pinots. Marriage and two kids later, Sam and Cheryl make miniscule amounts of Pinot under their Francis Tannahill label, and it's completely sold out. Here's a chance to try their take on the 2004 vintage, made for Le Cadeau's Tom and Deb Mortimer.

"Diversite" is named for the diverse selection of Pinot Noir clones that comprise this cuvee - Dijon 113, 115, 667, and 777, along with Mariafeld and Pommard. Following an extended cold soak, the wine was fermented in French oak fermenters using natural yeasts from the vineyard. This unfiltered wine has deep aromatics of dried cherries and carmelized sugar. The 15% component of Mariafeld (a Swiss clone of Pinot Noir) adds unique spice and flavor elements. The texture is smooth and viscous while flavors of cherry, black cherry, and a trace of fig linger on the palate.