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We started talking last night, telling each other about the wines we'd tasted that week that rocked us. We had unusual amounts of agreement. Here are our picks: Walter Scott La Combe Verte Pinot noir 2010 in any 12 bottle order
Underpriced, Seriously people - you take Pinot grapes from vines averaging 24 years old, give them to two of Oregon's most knowledgeable wine gurus, and you get head-scratchingly awesome Pinot. Though not the first wine from Walter Scott, the 2010 La Combe Verte is their breakout, watershed wine. Elegant and silky - the essence of Oregon Pinot - dishing fresh raspberries dusted with white pepper. Future star alert: Walter Scott is the project of Ken Pahlow (Evening Land's master of sales) and Erica Landon (the go-to sommelier in Portland). Each of them could practically exhale and great wine would be made - together, watch out! - Marcus Crowley Maresh Vineyard Chardonnay 2009 $37.76
in any 12 bottle order Only 50 cases made. Opening the bottle, the irresistible aroma immediately drew me in - it's dazzling. Intense honeysuckle, white peaches, Meyer lemon, vanilla custard, and citrus, with hints of tangerine peel, fresh mango and minerals. And that's just the nose! Exploding in the mouth, it's juicy and rich, with an expansive array of flavors - spiced peaches, citrus, toasted almonds, subtle, smooth custard, with the finish adding a hint of earth and minerals. Opulent and unforgettable. Marcus had to discipline me to keep me from taking every last bottle home for myself. Made from a few rows of Chardonnay planted 28 years ago at Maresh Vineyard. Some of the most coveted grapes in Oregon. - Jean Crowley Entre Nous Pinot noir 2009
$26.95 in any 12 bottle order Combination drummers/Rush fans are rare in the Oregon wine business...there might be only 2 of us. That would be Tyson Crowley, and me. Tyson's wines are like a good session behind the drum kit: cerebral, focused, and at the heart of it, fun. And they play out in the same fashion, taking a second to loosen up before you lock into a killer groove. Flowing and jazzy, this has beautifully sweet cherry that just won't quit, with accents of mint and underbrush. Since it's a Friday and you might be looking for a fun distraction, you should really check out Rush's song, "Entre Nous." (Google: Rush Entre Nous) - Marcus At right, Tyson Crowley Belle Pente Yamhill-Carlton Pinot noir 2009 $22.45 in any 12 bottle order
Made from the same fruit as Belle Pente's top Belle Pente Estate Vineyard Pinot. Brian calls it a "Junior Estate." The 2009 Belle Pente Yamhill-Carlton Pinot noir is rich, juicy, and compelling. Aromas of fresh blackberry, sweet cinnamon and white pepper introduce the Y-C experience. Wild blackberry and raspberry fruit, pie-spiced berry compote, and a touch of fresh thyme lead into a long, silk and savory finish. - Jean |
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