2006 St. Innocent Pinot Noir Shea Vineyard

The 2006 Pinot Noir Shea Vineyard is a candidate for Shea of the vintage as well as my choice in this portfolio. It is the richest, most concentrated, and complex as well as the best balanced, nicely concealing enough structure to evolve for 4-5 years, about as much as one can expect from this vintage. It should be at its best from 2012 to 2021. Mark Vlossak, partner/winemaker of St. Innocent Winery, was in a pleasant mood when I saw him in late July of 2008 and why not? He has moved into a splendid new facility where he can take full advantage of his winemaking talents. Furthermore, his 2006 Pinot Noirs are very successful and his 2007s in barrel might be even better. Tel. (503) 378-1526; www.stinnocentwine.com