2007 Domaine Drouhin Oregon Pinot Noir Willamette Valley

Sweet strawberry fruit and just a touch of mushroom. Light, elegant, fresh and persistent. (JH)

The 2007 Pinot Noir Willamette Valley is the bottling most people are likely to encounter. Medium ruby-colored, it has a fragrant perfume of cedar, spice box, eucalyptus/menthol, cherry, and raspberry. Made in an elegant, racy style, this medium-bodied effort has a vibrant core of spicy red fruits, moderate ripe tannin, excellent intensity, and savory flavors. It will benefit from another 1-2 years of cellaring and offer prime drinking from 2011 to 2019. Domaine Drouhin has been producing wine in the Willamette Valley since 1988 making them one of the veterans of the Oregon wine scene. In addition to Pinot Noir, Drouhin makes outstanding Chardonnay. All of the current releases are first-class in a Cotes de Beaune style and should not be overlooked. The 2007s are particularly good because of the vibrant natural acidity of the vintage. Veronique Drouhin was kind enough to show me this same set of wines from the 2002 vintage (which were reviewed by Pierre Rovani in 2004). The Willamette Valley cuvee (90 points) is mature with another 5-6 years of life and drinking beautifully. The 2002 Laurene (92 points) is still evolving, while the splendid 2002 Louise (94 points) will benefit from another 4-5 years of cellaring and should drink well through 2022. It is increasingly apparent that Oregon Pinot Noir from top producers in strong vintages can easily provide pleasure for 20+ years. Tel. (503) 864-2700; www.domainedrouhin.com

Vivid red. Musky raspberry and cherry aromas are complicated by dried rose, mocha and a subtle cola note; smells like a sexy Vosne-Romanee. Tightly wound red berry and cherry flavors are framed by silky tannins and pick up a nervy blood orange quality with air. Finishes brisk and persistent, with a strong note of wild strawberry.