2007 Domaine Drouhin Oregon Pinot Noir Cuvée Louise

The 2007 Pinot Noir Louise comes from a specific vineyard site planted in 1996. It is richer, riper, and more succulent than its two siblings but also with the vibrant acidity of the vintage that will make it so pleasing to fans of red Burgundy. Impeccably balanced and long, it should also have at the least a 15-year lifespan. It is one of the stars of the vintage in Willamette Valley. 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