Oregon's Big Story: The High Quality of 2007 Pinot Noir

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 21:51:06 GMT

I'm just back from 2 weeks in the Willamette Valley, over 50 winieries visited, hundreds of 2006 Pinot Noirs tasted, and well over 100 barrel samples of 2007 Pinot Noirs tasted. My report should appear in the August issue. The three principal themes: 1. No surprise, 2006 in WV is an excellent to outstanding vintage meant for near-term to intermediate term drinking. 2. 2007 whites, most already in bottle are superb. The natural acidity and ripe fruit give them an appeal and vibrance that is striking. 3. 2007 appears to be a superb vintage for Pinot Noir. It will appeal to fans who like the intellectual appeal of Burgundy as well as those who come down more on the hedonist's side of the coin. There was a significant rain event on 9/29/07. Those who panicked and picked everything before the rain were able to make decent wine but those who waited (and most did) were rewarded. The grapes gained flavor but not alcohol due to the cool weather. The resulting wines have superb natural acidity, modest alcohol levels, but also superb flavors and concentration. It may be the best vintage since 2002. Doug Tunnell told me that if this had been 1997, it would have likely been a disaster. However, another decade of experience (learning not to fear rain) and better farming (much lower crop loads) has resulted in what appear to be potentially terrific wines. MrBigJ
(author: Jay Stuart Miller)

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Oregon's Big Story: The High Quality of 2007 Pinot Noir