PINOT NOIR
94 Élevée Winegrowers 2019 Departure Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley). All four vineyards that are featured individually in Élevée’s “Study in Terroir” series contribute to this final blend. As is sometimes the case, the whole exceeds the sum of its parts. This is a complete and nuanced wine with a lush mix of red berries, citrusy acids, subtle barrel flavors of nutmeg and caramel and milk chocolate. It’s already drinking nicely and may be enjoyed over the rest of the decade. Editors’ Choice. —P.G.
abv: 13% Price: $90
This captures the essence of this small AVA, with its minerally foundation and sharp, tight, crisp red fruits. Cranberry, wet stone, a touch of graphite and a firm, slatey base all combine. For such a young wine it’s both expressive and complex.. —P.G.
