PINOT NOIR
96 Élevée Winegrowers 2021 Departure Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley). Wherever this wine is departing to, I’m on board. A dazzling aromatic set of crushed pomegranate seeds, strawberries and sweet pea flowers starts the journey off right. Then, a lightning bolt of acidity propels sweet red cherry and bergamot tea flavors that last for a good long while. You need to be on this Pinot train. Editors’ Choice. —M.A.
abv: 13.5% Price: $100
95 Domaine Divio 2022 Hyland Vineyard Pinot Noir (McMinnville). Bright and tangy boysenberries anchor an aromatic set that includes black tea, earthy oregano and salmon grilling on a cedar plank over coals. Tart blackberries dominate the sinewy palate, joined by traces of lemongrass tea and ripe Oregon white truffles. Great acidity matches leathery tannins. Drink now–2034. Cellar Selection. —M.A.
abv: 13.3% Price: $65
This perfume of sweet, powdery violets, muddled raspberries and pine needles is difficult to resist. So. —M.A.
