Erath Winery is rarely, if ever, mentioned among the "cream of the crop" Oregon vineyards. This is a shame. Not only does Erath make delicious everyday Pinot and an always terrific Pinot Gris, but their single-vineyard offerings are some of the best Oregon has to offer. They stand shoulder-high with other offerings at twice the price. Here is my favorite, just released.
2010 Erath Pinot Noir, Leland Vineyard, Willamette Valley Oregon $50 srp
Dashing ruby color. Persistently bright cherry notes on the bouquet, with subtle hints of cinnamon, freshly turned earth and a minerally backdrop. There is a tell-tale beetroot quality which I usually associate only with French Burgundy. Ripe flavors continue cherry with light raspberry overtone. This has excellent body, layered complexity and a balanced, lingering aftertaste; Pinot as one hopes it to be with great subtlety and alluring finesse. Will only improve in the bottle. Drink now-2016.
92/100 points
