An intriguingly complex and nicely developing core of dark cherry, wild blackberry, ripe cranberry, and black curant generously spills a diverse range of layered and lively fruit while intriguing floral tones of rose petal and lavender simultaneously provide waves of captivating aromatic charms. Notes of forest floor, mossy tree bark, and pine needle softly contribute thoroughly interesting organic character that is playfully combated by pretty spices including coriander, cardamom, and cinnamon. Delicious umami hints of chanterelle mushroom and broken-in leather round out the display with gorgeous savoriness that is underlaid with pleasantly funky earthy qualities of loamy earth and tilled soil. Remarkably nuanced and haunting on the nose while remaining perfectly elegant, energetic, and tense on the palate; exhibiting a classically-styled and impressively Burgundian presentation that boasts a textbook expression of its inimitable terroir. Medium bodied with elevated yet accessible tannin supported by bright acidity. This 2018 "Frontier" Pinot Noir by Durant Vineyards is a captivating and characterful red from the Willamette Valley's Dundee Hills. 

Located in Northwestern Oregon just south of Portland in an area that has long been prized for its agricultural capabilities, the Willamette Valley has earned a reputation as one of the world's greatest winegrowing regions thanks to its ability to produce wine that possesses a wonderful combination both new world and old world qualities. This bottling, crafted by Durant Vineyards using hand-selected barrels of the best Pinot Noir grown at their Dundee Hills estate vineyards, is an incredible example of Oregon's ability to shape Pinot on par with the best of Burgundy. This radiates with an energetic yet incredibly complex range of red and black fruits layered with fragrant floral tones, exciting forest notes, well integrated spices, and plenty of umami-laden savoriness. Although already showing some delicious tertiary flavors this possesses the structure and verve to age gracefully, and will likely require another 5-10 years to hit its highest peak. Outstanding.