2017 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir - Failla Wines Oregon

Candied strawberry, fallen leaves, juicy red cherry. Fresh boysenberry, ground cardamom, orange zest. Tart and vibrant pulses of wild black raspberry, cranberry, and rhubarb ring in with tremendous energy and freshness while notes of forest floor, tree bark, and pine cone reveal a thread of delightfully woodsy charm. Hints of rose petal and cherry blossom emerge to provide layers of clean floral fragrance that play in tune with a mix of natural tones and spice led by coriander, tobacco, and tea leaf. Impressions of iron and worn leather gently expose a decidedly old world feel while loamy earth and rock salt impart transparent reflections of terroir. Remarkably dainty and delicate yet simultaneously expressive on both the nose and palate; exhibiting a perfect mix of fruit and non-fruit character presented with tremendous balance, complexity, and restraint. Medium in body with surprisingly pronounced tannin supported by brilliant acidity. This 2017 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir by Failla Wines Oregon is an impressively well made, classic, and Burgundian red from Oregon. 

While there are no shortage of producers in the Willamette Valley making deliciously bold and fruit forward Pinot Noir, this region also contains a great number of wineries pursuing a more classic and old world approach with their wines. This bottling, crafted by Failla Wines Oregon using Pinot Noir sourced from within the Willamette Valley, is an outstanding example of Oregon's ability to produce authentic yet remarkably Burgundian Pinot. Made in a balanced yet expressive style using a noticeable amount of whole cluster, this wine contains a core of pretty and delicate fruit married with clean forest tones and rugged spice. It is nicely aromatic while remaining beautifully restrained, and is sure to impress those who appreciate both old and new world characteristics. Excellent.