Monks Gate Willamette Valley Pinot Noir, 2007

Monks Gate Vineyard is located in the Yamhill-Carlton area of the northern Willamette Valley, and the vines were planted there on Willakenzie soil in 2000. So the vines were relatively young when this 2007 was produced...but still capable of producing a highly impressive wine.

Light color but noticeably bright. Enchanting Pinot bouquet: red cherries, rose petals, and spice box. The scents are so lovely, that I almost expected something sweeter on the palate, but I was not disappointed at all. More of the spice box plus cranberries, cherries orange zest and white pepper. Pleasing acidity. Reminds me a lot of the Tualatin Estate Pinot I had at an American Wine Society tasting last week. The Monks Gate is 10 years older than that wine, but it has aged very well.