Wine of the Week
By Kerry Winslow
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2008 Raptor Ridge Pinot Noir “Shea Vineyard” Yamhill-Carlton District , Willamette Valley, Oregon.
I’m at a loss for words, so all I’m going to say is if you are a Pinot Lover, buy up 2008 Willamette Pinots they are the bomb, and if you want something a bit more special then find this wine and be sure to get more than a few! Raptor Ridge always makes a fine wine, but that and with the magic of the Shea Vineyard, plus a great vintage make this a no-brainer. This Pinot Noir has the class and depth of a Grand Cru Burgundy, but with the fullness and terroir of the Shea Vineyard, with layers of fruit and texture. The nose is floral and savory with violets, roses, spice, smoke and truffle, before a lively palate of black cherry, plum, blackberry and tangy currants. The background has gunpowder, mineral, tea spice, briar and fennel with a long and lush finish of vanilla and fruit essence. I think it is wonderful now, but there might be a bit more gained by some years in the cellar. Enjoy this wine and make sure you have a few in the long term to visit later.
($42 Est.) 94+ Points, grapelive
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