2012 McKinlay, Pinot Noir Willamette Valley, Oregon.
Matt Kinne’s McKinlay Vineyards have been around since 1989 and while not well known, are making some of the best value Pinot Noir that I’ve found along with Evesham Wood for the region and this 2012 release is a knock out wine. The 2012 McKinlay, Pinot Noir Willamette Valley, Oregon is very Burgundy like in style, though very true Oregon in character with a nose full of earth, spice and floral notes leading the way to a robust palate of forest floor, truffle, cinnamon stick and a core of black cherry fruit with blackberry, strawberry and plum as well. The is a wilted roses note that comes through with air and there is plenty of mineral and acidity to keep things fresh plus subtle wood notes and soft tannins, though young everything comes together nicely for lots of drinking pleasure, so no need to cellar this vibrant little Pinot, just drink up, especially at the price. This wine clearly points out that the vintage looks like a stunning year from Oregon Pinot Noir, so I’ll drink a few of these while waiting for more releases to come out later this fall. I am very impressed by the quality in the bottle here for around $20, this is great stuff with tons of charm.
($20 Est.) 92+ Points, grapelive
