2004 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

Wine Spectator - 91 Points

Light and velvety, with a mint and cream component to the chocolaty blackberry flavors. Lingers with impressive focus on the long, expressive finish. Drink now through 2011. - Harvey Steiman

Tasting Notes

First and foremost, this is a wine that screams "vineyard". It's clearly made from scrupulously perfect fruit, from a vineyard whose special qualities are understood and called for in the winemaking. Many of the most experienced winemakers say that Pinot noir is made in the vineyard... the trick is to not screw up what the fruit gives you. Rollin is clearly a master at determining the vineyard's special qualities and crafting a wine that emphasizes them.

The private wine label of Argyle winemaker Rollin Soles. Fruit from his Wits' End Vineyard. With Argyle producing tens of thousands of cases of excellent wine, here's our chance to try a more individual project, Rollin's personal take on Pinot noir. Very limited.

Rollin says...

In the nose I immediately get hints of vanilla, spice and rosemary while the mouth reveals a juicy powerhouse with firm tannins. All this is mellowed by the flavors of toasted blackberries and warm cream. The cream dissipates and the mouth opens as the wine aerates.

Corby says...

Up front I smell toasted almonds and field ripened blackberries. There is also a hint of lavender and violets. In the mouth I get sinfully rich dark chocolate and blackberry creme Brule flavors. There is a port-like intensity that has essence of black cherries.

Production Notes

On at least two occasions the 2004 summer produced blowtorch like heat. We all thought '04 was destined to be even hotter than the record '03 heat summation. In typical northwest style, Mother Nature had other plans. Instead she delivered cold ran, delayed harvest and shifted the fruit to a more balanced expression of mineral and freshness. So in the end 2004 was a righteous vintage!

Purchase This Wine

$32.00 per bottle

~ SOLD OUT ~

Case Discounts Available
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