North America | Oregon | Eyrie Vineyards | Outcrop Pinot Noir

Outcrop Pinot Noir

VARIETAL
Pinot Noir

NOTES
VINEYARD: Purchased from Eyrie's neighbors in 2011, the Outcrop Vineyard came with 5 acres of Pinot Noir (planted 1982-2000) and a lovely view of the adjacent Eyrie Vineyard. This vineyard is named for the underlying outcrop of rock ridging perpendicularly to the hillside. Outcrop overlooks Eyrie's original vineyard. The five acres of Pinot Noir here were planted to Wadenswil clone between 1982 and 2000. The elevation runs from 280’ up to 360’ and faces north north-east. In spite of the northern exposure, reflected heat from the Original Vines planting warms the site.

VINIFICATION: A fermentation regime of wild yeast and small fermentation vessels, followed by aging in blends of cooperage with 12% new oak in each.
2016 started off with a warm, wet March, and continued with warmer than average temperatures throughout the spring and summer. Fortunately, the
extra water early in the year prevented the vines from experiencing drought stress in the summer. As the warm summer progressed, Eyrie prepared for a harvest more than a month ahead of what they consider normal. In September, just as harvest started, moderate temperatures moved in. With cooler weather, fruit ripened at a leisurely pace. This provided winemakers an unhurried opportunity to choose their fruit for perfect ripeness.

TASTING NOTES: Rose petal perfume over a core of fresh cranberries, Bing cherries and baked rhubarb plus touches of tar, dried tobacco leaves and bitter orange peel. Light to medium-bodied, it gives pure bright red fruits in the mouth, with touches of bitters and dried rose petals segueing into warm earth, dried autumn leaves and meaty touches. It has a firm frame of grainy tannins and very juicy, mouthwatering acidity, finishing very long with wonderful texture and layers.

PRESS/RATINGS: This has an earthier nose with a striking, red-cherry core and there's a very round, fluid feel to the palate with fleshy fruit that sits atop the evenly structured tannins. A glossier feel to the palate. Grippy, savory finish really appeals. Drink or hold -- James Suckling 93