Panther Creek 2009 Pinot Noir, Winemaker's Cuvee Willamette Valley, Oregon
Alcohol 14.3%
Price $25+
When I opened this wine I immediately noticed a lovely bouquet from the bottle. Smoky and earthy, I was very curious from the beginning. The surprises continued when I poured the wine and it pooled in the glass in a beautiful, clear ruby color. The wine is complex, so you may already know that I like it better than the simple Pinot Noir and Syrah I have tried. It's off dry with a tang of spice and smokiness. When I read the
tasting notes on the website it was clear why I love it, chocolate, cherries, and vanilla? Yay!
A ruby-red hue embodies notes of chocolate-covered black cherries, vanilla bean, cola, and earth. Medium bodied, with subtle hints of cranberry chutney, black raspberry, Bing cherry, and orange zest. Bright, long lasting fruit, balanced acidity and firm tannins. A wine to enjoy presently, but surely worthy of aging 5-10 years.
This wine was a gift from The BFs sister. She is lucky in life and has chosen to live in Willamette Valley, a gorgeous area of Oregon near Portland. I hope to be able to visit the area. It is largely known for its Pinot Gris wines, and if the quality is anything like this and the lovely Chardonnay from Idaho, then I am sure I will enjoy the area!
Food Pairing: Went great with roasted eggplant, mushrooms, and greek style meatballs!
Freya's Score: 88
Mona's Value: 3.5
