Here's how I would characterize the J. Albin 2005 Laurel Vineyard Pinot Noir (13%): a fresh cedar box full of ripe red cherries with some spice tossed in for extra measure. From the scents wafting up from my glass to the flavors dancing across my tongue, this Oregon pinot was all about cedar, cherries, and spice.

This is the second time I have had this wine, with one more bottle in the cellar. At $27, this is a relatively inexpensive wine from the 2005 vintage to have scored months ago at my local wine merchant. However, I don't remember it exhibiting all of that cedar and cherry last time.

Regardless, I found the J. Albin an intriguing wine for it continued to evolve in the glass over the course of our dinner. Our meal consisted of grilled pork loin that had been seasoned with olive oil, fresh garlic, rosemary, salt and pepper. Side dishes included baked waffle fries and roasted baby carrots along with a salad of mixed greens dressed in olive oil and white balsamic vinegar.

I am looking forward to trying the remaining bottle in another year or two. And will definitely keep an eye out for the 2007 release of J. Albin Laurel Vineyard Pinot Noir.

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