The Eyrie Vineyards 2006 Pinot Noir Dundee Hills (13.5%) demonstrates astute viticulture and fine craftsmanship relative to its ripe vintage peers. What a terrific wine this was to enjoy over several nights.

In the glass, this Eyrie pinot noir was a slight cloudy, ruby red delivering notes of perfumed and floral strawberry fruit, earth, and then cherry. The combination of red fruit and this forest floor component was incredibly enticing.

In the mouth, this wine offered a silky texture, with a clear concentration of fruit, but not overwhelming like other Oregon pinot noirs from this same vintage. There were a variety of deep red berry fruit notes, mostly cherry, that were balanced by good acidity. A lasting finish completed each taste.

Quite frankly, this wine captivated me so much I have a hard time recalling what I ate along with it. The first night, homemade macaroni and cheese and then the second night it was roasted chicken and mushrooms, sauteed green beans, and mashed potatoes.

I am heading back to grab another bottle of this delicious wine. At $28, I would be willing to pick up several to open over the next few years.

Related Links
The Eyrie Vineyards Web Site