Whenever a good Pinot Noir is affordably priced, it’s worth a second look, especially from a small operation with an excellent reputation. Specifically, AJs just happens to have a good supply of Witness Tree Vineyard’s 2008 Pinot Noir on hand. This Pinot definitely should be on your buy list, especially if a Salmon, Game Hen, or Roast Chicken dinner is in the works.
Over the past 20 years, the Willamette Valley of Oregon has become the home of perfectionist wineries, all competing for premier positions in the Pinot Noir market. Their efforts haven’t been in vain, because these wines rate beside the world’s best with their ripe cherry, cranberry, and earthy tones.
Willamette region Pinots have a reputation for silky textures and well balanced red berry flavors that are easy to drink and are popular winners in blind tastings. Many Willamette Wines have a perfectly balanced acid content and lower alcohol that go perfectly with light foods. When asked about their impression of Willamette Pinots, a majority of wine drinkers prefer the softness of these wines over those from France’s Burgundy region. These wines are an effort to be taken seriously.
The 2008 Witness Tree is no exception to the quality of Willamette Valley. The only difference between this one and big pricey Pinots is a slightly simpler more subtle flavor mix. It has a ripe cherry bouquet with a subtle undertone of fresh raspberry. The muted earthiness comes out in the mouth flavor and it’s perfectly balanced, making it compliment a wide variety of foods, or none. Witness Tree’s Pinot is an excellent value in the $20 range, because selections that taste like this usually sell for more than $30.
Can’t decide on a wine to take along to a potluck? This Pinot will be perfect because of its wide appeal for many palettes. Serve from the fridge for 20 minutes (60 degrees).
Article by Tom Peiffer, Phoenix Wine Shopping Examiner at Examiner.com
View more of Tom’s articles on Examiner.com by visiting his writer’s page.
