2016 Montinore Estate Reserve Pinot noir
Willamette Valley,
Oregon
13.7% alcohol
Cork closure
Certified organic wine made with biodynamic grapes, indigenous yeast
Almost 250 acres in all, Montinore Estate began transitioning to biodynamic farming practices in 2003. Now, fully certified as both organic and Demeter, the entire site has thousands, if not millions, of healthy, happy, biodynamic-rich ecosystems, all living in harmony. This unity nurtures the entire grape plant and the soil it grows within– it’s no wonder the fruit tastes so special!
Once harvested, the grapes were allowed to begin fermentation spontaneously on their own, with the indigenous yeast that hitchhiked in from the vineyard on their skins. After spending time in both French (96%) and Hungarian (4%) oak, winemaker Stephen Webber tasted through the Montinore cellar and chose the very best tasting barrels for this reserve Pinot. Montinore only uses the term reserve for special bottles like these.
Bouquet:
After initial aromas of ripe black cherries, lots of earthy notes became more prominent, including forest floor, espresso, and freshly-tilled soil. I also smelled cocoa and white peppercorns as this wine was exposed to more air.
Palate:
Fruity notes of black raspberries, tayberries, cherry cola, and black cherries segued into cedar and white pepper. As it opened up, flavors of spice box emerged. I highly recommend that you decant this wine so it can really shine.
Food pairing suggestions:
Roasted cauliflower soup with aged cheddar cheese, BLT sandwiches, herb-crusted pork tenderloin.
SRP $45
Don’t miss our tasting notes on other Montinore wines:
2016 Montinore Estate Parsons’ Ridge Pinot noir
2018 Montinore Estate L’Orange
2017 Montinore Estate Red Cap Pinot noir