2016 The Point Pinot Noir

This is one of the Rose & Arrow "1st expression" bottlings, denoted with a "1st" on the label. Fruit is from a small parcel planted on red basalt at 600 feet in elevation. Medium to deep ruby-purple in color, the 2016 Pinot Noir Chehalem Highlands—The Point has a wonderful nose of crushed black and red cherries and dried cranberries with notes of licorice, potpourri, dried violets, pink peppercorn and sage with notions of warm earth and a crushed rock character—the nose is dense and layered. It explodes in the mouth with layers of warm black and red fruits, purple flowers, granite, forest floor and exotic spice—this is very dense but light on its feet with a fine frame of grainy tannins and juicy acidity, finishing long, layered and energetic. 149 cases produced.

600 feet (182 m) above sea level, The Point is a parcel of 0.81 acres (0.33 ha) composed of small, red basalt pebbles and a loose covering of finely weathered basalt dust. 149 cases made. Pretty dark crimson. Racy nose. Very dramatic palate entry. Real structure but massive fruit too. This is hugely impressive. A sort of electric cocktail of muscle, tamarind, mulberry and energy drink. This one has real life and potential but is almost approachable too. (JR)

Rose & Arrow is the new project from the Chapter 24 team that focuses in on niche areas of Willamette Valley rather than creates regional blends as seen in the Chapter 24 wines. These are a surprising jump in quality and nuance thanks partially too to a shift in the local winemaking team, and the consulting work of Pedro Parra to identify unique blocks of vineyards in the area, which are then vinified and bottled in small quantities. Pretty, floral aromatics move into beautiful flavours in a mix of dark notes – dark fruits and spices – with nice lift and openness on the palate and a true balance of luxury and structure. Fine tannins with a refined mouthfeel and a nice balance of fresh flavours and mineral tension. There is lots of length and a crystalline-like mineral element offering tons of palate stimulation, savoury notes, and still just enough flesh to round out the length of the wine. Really beautifully done. (ECB)