2007 Pinot Noir Cuvee Laurene

The 2007 Pinot Noir Laurene is produced entirely from estate fruit. Medium ruby-colored, it displays a superb bouquet of smoke, earth notes, cinnamon, allspice, wild cherry, and raspberry. Smooth textured and graceful on the palate, this medium-bodied wine has layers of succulent fruit, lively acidity, plenty of earthy spice notes, moderate tannin, and a lengthy, fruit-filled finish. It will evolve for another 2-3 years and drink well through 2022. Domaine Drouhin has been producing wine in the Willamette Valley since 1988 making them one of the veterans of the Oregon wine scene. In addition to Pinot Noir, Drouhin makes outstanding Chardonnay. All of the current releases are first-class in a Cotes de Beaune style and should not be overlooked. The 2007s are particularly good because of the vibrant natural acidity of the vintage. Veronique Drouhin was kind enough to show me this same set of wines from the 2002 vintage (which were reviewed by Pierre Rovani in 2004). The Willamette Valley cuvee (90 points) is mature with another 5-6 years of life and drinking beautifully. The 2002 Laurene (92 points) is still evolving, while the splendid 2002 Louise (94 points) will benefit from another 4-5 years of cellaring and should drink well through 2022. It is increasingly apparent that Oregon Pinot Noir from top producers in strong vintages can easily provide pleasure for 20+ years. Tel. (503) 864-2700; www.domainedrouhin.com