2005 Shea Pinot Noir Shea Vineyard Estate

The 2005 Pinot Noir Estate (two-thirds of the production in this vintage) was aged in 40% new oak. Dark ruby-colored, it has a fragrant bouquet of damp earth, toasted black cherries, and blueberry. This is followed by a concentrated wine with rich dark fruit flavors, slightly elevated acidity, and a tight personality which should evolve with 3-5 years in the bottle. It will be a long-lived Pinot that will provide pleasure through 2027. The 2006 Shea Pinot Noirs tasted from barrel reflect a totally different style of vintage. They are riper, more fragrant, more alcoholic, softer, and user-friendly. They lack the muscle, acidity, and tannin of 2005 but seem to be significantly better balanced. Dick and Dierdre Shea began planting their 200 acre site in 1989 (140 acres are now planted) and started the winery in 1996. Over the years, some of the most renowned wineries in Oregon and even Manfred Krankl at Sine Qua Non have made Shea Vineyard-designated Pinot Noirs, a testament to the quality of the fruit. As one might expect, with a vineyard of this size, there are numerous exposures and microclimates and the vineyard is planted to a wide variety of clones. Tel. (503) 241-6527; www.sheawinecellars.com