Tasting Notes: 2008 Portland Indie Wine Festival

Anam Cara
2007 Chehalem Mountains Nicholas Estate Riesling
A new, dry Oregon riesling that impresses with soft aromas of peach and a defined palate of green apple with a hint of pineapple. The subtle citrus tang, with a hint of sweetness, creates a nice finish.

Bodecker Cellars
2005 Willamette Valley Stewart Pinot Noir
A classic Oregon pinot with a delicious balance of fruit and earthiness and a finish that doesn't quit. The bright cherry and raspberry flavors mingle with a vibrant, acidic backbone and earthy blackberry notes.

Cottonwood Winery
2005 Willamette Valley Marina Piper Pinot Noir
Made from a blend of pinot grapes from three vineyards, this medium-bodied bottling has a beautiful, aromatic nose, an acid backbone, and a lush, velvety mouth-feel.

Grochau Cellars
2006 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
The winemaker calls this deep, plum-tinted wine "a floozy" for its showy blend of blackberry, raspberry, and blueberry flavor, ripe, big tannins, and lush finish.

J Daan Wine Cellars (Carlton Winemakers Studio)
2006 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
This pleasantly juicy, fruity wine has rich tannins and a nice, subtle balance provided by a mixture of minerality and acid.

Lenne
**2006 Yamhill-Carlton District LeNez Pinot Noir
**A big, lovely pinot with an alluring palate of deep cherry and blackberry flavors that will open up wonderfully over the next few years. The mineral nose gives way to a subtle smokiness with a long finish.

Resonance Vineyard
**2007 Yamhill-Carlton District G-3 (gewurztraminer/pinot gris/muller thurgau; Demeter certified biodynamic)
**Soft and fruity, this blend has a delicate, floral nose and notes of creamy pineapple and tropical fruits.

Stag Hollow
**2005 Yamhill-Carlton District Reserve Pinot Noir
**This pinot's big, fruity nose paves the way for a palate of ripe fruit, including currants and cherry, but the fruit remains subtle, creating balance with a bit of luxury. Should age well over the next year and beyond.

Zenas Wines
2005 Rogue Valley Claret
Produced by a Bordeaux-obsessed winemaker using fruit from warm southern Oregon, this blend of cabernet franc and merlot was made to be aged yet is entirely drinkable now. Though it spends time in white French oak, rich black-fruit flavors dominate; try it with braised meats or pungent cheese.