Quickie Notes on Oregon Reserve Pinots

[Randy Caparoso]

Well, then let me share some notes on the '98s in the barrels (since I can't resist). Of all the wineries I've visited recently (May and April), Chehalem's has been the most viscous -- almost syrupy in richness. Consequently, Harry Peterson-Nedry believes that the bulk of his wines will probably be separate vineyard designates (rather than "Three Vineyards" bottlings). One surprise, for instance, is the "Corral Creek" property around the winery; which usually does not stand on its own. In '98 it's explosive with sweet, smoky, spicy fruit; and on the palate, broad, lush, blackberry liqueur-like richness on the palate.

In general, as you would expect, the '98 Ridgecrest cuvees are sweet and jammy; with luscious concentration. One Pommard clone sampling of their "Baby's Block" section was simply enormous; gooey, thick, and supple (like a Beaux Freres, but deeper toned). From the same section, a Wadenswil clone sampling was nearly as deep and unctuous; filled with rounded-off tannins and spicy, toasty, coffee and black fruit intensities. In other words, quite a success across the board.

A final note I find almost amazing: Peterson-Nedry uses only about a third of his yearly crop for his own label. An embarassment of riches (hate to say it, but it made me think of the DRC parcels). With this sort of yearly material, it's only inevitable that the establishment press will soon be crowning Harry as some sort of crown prince. It will also put his young, inquisitive, hard working winemaker -- Cheryl Francis -- in a good career position. It's always nice to have appreciated something before the stuff hits the fan; but it's also something of a bitter pill.

[This message has been edited by Randy Caparoso (edited 05-21-99).]