2002 Carlton Cellars Roads End Pinot Noir

[dananne]

Ken Wright makes his only blended wine for this Willamette label, using fruit from Nysa, McCrone, and Canary Hill. We tried and bought the '03 on our Oregon trip, but this one turned up unexpectedly on a wine list last night, and Anne and I couldn't resist.

Easily assumes a place near the top of our best of year list. Explosive and aromatic red berries and cherries, lithe, satin-like texture, subtle spices, an earthy, forest floor note on the finish, just seriously yum. Amazing. You just want to wash it around and around in your mouth. I was very disappointed to see the last drops fall from the bottle. Wow, was it good. Anne loved it as much as I did.

Small production, but if you see it, jump. Runs around $40 (and was only $55 on the wine list!). Didn't notice alc. WS gave it a 92, FWIW.