2002 Argyle Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon

[wondersofwine]

14% alcohol; screw cap
The wine is a pretty dark ruby color, clear in the glass. Rich dark cherry nose matched by a tart smoky cherry flavor. Black pepper spice hinted in the finish. This was a darker color and higher alcohol (14% vs. 13.5%) than the 2001 vintage. I think it might have seemed more carefree and pleasing at a lower alcohol content. I wasn't very happy with the wine by itself or with crackers, but it mellowed a bit and took on added appeal with simply prepared turkey slices and green beans and corn and another evening with ham slices. Back label indicates macerated twice on grape skins so this is a rather highly extracted Pinot Noir.
Sells for under $20 a bottle.