2002 and 2004 Thomas Pinot Noir, Oregon

[wondersofwine]

Enoteca Vin had special Oregon and California wines available for tasting for a rather steep fee Saturday (including Joseph Swan Trenton Estate for three or four vintages.)
I went with 3-oz. pours of the two Thomas Pinot Noirs enjoyed with a cheese plate (more on the cheeses later.)

The 2002 was a big Pinot Noir (4+ lapper finish) with dark cherries predominant but not just a simple wine. It had some of that "pine needle" tang that Dananne seeks and a faint hint of cedar. Very special.
I would score it 92 points which is quite high for me.

The 2004 was International Wine Cellar (Steven Tanzer's) top Oregon Pinot Noir ever but I would rate it 89 or 90, below the 2002. Dark garnet red and semi-transparent. Possibly darker than the 2002. Red cherries on the palate, spice on the finish (pink peppercorn?) Slightly puckery, not drinking as smoothly as the 2002. Perhaps it needs more time in bottle. The finish of the 2002 seemed more elegant with more finesse.

[dananne]

Sounds nice, particularly the '02, which seems right up our alley. Frankly, I've loved the '02s from Oregon almost across the board. Great year out there. We're unfamiliar with that producer, but it'll certainly be one we look for. Thanks for the great notes!