1999 Archery Summit Archer's Edge Pinot Noir

[wondersofwine]

from Dijon clones and grapes from Yamhill vineyards, Oregon
$34 at Bassin's (DC)--have seen listed for $25 or $28 elsewhere
13.5% alcohol
color: dark purple, barely translucent
nose: Bing cherries, violets or other floral note in that vein
taste: dark cherries, boysenberries, some sour cherry on the finish; firm grip and a lot of mid-palate flavor; long finish for a Pinot Noir (extra extraction? lacks earthy qualities of some Oregon pinots)
Probably would not buy again at this price or even in the mid-$20s. I prefer the basic Ponzi or Argyle pinot noirs. I was impressed with the Arcus Estate from Archery Summit that I tried at a Wine Festival--but the higher end wines from Archery Summit run $65 and even higher.
I also liked their white blended wine, Vireton, which is surprising when I find out it is a blend of Pinot Gris, Chardonnay and Pinot Blanc; primarily Pinot Gris.
(After posting, I looked up some reviews of Archery Summit Pinot Noirs on other websites. The consensus seems to be that this winery has a heavy hand with the oak, and that this may distract from the rich fruit of the Arcus Estate wine although others love it wood and all. So be warned. I didn't think the wood was excessive in the Archer's Edge but just didn't find the sour cherry finish too attractive compared to some other 1999 Oregon pinots.)


[This message has been edited by wondersofwine (edited 06-10-2003).]

[Bucko]

I'm afraid I fall in the wood crowd. Very well made wines that show excessive oak for my personal preferences. A shame.....