2002 R. Stuart Pinot Noir, "Big Fire," Oregon

[wondersofwine]

Could also be posted in Northwest Wines. I had a glass of this at the Corduroy Restaurant in the Four Points Sheraton Hotel, DC. 13% alcohol. Burgundy color--darker--shading to purple at the rim. Nice nose of dark raspberry and plum. Plummy, fruity flavor. Not tannic. Lots of mouth presence. Slightly chewy texture. Well structured and balanced. Juicy and fruity without coming across as a "fruit bomb".
R. Stuart was new to me as a producer. Anyone else tried the Pinot Noir?

[dananne]

Have not seen it, but it sure sounds good!

[wondersofwine]

A google search revealed that Stuart used to be winemaker at Erath and has only in the last couple years been making wines under his own label--Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and sparkling wines. A suggested retail price of $13 on the Pinot Gris and $14 on the Pinot Noir! (That may have been in 2002). Puts it in the bargain category if price holds.

[This message has been edited by wondersofwine (edited 09-16-2004).]

[wondersofwine]

Further research--price is up to $17-$18 dollars for the Pinot Noir now. Still quite reasonably priced (less than $17 a bottle by the case). Both the Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir won their categories in an Oregon wine competition but only 29 wines were entered so that doesn't say a whole lot.