2004 Beaux Freres Belles Soeurs Pinot Noir

[dananne]

Dark ruby in the glass, out of which spilled perfumed aromas of cherry, red berries, and violet (the latter probably from Shea Vineyard fruit, though this pulls from several Yamhill area vineyards, including estate Beaux Freres fruit). Lush, beautiful texture, and very sexy in the mouth. Pretty red berry fruit with some forest floor and herbal nuances on the finish -- perhaps thyme or sage. The herbal elements, far from being a flaw, only lend some complexity to the wine. Long, lovely finish. Overall, a very pretty wine, and all the components are in place to make it highly ageworthy. We'll probably pick up another to sit on for about 3-5 years to see how it develops. Another winner from Oregon's '04 vintage.

Anne really liked it, which is good, because it was a gift to her for a recent professional success. For numbers people, Tanzer gave it a 90, calling it the most "suave" Belles Soeurs he's tried. Ran $45 locally. Alc. 14.2%. Yum. The best of the Pinots we've tried on this Thanksgiving holiday weekend. All Anne wants to know, however, is "what's next?" So, I'm off to the cellar.

[brappy]

I believe Michael Etzel is throwing around the idea of changing the name. The problem, as I've heard it is the pronunciation of the name. "Bell Sore" sounds like a disease.

Anyway, I can never find this wine. I know it's available here in Maryland but I just can't find it. I've had the Beaux Freres, Beaux Freres vineyard and the Beaux Freres, Upper Terrace vineyard both from '01, '02, and '03. Just can't get my hands on the "sore" wine.

Your note tells me to try harder. Any aging potential?

mark

[This message has been edited by brappy (edited 11-25-2006).]

[dananne]

Yes, it's a very balanced wine and has everything in place to age gracefully.