2002 Brooks Janus Pinot Noir

[dananne]

While in Willamette, we didn't have a chance to try anything from this winery, so when we saw it on the shelf at Binny's in Chicago, we picked it up. Clear ruby color and decanted through evening. Nose of cranberry and cherry fruit with some red spices. Pretty Pinot weight and texture showing the red fruits the nose suggests, but with a long finish that picks up an herbal note that was variously identified as parsley or oregano at different times during the evening. It only added interest, though, and was subtle -- just not a usual descriptor for me with Oregon Pinot. A nice wine, and likely one of the last ones made by founder and winemaker Jimi Brooks before he passed away quite young from a heart attack in the fall of '04. Previously, he had worked at Willakenzie and Maysara. Alc. 13.9%. Paid about $22. FWIW, WS gave it a 90 and WE an 88. From what I understand, the winery is still making wine, with several Willamette winemakers all helping out. If we have the chance to try anything else from Brooks this summer, we'll do it.