2003 Archery Summit Pinot Noir 'Arcus Estate' (Willamette Valley)

Source: PJs

Consumption Date: 2/25/2012

Notes: Fine aroma of candied fruit with a hint of dry wood.  Light to moderate body with elegant structure.  Mild ripe fruit (dark cherry and blackberry) framed by strong, dry wood notes evolving into tar and spice notes with more dry wood on the long finish.  Moderate plus tannins.

This is yet another interesting take on Pinot Noir, although this wine suggests California to me much more than Oregon or Burgundy.  Although this is clearly a well made effort, it has clearly seen a lot of wood (more than I believe it should have).  The wood notes are dominant while the fruit is very reserved (more so in the taste than the aroma).  The tar note was also unexpected (and not entirely welcome).  Although this wine should have tolerated more age (at least according to Wine Spectator), I am nearly convinced that Oregon Pinots should be drunk relatively young (a theory that I anticipate testing).  I have also noted in the last couple of Oregon Pinots I have drunk that they have actually been better when I have finished the bottle one to a few days later.  I will be interested to see if that is the case with this wine.  Below average value.