2008 Ken Wright Pinot Noir Shea Vineyard
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Tasting notes
The 2008 Pinot Noir Shea Vineyard surrenders a sexy nose of underbrush, a hint of mineral, smoke, cherry blossom, incense, and assorted red fruits. Seamless on the palate with a satin texture, intense ripe fruit flavors, lively acidity, and outstanding length, this densely packed effort admirably combines elegance and power. This pleasure-bent effort should age gracefully and see its 20th birthday in fine form. Ken Wright’s Pinot Noirs in 2008 are exceptional but only slightly better than his 2007s from a much more difficult vintage. Perhaps it is in the more challenging vintages that the cream really rises to the top, whereas the challenge in 2008 was to NOT make a really good wine. Tel. (503) 852-7070; www.kenwrightcellars.com
Critic scores
Average Score
Josh Raynolds
Jay S Miller, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
Deep red. Intensely perfumed, sexy scents of black raspberry, Asian spices and potpourri, with a hint of licorice that gains strength with air. Broad and sappy on the palate, offering sweet red and dark berry flavors and intense spiciness. Extremely suave, with strong finishing cut and admirable clarity. This is awfully alluring right now but should reward patience; I'd say start drinking it in about three or four years.