The 2008 Pinot Noir Corral Creek Vineyard displays an alluring bouquet of cherry blossom, framboise, Asian spices, incense, and assorted red fruits. Savory, concentrated, and focused, this is an elegant, sweetly-fruited wine meant for drinking over the next 6-8 years. Under the direction of founder/winemaker Harry Peterson-Nedry, Chehalem has taken full advantage of the great 2008 vintage and produced its finest set of Pinot Noirs to date. Tel. (503) 538-9396; www.chehalemwines.com

The balance and brightness are immediately apparent, with sweet raspberry and red cherry fruit against some lightly earthy tannins. All in proportion, yet with a bit of extra depth that suggests some ageworthiness. Everything is ripe, but not too ripe, and the acidity feels natural and proportionate. ——P.G.(6/1/2010)—— 91