The 2009 Pinot Noir Guadalupe Vineyard, from a site that is just outside the Dundee Hills AVA, epitomizes the style of the vintage. Pretty spice notes, incense, cherry blossom, and assorted red fruits lead to an elegant, nicely proportioned, smooth-textured wine with succulent flavors and a pure, lengthy finish. It is a crowd-pleaser that will provide enjoyment through 2019 if not longer.
Ken Wright Cellars’ 2009 Pinot Noirs range from excellent to outstanding in quality but generally lack the structure, density, and richness of the great 2008 vintage. These are pretty, elegant wines to drink while the 2008s continue to fill out in the cellar.
Tel. (503) 852-7070; www.kenwrightcellars.com