2005 Ayres Pioneer Pinot Noir, Oregon
Mild bricking. Leathery spice with mild tobacco and forest floor supported by somewhat high-toned black cherry. The fruit emerges with air. Very bright attack that seems uncertain whether to be pugilistic or cooperative. As an acidophile, it works for me. Leaning slightly red fruited with integrated sour cherry, pomegranate and supportive red/black briar fruits. The midpalate holds the intensity for several seconds and then fades a bit unexpectedly. Rubbing and mouth coating tannins. The structure wants cellaring for several more years but the fruit is the highlight and I’m not sure how much it’d improve. A very respectable showing. I’ve always liked the producer but tend to run hot and cold about his Pinots. Overall, thumbs up.
RT