TN: 2011 J. Christopher Bella Vida Vineyard, Dundee Hills, OR, Pinot Noir

In praise of Jay Somers. No longer at J. Christopher, he’s apparently doing a “J.C. Somers” label with his wife Ronda. He’s always been low key and under the radar.

This is a complete and lovely Pinot. Excellent balance, lively fruit, pleasing acidity, moderate length. Think Cameron, without the funk. Some baking spice and woodsy mushrooms supporting juicy red and dark briar fruit. 9 years young and cruising. It pays to follow winemakers (not to mention those with 30 years of experience) that can transform grape juice in to art.

RT

Thanks for sharing. I have a couple bottles of 2011 Sandra Adele in the cellar that I’m trying to remain patient with.

I really enjoyed the 2011 Sandra Adele on release so there’re several bottles buried in the cellar. The Bella Vida showed so well that I’ll be digging them out in the not too distant future.

RT