Enjoyed 3 pre 2000 Oregon pinots the other evening with dear friends during the holiday season.
1993 Beaux Freres Estate Pinot - first time I have had this wine. The lite spritz, which BF is known for, blew off in about 30 minutes which gave the wine just enough time to warm a couple of degrees and open up. This is what aged OR pinot is all about, its lovely from start to finish. Not over the top, just pure fruit that fades into this long finish. Even though this was my first of this vintage, really in a nice spot and if you have any, no reason not to enjoy.
1998 Raptor Ridge Murto Vineyard Pinot - first time I have had this wine. Right off the bat can tell its from the 1998 vintage with the wine almost being black in color. Super dark fruit nose and body. This is a heavyweight of a wine that could easily age for 5 more years as really hard to tell its 16 years old. Tastes really fresh.
1999 Ken Wright Abbey Ridge - Have had the opportunity to enjoy this wine maybe 4-5 times. The last time was maybe 5 years ago and what is interesting is that its always been in a great spot. Almost timeless one might say. Great floral nose, layered mid-palette that leads into this never ending finish. An aging beauty. Easy 94 points. WOTN tonite.
Also opened was a 2007 Brickhouse Chardonnay - While I focused on the reds my spouse enjoyed this. I did sample as was curious considering the vintage. Its in a great spot, no harsh edges at all. Pure minerally fruit on wet stones. Could not find the oak. Worthy of seeking out.