1998 Elk Cove Pinot Noir- USA, Oregon, Willamette Valley (1/25/2009)
Initial burst of candy fruit quickly fades leaving behind a thin, dusty wine. Medicinal. On the downhill slide. (81 pts.)
1998 Panther Creek Pinot Noir Freedom Hill- USA, Oregon, Willamette Valley (2/2/2009)
Cherry, cedar, cherry liqueur, and rhubarb. A surprisingly hot nose of ETOH almost hides the bouquet of recently planted garden. Finishes dry and austere. I think this wine’s best days are behind it. Nice floral note eventually emerge from the empty glass. (86 pts.)