2008 Charles Smith Evergreen Vineyard Bought this because I wasn’t that aware that people were even making pinot noir in Washington. 14.1% abv. Rich backed cherry pie filling laden with cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and a hint of pine. Really interesting wine that reminded me more of Oregon than anything else. Very reminiscent of a 2006 Cristom, though I can’t recall which one. Medium finish, acid, and relatively soft structure. 91
We had this earlier this year at the Cayuse pick up and found that it was a pretty decent example of Pinot noir.
There are actually about 20+ producers that either plant or make Pinot noir in Washington.
Just curious did you buy this in your area and if so what was retail?
Thanks,
Jb
I bought it direct from the winery right before they sold out. Apparently only 60 cases made. $50
Interesting. At first I thought - that’s Oregon. There’s Evergreen Vineyards in McMinnville surrounding an aviation museum, including Howard Hughes’ Spruce Goose. There’s even a Spruce Goose labeled Pinot noir from the site. It’s valley floor stuff, not bad, not great or anything.
But no. A quick google search shows Evergreen Vineyard (no S) near Wenatchee, WA. Beautiful land out that way. Surprised that it’s cool for Riesling and Pinot, but perhaps that’s the elevation, perhaps something else. Thanks for prompting the search.
Gorgeous reisling coming out of that vineyard. Efeste’s Evergreen designate is the first that comes to mind. I am curious to try this wine but not sure if I’m $50 curious. I have enjoyed the Pinot Noir by Syncline utilizing Celilo Vineyard fruit.
I’ve tried it, and it is to Pinot what K’s Syrahs are to Syrah, over extracted, over oaked, fruit bomb syrup. Its exactly the Pinot I would expect Charles to make, and it is a REALLY bad example of what Pinot can be. I’d price it about $20, so its about $30 over priced.
John, I didn’t share your tasting experience. It’s clear pinot noir, and in a style I’ve found in Oregon, including in 2008. It’s hardly syrupy in texture, barely creeping in at 14% with a decent amount of acidity. Charles doesn’t hesitate to put a high ABV on the label, so I’d think 14% is not under-selling the alcohol. I also wasn’t catching oak notes amounting to anything overbearing. It has a warm pumpkin pie spice and pine note to it, but nothing like the vanilla, cherry cola and oak laden RRVs I’ve come across in which new oak was abused.
As for the price, I haven’t had many pinots from anywhere at $20 that could compete, and I haven’t seen any Washington pinots in my area. I’m glad I paid the price, and happy I’ve another bottle to lay down.