Cristom Mt. Jefferson Cuvee Pinot Noir 2017 (1.5L)

93 JS / 92 WS / 91 WA / 91 VM

#73 Wine Spectator Top 100 for 2019

An attractive array of rich red to dark cherries that delivers a fine layer of perfume and a wealth of bright raspberries and red cherries. The palate is subtly earthy and gently spicy with a very plush and assertive core of blueberries and red cherries. Smooth, supple and very energetic. Drink over the next six to eight years.—James Suckling

Expressive strawberry blossom and raspberry aromas open to elegantly structured cherry and spicy cinnamon flavors that build richness toward refined tannins. Drink now through 2025. 9,835 cases made. — TF, Wine Spectator

Tom Gerrie, second-generation owner and winegrower at Cristom, says the Mt. Jefferson Cuvée is now found in about 30 countries, "so it's a major focus for us." About 9,000 cases are made annually. It has always been a Willamette Valley wine, but that may be changing soon. "This 2017 may be the last time it's Willamette Valley," Gerrie says. "It's about 95% Eola now, mainly from Eileen vineyard, and we may begin to label it as Eola. I think it will be the right call for the future of this wine, to be more focused on Eola." The 2017 Mt. Jefferson Cuvée Pinot Noir also contains some fruit from Dundee, Yamhill and McMinnville. Pale to medium ruby-purple, it's scented of red and black cherries, red currants, crushed stone, warm earth and dried leaves with a soft framing of spice. The medium-bodied palate features restrained, spicy fruits, a softly chalky frame and good freshness on the long finish. It was made with 47% whole clusters and aged 11 months in 20% new French oak. 9,835 cases produced.—EB, The Wine Advocate

Brilliant red. Displays aromas of ripe red berries and cherry, along with subtle cola, woodsmoke and Asian spice nuances. Sweet and penetrating on the palate, offering juicy, spice-laced cherry and raspberry flavors that flesh out and deepen slowly on the back half. A smoky note emerges on the penetrating finish, which features fine-grained tannins and lingering red fruit preserve and floral qualities.—Josh Raynolds, Vinous Media