Nicolas Jay 2021 Pinot Noir Bishop Creek   

2021 Nicolas & Jay Pinot Noir Bishop’s Creek Vineyard, Willamette Valley, Oregon
San Francisco Wine Panel Score 97+ Points

Forthcoming, focused and high toned from the moment the cork is pulled, the nose of this wine proves a harmonious medley of sarsaparilla, cardamom, hazelnut nougat, canela and mace in support of deeply etched scents of dark fresh cherry, pomegranate and black raspberry. Rich, racy and of chiseled focus, the flavors largely parallel the aromas, but the texture gains tension and a sinewy feel from bittersweet notes of red apple skin and cherry pit and a spine of polished tannin. Cherry, pomegranate and cranberry sauce notes team with star anise and cardamom to uplift the lingering finish and showcase the wine’s dinner worthiness. If terrific already, this complex Pinot Noir could prove even finer than expected if it is allowed three years or so of cellar time.