After tasting so many versions of Pinot noir made by various producers who buy Dick Shea’s fruit, it was nice to finally drink some wine he made. Besides being one of the premier viticulturalists in Willamette Valley, Dick Shea makes some mighty fine wine.

The growing season for 2010 in Willamette Valley brought some unusual challenges. It was extremely cool and the ravages of migratory birds brought record low yields but the flip side of that tragedy was good fruit concentration. Brilliant color and aromas that will lift your spirits also make this wine hard to stand by patiently waiting while the flavors unwind and develop.

Characteristically accurate for Yamhill-Carlton fruit, the aromas exhibit red fruit and a hint of red floral notes. Structure and balance are qualities that exemplify Shea Vineyards wines and this vintage holds true to those traits. Flavors are intense red raspberry, decadent cherrylisciousness and allspice. The finish is sensual and has some oomph showcasing balanced fine grained tannins. This wine is big enough to expand the usual food pairings beyond fowl, salmon and pork. Roasted or grilled beef or wild game will work well. There is a good potential for aging with this wine but it is enjoyable now.

Rating: Excellent (91) | $40 | 14.8% ABV
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