Stafford Hill Holloran Pinot Noir Willamette Valley, 2017

This Pinot Noir from Oregon’s Willamette Valley is bright in colour with floral and red cherry aromas complemented by some leafy notes. It is light to medium bodied with a supple smooth palate with fresh mid palate fruits and a long cherry finish. Produced by Holloran Vineyard Wines, the winery was established by Eve and Bill Holloran in 1999 and features several vineyards at Dundee Hills and Eola-Amity hills based on volcanic soils. All are farmed using organic or biodynamic practices. 2017 was a warm growing season with grapes picked starting September 27, pressed gently and fermented in small lots. It was matured for 15 months in French oak barrels with 10% new but does not show overtly oaky character.