Talk about tiny – there is no tasting room at the Ayoub Estate Vineyard located just outside of McMinnville in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, but they’re more than happy to make you an appointment to come to the kitchen to taste.

Truth be told, we probably opened this Pinot Noir a little early.  In a year or two, it will be outstanding.  That said, we weren’t disappointed.

On the eyes, it’s a translucent cherry with a remarkably expressive nose full of red cherry, pomegranate, sandalwood and a whiff of sweet tobacco.

The palate is dry with great acidity and gorgeously tamed tannins.  Flavours of cherry and more tobacco with clove and green fern stand out against the minerality and a long finish.

WSET Very Good plus, just short of outstanding which is where it will go if you can wait until about 2018 to open it.  Luminous, delicious wine.

Thanks to #FrancineParker of #Table1006 for sharing.