Argyle Pinot Noir 2003

Argyle Pinot Noir 2003 Oregon, Willamette Valley ($23)

I have to admit... I am not the hugest Pinot fan. Could be due to the fact that I've never spent over $20 on a bottle of Pinot Noir. Could be that the latest buzz over Pinot is a turnoff. So many reviews, articles, and suggestions. A lot of hype and a lot to live up to. After combing through my limited cellar the other day I decided I needed a Pinot in there just because I may just need one to pair witht that perfect pork loin someday. I chose a Willamette Valley winery, paying just over $20. The man at the store said that this one was a popular gift. Argyle has a recognizable name, I guess, so why not try what a typical Pinot from the area tastes like. They did have a $45 bottle called "The Nuthouse" from the same winery, but I don't tend to pay that kind of cash for a wine I haven't tried.

This bottle is sealed with a screw cap for starters. I stay away from them usually, unless its a cheaper bottle. I think I'm too impulsive for screw caps. That extra time it takes to uncork a bottle might delay my decision to open it, which is a good thing as Martha would say. Very dark red color. Aroma was full extremely floral with plum and raisin. This was a "big" Pinot. Full bodied and over powering. Wasn't nearly as delicate as I thought Oregon Pinots were. Very jammy. It mellowed out a bit with time but it was still unbalanced. Not a bad wine, but not what I was looking for. My grade: B-

Comments

[wino's girlfriend]

You forgot to mention that its 15% alcohol content made me promptly pass out and wake up on the couch a couple hours later with a vague hangover.