Many of us in Southern California are under-informed about Oregon Pinot Noir.  With all the great stuff grown in Santa Barbara and Northern California, it is easy to ignore what is happening in Oregon.  This, however, is a mistake.  The wineries up in Willamette Valley are getting increasingly better, and prices are often times better than for similar quality California wines.

Chehalem has been around since 1990, and they produce a variety of Pinot Noirs, Chardonnays, Pinot Gris, Reislings, and other cool weather varietals.  The 3 Vineyard Pinot Noir is, essentially, their "entry level" offering.  They make a few single vineyard Pinots that retail for about 35 dollars, a reserve for 54 dollars, and the blended "3 vineyard" pinot for 24 dollars.

The wine has a medium red-purple color, and a pleasant bouquet of red fruits and minerals.  There is abundant red fruit on the palate, as well as plum.  The 15% alcohol is nicely concealed and the wine has good overall balance.  The finish was also nice, but a little short.

The wine was purchased by the glass at Flemings Prime Steakhouse, and I do not know how long the bottle was open before my glass was poured. 

3.25 stars

 

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