Eric Degerman and Andy Perdue Review Panther Creek Cellars 2013 Fir Crest Vineyard Pinot Noir

Panther Creek Cellars 2013 Fir Crest Vineyard Pinot Noir, Yamhill-Carlton, $45

This 12-acre L.I.V.E. certified sustainable vineyard northwest of McMinnville, an estate planting for Twelve Wines in Carlton, offers Pommard, Wadenswil and Dijon 115 Pinot Noir clonal fruit for a variety of Oregon labels – including this historic brand now under the artistry of Tony Rynders. Aromatics lead with intense hints of dark cherry, black currant, exotic spices and minty chocolate chip. Inside are dense black cherry flavors, supported by moderate tannins, pomegranate acidity, and a finish of saddle leather, cocoa powder and Montmorency cherry.

Rating: Excellent

Production: 344 cases

Alcohol: 13.1%