2005 Cowhouse Pinot Noir
Oregon Pinot Noir
Holstein Vineyards
Dundee Hills AVA, Willamette Valley, Oregon
2005 Cowhouse Pinot Noir Tasting Notes
The Cowhouse Pinot Noir is named after Argyle's longtime Vineyard Manager, Allen HOLSTEIN. (He of course believes his title should be "Vineyard Stylist"). It is a selection from some of the more interesting barrels of Argyle farmed Dundee Hills AVA Pinot Noir. This vintage is all from Allen's own high elevation vineyard. This wine has all four hooves on the ground, i.e. great balance.
The aroma is leap-out the glass black cherry, chocolate, vanilla creme and cedar plank spice. The flavor is bright, black cherry bordered by that cedar spice and a nice clean earth quality. While the impression is of sweet, sensuous fruit, the "balance" kicks in with nice firm tannins and powerful structure. It all lasts and lasts on a boat load of flavor sailing into one's memory.
The 2005 vintage was especially challenging. September AND October were significantly cooler and less sunny than normal. Cold fronts from the North Pacific followed one after the other. Good news, bad news: cool wet weather doesn't favor mold growth, cool wet weather makes picking decisions and cellar work much more difficult. The rate of ripening was slowed to a snails pace. In the end, dark color was developed in the skins of the grape while rich, late harvest juicy texture was infused into the fruit.
This is the sort of vintage Argyle thrives on. The wine is the result of our vineyard and winemaking ability to "stay the distance".
Special Note
Cowhouse Pinot Noir is a limited production wine. Only 104 cases were produced. Pick up a few bottles while you still can.2005 Cowhouse Pinot Noir Downloads:
2005 Cowhouse Pinot Noir Tasting Notes
2005 Cowhouse Pinot Noir Scores/Reviews
2005 Cowhouse Pinot Noir Label
