2003 St. Innocent Pinot Noir White Rose Vineyard

Once again, my wife has abandoned me and our two sons, Cooper and Gray. I am supposed to be at BONDA for the 1st Fairfield County Wine Tasting Appreciation Society dinner, however due to a scheduling mix-up, I am with the boys and Court is with her girls at a birthday dinner at the Fat Cat.

As Cooper dances to Jack Johnson's Curious George soundtrack, I am cracking a bottle of my favorite Pinot, the White Rose Vineyard bottling for Oregon producer, St. Innocent. This is a very special wine for me as it is the first Oregon Pinot Noir I had where I realized that this was my thing. I had drunk some Benton Lane, and few other so so producers and liked Oregon Pinot, but the 2002 St. Innocent White Rose really made me say, YES, this is what I like in a Pinot Noir.

I bought a case of 2003 and have two or three bottles left.

10.02.08: I was so disappointed with this wine after all the build-up that I couldn't finish this post. I think I had a dead bottle. It wasn't bad, but it had no life.

2005 St. Innocent Cuvee Village

There is something awesome about opening a $20 bottle of Pinot Noir and being amazed at the quality and sheer enjoyment from drinking it. I bought six bottles of this wine and was unimpressed when I opened the first in June. OK, but nothing special. It is their introductory wine - first year I have tried it so no big deal. I love St. Innocent's single vineyard bottlings, and their 2003 White Rose Pinot Noir is highly prized in my Oregon Pinot line up.

But after six months, this wine has taken on a whole new profile. Right off the bat, a bit muddled on the nose, but on the palate! Notes of soft cloves with roasted plum and a little funky canteloup rind, bitter almonds, and hints of lavender. I regret drinking four bottles, but I'll save the last for a special night.