Argyle Nuthouse Pinot Noir 1997

A ruby, red brilliant color. The aromas are all the best of Pinot Noir including bing cherry, red raspberry, earthy fresh turned soil, and East Indian spices.

At first sniff, the nose delivers black fruit aromas; ripe plum moving into prune and black cherries. There is a subtle red cedar and earthy component from the French oak. With air and time, the nose evolves into the spice associated with white pepper and the damp moss carpeting a coastal Oregon forest floor. I encourage you to follow its evolution in the glass, as it will be different every time you come back to it. This is the pleasure of excellent Pinot Noir. Once you put it in your mouth notice the rich, silky trademark Argyle texture. Enjoy the ripe cherry flavors, the impeccable balance and tightness read more...of the structure. The finish is long with a rich sweetness that covers and at the same time complements the ample tannins and skin flavors.    (hide)

The 1997 Pinot Noir is a bright, deep ruby red. The first olfactory impressions are of a complex combination of spices (cardamon, cinnamon, vanilla), black fruits, cedar, and earth. Flavors lean toward black fruits; black cherries, black plums, and blackberries. Medium-bodied, the wine is viscous and rich with firm, sandy tannins. The finish is long with a nice balance between sweet, ripe fruit and soft, chewy tannins. Drink now or cellar three to four years.

Rating: 88/100 - As reviewed by Wine Spectator on 04/30/00

Rating: 84/100 - As reviewed by Wine Spectator on 04/30/99

Rating: 87/100 - As reviewed in Wine Advocate # 126 on Jan-00