Lone Star Vineyard, planted at the direction of founding Texan winemaker Rollin Soles, produced this bottling that serves as the 20th anniversary of the Nuthouse tier, a tribute to the production facility’s former life. This lot was harvested Oct. 5-8 for this presentation of high-toned red fruit. Soles started this before handing off to his longtime assistant Nate Klostermann, who saw it through the 16 months in 35% new French oak. Aromas of dusty raspberry, cherry, rose petal, cedar and toast led to juicy flavors of Montmorency cherry, pomegranate and loganbberry, which are surrounded by fine-grained and assertive tannins. Adventurous home chefs may consider Argyle’s suggested pairing with grilled venison loin with saffron white beans, almond romesco and bone marrow toast. The prolific 2012 vintage allowed for Argyle to nearly triple its production of this traditionally bold Pinot Noir, and the historic Dundee, Ore., winery offers free ground shipping on orders placed before Dec. 15.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 3,000 cases
Alcohol: 13.5%
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