One of Oregon’s most unheralded producers is Michael Etzel protégé Jim Sanders, and his work in the Willamette Valley extends beyond Aubichon Cellars and Le Cadeau Vineyard to this young Joleté brand. The experience of 18 vintages and with Chehalem Mountains fruit shows in this blend from Hall (50%) and Olenik (38%) vineyards with Riverside – a site near the warmer McMinnville region that is a prized part of the Aubichon program. Aromas of blueberry jam, dark cherry, mint and baking spices lead to a lighter and lively structured Pinot Noir with fruit-forward flavors of cranberry/cherry juice, Marionberry and mint. It’s finished with drop of strawberry cola. The portfolio includes a Pinot Gris, rosé and a Walla Walla Valley Cab – all from Oregon and available at the Le Cadeau Vineyard tasting room in Dundee.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 401 cases
Alcohol: 14.3%
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