Dobbes, Quailhurst Vineyard Pinot Noir, Chehalem Mountains

Quailhurst has been a staple and go-to wine over the years. Typically age worthy, 2013 this year has shown poorly with age. This bottle was terrible; it may have been corked or just an off bottle, but we actually poured it out.

Cherry fruit on the front palate

Clearly crafted by Joe, this is a fabulous wine and drinking quite well now. Most tannin is calmed and it's a smooth yet full bodied pinot. Should continue fabulously for another 2-3 years minimum. If you have one do yourself a favor and try it!

From the winery: DESCRIPTION Volcanic Jory soil and Dijon clones contribute soft and elegant red fruit while careful barrel selection adds a touch of cedar and spice. A perfect pairing for grilled salmon, pork tenderloin and mild, creamy cheeses. TASTING NOTES Classic Quailhurst strawberry aromas lead, followed by ripe cherry, cedar and vanilla barrel spice along with a hint of white flowers. The palate opens to medium weight body, smooth, youthful tannins and juicy acidity. Flavors match the aroma with …

Lighter than the three 2012's, warmest color. Aroma of strawberry and caramel, strawberries and spice on the palate. Supple and velvety. Sees 60% new oak, but it doesn't show.

Hmmm. Past its prime?

Nose is layered cherries and vanilla with touches of oak and spice. Light across the palate with balanced flavors of cherry, oak, and a hint of acid. Very nicely done.

This wine appeared to be in a down period. Nose was pretty dead, but there's some red fruit on the palate. I don't have a baseline with this wine, but I'm assuming it will get better since the 2008 and 2010 were pretty darn good.

Visits to Cristom, St. Innocent, Johan, Argyle, Dobbes, Chehalem : Very spicy aromas, and interestingly forward fruit for the vintage. The palate is very soft. A bit too soft for an '07, as I'd like to see some spice and acid. The finish is soft, with no distinguishing character. Doesn't feel right, and they didn't seem to to take what the vintage offered.

A thin wine in comparison to better producers from the vintage. Wood, dried leaves and spice. Not a balanced wine and not a buy for me.