2014 Le Cadeau, "Cote Est" Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley

Location. Location. Location. This year, Le Cadeau is our Pinot Noir Pick Of The Year! While there are many delicious Pinots from the Willamette Valley, nature had a special plan for this select parcel of land.
    The tiny eastern slope called Côte Est, unlike most Willamette Valley vineyards, is protected from the hot afternoon sun by fir trees. This "cooler" side of mountain produces unbelievably nuanced fruit that is extremely balanced and elegant. Less intense sun results in a highly defined Pinot Noir with lift and vibrancy.
    Dried rose petals, mushroom and raspberry aromas fill the glass. Underbrush and tobacco are faint but detailed on entry. Red cherry, baking spice and mineral notes define the mid-palate. There is a persistent and lasting finish of dark cherry and blackberry intermingled with fine, silky tannins. Juicy and elegant, textured but not fat, this is a wonderfully balanced Pinot Noir from the stellar 2014 vintage.
     So whom did Le Cadeau edge-out this year? Not only some of Burgundy's best, but you guessed it, the 2014 Big Table Farm Pinot. For the past two consecutive years, that sensational wine was our Pinot Noir Pick. While outstanding in its own right and nearly selected again this year, it was the 2014 Le Cadeau's Côte Est that edged out in front for its quality and grace.
    With only 96 cases produced, and besting a 2x incumbent, the 2014 Le Cadeau, Côte Est has that special something that all Pinot lovers will relish. Enjoy now and over the next five years. When ordering, be sure stash some aside for Pinot's perfect pairing: Thanksgiving dinner.