2005 Shea Pinot Noir Wadenswil Clone

The 2005 Pinot Noir “Wadenswil Clone” is the most muscular of the Shea Pinots. It exhibits the elevated acidity and structure of the vintage but offers a fragrant perfume and layered sweet fruit for balance. It too will evolve for several years and have a lengthy drinking window. The 2006 Shea Pinot Noirs tasted from barrel reflect a totally different style of vintage. They are riper, more fragrant, more alcoholic, softer, and user-friendly. They lack the muscle, acidity, and tannin of 2005 but seem to be significantly better balanced. Dick and Dierdre Shea began planting their 200 acre site in 1989 (140 acres are now planted) and started the winery in 1996. Over the years, some of the most renowned wineries in Oregon and even Manfred Krankl at Sine Qua Non have made Shea Vineyard-designated Pinot Noirs, a testament to the quality of the fruit. As one might expect, with a vineyard of this size, there are numerous exposures and microclimates and the vineyard is planted to a wide variety of clones. Tel. (503) 241-6527; www.sheawinecellars.com