92 POINTS - “Bright, vivid, focused and distinctive for its mineral accents around a silky core of pineapple, pear and citrus. This has the stuff to develop in the bottle. Drink now through 2015." - The Wine Spectator, Aug 31, 2011
VINEYARD
The Etoile Vineyard is situated high on the west slope on the Evenstad Estate, with elevation ranging from 740-780 feet. Dijon clones 76 and 95 on Riparia gloire rootstock were selected to enhance the rich pear, citrus and mineral characteristics inherent in this vineyard.
AGING
17 months sur lees with frequent battonage (lees stirring) in French oak barrels - none of which were new.
CROP YIELD
1.69 tons/acre.
 VINTAGE NOTES
Cool weather in September delayed ripening, and the threat of rain was ever present as it had been in 2007. But unlike the previous vintage, when rain challenged the harvest late, the sun came out in October, the clouds dispersed and a late season warming trend hit the Dundee Hills. With no rain, we were able to harvest at an even pace with controlled ripening and perfect hang times. The 2008 wines are reminiscent of the wonderful 2000 vintage; great purity of fruit and structure. Critics and fans alike agree that these wines may someday be counted as some of the best made in Oregon.
"In the 2008's, you've got the best vintage Oregon has ever produced, the kind of vintage Oregon winemakers always hoped they could produce." - Harvey Steiman, Wine Spectator. |
