July 07, 2017—I tasted the 2014 Nicolas-Jay Pinot Noir last October and earlier this week with winemaker Tracy Kendall. Since then the tannins are a bit more integrated, it’s softened a bit. As with Jean-Nicolas’ native Côte d’Or Domaine Méo-Camuzet, there is a clear thread of stylistic consistency between the two brands. Both for me are brawnier, more powerful expressions of Pinot Noir, and yet, neither loses that ethereal weightlessness I so relish in a good Pinot. Laden in decaying rose petals, red fruit, and underbrush. Sample
October 12, 2016—Tasted in the cellar with Jay Boberg and winemaker, Tracy Kendall. I wish the wine had been just a few degrees warmer, even so, the nose is sumptuous and expressive. Black cherry, brambles, woodland trails followed by more ethereal notes of star anise, dried orange peel and spice. What is most striking about this Willamette Valley Pinot Noir is the structure, it rolls out across the palate, with ultra-fine tannins, reminiscent of black tea and forest brambles. The interplay of tannins and acid are outstanding.
9.2 Points