Evening Land Seven Springs Pinot Noir 2023 (750ML)

Most of the 2023 Seven Springs Pinot Noir comes from the vineyard’s oldest block: 40-year-old, dry-farmed Pommard clone vines in iron-rich volcanic Jory soil. The site sits on east-facing slopes in Oregon’s Eola-Amity Hills and is farmed biodynamically by Evening Land. 2023 was a warm, quick year, with an early spring and a hot, dry summer, but afternoon wind through the Van Duzer Corridor kept the fruit fresh. The wine is 100% Pinot Noir, fermented on native yeasts and aged 12 months in neutral French barriques, so oak stays in the background. Wild red berries and blueberry lead, with mint, lavender and fall spice, a round, supple middle and a light chalky dryness on a finish that stays fresh. Critics favor drinking it young, through about 2028. Pair it with cedar-planked salmon, pork tenderloin or chanterelles on toast.