The new releases begin with the 2009 Pinot Noir Willamette Valley, a multiple AVA blend of which there are 6000+ cases. Medium ruby red in color, it exhibits aromas of damp earth, cinnamon, clove, brown sugar, cherry, and raspberry. In the glass it reveals a smooth texture, savory flavors, moderate depth and concentration, and good balance. Drink this tasty effort over the next 5-6 years. Rex Hill is striving to regain the glory days when Lynn Penner-Ash was making the wines. Production has been cut dramatically and everything that Rex Hill directly farms is biodynamic.www.rexhill.com

Rex Hill makes a wide assortment of Pinots; this sports the black label and is widely available and fruit forward. It’s loaded with raspberry and cherry flavors and dusted with a bit of clean earth. There is a typical (for Oregon) streak of Dr. Pepper flavor as well. Overall a nice bottle for immediate enjoyment. ——P.G.(12/1/2011)—— 90