The 2007 Pinot Noir Kiana Estate spent 14 months in 40% new oak. It reveals earth and spice aromas with some cherry fruit in the background. On the palate it displays savory flavors, bright, racy fruit and an elegant personality. It will evolve for 1-2 years but can be approached now.
Willakenzie Estate believes in giving their Pinot Noirs an extra year of bottle age prior to release so their current vintage is 2007. This is likely to prove a wise decision because the 2007s I tasted on this trip had generally gained weight with a year in bottle. This is a fine set of wines from a challenging vintage. In addition, for the first time, Willakenzie has made a blend from all of their estate vineyards, held it back for an extra year, and labeled it Reserve. The 2006 Reserve is superior to any of the single vineyard wines from that vintage.
Tel. (503) 662-5026; www.willakenzie.com