The 2008 Pinot Noir Hawks View Vineyard is medium ruby red with an alluring bouquet of smoke, earthy minerality, spice box, rose petal, and an amalgam of red and black fruits. Bright on the palate with lively acidity and savory flavors, this nicely balanced, lengthy effort will provide optimal drinking from 2012 to 2020. Hawks View Cellars is owned and operated by the John A. Kemp family. They purchased 125 acres from Benziger, 50 of which was planted beginning in 1991 with more added in 1997-1998. All but 3 acres are Pinot Noir. Current production is 1500 cases with plans to max out at 5000 cases.Tel. (503) 625-1591; www.hawksviewcellars.com

Medium weight, round and tangy, this shows a core of cranberry/cherry fruit, a whiff of cola and a suggestion of the tack room. It’s a detailed and somewhat earthy Pinot Noir. From the estate vineyard, it’s what you hope to find in Oregon— Pinot that is artisanal, a little quirky, distinctive and above all, enjoyable. Fades just a bit too quickly. ——P.G.(3/1/2011)—— 89