I adored the cherry syrup, cookie dough, and cassis liqueur nose of the 2003 Pinot Noir Shea. This wine, the most complete of Panther Creek’s 2003s, offers a flavor profile of jammy black cherries, cola, sassafras, spices, and notes of jellied raspberries. Though this wine was subject to “post harvest irrigation,” it reveals wonderful concentration, depth, density of fruit, and length. Enjoy it over the next 6-7 years.www.panthercreekcellars.com; tel. (503) 472-8080

Stiff, chalky tannins take over quickly, after a light, slightly spicy entry. Like the rest of the ’03 lineup the wine seems thin and watery, and the mouthfeel a bit stressed. The vineyard is capable of much more.——P.G.(4/1/2007)—— 86