A barrel sample of the 2009 Pinot Noir Asha exhibits a racier style with ample tasty fruit and good balance but absent the depth and concentration of the 2008. This wine was scheduled to be bottled one week after I tasted it, so it could well be in the market by the time of publication. I also tasted several 2010 barrel samples which look very promising.All of the Maysara Winery Pinot Noirs are sourced from their large, biodynamically certified vineyard in McMinnville. Maysara also sells fruit to a number of well-known clients.Tel. (503) 843-1234; www.maysara.com

The late released 2008 Pinot Noir Asha was aged for 22 months in 40% new French oak. It sports an alluring bouquet of exotic spices, violets, sandalwood, black cherry, and black raspberry scents. In the glass it reveals layered, savory fruit, good power in combination with elegance, and a lengthy fruit-filled finish. It will evolve for 3-4 years and drink well through 2023. All of the Maysara Winery Pinot Noirs are sourced from their large, biodynamically certified vineyard in McMinnville. Maysara also sells fruit to a number of well-known clients.Tel. (503) 843-1234; www.maysara.com

The 2007 Pinot Noir Asha was aged in 45% new French oak. It is denser and richer than the Estate Cuvee. It will offer peak drinking through 2017. All of the Maysara Winery Pinot Noirs are sourced from their large, biodynamically certified vineyard in McMinnville. Maysara also sells fruit to a number of well-known clients.Tel. (503) 843-1234; www.maysara.com