The 2009 Pinot Noir Balcombe Vineyard located in the Dundee Hills was also planted to the Pommard clone in 1990. The nose is redolent of raspberry and cherry. Elegant, sweetly-fruited, and nicely proportioned in the glass, it is a sexy, friendly effort that will provide enjoyment over the next 6-8 years. Veteran vigneron Patricia (Patty) Green was the original winemaker at Torii Mor before purchasing the old Autumn Wind Winery in 2000 along with partner Jim Anderson and renaming it Patricia Green Cellars. Current production stands at 10,000 cases with distribution in 20 states. All of the Patricia Green wines are fermented naturally, see about one-third new oak, and only Cadus barrels are used in the cellar. In 2009 Green and Anderson’s lengthy experience paid off as they were able to get the maximum out of what the vintage offered.Tel. (503) 554-0821; www.patriciagreencellars.com

The 2007 Pinot Noir Balcombe was disappointing in the context of the entire portfolio. The aromatics reveal green herbal notes and eucalyptus. The wine is better on the palate but comes off as light, pleasant, and superficial. Veteran vigneron Patricia (Patty) Green was the original winemaker at Torii Mor before purchasing the old Autumn Wind Winery in 2000 along with partner Jim Anderson and renaming it Patricia Green Cellars. Current production stands at 10,000 cases with distribution in 20 states. All of the Patricia Green wines are fermented naturally, see about one-third new oak, and only Cadus barrels are used in the cellar. The wines are discussed in the order in which they were presented at the winery in July, 2009.Tel. (503) 554-0821; www.patriciagreencellars.com