This barrel selection represents an effort to produce a wine of superior power and elegance that best showcases the unique growing conditions in this viticultural area running North and South between McMinnville and Salem. Due East of the Van Duzer Corridor, the Eola-Amity Hills experience a more direct influence of Marine breezes, allowing for greater retention of natural acidity through more moderate temperatures during the growing season. 2017 blends vineyards from the Southern Eola Hills sites in Polk County including Sojourner (45%), Justice (35%), and Prophet (25%). The robust structure and concentration of Justice is beautifully balanced by the perfumed aromatics of Prophet and the elegant silkiness and high-toned fruit of Sojourner.
The nose echos the vintage characters of fresh, bright fruit, juxtaposed against powerful floral tones and spices. The noticeable vibrancy invites significant consideration. On the palate the wine attacks with firm and juicy tannins carrying the full array of berry fruits and more savory, earthier components with verve and energy. The overall balance here is appropriately delicate and detailed with a glassy, pure and clean texture matching the intensity and weight beautifully. Immediately delicious, the anticipation of several years of bottle age makes me wonder the height of refinement we can eventually expect from this one. Aged on lees for 14 months in a mix of new (25%) and used French Oak barrels. Blended to tank in early December and bottled on January 25th, 2019.