2006 RIBBON RIDGE WINERY PINOT NOIR ESTATE RESERVE RIDGECREST VINEYARDS RIBBON RIDGE OREGON

2006: I have the highest regard for the Pinot Noirs in barrel, not having seen better fruit EVER from

selected blocks or vineyards, including 22 harvests from Ridgecrest! The reds should be held to

high expectations. The whites are the surprise, since a very warm vintage often blunts the acid,

raises alcohol to unbalance the wine, and softens the fruit to soft and fleshy. Not so in 2006. The

Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Pinot Blanc are crisp, bright, and scintillating in fruit aromas

and complex in spice and fruit flavors. The warmth that came during the growing season abated

before most fruit seriously began ripening, with cooler days and, especially important, acid-saving

nights giving finesse to the wines. Appealing early, they should age respectably, too. Color me

pleased.