Ribbon Ridge "Sequitur" Pinot Noir 2015, Beaux Frères

The Imbibers' Guide team visited the Beaux Frères winery in the Willamette Valley in mid-June and had the pleasure of meeting the owner and wine-maker Michael Etzel complete with muddy boots and farm dogs in tow. The Sequitur vineyard was planted in 2012 on top of the hill on the 88 acre farm and is surrounded by Douglas fir trees. Interestingly, Michael's team planted 17 different clones on 12 acres mimicking the tendency of pinot noir to mutate and moving away from the single clone history of the Willamette Valley. Like the other wines from Beaux Frères this is in the Ribbon Ridge AVA. Thick purple plum colour which is slightly opaque in the centre. An earthy initial nose followed by brambles, baked tomatoes and orange rind. Reminiscent of a daube de boeuf à la provençale. Evolves to black cherry, floral, complex and a light toast. On the palate there is a  slightly floury texture, its fresh, there is a lovely wild strawberry flavour with some citrus marbling. Good fruit tannins, a touch of cherry sourness and a warm finish. Am impressive wine especially given the young age of the vines. Scores 83-87/100.