Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2015, Nicolas-Jay

Third wine tasted blind in the Portola Valley. This pinot noir from Oregon had a slightly confusing slate nose overlaid with new oak. This rude awakening dissipates with plum, red apple and strawberry aromas. The nose finishes on hazelnuts... which are grown widely in the Willamette Valley. The bouquet is a touch unsure of itself. On the palate this Willamette Valley 2015 from Nicolas-Jay offers plum fruit, good structure and medium tannins. As with the nose, seems slightly muddled. Scores 72-78/100 reflecting the need to develop and integrate.