This was the top Pinot of the evening on Saturday at Otis' home. This Oregon Pinot retails for about $34. WS gave the 2000 vintage of this wine 92 points.

This wine was much more old world in style which I prefer. It was a deep red color with a wet earth and slight barnyard nose. Nothing offensive though. We actually used this wine to demonstrate what "barnyard" was to a few of Otis' neighbors who asked about it. The wine was smooth and elegant with berry and nutty flavors. The finish was long with a hint of pepper. 92+ points.

VM

A well-made pinot, with lots of structure. Had some two days later and it was 2-3 points better than Saturday night. Velvety mouthfeel and dried berry flavors. Good intensity. 91P.

I remember the distributor telling me that there were only 4 cases shipped into the Chicago market. Glad I picked a couple bottles up. Probably better in 2-3 years.

-Otis

You should try the Rion. It is even better. Chehelam is an Oregon gem. Their Pinot Gris is, IMO, the one of the best in Oregon, as well.

This wine was my #3 of the night at the Otis bash. Barnyard . . . "old world" style . . . it was nice. I also enjoy the fruit bombs but this was different. However, I am still looking for the Oregon experience I had with the '94 Ponzi Reserve. Now that was magical. Thanks Otis for sharing! Score = 92.574

Blue Oval

I just got back from a trade tasting of Chehalem, and your remarks are right on.

The 1999 Rion Reserve is a remarkable bottle of wine. The soon-to-be-released 2001 Chehalem Reserve Pinot Gris is the closest thing to Alsatian Pinot Gris in the New World...

highdesertwine