In a flight of Oregon Pinots, my notes on this wine read, “most mineral of all.” It’s no surprise that it grows in the shallow soils of Seven Springs. With its sour cherry and tanbark scents it is also the most transparent of wines in a generous vintage, laden with fruit but not overladen, and with just the suggestion of stem tannins from the whole-cluster fermentation, a character that opens up the wine’s panoply of scents. The flavors are firmly expressed, focused, a touch restrained and all the more alluring for it. Open and decant for duck.

Aromatic, with an elegant blend of mountain berries, just-ripe cherries and a refreshing minerality, this estate-grown fruit is farmed organically and biodynamically. The balance and detail are impressive. *Cellar Selection* (PG)

The 2012 La Source Seven Springs Vineyard Pinot Noir comes entirely from the estate that has been farmed biodynamically since 2007, own-rooted Pommard Dijon clone, destemmed and aged in 30% new French oak for 16 months. It has a much more floral and feminine bouquet with hints of wilted violet and iris on the nose that is understated at first, but gradually unfurls. The palate is very refined with supple black plum and red cherry fruit, a dash of black pepper and Asian spices toward the finish. But it retains fine control from beginning to end: very focused... (NM)