Aligra - Edmonton

Foris Pinot Noir 2014  Oregon USA

Tasting Notes: Foris was one of the first vineyards to plant the now ubiquitous “Dijon Clones” 113, 115 and 375. Starting with just twenty five buds of each, the winery patiently tended and propagated the vines until they had enough plant material to start supplying nurseries in California. Quickly word spread about the quality of these new clones. Today, many of California and Oregon’s most famous Pinot vineyards can trace their parentage directly back the original clone field on Foris’s flagship Maple Ranch Vineyard. Although the vineyard determines the ultimate quality of a wine, there are many choices that both the grower and wine maker have in shaping its overall style. One of the most important decisions is harvest dates. We have long felt that while ripe is good, over ripe is not better. We also walk lightly in our use of oak, preferring to incorporate a percentage of once-filled French oak barrels each year instead of the more heavy handed new wood. Overall, it’s a very minimal approach to wine making that respects the integrity of our wonderful fruit. 2014 was a big vintage for the Foris Pinot Noir. An early, warm vintage produced wines that are darker and more robust than is typical for Foris Pinot Noir. A little more of everything; color, concentration, tannin, depth of fruit, and a little more contribution of French oak to balance the more full bodied style. The dark hue telegraphs the big flavors of plum, blackberry, black cherry and brown spices that complement it all. While big, rich and concentrated, the plush texture brings the wine into balance and flows into a long, smooth finish. A thanksgiving suggestion, you will not be disappointed!

Price: $32.99