2008 J.K. Carriere Pinot Noir Antoinette

The 2008 Pinot Noir Antoinette was sourced from 29-year-old vines. The aromatics reveal an herbal note along with cinnamon, clove, and an assortment of red and black fruits. Dense, ripe, and structured, this packed effort will also require patience. It can be approached now because of its succulence, but there is much more to come (as is true for most of the finest 2008s). Owner/winemaker Jim Prosser has settled into his brand new winery on Parrett Mountain. He tends to release his wines later than most so that his current vintage is 2007. However, the 2008s are in bottle, and Prosser was kind enough to present them as well. As an aside, to those who might question the longevity of Willamette Valley Pinot Noir, Prosser opened a 1999 (the vintage most frequently compared to 2008). Dark ruby in color, it gives up a slightly roasted, already complex perfume of black fruit confiture. Right at its peak with another 10-15 years of life ahead, this is a sneak preview of what you’ll be getting when the better 2008s reach age 10. Tel. (503) 554-0721; www.jkcarriere.com