The 2022 Elk Cove Pinot Noir Five Mountain is a distinguished wine hailing from Oregon's Willamette Valley, a region known for its exceptional Pinot Noir production. This vintage offers a complex profile that balances fruit, spice, and earthy undertones. Made from grapes grown in the Laurelwood District AVA, it showcases the unique characteristics of the area's soil and climate.
Wine Spectator awarded the wine a remarkable score of 94, praising its "supple and handsomely structured" nature with flavors of "polished raspberry and cherry," underscored by "cinnamon and orange peel." The wine's finish is noted for its "fine-grained tannins," suggesting a wine that is both elegant and long-lasting.
Decanter gave the wine a 92, highlighting its origins from a "historic site in the foothills of the Cascade Range." The review describes aromas that are "soft and elegant," with "sweet red berries, smoky rose petals, and notes of black tea." The palate is noted for its concentration, featuring "ripe fruit, candied raspberries, black cherry flesh," and a "spicy black plums" finish.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate rated it 91, emphasizing its aromatic profile of "raspberry, red cherry jam, cinnamon, mushrooms, and orange peel." The review appreciates the wine's "silky and refreshing" palate, marked by "understated, floral fruit and a long, spicy finish."
Wine Enthusiast also scored it 92, evoking imagery of "walking through a garden after a much-needed summer rain" to convey the Five Mountain's "earthy pleasures." The review mentions aromas of "sweet red raspberries and a walnut scone" alongside flavors of "tart pie cherries, cacao, and cinnamon," all balanced by "gentle acidity and silky tannins."
Overall, the 2022 Elk Cove Pinot Noir Five Mountain is a well-crafted wine with a diverse array of flavors and aromas, making it a noteworthy choice for Pinot Noir enthusiasts.