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Anthony Gismondi on Wine
Goodfellow Family Cellars Whistling Ridge Vineyard Pinot Noirtext
93POINTS
17¼/20

Goodfellow Family Cellars Whistling Ridge Vineyard Pinot Noir 2016

Willamette Valley, Oregon, United StatesFrom Marcus Goodfellow's renamed winery (nee Matello Cellars) and reflective of his young children / future cellar rats. I've been tasting with Marcus for many years, and still firmly hold that he is one of America's top winemakers. This 2016 pinot noir, from Ribbon Ridge AVA's exceptional marine sedimentary soiled Whistling Ridge Vineyard is proof positive. According to Marcus, his "least favourite flavour in wine is dogma". He seeks out special vineyards around the Willamette, forging strong bonds with the owners, and oversees all the growing for his 4000 annual case production. This is dry farmed, 20-30 year old vine massale selection pinot (6+ clones), 50 percent whole cluster, and with 20 months in French oak (30 percent new). Black raspberry, streamlined and narrow leads the finessed palate, baked with iris, white pepper, dried herbs, white pepper. Structural but so finely so, with bamboo tannins suggesting, rather than shouting, framework. Acidity is lofty and tight, creating an energetic flow through the lingering finish. Drinking beautifully now, but Marcus' wines age incredibly, so I recommend using patience.Tasted: 28 May 2019Tasted by: Treve RingPrices:
USA$45.00750mlwinery direct
Producer: Goodfellow Family CellarsGrape: Pinot Noir