Gifted winemaker Brad McLeroy has quickly established his Ayres Vineyard as a premier player in the Oregon wine scene. Ayres’ 2011 Perspective is crafted from Estate Pinot blended with fruit from neighboring Saikkonen and Armstrong vineyards – all in the prestigious Ribbon Ridge AVA. The result is a gloriously silky, seductive, layered Pinot with depth to burn. A lovely bright ruby hue in the glass, Ayres’ Perspective Pinot casts aromas of loganberries, cinnamon stick, and perfumed, loamy earth. Zesty, fresh and brimming with spicy black raspberry and black cherry fruit, the wine graces the palate with deep currents of blackberry and black cherry fruit accented by complex notes of sandalwood and earth, all backed by bristling acidity and fine, framing tannins. A tangy loganberry fruit expression segues the palate to its brilliant finish, reprising waves of red and black berry fruits, smoky earth and a deft kiss of French oak. The wine gains weight, complexity and nuance with aeration, so be sure to open it well in advance of serving. Better yet, lay some down for three to five years for the wine’s many components to harmonize, integrate and blossom. This is a lovely, graceful example of Ribbon Ridge Pinot to be enjoyed with grilled salmon, roast chicken, pan-seared pork chops, boudin blanc and hearty vegetarian fare featuring Chanterelle mushrooms.
Sustainably farmed.
A January 2014 Newsletter selection.
