NY Times: Why Oregon Will Fondly Remember 2011

http://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/25/dining/reviews/why-oregon-will-fondly-remember-2011.html?ref=dining&_r=0

A nice overview of a stellar vintage, in my opinion. I haven't yet cracked most of my 2011s, but when we were in Oregon last fall, we got a fantastic sneak peek of the wines (many still in barrel). The only question is whether or not I will have the patience to let them age, as they are delicious now.

While I wholeheartedly agree that 2011 has been a boon of a harvest for Oregon, and that's all around a good thing, I have a somewhat different perspective than the ephemeral one of the NY Times.

Living as I do in the Willamette Valley and prospering from its endless bounty in all regards, I see a continual flow, from year to year, and season to season. The particular enhancement of the 2011 harvest is simply a bonus to be enjoyed while it is here, by all means. But perhaps primarily because of my autumnal years I'm not collecting or stockpiling, because I have the comfort of knowing that there is continuity, a strong and vibrant continuity of quality that may fluctuate a bit in either direction but will remain deliciously constant.

So, yes, I will fondly remember the 2011. As I will all the vintages I am allowed to enjoy as I go with the flow.

I love 2011! Always have. I was pumped to taste them after the skippable 2009s. But I have really grown to love 2010 as well. Two great vintages that provide some contrast.

Jason

[Jenise]

Speaking of 2011, when Jason (Lett) releases it, jump at the chance to buy a bottle or two of Erath sparkling pinot noir/pinot meunier. It will be NV because it's a blend of 2011 and 2009, and priced "somewhere between $50 and Don't Be a Dick"--his words. Spendy, but oh wow worth it. I happen to have been one of the lucky people to share the bottle with him that resulted in him having exactly 124 and 11/12's of a case left of the 125 he made. A rare gem.

I assume you mean Eyrie. I ain't spending $5 on Erath.

[Jenise]

I assume you mean Eyrie. I ain't spending $5 on Erath.

Oh crap, what a mistake! Yes indeed.

I assume you mean Eyrie. I ain't spending $5 on Erath.

Although there was a time...

I assume you mean Eyrie. I ain't spending $5 on Erath.

Although there was a time...

Agreed. A pioneer.

J