Elouan 2017 Pinot Noir Reserve, Missoulan Wash, Oregon

Joseph Wagner of the "Caymus" Wagners' Elouan Oregon Pinot Noir is a huge success story. With his talent for producing lush wines at great price how could it miss. Now he's taking that talent to another level with Elouan Reserve Pinot Noir.

The ice age Missoula floods exposed the distinct, volcanic, and marine sedimentary soil of the northwest corner of Oregon, the foundation of this spectacular terroir. These well-drained soils paired with the intensely cool, but sun-drenched summers create Pinot Noir of vibrancy and restraint. Grapes are sourced entirely from the Willamette Valley AVA. Some goes into making regular Elouan Pinot and the most select lots are set aside for this Reserve. Then, the wines are re-evaluated after fermentation for just the very finest lots to be included. This Reserve Pinot is aged 8 months in 80% new French oak.

Tasting Panel Magazine scored this 92 points saying "“Missoulan Wash” refers to the Ice Age–era floods that exposed volcanic and sedimentary soil in Oregon’s northwest corner. Aged eight months in new and used French oak, this bold and graceful Pinot Noir from winemaker Joseph Wagner grew in that well-drained terrain and clearly benefited from the cool climate. Notes of slate and deep plum are sumptuously integrated with dried violets, sweet tobacco, and blackberry as well as tannins that evoke espresso and dark chocolate."