Wine Advocate
2009 Sonría Pinot Noir, Shea Vineyard, Willamette Valley
- Score: 92
- Drink: 2011-2019
- Issue: #197 – Oct 2011
The 2009 Pinot Noir Shea Vineyard, made from the Wadenswil and Pommard clones, was partially native fermented followed by aging in 500-liter puncheons. Dark ruby red in color, it displays a pleasing perfume of smoke, floral notes, cinnamon, black cherry, and black raspberry. This is followed by a medium to full-bodied, velvety-textured, succulent offering with enough structure to evolve for 1-2 years. It will provide enjoyment through 2019+.
Sonria is the personal project of Keith Emerson, Director of Winemaking for Vineyard 29 in Napa Valley. One way to make a strong first impression is to buy the best fruit available and Shea Vineyard is one of the Willamette Valley’s prime sites. –Jay Miller