Averaen Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2022

I like the crushed stone minerality here, alongside aromas of cherries, violets and cacao beans. It’s medium-bodied, firm and nicely framed.

Smoked blackberries, orange cake and the trifecta of fennel, thyme and oregano aromas made for a good start. The flavors of blackcap raspberries and ginger was also nice. What acted as a distraction was the wine's stringent tannins. This pinot with pucker power may require time or decanting. - Michael Alberty