Oregon tasting notes

text and photographs © 2009 Tom Cannavan

These notes accompany our in-depth feature on Oregon wine.

SCOTT PAUL WINES, OREGON

Scott Paul Pinot Noir Cuvée Martha Pirrie 2006
This is Scott Paul's entry level Pinot, that retails for $24. A touch of green character, with some olive and herbal notes. Interesting nuances of cherry fruit and a touch of vanilla. Nicely broad, flavoursome palate with good acids and a lean, savoury finish with a touch of lemon. 400 case production. 87/100

Scott Paul Pinot Noir Cuvée La Paulee 2006
2000 cases of this cuvée are made, and again it has an elegant, slightly leafy and Burgundian nose, with vanilla and touch of coffee. Nice sense of minerality. Slightly more succulent, sweeter and fuller fruit on the palate, but stil has that light-bodied style. Very tangy and lip-smacking, with a touch of edgy liquorice on the finish, but delightfully fresh and vibrant. 89/100

Scott Paul Pinot Noir Cuvée Audrey 2006
Named after Audrey Hepburn: "naturally beautiful and not over made up - not a Pamela Andreson wine," says Scott. The 100 cases of this wine are all sold on allocation. From the Marsh vineyard of 33-year-old vines, this has that house style of slightly herbal and cedary nuances, but the brightness of red fruit: raspberry, cherry and redcurrant comes through powerfully. The palate has some weight and ripeness, with lovely sweet fruit. This has more vanilla and sweetness, with good length. Very cool, smooth and long. A very Burgundian feel. 92/100

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