Lingua Franca Estate Pinot Noir 2022 is an exceptional Oregon Pinot Noir that embodies precision, elegance, and terroir-driven complexity. Crafted by Thomas Savre, a classically trained winemaker with experience at iconic Burgundy estates such as Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, this wine reflects a masterful balance of restraint and depth.
Hailing from the Eola-Amity Hills, a region known for its volcanic soils and persistent winds, the 2022 vintage benefits from a growing season marked by warm days and cool nights. This climatic duality imparts a unique tension and lift to the fruit, resulting in a wine that is both vibrant and structurally refined.
In the glass, the wine presents a luminous ruby color, translucent yet vibrant, signaling purity and poise. The nose unfolds with precise aromas of red cherry, wild strawberry, and blood plum, complemented by delicate floral notes of rose petal, lavender, and hibiscus. A subtle savory layer of forest floor, fennel seed, and crushed granite adds complexity, underscored by a mineral hum that speaks to the vineyard’s volcanic roots. The oak influence is subtle and perfectly integrated, framing the bouquet without overpowering it.
On the palate, this Pinot Noir is defined by impeccable balance and proportion. Bright, finely tuned acidity drives the wine forward with clarity, while the red fruit spectrum—cherry, cranberry, and pomegranate—is supported by supple, structural tannins. The texture is silky yet taut, delivering an elegant tension reminiscent of stretched fabric over bone. Mid-palate notes of rooibos tea, dried herbs, and a dusting of cocoa emerge, all carried on a cool, iron-rich minerality that enhances the wine’s depth.
The finish is long and finely tapered, lingering with layers of red fruit skin, spice, and stone. This wine does not rely on opulence but captivates with clarity, restraint, and intention. It offers enough generosity to be approachable now while promising graceful evolution with time.
This versatile Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with refined, savory dishes such as duck breast with cherry jus, roast pork with sage and apple, or a mushroom tart with Gruyère and thyme. It also complements washed rind or firm Alpine-style cheeses, which accentuate its mineral character. Serve slightly below room temperature in a wide glass to allow the wine to breathe naturally and reveal its complexity.
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