By Lachini
2013 Lachini Vineyards Pinot Noir Cuvee Giselle, Chehalem Mountains

Wine Details
Grapes: 100% Pinot Noir, Lachini Estate Vineyard
Harvest: September 26-October 8, 2013
Barrel Aging: 16 months in 100% French oak (54% new, balance 1- and 2-year-old)
Release Date: June 1, 2015
Winemakers: Matthieu Gille, Ron Lachini

Vinification
In its 10th vintage, a selection of the finest five barrels of Pinot Noir from our entire estate vineyard's East, Middle, and West blocks. Yields per block averaged 2.6 tons/acre. Mother Nature gave us a near-perfect growing season. Consists of 40% Dijon clones, 30% Pommard, 15% Wadenswil and the balance of a 'suitcase clone.' The vineyard was dry-farmed entirely with biodynamic practices. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.

Winemaker's Comments
A return to classic Willamette Valley Pinot Noir is evident in our 2013 vintage Cuvee Giselle. The nose is wildly aromatic with wild raspberries, cranberries, and floral and tea undertones. The flavors are all extraordinary in their velvety mouthfeel, neither heavy nor rough. The crafting of the wine is a marvel of harmony. Very fine and noble tannins bring a gorgeous silky roundness to the finish - or 'gras' in Burgundy. The acidity adds energy, which explodes with black fruit and cherries, amongst other intense and lingering flavors. The wine is very well balanced, with a beautiful structure that will age remarkably through the years. Decant for 30 minutes to enjoy in its youth or cellar until 2026 (likely much longer) for increased layers and nuances.

Tasting Notes
Bright ruby-red, the initial nose bursts with a vibrant bouquet of focused cherry compote. Underlying floral, spice, and tea aromas intertwine with black truffle and a touch of mocha. The palate enters with layers of sweet cherries, cranberries, and ripe plums, which intermingle with dusty and subtle forest floor nuances. A lovely, round mid-palate marks Cuvee Giselle's distinctive personality, complemented by underlying acidity, which leads to what seems like a never-ending, mouth-coating, and silky finish. A fairly full-bodied Pinot that will reward cellaring due to its fine, dense tannins; yet, opulence awaits those choosing to enjoy it now. Age 3-12+ years.

Technical Information
p: 3.65
TA: 5.45 g/L
Malic: 0.143 g/L
Acetic: 0.400 g/L
[Information provided by Matador Vino]

LACHINI Pinot Noir 'Cuvee Giselle' 2013
Rating: 90
Drink: 2017-2025
Country: United States
Region: Oregon
Appellation: Willamette Valley
Editor: O. Bargreen
Issue: January, 2017
Another strong showing from this estate is their 2013 'Cuvee Giselle' Pinot Noir. This Pinot opens with aromatics of red cherry, guava, teaberry and wild mushroom. There are flavors of red cherry, dill, cranberry and blood orange. This has wonderful elegance and focus through the finish. (Best 2017-2025) - January, 2017 (OB)

LACHINI Pinot Noir Chehalem Mountains Cuvee Giselle 2013
Score: 90
Country: United States
Region: Oregon / Willamette Valley / Chehalem Mountains
Issue: Oct 31, 2016
Lithe, polished and deftly put together, offering ripe raspberry and clotted cream flavors on a supple frame. Finish keeps singing impressively. -- HS