From Namaste Vineyards I got two different Pinot Noirs which are really full bodied wines. Normally I don't prefer Pinot Noir wine but these are certainly the exception. It seems the vines were planted in the early 80's and this makes all of the difference. I don't know if that is the reason or not, but good wine is good wine.
The two I purchased are the Prosperity Pinot Noir and the Reserve Cuvée.
2007 Prosperity Pinot Noir
The 2007 Prosperity Pinot Noir is made from the hand-picked grapes in our 27 ear old Pommard Pinot Noir block of vineyard. The wine is characterized by its rich ruby color coupled with a bouquet that has aromas of dark berries. Fruit forward raspberry flavors mingle with dark cherries for a silky soft mouth-feel. A surprising touch of sweetness drifts gracefully off the tongue at the finish. The Prosperity Pinot Noir continues its string of excellent wines.
2007 Reserve Cuvée Pinot Noir
To craft the Reserve Cuvée we select the very best of the Abundance Pinot Noir and Prosperity Pinot Noir in the cellar and blend them into a wine that we feel best exemplifies the character needed to create an elegant wine of superb quality. This wine has an amazing bouquet reminiscent of a fine Port wine. The Reserve Cuvée fills the mouth with the smooth tastes of fresh cherries and lingers on the taste buds with deep dark raspberry jam flavors. Truly honoring the spirit of our vines no other wine showcases our vineyards better.
I purchased several wines from Crater Lake Cellars as the taste and price point were too good to pass up. This winery reminds me of several others whom the big wine magazines haven't found yet so I feel I needed to get some wine before others find out and the prices go up. The cellar is owned and operated by a nice couple who have warm genuine smiles. Regular people, making wine and seemingly loving every minute. It almost feels like when you buy a bottle you are participating in someone's dream. I bought larger quantities of the Merlot and Syrah for gifts and a few of the whites for an upcoming event in addition to my own collection.
Wine: Our lovely Merlot has a soft nose of plum and black berry fruit with oak and spice accents. Fruit forward flavors of blueberry with hints of vanilla and smoke dance on the palate.
Label: The extreme blues and volcanic formations of Crater Lake can best be experienced by venturing to the water's edge and enjoying the boat tour. This two hour ranger lead tour is well worth the 700 foot elevation hike down. In 1865 , Annie Gains ventured down the caldera and became the first white women to hike to the water's edge. A number of springs and creeks in the region are named after Annie. Fish are not native to the lake but Rainbow and Kokanee salmon which were planted between 1888 and 1941 still exist for one's fishing pleasure.
Syrah 2007
Wine: Our 2007 Syrah displays classic Syrah tones including flavors of maple, currant, and blueberry which are complimented by a balanced, refreshing mouth feel and light tannins. It's furity, creamy richness will last and last much like the classic Packards that once graced our roadways.
Label: In 1949, Packard introduced their golden anniversary models celebrating 50 years of American ingenuity. The grand 1949 that graces our label was rescued by Bill adn Patsy Terpening who painted, upholstered, added new tires and changed the oil before setting out on a 10,500 mile journey around the United States utilizing the car's original engine. The Antelope Creek covered bridge can be found in downtown Eagle Point along Little Butte CreekWhite
Grenache 2009
Wine: flavors of sweet ripe straberries with a long crisp citrus finish is showcased in our 2009 White Grenache. This jeweled wine pairs well with a wide array of foods; from grilled chicken, vegetables and fish to Mexican, Asian and Indian entrees.
Label: Frozen Thistles from our Vineyard Pond in Eagle Point
First year of production: 2006
Each year we have ran out of this wine by late summer.
Pinot Gris 2008
Wine: Our 2008 Pinot Gris greets the senses with pear and apple and follows with a luscious long finish.
Label: Like a great masted, sailing ship, mystically disappearing and emerging from visibility, the Phantom Ship of Crater Lake can ve viewed from the southern cliffs of the lake. The ship is just the tip of a sizable jagged ridge that was the original cone that formed the volcano. The ship stands 163 feet tall above the lake and is over 300 feet long. The rocks of the ship are considered the oldest at the lake dating to 1 1/2 million years old
Riesling 2008: Dry
Wine: This refreshing Riesling is bright with a beautiful balance. Aromas of apple and pineapples dance on one's nose. The mouth fills with the impresion of an infusion of pineapple, mandarin orange and honeyed apricot finished by a lively balanced natural acidity. Enjoy with your favorite chicken, seafood or spicy foods.
Label: The Natural Bridge is one of the "must see" water formations of the mighty Rogue River. The river dives into an ancient 200 foot lava tube and runs underground forming a natural land bridge. A relaxing viewing trail is nestled just below the Historic Union Creek Resort District.
It was a good day tasting wines and I really liked being able to find local good wines.
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