Raptor Ridge Pinot Noir Reserve, 2004, Willamette Valley, Oregon

Lovely, brilliant light ruby color. Firm mineral and iodine aromas blend with fresh black raspberry and toasty oak notes. Firm and powerful on the palate with a touch of earthy leather and sweet oak to balance the ripe young fruit. The finish is warm, sporting a 14.5% alcohol - surprising for a 2004. Still too early to see how this wine will resolve itself, but its off to a strong start.