01 Ana Vineyards, Pinot Noir Willamette Valley Arthur's Block

Welcome to Willamette Valley. The concentrated fruit in Arthur's Block is nearly legendary and, unlike many of the 02s now coming out, balanced by a classic medium body that keeps this wine quaffable. Tight, but opening with vibrant, gum-tingling acidity to deep black cherry jam, tarragon, and fennel. Fruit develops, darkens, and continues to open for minutes. After a day, the acidity balances out and gives the wine notes of cranberry. Drink after 2005.