J. Christopher Pinot Noir Nuages 2012

Named in tribute to one of winemaker Jay’s favorite gypsy jazz tunes, the 2012 Nuages Pinot Noir was selected from Adams, Lia's and Olenik Vineyards in the Chehalem Mountains AVA. Nuages (French for “clouds”) also pays homage to the moderating influence of Oregon’s autumn cloud cover, which slows ripening to allow for the long hang time that creates fully developed flavors.

Nuages is a very engaging wine. Beginning with a subtle nose of dark, sweet fruit and a hint of smoke and vanilla, it delivers a graceful impact on the palate with fine, focused fruit accented by intriguing spice and herbal notes, a firm structure, and good length.