DaleW wrote:
> A lot depends on palate of your group. If big fruit is paramount, then
> maybe CA. If not, maybe Burgundy. Oregon is kind of in between.

I think you've been stuck in limbo too long.

> Oregon
> Others probably have more knowledge here, but I like the wines of DDO,
> Belle Pente & St Innocent. I also liked J. Christopher recently. My
> impression is that 2003 is a more forward vintage, but little to base
> that on.

Why do outsiders always recommend the flagship labels? Could it be that
you've just not had much experience tasting the range?

For under $20/bottle, namely $16-18 range, Try a 2005 AtoZ Pinot Noir.
A little young, but big bold red fruit, no bulls*** acid you get from
similar vintage wines (namely, a pH of 3.75 does the trick). Nice
pairing with any type of beef, pork, chicken, turkey, even smoked ham.

If you want a little spendier, try Owen Roe's Sharecropper's Pinot
Noir. Unfiltered. Maybe $20/bottle, depending on the shop. Simply
amazing. Bold fruit, not too heavy. Low acid, balanced tannins and oak.
A definite "flavorite" for those who like a Pinot with balls.

In the $25-$30 range, try a Beran 03'-04'. Amazing fruit and balance.
Letting it breathe opens up the spice and oak, but you still end up
with an amazing glass no matter, whether fresh from opening or after
1hr. breathing.

In the $30-$40 range, you might actually consider a... wait. Never had
a need to spend more than $30 for a great Oregon Pinot Noir...

On the opposite end, if you want a decent "table wine" quality at $6-7,
you could always get a Pepperwood Grove (Chilean).

There's plenty of good wines out there. I'd simply caution you against
blowing $40 on a P.N. when there are so many good (and affordable)
options available.

Cheers,

David