Pinot Meunier 2009: RainSong

Just outside of Eugene, Oregon, in the rural town of Cheshire, there’s a very small,  family owned and operated nine acre vineyard: RainSong Vineyard. Six of the nine acres are Pinot Noir, one acre is Chardonnay and two acres are Pinot Meunier – the three main varietals used in the production of champagne. Less than 1,500 cases are produced each year.

Although RainSong produces an excellent sparkling wine made in the traditional Methode Champenoise style, their 2009 Pinot Meunier seriously blew me away. I was expecting a highly tannic and acidic wine, something close to the only other Pinot Meunier I had ever tried; however, what I experienced was very much the opposite. Beautiful aromas of cherries, raspberries and forest floor led to extremely well balanced flavors of dark cherries, cassis and licorice. Flavors flowed flawlessly from front to back, leaving a silky mouthfeel and medium lingering finish, and wow, was I ever impressed. No longer are my views of Pinot Meunier negative – a new door has opened.