Okanogan Estate Pinot Noir Barrel Select 2005, Oroville, WA

I am very pleased with the offerings from this producer. From what I can tell, this is the farthest north vineyard/winery in the United States, and rare in that Washington produces so few Pinot Noirs. Their 05 Pinot is a nice balance of earth and fruit; it is soft, but that's not to say dull, with elegant tannins and well-integrated flavors. Exhibits that characteristic "pinot" flavor: mushrooms mixed with cherry, a measured hand with the oak, and a beautiful, hot nose that whispers I am a pinot noir. Not quite Oregon, not quite Burgundy, this is an interesting find for any Pinot lover. $25.