Last November, I sampled this wine for the first time in the Scott Paul tasting room and enjoyed it so much that I immediately bought a half case of futures that were delivered earlier this spring. Last week, I opened a bottle and enjoyed it so much more that I wondered how on earth the other five bottles would last thru the summer.

A clear, ruby red color in the glass, the Scott Paul 2008 Audrey Pinot Noir Dundee Hills (13.1%) offered captivating aromas of multi-layered fruit including strawberry, raspberry and cherry, combined with a subtle earthiness and hints of spice. On the palate, the Audrey was pure elegance and sophistication, delivering balanced and structured fruit, mineral, and acid flavors that all combined into a long, smooth finish.

We paired the '08 Audrey on the first night with a grilled pork tenderloin, roasted fennel and asparagus, orzo, and olive bread. This wine was even better on the second evening when we paired it with roasted chicken thighs, tomatoes, and garbanzo beans, accompanied by pita bread and Greek yogurt. With each dinner, we really enjoyed how the Audrey complemented our food.

In addition to its attractive aroma and flavor profile, the '08 Audrey offers an opportunity to experience part of Oregon's wine history. This is a true vineyard-designate wine, comprised of biodynamic fruit from two blocks that Scott Paul leases within the Maresh Vineyard, which is located in the Dundee Hills. The Maresh Vineyard was first planted in 1970, making it one of the older sources of pinot noir in the Willamette Valley.

Just as the winemakers, Scott Paul and Kelley Fox, suggest in their tasting notes, the '08 Audrey is "delicious and very charming even now, and likely at its best 2013+". Considering its $65 price point, I could envision my remaining five bottles of Audrey aging gracefully in my cellar to enjoy several years from now. If there is to be an exercise in delayed gratification, then this Oregon pinot noir is a good place to start. That is, as long as I can keep myself from drinking it now.

Regardless of when you choose to enjoy the Scott Paul 2008 Audrey Pinot Noir, this wine is one to see, smell, taste, savor, and repeat with each bottle opened. And when that one is finished, it's well within reason to open another.

Related Links
Scott Paul Audrey Wine Page and Tasting Notes
Connections: Scott Paul Wines