Wine writers, reviewers, spouses and oeno-academics Nathan and Courtney Marton of Winery Reflections (who visited us back in 2019) recently shared a review of our 2018 Candide Nemarniki Vineyard Reserve Pinot noir.
Here’s what they had to say:
Courtney and Nathan Marton of Winery Reflections in the Bells Up estate vineyard.
Tart Bing cherry, pine needle, rhubarb purée. Barely-ripe black raspberry, ground coriander, fresh cranberry. Exceptionally energetic and expressive wafts of wild strawberry, crushed orange, red plum, and pomegranate radiate with deep yet electric intensity as herbal and natural notes of eucalyptus leaf, mint, forest floor, and foraged mushroom intricately complicate the multidimensional display.
A beautiful bouquet of blooming roses, dried lavender, and carnations gradually arise to provide layers of lifted floral perfume further bolstered in aromatics by cardamom, nutmeg, and a range of pronounced yet delicate spices. Hints of iron and tilled soil eventually emerge carrying a thread of intriguing earthiness that plays in harmony with the bevy of high toned and youthful fruit.
Excitingly pure, pretty, and fragrant on the nose with a palate that is vibrant and immensely characterful; exhibiting brilliant freshness and transparency while simultaneously remaining remarkably cerebral and complex. Medium in body with elevated yet soft tannin cut by bright acidity. This 2018 “Candide” Nemarniki Vineyard Reserve Pinot Noir by Bells Up Winery is a spellbinding and impressively authentic red from the Chehalem Mountains.
Located in the northern Willamette Valley above the town of Newberg, the Chehalem Mountains is a storied winegrowing appellation that has become famous as a hub for some of Oregon’s best Pinot Noir. This bottling, crafted by Bells Up Winery using Pinot Noir sourced from the Nemarniki Vineyard, showcases the exceptional depth, balance, and complexity that has put this small yet exciting region on the map.
Though it would surely benefit from a few years of cellaring to fully blossom and hit its highest drinking potential, this wine already bounds from the glass with highly aromatic and energetic red and black fruits enhanced by beautiful minty herbal charm, bright florals, earthy forest tones, and dainty yet delightful spice. It is wonderfully restrained and weightless on the palate yet still completely flavor-packed, and possesses ideal balance to pair perfectly with food. Outstanding.
