
Luke Jefferson Pinot Noir 'Symbion' 2018
Winemaker Steve Doerner has been making wine for 37 years, 14 years at Calera in California and 23 years at Cristom in Oregon. Luke Jefferson is his new wine project with very small production. The wine is named as an homage to his 2-year-old son, Luke Jefferson Doerner, and is also a nod to Thomas Jefferson, who Steve admires. Steve’s spouse, Irene Steh-Doerner, is also part of the family project. The wine allows Steve to pursue making a wine that suits his personal vision and palate apart from the Cristom style.
Bright ruby red. Packed with red fruits and spice, there is nothing shy about these aromatics. Fleshes out with some air, focused bitter cherry, red berry and spice on the palate with added forest floor complexity. The finish is lingering and slightly tannic.
These are special wines from a special grower. Do yourself a favour. If you have patience, tuck a few bottles away for several years ... you will be rewarded.