NICOLAS-JAY Pinot Noir 2014

(Willamette Valley, Oregon) $65

The brand new winery Nicolas-Jay (pronounced NEEK-o-la JAY) seems poised to be one of Oregon’s next superstar producers of pinot noir. A partnership between Jean-Nicolas Méo (of Burgundy’s famed Domaine Méo-Camuzet) and Jay Boberg (MCA/Universal Records), Nicolas-Jay just came out with their first pinot noir. The texture–supple and flowing like old silk—is the first thing you notice. But I also like the savory, minerally richness of the wine. There’s more fruit here than in most Burgundies; but less overt fruitiness than one finds in many California pinots. Oregon—it’s perfect “mid-prance”–for anyone who loves elegant pinot noir.

90 points