Of all Pinot Noir wines, Oregon Pinots might be the most prototypical “new world” examples of the grape. The earthiness — even skunkiness — of French Burgundies is absent in most Oregon Pinots, at least at reasonable price levels. The fruit takes center stage here, not the terroir.

Willamette Valley Vineyards’ newly released 2006 Pinot Noir is a perfect example of the new world wine, bursting wih juicy fruit, raspberry and cherry flavors overloading your palate. In a good way. You’ll get a hint of spice in the finish and a bit in the nose. Cloves, I think. It all comes together exceptionally well to create an easily drinkable, yet genuinely interesting, bottle of wine. Can’t wait to try their other bottlings.

P.S. Wanna be super-cool? Impress your friends by pronouncing it right: Wi-LAMM-it.

A- / $20 / willamettevalleyvineyards.com