2009 Shea Wine Cellars Homer Willamette Pinot Noir (Red Wines / Pinot Noir)

2009 Shea Wine Cellars "Homer" Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

94pts (WA) There are no such issues regarding the 2009 Pinot Noir Homer, a selection of the best barrels in the cellar. Dense, layered, and plush on the palate, it retains a sense of elegance along with plenty of richness as it sits in the glass. Unlike the 2008 Shea offerings which continue to demand cellaring, these are forward, friendly wines to drink while waiting for the 2008s to strut their stuff.

Dick Shea has more than 20 clients for the fruit he grows at his large Yamhill-Carlton estate, most of whom vineyard designate the resulting wine. More often than not, it is the best wine in their respective portfolios and the one that sells out the most quickly. Currently Shea retains 25% of the fruit to go under the winery label. The wines are made by the talented Drew Voit with the vineyards managed by Javier Marin. Jay Miller Robert parker's Wine Advocate No 197 October 2011

92pts(WS) Ripe and fleshy, brimming with cocoa-tinged blackberry, cherry and spice flavors, coming together seamlessly on the long, expressive finish. Drink now through 2019. 343 cases made. –Harvey Steiman Wine Spectator December, 2011

2008 Vintage rated 96 pts Parker

As always we have selected the best barrels in the cellar to create Homer. This Homer is a blend of 56% Wadenswil and 44% Dijon 777. Dark, opulent and ripe, this wine offers aromas of spice that hint at the velvety blackberry, plum and black cherry flavors that explode on the pallet. It all ends in a long, long finish.