Sojourner, Pinot Noir, 2018

Rocky, smoky and volcanic on the nose, with a fine line in wild hedgerow berries behind that stoniness, then flowers and a touch of light spice (from the 30% whole cluster fermentation). It's a compelling nose that plays crispness off against depth and spice. On the palate, notes of fallen leaves, black tea, raw cacao and smoky minerality add an autumnal side to the rosehip, black plum and morello cherry fruit. Sojeau is a cool site towards the southern end of the Eola-Amity hills, directly facing the Van Duzer corridor, and this comes across clearly in this measured, elegant 2018 that shows off a lovely combination of depth and drive.