Lingua Franca AVNI Pinot Noir 2024 6x750ml

Lingua Franca AVNI Pinot Noir 2024 is an expressive, harmonious, and terroir-driven Oregon red wine crafted by Master Sommelier Larry Stone and the Lingua Franca winemaking team. The name "Avni" derives from the Hebrew word for "stone" or "rock," honoring the volcanic and marine sedimentary soils that define the Willamette Valley, as well as founder Larry Stone. Sourced from exceptional vineyard parcels throughout the valley (including a substantial proportion of estate-grown fruit from the Eola-Amity Hills), the grapes were vinified using wild yeasts and gentle extraction, followed by aging in fine French oak barrels with minimal new wood to preserve vibrancy and tension. In the glass, it shows a bright, jeweled ruby hue. The nose opens with an inviting bouquet of red cherries, wild raspberries, and cranberries, seamlessly accented by floral rose petals, dried herbs, orange peel, and subtle baking spice. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and silky yet structurally focused, displaying juicy red berry fruit, youthful chalky tannins, and an iron-like minerality that leads to a long, savory finish with notes of dark stones and bitter cocoa.

Food Pairing: Pan-roasted duck breast with cherry glaze, cedar-plank salmon, roasted pork tenderloin, wild mushroom risotto, or herb-roasted poultry.

94 Points - James Suckling