2004 Elk Cove Pinot Noir Willamette Valley - Windhill Vineyard - Tasted at the NOWFE Oregon Pinot Noir Seminar. Decanted for approximately 1 hour. Served in Riedel Rest. Burgundy Glasses. This was, by far, the finest wine of the tasting. All eight people at my table were in complete agreement. This wine was simply heads and shoulders above the rest of the Pinots. Crystal clear rich ruby & purple in color. The nose is lively and fresh, full of fresh cut strawberries, crushed blackberries, and raspberry jam. There are also some powerful scents of plum and a very nice meaty aroma coming through that is reminiscent of sizzling bacon. GREAT NOSE!!! Tasting this wine is almost like biting into a fresh juicy plum. You can almost feel the soft flesh as you chew and feel the cool sweet juice on your lips. The plum flavor is so very prominent, but there is also lots of cedar and a fresh mineral component in the foreground, as well. The tannins are smooth and velvety. In the background there are wonderful flavors of roasted meat juices, Provencal herbs, fresh tilled earth, and sweet vanillin. So very smooth and the most complete and complex wine so far. Wonderful structure and a long, lingering finish is slightly tart, but refreshing and it works perfectly. Cellar or drink over the next 6-7 years. This is a great buy at the $38 retail price. 92 points