Lumos Five Block Pinot nor 05

Avalon's Wine Pick of the Week for 6-1-08

Lumos Winery
Five Block Pinot noir 05 $20.93/$23.25

 

If I could buy wine based on the charm of the winemaker, I would be swimming in the Lumos Five Blocks Pinot noir 05. As with everything Dai Crisp and Pk McCoy (at right) undertake, this wine is well made with full attention to detail yet is fun and full of life.

When I was tasting the Lumos Five Blocks Pinot noir 05, I exclaimed (in a rather loud voice that might have embarrassed my family) "wow, that's fantastic!" Brimming with bright red currant, marionberry and flecks of sweet pie spice it is an engaging and easy drinking Pinot. This is a wine that I want to plan a summer picnic around. The bright acidity will complement a charcuterie plate, the fragrant berry and herb notes will pair well will grilled salmon skewers and the sweet cinnamon and clove overtone will propel the wine all the way through a dessert course of red summer fruits and chocolate (not too dark) fondue. Add a few fun friends and a game of bocce and the evening will be complete.

Read More About Lumos and Temperance Hill Vineyard Once a Leading Man, Always a Leading Man: In the Vineyard with Dai Crisp by Amy Paul, Avalon Wine Temperance Hill Vineyard Manager Dai Crisp on Grape Vines and Great Wines by Alison Ruch Order Lumos Wine

Best of all the price tag is as friendly as its winemaker. At just $23.95, my younger cousin visiting from Iowa was excited to find an Oregon Pinot that he could afford and enjoy. He also denoted that "this is so good, it could sway me away from drinking beer!" A huge compliment from a college student and amateur brewer.