Benmar ‘Springbok’ Pinot Noir Yamhill-Carlton 2023

96 Points, Decanter (#1 Rated $30 Oregon Pinot Noir)

This is one that you need to take your time with – you’ll be happy you did. When I first opened it, the wine was a little shy, showing some jammy characteristics that had me wondering. But give it fifteen minutes of air, and holy heck does this thing transform. It’s like watching a completely different wine come to life in your glass.

Decanter describes it perfectly in their 96-point review: “The wine enchants the senses with a bouquet of violets, anise, and forest floor. Savory umami, floral, and spice-focused characteristics stand out on the palate, featuring spiced red and black fruits with aromatic red cedar and cola notes.”