Roots Sheboygandy Pinot Noir 2010

The name is a play on words combining the owners' Wisconsin roots and their admiration for Burgundy. Aromas suggest a fair amount of new oak was used here, lending a sweet and spicy aspect to the fruit flavors of strawberry and cherry. It's smooth and accessible, perfect for near-term enjoyment.

Born in Racine, Wisc., and raised in Idaho, Pennsylvania and Illinois, winemaker and winegrower Chris Berg didn't always know he wanted to make wine. In fact, when he graduated from the University of Kansas in Lawrence, with a bachelor's in English, he wasn't sure what his future held, as far as a career. Meanwhile his parents, Chuck and Dian Berg, had decided to relocate to Oregon from Illinois with the purchase of a manufacturing company in Tualatin, Ore. Chris soon followed and helped his parents at the plant, as well as the other reason for the big move: planting a small vineyard.