Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Wine Spectator
This is on the lighter side in terms of structure, but it's packed with rich cherry, blackberry, cinnamon and dusky spice character that plays against the refined tannins on the long finish. A hint of tarry rock informs the aromas on the finish. Best from 2016 through 2022.
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Wine Enthusiast
Planted in 1997, this is the oldest estate vineyard. Four clones are in the mix, giving the wine more complexity and substance than many block selections offer. Cranberry, pomegranate, raspberry and cherry are all in play, with a very pretty, lightly candied character. The balance and length are just right for aging 2023–2025.
Cellar Selection
Home of some of the planet’s most amazingly elegant and expressive Pinot noir, the Willamette Valley is a pastoral, mixed landscape of green, bucolic rolling hills, dramatic forestlands and small, independent, friendly wine growers. As a leader in environmental stewardship, the valley has some of the nation’s most protective land use policies, with two-thirds of its vineyards farmed sustainably and over half, organically. While the valley claims a cool, continental climate, and is heavily influenced by the cold, moist winds of the Pacific Ocean, its warm and dry summers allow for the steady, even ripening of Pinot noir.
The potential of Willamette Valley Pinot noir continues to attract the investment of serious growers and winemakers both locally and from abroad, as naturally the finished wines bring accolades from professionals and enthusiasts. With a range of styles from delicate dried cherry, raspberry and hibiscus to stronger notes of truffle, mocha, plum and spice, a fine Willamette Valley Pinot noir is a perfect expression of both character and grace.