The Willamette Valley, Oregon’s leading wine region, has two-thirds of the state’s wineries and vineyards. It is recognized as one of the premier Pinot Noir–producing areas in the world. It is a vast and varied appellation that includes eleven nested appellations. At its widest point, this long, broad valley spans 60 miles. Protected from cold Pacific Ocean air and rainstorms on the west by the Coast Range mountains, the Valley follows the Willamette River for more than a hundred miles from the Columbia River near Portland to just south of Eugene. The Cascade Range to the east forms a natural boundary and protects against the opposite extreme: the dry, desert-like climate of eastern Oregon. Overall, the climate boasts a long, gentle growing season: warm summers with cool evenings, a long and lovely autumn with the first rainfalls of winter amid plenty of sunny days, and mild winters followed by long springs. Since Pinot Noir is the flagship grape of the region, we will sample three different wines all made with that varietal:

Amity Vineyards White Pinot Noir 2022 — Amity Vineyards, one of the first pioneering Oregon wineries, was founded in 1974 by winemaker Myron Redford, who moved to Oregon with a dream to make world-class Pinot Noir. He became known for his attention to detail and experimentation in the winemaking process, and as a result he was the first to produce organically grown, sulfite-free wines. Sourced from Hylo Vineyard located in the Northern Willamette Valley, the fruit was picked in the cool early morning and gently pressed to minimize color and tannin extraction yet provide the subtle layers of tart and juicy fruit. After settling for 24 hours, the juice is cleanly racked and fermented in a stainless-steel tank. Notes of pear, orange blossom and linen. 12% ABV. $22.99/$$7.50

Argyle Rosé 2022 — Winemaker Rollin Soles and viticulturist Allen Holstein have teamed up to produce world-class method champenoise sparkling wines, barrel-fermented Chardonnay, and silky-textured Pinor Noir from low-yielding vines that are winery farmed on some of the best hillside slopes and elevations in Willamette Valley. Argyle wines have received a total of 11 Wine Spectator Top 100 designations — more than any other winery in Oregon. Crafted using 100% Willamette Valley Pinot Noir, this Rosé balances the brightness and energy of its cool-climate origins with a lush underlying richness from the exclusive use of Pinot Noir. Aromas of candied strawberries, sandalwood, and dried earthy notes, and flavors red berries and spice. Fresh and lively. 12% ABV. $22.99/$7.50

Elk Cove Pinot Noir 2021 — In 1974, Pat and Joe Campbell bought an abandoned and overgrown homestead in the foothills of the Coast Range Mountains, converting the existing homesteader’s barn into a winery. Winemaker Adam Campbell joined forces with his parents in 1995 and Elk Cove remains proudly family owned. In this Pinot Noir, bright cherry and raspberry aromas complement notes of cinnamon and delicate violet, while the palate strikes a balance between juicy plum and boysenberry and complex, earthy cola and leather, finishing with chalky tannins and hints of crème brulée. The palate is light with generous, floral fruit, refreshing acidity and a soft, approachable frame, and it has a satisfying, spicy finish. 13.5% ABV. $35.99/$12

See you Friday!