Sorry for not getting this out sooner but the day job got in the way.
In reference to my last posting, this is a follow up to a recent
visit to Oregon wine country and the Willamette Valley. These are few more favorites I’d like to share. Now I can’t guarantee these are all available at your local wine store so I’ve included some web
links in case you want to reach out to the wineries directly.
From a small group of producers is the Carlton Winemakers Studio which basically offers wine makers a
place to produce their own wines and not have to deal with all the issues of
maintaining a large winery. Believe it
or not, this is a great idea and has become very popular in many wine-growing
regions. Some of the best wines I tried
on this visit came from here.
Lindsay Woodard has created a wonderful wine here. Dark cherries and roasted nuts on the
nose. Flavors of black currants, soft
tannins with hints of minerals place this wine in a category all on it’s own. Lindsay was named one of the Top Emerging
Producers by Wine Spectator. I’m so thankful to find her
wines. She also has one called “Manifest Destiny” which I was told only
produced 3 barrels and absolutely amazing.
- Duke’s Family Vineyard “Charlotte” Pinot Noir ’09 Floral and cherry cola aromas. Red currants, cherries and a hint of cola
with silky tannins on the finish.
First off, a big thank you to Michael who gave us a personal tour
of his vineyards, their history and future for their family owned business.
Pinot Noir, Bayliss-Bower
Vineyard '10 An earthiness followed by bright cherries
balanced the aromas well. Tastes of
black berries, a hint of pepper and smooth tannins pleasantly surprised me for
this younger wine.
Joe Dobbes has been known for his wine making in Oregon since 1989
and his new winery under his name has some great selections.
Dobbes Family Estate
Pinot Noir "Patricia's Cuvee" '09 Aromas
of wet leaves and mild toasted oak. Ripe
plums, dark cherries and subtle tannins rounded out the flavors to make this
one of the best finds during this trip.
One of the largest commercial producers in Oregon, these wines are
readily available throughout the USA.
Many are priced for affordability yet the one I liked best may not be on
the inexpensive side for some drinkers.
Estate Selection Pinot
Noir '09 Vanilla and baked cherry pie with hints of
floral aromas. Plums and currants offer
a fruit forward flavor. A subtle smoke
with silky tannins completes for a wonderful finish. At $34 retail, it's worth it.
Once again, thanks to all the wineries and vineyards who opened
their doors to tastings, educating me more and most of all your hospitality and
friendship.