When it comes to drinking US Pinot Noirs, my first impulse is to look to the Willamette (sounds like damn it) Valley. The Willamette Valley is Oregon’s primary wine region, boasts over 700 wineries and is recognized for producing excellent Pinot noir. Its cool climate, protected by surrounding mountain ranges, creates distinct wine character within short distances. The valley includes 11 nested appellations, Chehalem Mountains; Dundee Hills; Eola-Amity Hills; Laurelwood District; Lower Long Tom; McMinnville; Mount Pisgah, Polk County, Oregon; Ribbon Ridge; Tualatin Hills; Van Duzer Corridor and Yamhill-Carlton, each with unique attributes suitable for cool climate grape growing.
So when I saw the Valley being represented at the Boston Wine Expo, I couldn’t resist. Here are my notes from the wines presented.
Willamette Valley Vineyards 2021 – sustainable practices
The wine showcases the quintessential “Willamette Valley style,” boasting delightful scents of cherry, raspberry, and cranberry mingled with floral and baking spice notes that create a refined aroma. Its texture is smooth and full-bodied, with a velvety mouthfeel, and it presents a complex flavor profile of dark fruit, earth, game, and minerality. The wine achieves exceptional balance with its seamlessly integrated tannins, harmonious acidity, and lingering finish.
$25 
Stoller 2021
The wine displays a deep, ruby red hue and an enticing aroma of blue fruits infused with delicate spices, succulent herbs, and fragrant flowers, with a subtle earthy undertone. On the palate, it is delicately chewy and exhibits a focused character, gradually revealing flavors of bitter cherry that evolve gracefully. The wine’s long and spicy finish is highlighted by a hint of smokiness and the gradual emergence of tannins that add complexity to its overall structure.
$25
Elk Cove Goodrich Vineyards 2021 – abide by the sustainability principles laid out in the Slow Wine Manifesto.
The wine reveals a luscious aroma of dark cherry fruit, which is balanced by the presence of black tea and spice resulting in a pleasant and refined quality. The wine possesses a generous structure and a pleasing lift that culminates in a satisfying finish accentuated by notes of anise and vanilla.
$55 
Winderlea Dundee Hills Vineyard 2019 – certified biodynamic
The wine displays a brilliant ruby hue that is captivating. Its bright spiced berries aroma is accompanied by subtle hints of citrus and floral accents that add a touch of refinement to the overall profile. On the palate, the wine exhibits excellent depth, with ripe raspberry and cherry flavors that are refreshingly juicy. The wine’s graceful tannins complement its smooth and velvety finish, which is characterized by its refined texture and a perfect balance of flavors.
$55.
Alexana Revana Vineyards 2019 – LIVE Certified sustainable
The wine’s deep magenta hue is the first thing that catches the eye, followed by an alluring aroma of spiced red fruit, tinged with hints of delicate flowers, candied fruit, and black raspberry. It boasts a juicy texture and a well-balanced acidity that accentuates the flavor profile. The wine’s finish is long and spicy, with a touch of finesse, which is characteristic of the carefully selected earthy tannins that add depth and complexity to its structure. Overall, this wine is a treat for the senses, with its harmonious blend of flavors and nuanced aroma.
$65.
Bledsoe-McDaniels WIllamette Valley 2021 – organic and regenerative practices
The wine is highly intense and youthful, boasting a delightful aroma of toasty oak infused with notes of berry and black tea, which is sure to please the senses. On the palate, it is extremely soft and refined, exhibiting a silky texture that is both inviting and satisfying. The wine’s long finish is highlighted by a subtle spiciness that adds a layer of complexity to the overall experience. While it is already drinking beautifully, it is certain to improve with age, allowing the wine to develop even more nuances and subtleties that are sure to impress. Overall, this wine is an exceptional choice for those who appreciate a well-rounded and carefully crafted wine that is both delicious now and promises even greater enjoyment with time.
$85.
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