Region: Eola-Amity Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon

Vintage: 2017

Composition: Pinot Noir

History: Running north to south, adjacent to the Willamette River, the Eola-Amity Hills AVA has shallow and well-drained soils created from ancient lava flows (called Jory), marine sediments, rocks and alluvial deposits. These soils force vine roots to dig deep, producing small grapes with great concentration. Like in the McMinnville sub-AVA, cold Pacific air streams in via the Van Duzer Corridor and assists the maintenance of higher acidity in its grapes. This great concentration, combined with marked acidity, give the Eola-Amity Hills wines—namely Pinot noir—their distinct character. While the region covers 40,000 acres, no more than 1,400 acres are covered in vine.

Tasting Notes: Plump, ripe and richly structured, with expressive blackberry and blueberry flavors accented by smoky anise and dark tea notes. The tannins are big but refined. Drink now through 2024.