2023 Pinot Noir, Palmer Creek Vineyard NEW!

This release is the very first for this wine and we are excited about it! Palmer Creek Vineyard is in the Eola–Amity Hills AVA which is located in roughly the middle of the Willamette Valley just northwest of Salem. This special region has a reputation for being a little cooler than most of the other AVA's in Oregon, and we have been curious about it since we began our adventure with Oregon Pinot Noir. Palmer Creek’s unique temperature range is a result of the elevation and its position due east of the Van Duzer Corridor. The Van Duzer corridor provides a break in the Coast Range that allows cool Pacific Ocean air to flow through. Summer ocean winds vented through the corridor often result in dramatic late afternoon drops in temperature. During the growing season, average maximum temperatures at the middle elevations range from 62 °F in April to 83 °F in July. These factors contribute to the ideal conditions for the cool-climate grape varieties such as Pinot Noir.

Much of Palmer Creek Vineyard was planted in 2020 with the balance planted in 2026, the year the AVA was established. The site is stunning and the farming is impeccable. In fact, it is farmed by the same vineyard management company that planted it, which is now run by the son. While it has delightful new owners, the farming team has been consistent from the start, and they are amazing!

The personality of this Pinot Noir is delicate and opulent, feminine and complex, pretty and balanced, a classic Oregon Pinot Noir from a cooler region. The aromas of dried fruit, raspberry jam, and red currant combine with dried violets and baking spice. These characters carry through onto the palate and then blanket your mouth with smooth, rich flavors. While the fruit profile leans to the red spectrum and its aromas are delicate, it has excellent depth and complexity. It also is even better the next day after opening, which is a sign that this wine will age beautifully.