Saturday, July 25th, 2015
Flash Sale; New Arrivals; Pinot Case Prices; Oregon AVA Highlights; Don’t Miss – VinopolPick Highlights Featuring Crowley Wines
Highlight New Arrivals
Shafer Vineyards Hillside Select Cabernet Sauvignon, Stags Leap District
Hundred Acre 2010 750ML ($399.95) $319 special
100 POINTS ROBERT PARKER “A remarkable wine, the 2010 Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select has gone from strength to strength since it was in cask. It is stunningly rich, with classic, fragrant notes of blackcurrants, blackberries, vanilla, graphite and spring flowers. It exhibits an opaque purple color, with a full-bodied, massive mouthfeel, but no heaviness, and again, a flawless integration of acidity, tannin, alcohol and wood. It’s classic California Cabernet, but beautifully put together, showing impeccable craftsmanship and fabulous potential. This is obviously a very young, infantile style of Cabernet that won’t hit its prime for at least another decade and last close to half a century, based on how older vintages that were less well-endowed have matured from Shafer.” RP
Hundred Acre Few and Far Between Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2011 750ML ($419.95) $369 special
94-96 POINTS ROBERT PARKER “Another great success that escaped the insidious spread of botrytis on the valley floor is the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Few and Far Between. One of the top wines of the vintage, the Cabernet Franc component gives the wine a multidimensional aromatic display of forest floor, blueberries, mulberries, black raspberries, plums, black currants and a wet rock-like minerality. The rich, full-bodied flavors seem almost an anomaly in this vintage given its extraordinary irregularity and frequent disappointments. This prodigious 2011 is a candidate for the wine of the vintage.”
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Mid-West, East & South
Summer Shipping Saver
Whisk your wine through warmer weather!
Now for the summer season we are offering UPS Three Day Select Service for the price of UPS Ground for shipments normally travelling 4 or more business days.
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New Weekend New Arrivals
OREGON
Beaux Freres Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2013 750ML ($59.95) $51.90 special
From the winery: “A glowing medium ruby color. Redolent of Juicy strawberry and bright cherry fruit on the nose. Aromatic intrigue is heightened by the slight damp earth and warm spice components. ¬e fruit follows through on the velvety textured palate. A great balance of fruit purity and a hedonistic lushness. Aging potential 5-10 years. Our Willamette Valley cuvée features fruit grown on select vineyard sites in the Northern Willamette Valley. The wines benefit from the same winemaking process as our estate wines. The sites are farmed sustainably and managed to very low yields. We age the wine in the same French oak barrels used in our estate bottling, however the percentage of new oak is intentionally lower.”
WASHINGTON
Owen Roe Yakima Valley Red 2012 750ML ($29.95) $26 special
Winery note “This signature Yakima Valley Red Wine is a unique blend of the varietals we feel best represent each vintage. Chosen from several vineyards in the Yakima Valley, with a medium ruby hue that leads to aromas of raspberry, candied cherry, pink peppercorn, sage and mulling spices. The palate is brimming with ripe red plum and complex notes of black tea, savory herbs, yellow bell pepper and cinnamon. The 2012 vintage leaves a sweet and lingering finish with firm tannins. Aged in French oak barrels for 20 months in 20% new oak barrels. The blend consists of 36% Merlot,, 35% Cabernet Franc, 27% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Malbec from the following vineyards: Red Willow, DuBrul, Union Gap, Outlook and Elerding.”
Owen Roe DuBrul Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Yakima Valley 2012 750ML ($79.95) $66 special
Winery note “At this young age, we are already picking up lovely aromas of dried figs, cinnamon and black currant. Flavors of herbaceous okra and green pepper show through as a hint with pronounced nuances of chocolate, graham and blackberry. The elegant mouthfeel is balanced with lush tannins and a long finish.”
Owen Roe Red Willow Vineyard 1973 Block Cabernet Sauvignon, Yakima Valley 2012 750ML ($79.95) $66 special
Winery note “This Cabernet Sauvignon is an essential wine for Washington state, as the fruit is sourced from the original vines planted in 1973. These old vines provide beautiful depth and elegance each year. This warm vintage created another Red Willow classic! Aromas of cigar box, toasty oak, licorice and bright berry fruits are graced with flavors of pink peppercorn, vanilla, smoked cherries and a touch of dusty earth. This velvety textured Cabernet Sauvignon is a bit tight now, so we recommend decanting for an hour or two if opened immediately. Cellar for 12+ years.”
Owen Roe Cabernet Sauvignon, Yakima Valley 2012 750ML ($49.95) $39 special
Winery note “Our staff was pleasantly surprised by the upfront fruit aromas of this Yakima Valley Cabernet Sauvignon blend and feel that it is an approachable young wine, ready for enjoyment or for cellaring long-term. Aromas of blackberry Kirsch, sweet berry, cedar and vanilla are mouthwatering and nicely structured with a full mouthfeel and gripping tannins. These aromas are present in the flavors of this wine, which also pick up hints of cinnamon, allspice and black licorice, leading to a clean finish with notes of toasty oak and fresh plum.”
FRANCE
Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Hermitage Blanc, Rhone, France 2012 750ML ($319.95) $219 special
96 POINTS WINE ADVOCATE “Much more open, fleshy and sexy, the 2012 Hermitage Blanc was just bottled a month prior to this tasting. Coming from l’Ermite, Les Rocoules, Maison Blanche and Peleat lieux-dits, it’s always a rough blend of 80% Marsanne and 20% Roussanne that’s aged in barrel. Loaded with notions of honeysuckle, orange marmalade, powered rock, buttered citrus and green almond, it’s full-bodied, rich, upfront and fruit loaded. While I think it will be a relatively accessible early in its life, it has the concentration to hold for two decades.” WA
94-96 POINTS JOSH RAYNOLDS–VINOUS “Tasted in single-site components from tanks as the wine awaited blending: #1, from Peleat: Ripe pear and honey aromas, with a suave floral accent and a hint of smoky minerals. At once rich and lively, showing excellent back-end power. #2, from Rocoules: Intense, mineral-accented citrus and orchard fruit aromas, with a sexy floral nuance building with air. Bright, focused and mineral-driven, with a strong Meyer lemon quality lingering on the tangy finish. #3, also from Rocoules: Showing more emphasis on orchard fruit than the first Rocoules tank, with powerful quince and pear flavors and a touch of bitter quinine. Dusty minerals sharpen the long, sappy finish. #4, from l’Ermite: Spicy citrus zest and ginger scents along with a chalky mineral note and a hint of anise. Smoky and penetrating, with superb finishing clarity and lingering spiciness. #5, also from l’Ermite: More floral and masculine than the previous l’Ermite, with strong jasmine and orchard fruit character and a touch of bitter quinine. Bright and nervy on the finish, which doesn’t want to let up.” JR
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $225
Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Hermitage, Rhone, France 2012 750ML ($319.95) $228 special
94-97 POINTS WINE ADVOCATE “Looking at the 2012 Hermitage, which is still resting in barrels and getting ready to be bottled, it’s a much more classic, easy to read Hermitage that has lots of ripe, sweet fruit in its full-bodied, concentrated, textured profile. It has copious sweet blackberry and cassis fruit, violet and serious granite-like minerality, superb mid-palate depth and a focused, structured finish. It’s a beautiful, classy 2012 that will have 20-25+ years of longevity.” WA
95-97 POINTS JOSH RAYNOLDS–VINOUS “Presented as components from four different barrels: #1, from Beaume: Exotic scents of candied licorice, dark berries and smoky Indian spices. Fleshy and broad on entry, then tighter in the middle, displaying superb depth to its bitter cherry and floral pastille flavors. #2, from Peleat: Explosive red fruit and potpourri aromas, with a bright mineral overtone. Silky and sweet, offering vibrant raspberry and cherry compote flavors and a touch of bitter chocolate. The red fruit note echoes strongly on the back half. #3, from Meal: Fleshier and rounder than the first two components, offering plush dark berry and violet flavors that coat the palate. Chewy tannins build on the finish and fold smoothly into the wine’s dense fruit. #4, from Bessards: Emphatic mineral and dark berry aromas pick up a sexy floral note and a hint of cola. Sappy, penetrating and sharply focused, displaying an impressive array of red fruit and floral qualities and strong finishing spiciness. Jean-Louis Chave told me he thinks this wine will be “classic Hermitage with an emphasis on fruit, not structure, but not lacking in structure at all–just compared to, say, 2010 and 2005.” JR
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $239
ITALY
San Felice Campogiovanni Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany, Italy 2010 750ML ($59.95) $49 special
96 POINTS JAMES SUCKLING “Perfect aromas to this red with licorice, stone, peach pit, plum, leather and iron. Full body, fine, silky tannins that support a deep, rich fruit concentration showing black fruit, Tuscan dust and oyster shell. Needs four or five years to soften but an amazing finish.” JS
Fanti Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany, Italy 2010 750ML ($44.95) $36 special
94 POINTS WINE SPECTATOR “A big, powerful red, with dense tannins and black cherry and blackberry flavors. Balanced in a muscular way, this remains tight and brooding despite the long, fresh finish. Shows potential. Best from 2020 through 2038. 1,600 cases imported.” WS
Fanti ‘Vallocchio’, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Italy 2010 750ML ($69.95) $49 special
94 POINTS WINE SPECTATOR “Full of cherry, plum and spice flavors, this is shaded by a touch of oak. Rich and smooth overall, showing ample tannins underneath and a full, expansive finish. Exhibits fine balance and expression. Best from 2018 through 2032. 0400 cases imported.” WS
GERMANY
Forstmeister Geltz-Zilliken Saarburger Riesling Kabinett, Mosel, Germany 2011 750ML ($24.95) $18 special
91 POINTS WINE ADVOCATE The 8% alcohol Zilliken 2011 Saarburger Riesling Kabinett displays juicy peach, honeydew melon, cherry and lime on a delicate palate, and brings to bear not only shimmering smoke and stone but remarkably efficacious salinity in a finish that left my salivary glands pumping for joy. Acidity here is analytically speaking remarkably high for the vintage; but more importantly, so is an attendant sense of vivacity and refreshment. Expect this classic of its genre and fine value to be well worth following through at least 2030.” DS
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $18.98
Forstmeister Geltz-Zilliken Saarburger Rausch Riesling Kabinett Erste Lage, Mosel, Germany 2013 750ML ($37.95) $21.90 special
Forstmeister Geltz-Zilliken Saarburger Rausch Riesling Kabinett Erste Lage, Mosel, Germany 2013 375ML
($21.95) $14 special
91 POINTS WINE ADVOCATE “Even more concentrated, delicate and piquant on the nose than the Saarburger Kabinett (which is sourced from the Rausch as well) the 2013 Riesling Kabinett Saarburger Rausch is a rich, sappy, juicy, piquant and elegant Riesling with an extremely stimulating and lush fruit intensity. With 7.5% alcohol the wine is light (though not light-bodied) but intense in its tropical fruitiness with mango, peach and pineapples flavors. Almost a Spätlese, even for Zilliken, but again “not explosive enough,” says Dorothee.” SR
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Schloss Lieser-Thomas Haag Lieserer Niederberg Helden Riesling Grosses Gewachs, Mosel, Germany 2013 750ML ($59.95) $39 special
91 POINTS WINE ADVOCATE “The 2013 Niederberg Helden Grosses Gewächs opens very clear, precise and aromatic on the nose revealing a very pure, lemon and herbal-scented bouquet. Full-bodied, clear and juicy in the mouth this is a fruit intense and piquant Riesling with a persistently salty finish. Quite rich and powerful for Schloss Lieser but that’s a reflection on the cru’s nature with its richer and more weathered slate soils compared to the Juffer Sonnenuhr.” SR
91 POINTS JOEL B. PAYNE–VINOUS “Savory aromas of dried apricot, blackberry and nut oil, with something smoky behind it all. Dense berry fruit with finely polished minerality animate the palate. Elegant, lively and spicy on the alluring finish, this wine is only beginning to show its pedigree. It is certainly one of the two or three finest dry Rieslings of the vintage on the Mosel.”
Karthauserhof Eitelsbacher Riesling Grosses Gewach 2013 750ML (69.95) $59 special
Karthauserhof Eitelsbacher Riesling Grosses Gewach 2013 375ML ($39.95) $33 special
93 POINTS WINE ADVOCATE “Very clear, discreet and refined on the nose – where the 2013 Eitelsbacher Karthauserhofberg Riesling GG displays fine stone and fruit aromas of lemons and green apples. Lean and vital but also intense, rich and juicy on the palate, this is a lovely pure, straightforward, piquant and very salty expression of the Karthäuserhofberg terroir and the 2013 vintage. This long-distance runner has more fruit intensity than the Edition and reveals a very fine raciness and a complex finish with lingering lemon aromas.” WA
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Just a reminder about our current shipping specials during this season:
For the Mid-West, East, and South during the summer season we are offering UPS Three Day Select Service for the price of UPS Ground for shipments that would normally travel four or more business days to their destination.
We offer flat rate shipping on any size single order / single shipment
-to Oregon for $17,
-Washington & Idaho for $20,
-and California for $25
These rates do not apply to orders held in storage here for any reason. Multiple orders consolidated into one shipment do not qualify for flat rate shipping.
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A Case, Of Course
We offer over 110 diverse, deeply discounted case prices, such as:
Our case deals are listed on our website under “DozenDeals” or by searching for the name of the wine
CALIFORNIA
Case-12 Domaine Chandon Blanc De Noirs NV 750ML ($249.95) $156 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $13/bottle!)
Domaine Chandon Blanc De Noirs NV 750ML ($24.95) $16 special, 16 bottles available
“Floral raspberry aromas lead to crisp and appealing citrus, spice and cherry flavors, with a lively finish. Drink now.” -Wine Spectator
FRANCE-BURGUNDY
Case-6 Mischief and Mayhem Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2011 750ML ($149.95) $89 special, 5 six-pack cases available (that’s only $14.83/bottle!)
Mischief and Mayhem Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2011 750ML ($29.95) $16 special, 36+ bottles available
Importer notes “Hard work amongst the vines, fine vintage conditions and superb Pinot Noir vineyard sites with an average vine age of 45 years, all combine to produce this classic Bourgogne Pinot Noir. Beautiful pure, ripe fruit, so typical in 2011, light barrel treatment and élevage in stainless steel tank, all integrate to produce a wine of real purity, ripe fruit character, structure and finesse. Aroma: Complex nose of strawberry, raspberry, redcurrant and violets, with notes of vanilla and cinnamon spice. Taste: Lovely texture, good grip, yet supple and round with ripe tannins and soft acidity. Delicious red fruit notes, including juicy raspberry and red cherry with hints of blackberry, mocha, dark chocolate, spice and sandalwood. Soft, pure, and focused finish.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $24.99
Case-12 Gachot-Monot Bourgogne Rouge Chant de Muses 2012 750ML ($319.95) $219 special, 1 case available (that’s only $18.25/bottle!)
Gachot-Monot Bourgogne Rouge Chant de Muses 2012 750ML ($31.95) $21.90 special, 18 bottles available
“The 2012 Bourgogne Cuvee Chant de Muse, which comes from two climats on the limit of the Chambolle appellation, has better delineation on the nose compared to the Bourgogne Rouge, the fruit a little darker. The palate is medium-bodied with dark cherry and blackberry notes. The acidity is higher with an edgy and tense finish. This is very fine. Drink now-2018.”–Wine Advocate
This is the only listing in the USA today!
Case- 12 Albert Bichot Savigny-les-Beaune 2012 750ML ($319.95) $219 special, 5 cases available (that’s only $18.25/bottle!)
Albert Bichot Savigny-les-Beaune 2012 750ML ($29.95) $21.90 special, 36+ bottles available
Winery note “Tasting notes: This Savigny les Beaune has a deep ruby red robe. Fruity aromas of red and black woodland berries, enhanced by aromas of mild spices. With an initial pleasant ampleness , this harmonious wine leads on to a subtle and fruity finish.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $25.99
Case-12 Joseph Drouhin Chorey-les-Beaune 2012 750ML ($299.95) $249 special, 3 cases available (that’s only $20.75/bottle!)
Joseph Drouhin Chorey-les-Beaune 2012 750ML ($27.95) $22.70 special, 36+ bottles available
Antonio Galloni 88 points “A tasty, entry-level offering, the 2012 Chorey-les-Beaune stands out for its beautiful bright red fruit, expressive floral overtones and vibrant saline notes. Delineation, tension and energy are the hallmarks. This is a beautifully balanced wine in its class.” AG
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
Case-12 Camille Giroud Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2012 750ML ($359.95) $299 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $24.92/bottle and the lowest listed price in the USA today!)
Camille Giroud Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2012 750ML ($34.95) $28 special, 18 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 88-89 points “The 2012 Bourgogne Rouge impresses for its clarity of fruit, depth and flavor. Dark cherry, plum, spice and new leather all flesh out in a supple, inviting Bourgogne loaded with sheer appeal. There is a lot to like here, including a level of pure resonance that is rare at this level.” AG
Case-12 Louis Jadot Pommard 2010 750ML ($479.95) $359 special, 1 case available (that’s only $29.92/bottle!)
Louis Jadot Pommard 2010 750ML ($59.95) $33 special, 18 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 88-90 points “The 2010 Pommard is a gorgeous village-level wine laced with silky red fruit, crushed flowers, spices and mint. The higher-altitude location of the plots used for the Pommard gives the wine an amount of pure textural finesse that is highly unusual for a wine of this level. Soft, floral notes round out the finish. In 2010 the Pommard is made mostly from estate fruit.” AG
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
The next best price is $42.95
Case-12 Camille Giroud Santenay Rouge 2012 750ML ($499.95) $419 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $34.92/bottle!)
Camille Giroud Santenay Rouge 2012 750ML ($49.95) $39 special, 24 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 89-90 points “Giroud’s 2012 Santenay is striking. Here the flavors are savory and quite powerful. Iron, graphite and minerals add complexity in a dark, muscular Santenay loaded with personality. The 2012 finishes with fabulous length, energy and perfume. About 20% of the Santenay is declassified 1er Cru fruit.” AG
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
ARGENTINA
Case-12 Bodega del Rio Elorza ‘Verum’ Pinot Noir, Rio Negro 2012 750ML ($249.95) $159 special, 2 cases available (that’s only $13.25/bottle!)
Bodega del Rio Elorza ‘Verum’ Pinot Noir, Rio Negro 2012 750ML ($24.95) $16 special, 37 bottles available
Wine Advocate 89 points “The 2012 Verum Pinot Noir Classic shows a light translucent ruby color, and a clean, fruity nose with notes of cranberry, acid raspberry and some leafy aromas. It has very polished tannins, good acidity, persistence and length. A pleasure to drink. Drink now-2016.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
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Oregon AVA Highlights
Willamette Valley AVA
The Willamette Valley AVA was established in 1983. The first vinifera plantings were done in the 1060s by David Lett, Charles Coury and Dick Erath. The AVA is 5,200 square miles that follows the drainage basin of the Willamette River. The climate is mild, with warm days during the growing season and cool nights. There is a wide variety of soil types, and are composed of old volcanic matter (and some from the Mount Saint Helens eruption in 1980) and sedimentary sea beds with gravel and silt. Today, there are over 400 wineries and almost 650 vineyards in the Valley (which encapsulates the other AVAs of Yamhill-Carlton, Dundee Hills, Eola-Amity Hills, Chehalem Mountains, Ribbon Ridge and McMinnville).
Willamette Valley Featured Producer:
Domaine Serene
Ken and Grace Evenstad founded the estate in the 1990s. They replanted the vineyards of Jory soil (weathered red basalt) and constructed a gravity flow winery. The vineyards are green harvested to concentrate yields. The grapes undergo rigorous sorting and a high percentage of whole berries are used in the fermentation (though not whole clusters). The Evestad Reserve is the first barrel selection and while it sees more new oak than the Yamhill Cuvee, which is more fruit-driven, the barrels are pre-washed to minimize oaky flavors and ensure balance.
Ken Wright of Panther Creek and Ken Wright Cellars was the first consulting winemaker and Erik Kramer is their current winemaker. Domaine Serene has won numerous accolades including the naming of the Evestad Reserve as one of Wine Spectator’s Top Three Wines of the Year.
Domaine Serene Wines Available Here Now
Domaine Serene ‘Evenstad Reserve’ Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2011 750ML ($79.95) $69 special, 8 bottles available
Wine Enthusiast 91 points “Light and elegantly crafted, this iconic release is the textbook example of well-made cool-vintage Oregon Pinot Noir. It’s aromatic, floral and sillky. The tangy berry fruit is clean and ripe, though definitely on the lighter side. Pretty berry and cherry flavors are set against tart acids, with just a touch of milk chocolate from barrel aging.” WE
Domaine Serene ‘Yamhill Cuvee’ Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2011 750ML ($49.95) $41.90 special, 9 bottles available
Wine Enthusiast 90 points “The widely available Yamhill Cuvée is bright and polished, showing a tangy mix of cranberry and strawberry fruit. It’s built with precision, accenting the crisp fruit with streaks of lemon, orange and grapefruit.” WE
Willamette Valley Featured Producer:
Ken Wright Cellars
Ken Wright Cellars is a Willamette Valley producer in a true sense, since they produce wines from all of the AVAs. Named one of the two outstanding producers of Pinot by Robert Parker, the winery has an excellent reputation. Ken Wright founded Panther Creek Cellars and was the first winemaker at Domaine Serene. He founded Ken Wright Cellars in 1994. Originally from Kentucky, Wright transferred to UC Davis to study enology when he fell in love with wine while waiting tables for college.
KWC produces almost 15 different single-vineyard wines from vineyards with which they have long-term leases as well as from the estate vineyard, Abbott Claim. Despite the vast array of wines, attentive care is given, treating each vine as an individual and address their specific needs. The grapes are picked according to the ripeness level of each section of the row and grapes are hand-sorted on tables before being mostly destemmed. The wines are expressive and vary dramatically between each individual vineyard.
Ken Wright Cellars Wines Available Here Now
Ken Wright Cellars ‘Abbott Claim Vineyard’ Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2013 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 3 bottles available
Winery note “Floral & spice focused; tart cherry, pomegranate & grapefruit with notes of cardamom, anise and fresh cut pine. This site is a portion of the original John F. Abbott Donation Land Claim and lies in the middle of Savannah Ridge, a small east-west ridgeline of sedimentary rock just east of Carlton. This is a consistent broad face of land with soil depths of 30 inches to mother rock. Elevation ranges from 400′ to 475′ and the inclination is S-SE. Soils are mostly Wellsdale with some areas of Willakenzie, Melbourne and Peavine. All of them lie atop mother rock of fractured sandstone and siltstone. The planted acreage totals 17 acres. Vines are roughly an equal mix of Pommard clone on Riparia Gloire rootstock, 777 on 101-14 and 115 on both 101-14 and 3309. As would be expected from a vineyard in the Yamhill-Carlton District the wine is very darkly colored, dense and lush. Fruits tend to be darker such as plum, cassis and black cherry. Ken and Karen Wright own the vineyard. Mark Gould is the vineyard manager.”
Ken Wright Cellars ‘Canary Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2013 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 7 bottles available
Winery note “Fruit focused; modest structure, light tannins and bright acidity. Red and blue fruit – juicy red plum, pie cherry, and marionberry. Located at the southern end of the Eola Hills and faces east. The original vines were planted in 1983 and 1984. All of the acreage planted to Pinot noir was Pommard clone. Two and a half acres that were originally Chenin Blanc were replanted to Pommard and Dijon 114 clones. Six acres that were planted to Chardonnay were replaced with Dijon 777 clone. The entire 20 acres are now planted to Pinot noir. Elevation is 450′ to 550′. The soil is a mix of Jory and Nekia. Both are formed from igneous rock and have a reddish-brown tint. This site, however, has less depth than similar soils in the Dundee Hills. Wine from Canary Hill is typically very forward, with aromas of black cherry and cola. Approximately 625 cases are produced. The vineyard was owned, planted and tended for many years by Dick and Nancy Daniel. It is now owned by Ken and Karen Wright. Mark Gould and Seth Miller manage the vineyard.”
Ken Wright Cellars ‘Carter Vineyard’ Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2013 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 1 bottle available
Winery note “Fruit focused; moderate tannins and acidity. Blue and black fruit, black cherry, blueberry, blackberry and plum skin. Located just 1 mile from Canary Hill in the Eola Hills, Carter Vineyard is lower on the hillside yet has a leaner and less fertile soil. It is mainly Nekia soil, which is formed from weathered basic rock. It lies at an elevation of 325′ and was planted in 1983. This bottling is comprised of the Wadenswil, Dijon 777, Dijon 667, Dijon 115, and Pommard clones. The wine is much firmer than Canary Hill in its youth but evolves beautifully after a few years in bottle to show dark fruits and fresh, healthy earth scents. Approximately 650 cases are produced. The vineyard is owned by Jack and Kathleen Carter, and managed by Mark Gould.”
Ken Wright Cellars ‘Freedom Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2013 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 7 bottles available
Winery note “Floral & spicy focused; brighter acidity than most sedimentary sites. Red fruits, lush mouthfeel, juicy strawberry, watermelon with hints of leather & fresh-turned Earth qualities. Freedom Hill Vineyard is located in the Coast Range just south of Dallas, OR. The soil type is known as Bellpine, which is sedimentary in origin. The fruit from our 2.85 acre block is wholly Pommard clone. The vineyard was originally planted in 1980. Wines from this site were once the firmest and most structured that we worked with. After replanting from phylloxera devastation the site was refitted with a vertical shoot position trellis. This switch from a hanging trellis affords more shading of the fruit area. The less exposed berries have thinner skins and lighter tannin levels which allow the resulting wine to be lush and approachable at an earlier age. Approximately 340 cases are produced. The vineyard is owned and managed by Dan & Helen Dusschee.”
Ken Wright Cellars ‘Guadalupe Vineyard’ Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2013 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 5 bottles available
Winery note “Floral & spice focused; very forward & attractive in its youth with a depth of flavor – raspberry, black cherry, mulberry & five-spice. The vineyard was planted in 1989 and represents the definable change of the Jory soils of the Dundee Hills to the sedimentary soil of the Yamhill-Carlton District. It is spaced 7′ by 5′ and is planted to the Wadenswil and Dijon 115 clones. The soil, known as Willakenzie, is a well-drained shallow soil over siltstone. It lies at an elevation of 350′. The vineyard consistently produces small berries and clusters that are intensely colored. The wine possesses the character of blue fruits, cocoa, leather and earth. Approximately 400 cases are produced. Jim Stonebridge and Kathleen Boeve own the vineyard. It is managed by Joel Myers.”
Ken Wright Cellars ‘Savoya Vineyard’ Pinot Noir, Yamhill-Carlton District 2013 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 2 bottles available
Winery note “Floral & spice focused. Black cherry, cranberry, pomegranate with earthy cola and saddle leather notes. This is the first vineyard directly owned and developed by Ken Wright Cellars. The vineyard is located in the Yamhill-Carlton District northeast of Carlton. Planting began in 1999 with 4.5 acres of clones 777 and 115 on phylloxera resistant rootstock. Total planted acreage as of spring 2002 is approximately 17 acres. Vine spacing is 6.5′ x 4′ and the elevations averages 450′. The soil is comprised of marine sediments known as Wellsdale and Willakenzie. These are sandy soils which drain quickly and hasten the ripening process. Our first commercial crop, 2002, has produced a muscular wine that has aromas of dense black fruit, seared meat, cedar and anise. Approximately 240 cases are produced. Ken and Karen Wright are owners. The vineyard is managed by Mark Gould and Taylor Varuska.”
Ken Wright Cellars Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2013 750ML ($27.95) $24 special, 12 bottles available
“The Willamette Valley Pinot Noir is a blend of our traditional vineyards. Though not at the same level of complexity as the vineyard designates, this blend is extremely enjoyable, lush and full of pure, Pinot fruit. It is also a terrific value. The blend consists of fruit from Abbott Claim, Canary Hill, Carter, Freedom Hill, Guadalupe, McCrone, Meredith Mitchell, Nysa and Savoya vineyards.”
Eola-Amity Hills AVA
Established in 2006, this AVA is home to the oldest winery in the state (Honeywood, established 1933). It was first planted to vinifera vines in 1971 by Jerry and Anne Preston of Amity Vineyards. The AVA has a temperate climate. The Van Duzer Corridor directs cool Pacific Ocean air to its vineyards. The soil is mostly volcanic basalt with marine sedimentary rock and alluvial deposits. The vineyards are between 250 and 700 feet in elevation.
Eola-Amity Hills Featured Producer:
Evesham Wood/ Haden Fig
Russ Raney founded Evesham Wood Winery in 1986. He studied wine in Germany before eventually moving to Portland to find an ideal US site for Burgundian and Alsatian-style wines. He is now enjoying semi-retirement while importing southern French wines from Clos Canos and Chateau de Cabriac, among others. Erin Nuccio took over as wine-maker and owner after working several years with Russ while also developing his Haden Fig label.
The estate vineyard, Le Puits Sec, is planted on an east facing slope overlooking the Willamette River. It has iron-rich soils and is planted to several varieties. While the Evesham Wood wines tend toward elegance and the Haden Fig wines towards more fruit-forward notes, both are expressive examples of their (all dry-farmed) vineyards.
Haden Fig and Evesham Wood Wines Available Here Now
Haden Fig Juliette Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2011 750ML ($39.95) $33 special, 1 bottle available
Winery note “Red cherry, violet, dusty rose, silky texture with great length.”
Haden Fig Bjornson Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2013 750ML ($29.95) $27 special, 1 bottles available
Winery note “Set in the heart of the Eola Amity Hills, just south of the Seven Springs Vineyard, Bjornson Vineyard never fails to impress. Pattie and Mark Björnson’s meticulously managed, LIVE-certified sustainable operation continues to be our most fruit-forward source for Haden Fig and it leverages every bit of the liveliness at play in the slopes of Eola Amity. Reflecting the character of its environment, the 2013 Haden Fig Pinot Noir Bjornson Vineyard designate hints of wild berries, subtle earth, and fresh rosemary while delivering great length.”
Haden Fig Cancilla Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2013 750ML ($29.95) $27 special, 15 bottles available
Winery note “As he has for years, our good friend Ken Cancilla continues to grow exceptional organic, dry-farmed grapes for us. Cool, late-ripening fruit from this low-yield vineyard contributes to the structure of Haden Fig’s signature Willamette Valley Pinot Noir blend as well as our Cancilla Vineyard designate Pinot. Very fruit driven with dense dark cherry, creamy raspberry, a bright red cherry finish and perfect acidity.”
Haden Fig Croft Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2013 750ML ($29.95) $27 special, 10 bottles available
Winery note “The storied vines of the Croft family are located in the southern aspect of the northern Willamette Valley and nestled in the coastal foothills. Organically-farmed for 30 years and certified Salmon Safe since 2008, three generations of the Croft family continue to carry on a legacy of responsible growing and management that dates back to its earliest days. This bottle is about black cherry, and raspberry preserves and extends a firm grip to the finish. Wonderful. The Haden Fig 2013 Pinot Noir Croft Vineyard is certified organic.”
Evesham Wood Cuvee J Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2012 750ML ($49.95) $41.90 special, 36+ bottles available
Winery note “Every Spring I still drag Russ into the caves to taste through our Le Puits Sec barrels to determine the Cuvée J blend. Named in honor of Henri Jayer, the legendary Burgundian winemaker that Russ modeled much of his winemaking after we intend it to be our top cuvée worthy of the longest cellaring and capturing the vintage. Again this year’s blend is 6 barrels selected from Le Puits Sec. Certainly the most closed of our 2012 special cuvées, it’s easy to see the layers and complexity that are packed in the glass. This will easily age for a decade plus. 150 cases produced. Certified organically grown.”
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Evesham Wood Eola-Amity Hills Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2013 750ML ($27.95) $24 special, 3 bottles available
Winery note “Each and every spring, we set out to taste our Eola Amity Hills barrels with the idea of selecting and reserving the best offerings within. Once chosen, they are racked in to caves to rest for an additional ten months. Consistently one of our favorite bottlings, the 2013 Eola Amity blend will greet the front end of the palate with a rich, dense profile that marries pure black and red cherry with hints of cinnamon. The cherry follows through to the lively mid-palate where fresh herbs and plum flavors join and are followed by a silky finish.”
Evesham Wood Illahe Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2012 750ML ($31.95) $27 special, 2 bottles available
Winery note “Located about 15 miles southwest of Evesham Wood, Illahe Vineyard resides in the cool and misty foothills of the Coast Range. As with much of the fruit from Mahonia Vineyard, most of what originates from our friends at Illahe also makes its way into our Willamette Valley blend. But our favorite, most expressive barrels receive additional age in the caves. The 2012 is deliciously forward with dark berries and a velvety texture balanced with ample acidity.”
Evesham Wood La Grive Bleue Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2013 750ML ($29.95) $26 special, 7 bottles available
Winery note “Our 2013 La Grive Bleue bottling originates from the fruit of a unique two-acre block on the estate vineyard. As always, everything from this block is fermented, barreled and bottled separately. On the nose, the deeply concentrated dark cherry, juicy plum and aromatic baking spice are evident and are closely followed with beautifully balanced weight and dark, rich fruit. This bottling finishes with a hint of new oak and great length. Evesham Wood La Grive Bleue is certified organically grown.”
Evesham Wood Le Puits Sec Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2012 1.5L ($89.95) $79 special, 5 magnums available
Winery note “2012 produced a darker bottling, both in color and flavors. Dark cherry with hints of blackberry, typical Le Puits Sec plum flavors with a silky, creamy texture. Very forward and showing great now, I expect it to improve handsomely for the next 7-10 years. 500 cases produced. Certified organically grown.”
This is the lowest listed price in the USA today!
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Don’t Miss Out!
These wines might not have any fancy scores or professional reviews, but we think they are some of the most incredible wines flying under the radar today.
Crowley Winery Special Highlight
Tyson Crowley founded Crowley Wines in 2005 after working for several wineries in the Willamette Valley and New Zealand. He worked as the assistant winemaker at Cameron where he produced his first bottling of Entre Nous. Crowley sources grapes from family-owned vineyards in cooler, high-elevation sites that are dry-farmed (and he is a member of the Deep Roots Coalition). He consistently produces elegant and age-worthy reds that show superb aromatics and balance. The wines see minimal intervention and see extended aging in mostly neutral oak.
Crowley Entre Nous Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2012 750ML ($31.95) $27 special, 16 bottles available
Winery notes “This Pinot noir is our flagship blend. The wine is comprised exclusively of Pommard and Wadenswil clone Pinot noir from our best vineyard sites. Each barrel is hand selected resulting in a quintessential Oregon Pinot noir with extreme purity and depth of character.”
Crowley Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2013 750ML ($24.95) $21.90 special, 18 bottles available
Vinopolnote- A mid-weight Pinot Noir, very inviting for its purity and aromatic expression. A wine with energy; high-toned, balanced & bright. Made with fruit sourced from the La Colina, Tuckwilla and Gehrts Vineyards all in the Dunhee Hills.
Crowley Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2012 750ML ($47.95) $38 special, 14 bottles available
Winery note “Gehrts Vineyard (60%), La Colina Vineyard (40%) Dijon clone field blend, Pommard and Wadenswil. Back in the ’90s, when payphones dotted the earth and grunge was king, young Tyson Crowley got a job at Erath, and thus began his love affair with the Dundee Hills. From cellar rat at Erath to cellar master at Archery Summit and assistant winemaker at Cameron, the red clay soils of the Dundee Hills have been a consistent inspiration for Tyson. This wine is a culmination of his 19 years in the Dundee Hills and offers a signature palate of red fruit, earth and spice. Pommard and Wadenswil clones from La Colina and a Dijon clone field blend from Gehrts vineyard give this wine complexity and elegance. Pairs well with flannel and Pearl Jam.”
Crowley La Colina Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2010 750ML ($69.95) $59 special, 11 bottles available
Other Under the Radar Oregon Pinots
Elevee Vineyards Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills 2012 750ML ($47.95) $39 special, 6 bottles available
From the winery “With a brilliant garnet color, this delicate wine reveals cherries, raspberries, lilacs, dried tea leaf, and sweet tobacco, with hints of anise, mint and baking spice, around a mineral core. This is a full body wine, with lively acidity, and broad, fine tannin that persists pleasurably on the palate. The long finish lingers with a cascade of cherries and tea leaf, ending with a touch of clove, rose petal, and Dundee dust.”
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Goodfellow Family Cellars Whistling Ridge Vineyard Pinot Noir 2012 750ML ($37.95) $33 special, 4 bottles available
Winery note “The shallow sedimentary soils of Ribbon Ridge imbue the wines of this vineyard with elegant fruit, high toned spice and savory herb layered over bright acids and firm tannins. The most old-world of the single vineyard Pinot Noirs, Whistling Ridge is the slowest to develop but wonderful from the cellar.”
Harper Voit Antiquum Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2012 750ML ($59.95) $49 special, 8 bottles available
Wine Spectator 91 points “Firm in texture, with generous flavors of black tea-accented cherry and floral, persisting into an expressive finish. Best from 2016 through 2020.” WS
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Roco Marsh Estate Vineyard Pinot Noir, Yamhill-Carlton District 2012 750ML ($49.95) $36 special, 4 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 91 points “Vivid ruby-red. Sexy spice-laced black raspberry and cherry-cola aromas are complemented by deeper notes of mocha and licorice. At once lush and lively, offering broad dark berry flavors and a bracing kick of peppery spices. Silky tannins shape the finish, which clings with excellent clarity and persistent smoke and spice notes.” ST
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Vincent Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2013 750ML ($27.95) $24 special, 3 bottles available
Winery note “As with our Ribbon Ridge AVA bottling in the fall, this blend includes all barrels produced from the Eola-Amity Hills AVA that did not make the cut for our single vineyard bottlings. Thus, this wine blends Crowley Station Vineyard with Zenith and Bjornson, including all the press wine, for a slightly softer, broad flavored wine for drinking over the next several years. This fragrant, medium bodied wine shows all the bright fruit of the 2013 growing season tempered by end of season cool weather that allowed for ripeness at moderate sugar levels in the grapes. Nine barrels.”
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WildAire Cellars Zenith Vineyard Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills 2012 750ML ($49.95) $40.90 special, 6 bottles available
Winery note “Lovely aromatics of cherries, cloves, and bramble, integrate with toasty oak and rose petals. The soft entry evolves into flavors of cherry, plum, vanilla, with ample fine grained tannins that coast into a long finish. Try this wine with roasted pork loin and a pinot – Dijon mustard demi glace. ”
This is the only listing in the USA today!
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