Since it's first release in 1997, our Estate Reserve Pinot Noir has always represented "the best of the best" that we coax out of our Belle Pente estate vineyard each year.  It is a selection of outstanding individual barrels from the best parts of the vineyard, including our original 1994 planting next to the winery and the steep section just above it planted in 1998. In this 2017 version, all of the grapes originated from these prime southwest facing blocks.

This 2017 version also continues our migration toward adding a little whole cluster fermentation to our top wines. This rendition includes around 12% whole bunches, providing more aromatic complexity and slightly more pronounced tannins. As in prior vintages, the clonal mix is heavily weighted toward the Wadensvil selection (58%) with the balance Dijon 777 and 115. Although this is not a shy wine, it shows the restraint and elegance that is the hallmark of the 2017 vintage. Look for dark black fruit flavors and aromas complimented by licorice, dried herbs, and flowers.

Our Estate Reserve Pinot noir routinely takes it place among the most acclaimed bottles from the Willamette Valley each year. It also consistently represents one of the best values in top-shelf New World Pinot noir. This wine has the underlying structure to be enjoyed over the next 20 years. We would recommend decanting it for near term consumption.

150 Magnums Produced