At a glance

Producer

Penner-Ash Wine Cellars

Region

Willamette Valley, Oregon, USA

Grape variety

Pinot Noir

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$80-$120 USD (current secondary market prices as of 2024)

Tasting profile

Aromatic red fruits, dried cherry, baking spice, rose petal, leather, forest floor; earthy and elegant

Evolution: Fresh fruit has mellowed, secondary and tertiary notes (mushroom, dried leaf, tobacco) are more apparent

At peak: Peak was likely between 2018-2022; currently still elegant but with greater savory complexity and fading primary character

Structure

Acidity

Bright, though may be softening now

Tannins

Fine, resolved

Alcohol

13.5% (typical for vintage and style)

Aging potential

Was 10-12 years; nearing the end of this range

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2017 to 2022

Optimal window

2015 to 2023

Current status

Nearing end of optimal drinking window; fully mature

Current condition

Likely showing full tertiary complexity; drink soon, as further aging may result in oxidation and diminished fruit

2012 was an excellent vintage in Willamette Valley, with balanced ripeness and structure. The estate vineyard fruit is known for nuanced aromatics and fine tannins. By 2024, the wine is fully mature, with the last window for drinking now before tertiary flavors dominate and freshness fades.

Food pairing

Wild mushroom risotto, duck breast, roast salmon, grilled lamb, earthy vegetable dishes

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Integrated pest management, cover cropping, reduced synthetic inputs, water conservation practices, native vegetation protection, energy-efficient winery design, lightweight bottles

Penner-Ash Wine Cellars has committed to sustainability through the LIVE and Salmon-Safe certifications, which promote environmentally responsible viticulture, conservation of regional habitats, and waterway protection. The estate employs a range of sustainable farming methods, including minimal tillage, cover cropping, native species conservation, and efficient resource management at the winery. Packaging and bottling further reduce impact with lightweight glass and local distribution. While not certified organic or biodynamic, the comprehensive suite of sustainable practices warrants a high score, with minor deductions for global shipping footprint and lack of full organic/biodynamic status.