At a glance

Producer

Ken Wright Cellars

Region

Yamhill-Carlton AVA, Willamette Valley, Oregon, USA

Grape variety

Pinot Noir

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Bone Dry

Typical price

$60-$80

Tasting profile

Red and blue cherry, wild raspberry, violet, subtle savory notes, firm oak presence, minerality.

Evolution: Transitions from primary fruit and floral in youth to developed forest floor, mushroom, tea, and spice over time.

At peak: Supple tannins, energy from acidity, complex mix of earth, fruit, and savory elements by 2028-2032.

Structure

Acidity

Bright, crisp acidity typical of top Oregon Pinot Noir.

Tannins

Moderate, fine-grained; slightly firm in youth.

Alcohol

Moderate (13-14% range expected).

Aging potential

Excellent for single vineyard Oregon Pinot; will evolve gracefully over 10+ years.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2032

Optimal window

2026 to 2034

Current status

Too young for peak enjoyment; just released.

Current condition

Primary, vibrant fruit, tight structure, tannins not yet integrated.

Single-vineyard Pinots from Shea Vineyard are structured and ageworthy, benefiting from Yamhill-Carlton's marine sedimentary soils. Initial years are marked by brightness and fruit; complexity deepens as tannins relax and tertiary flavors emerge after 5+ years.

Food pairing

Herb-crusted duck, grilled salmon, mushroom risotto, roast chicken, creamy polenta.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has moderate tannins that may benefit from aeration to soften them and enhance the aromatic profile, especially given its youth.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Ken Wright Cellars emphasizes low-input sustainable viticulture, cover cropping, minimal intervention, hand harvesting, native yeast fermentations, energy-efficient production, lightweight bottles, and recyclable packaging.

Ken Wright Cellars and Shea Vineyard are leaders in Oregon sustainable viticulture. While not organic or biodynamic certified, both adhere to stringent LIVE sustainability protocols: reducing pesticide use, protecting local biodiversity, conserving water, fostering healthy soils, and minimizing energy and packaging waste. The commitment to local bottling and domestic sales further reduces overall carbon footprint. Sustainability score is not higher only due to lack of organic/biodynamic certification and reliance on conventional (albeit minimal-impact) practices when necessary.